Gilbert's Best & Worst High Schools (2025): How Does Yours Rank?

Whether you’re trying to pick the best high school for your student, or you're just curious how local schools stack up...this guide lays out the Top 5 and Bottom 5 high schools in Gilbert, AZ for 2025.

We pulled data from trusted sources like SchoolDigger, U.S. News & World Report, and MaxPreps, focusing on academic performance, graduation rates, college readiness, and yes...even athletics.

🏆 Top 5 High Schools in Gilbert (2025)

Why these schools rank high:
These schools stand out for their strong academics, high test scores, college prep success, and competitive sports programs. They consistently exceed state averages and provide students with a strong foundation...both in the classroom and on the field.

1. Gilbert Classical Academy 7–12

• Academic Rank: #6 in Arizona (SchoolDigger)

• Standout Stats: 88% math proficiency, 94% reading

• Athletics Snapshot: Girls soccer went undefeated at 13-0, ranked #4 in 2A East region

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2. Great Hearts Academies – Arete Prep

• Academic Rank: #12 in Arizona

• Standout Stats: High AP participation, classical curriculum

• Athletics Snapshot: Offers sports like archery, basketball, and volleyball with strong community support

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3. Perry High School

• Academic Rank: #27 in Arizona

• Standout Stats: 71% proficiency in English Language Arts

• Athletics Snapshot: Boys basketball ranked #1 in Arizona (27-2 record)

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4. Campo Verde High School

• Academic Rank: #58 in Arizona

• Standout Stats: 94.9% graduation rate

• Athletics Snapshot: Football ranked #43 in Arizona, basketball team #6 statewide

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5. Williams Field High School

• Academic Rank: #63 in Arizona

• Standout Stats: 60% ELA proficiency, strong college and career prep

• Athletics Snapshot: Football ranked #17 in Arizona; basketball team ranked #39

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⚠️ Bottom 5 High Schools in Gilbert (2025)

Why these schools rank lower:
These schools face challenges in standardized test scores, graduation rates, and college readiness. Some are alternative or online-focused programs, which can skew traditional metrics. While not “bad” schools, they show room for growth.

1. Desert Hills High School

• Academic Rank: Bottom of Arizona rankings

• Standout Stats: 15% ELA proficiency, dropout rates as high as 22%

• Athletics Snapshot: Notable upset win over Perry High in football

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2. Learning Foundation and Performing Arts – Gilbert

• Academic Rank: District ranked #304 out of 540 in Arizona

• Standout Stats: Below-average testing, limited academic offerings

• Athletics Snapshot: Boys basketball went 12-5 in Canyon Athletic Association

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3. Premier Prep Online Academy

• Academic Rank: Insufficient data to rank

• Standout Stats: Online format, low state test participation

• Athletics Snapshot: Supports aspiring student-athletes; some alumni went to college-level play

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4. Mesquite High School

• Academic Rank: #11,736 in U.S. (U.S. News)

• Standout Stats: Below state average in testing; college readiness needs improvement

• Athletics Snapshot: Basketball team ranked #6 statewide; football team #38

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5. Gilbert High School

• Academic Rank: Middle-tier; average standard score of 48.16

• Standout Stats: Ranked higher than only 54.1% of AZ schools

• Athletics Snapshot: Basketball team ranked #83 in Division 6A

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Conclusion 

No high school is perfect, but some are clearly leading the pack. Whether you're focused on academics, athletics, or both, this list gives you a snapshot of where Gilbert schools are excelling and where improvements are still needed.

Looking for advice on school boundaries or how these schools affect property value?
Feel free to reach out...I'd be happy to help you make the best move for your family.