Queen Creek's Top & Bottom Elementary Schools (2025): What Parents Should Know

If you're a parent living in Queen Creek, or planning to move here...you probably want to know which schools are setting the bar… and which still have some catching up to do.

We pulled the most recent rankings from U.S. News & World Report and GreatSchools to create this simple, no-fluff breakdown of the Top 5 and Bottom 5 Elementary Schools in Queen Creek for 2025. Each ranking considers test scores, academic performance, student support, and long-term success indicators.

Top 5 Elementary Schools in Queen Creek (2025)

Why these schools made the top:
These schools scored high on state test performance, reading and math proficiency, and student achievement. Some are even ranked among the best in Arizona.

1. Katherine Mecham Barney Elementary

• 📈 Ranked #10 in Arizona for reading and #11 for math proficiency

• Known for its strong leadership, academic rigor, and community engagement.

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2. Faith Mather Sossaman Elementary School

• 📊 Ranked #82 in Arizona and #2 in Queen Creek Unified District

• Strong test scores and a reputation for consistency in academics.

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3. Desert Mountain Elementary

• 🧮 Ranked #212 statewide by U.S. News

• Known for steady performance and academic support programs.

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4. Cortina Elementary

• 🎖 Eligible for a U.S. News "Best Elementary Schools" badge

• Impressive academic stats and student-teacher engagement.

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5. Frances Brandon-Pickett Elementary School

• 🏅 High ratings in both academics and equity

• Frequently praised by parents for its leadership and staff.

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⚠️ Bottom 5 Elementary Schools in Queen Creek (2025)

Why these schools ranked lower:
These schools are still developing academically or face challenges in standardized testing, resource availability, or support structures. This doesn’t mean they aren’t making progress—just that there’s more room to grow.

1. Queen Creek Elementary School

• 📉 Ranked #355 in Arizona elementary schools

• Performance in reading and math trails behind district averages.

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2. Legacy Traditional School - Queen Creek

• 📊 Ranked #357 statewide

• Structured like a charter prep school, but current test scores reflect challenges.

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3. Kathryn Sue Simonton Elementary

• ⚠️ Ranked #720 in Arizona—a significant drop from other district schools

• Math and reading scores are below the state average.

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4. Jack Barnes Elementary School

• 📉 Listed among lower performers in Queen Creek Unified District

• Academic support programs are in place, but test scores remain modest.

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5. Silver Valley Elementary

• 📊 School culture is strong, but test performance shows room for growth

• A newer school still building its academic momentum.

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Conclusion 

Choosing the right elementary school matters...whether you're prioritizing test scores, school culture, or staff quality. While rankings are helpful, visiting campuses and speaking with teachers can give you a fuller picture.

Need help figuring out which school boundary your home falls in, or want help relocating into a top school zone?
Reach out, and I’ll help you sort through the details.