Gov. Doug Ducey to deliver ASU Prep commencement address

Arizona Governor Doug Ducey selected Arizona State University Preparatory Academy Phoenix as one of two high schools where he will address graduating seniors, their teachers and families.

ASU Prep in downtown Phoenix is on track to graduate 100 percent of its 96-member senior class — its second graduating class. For the second consecutive year, ASU Prep boasts a college-acceptance rate of more than 70 percent; statewide, 47 percent of students are eligible for college admission. In addition, students in the class of 2016 have earned more than $2 million in merit scholarships.

ASU Prep Phoenix is a partnership between Arizona State University and the Phoenix Elementary School District. It offers a college preparatory curriculum for students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. ASU inherited the chronically underperforming school in 2009. 

“I’m excited to join this excellent group of graduating Sun Devils as they celebrate their hard work and accomplishments over the past several years, and I look forward to being able to do so from the same campus where I spent my college years,” Ducey said.

Ducey’s participation in the school’s commencement exercises highlights the strength of ASU Prep’s academic programs. The school, where 70 percent of students receive free and reduced-price lunches, boasts a track record of success since opening six years ago, including recognition from the National Charter School Association for being one of the best schools based on academic achievement. 

“ASU Prep represents the future of public education,” said Art Lebowitz, secondary school director of ASU Prep Phoenix. “Every student from ASU Prep will graduate with the skills necessary to succeed in college, support their community and become contributing citizens.”

ASU Prep’s curriculum is modeled after the internationally acclaimed Cambridge curriculum, which provides a clear and rigorous teaching structure for English, math and science courses. Juniors and seniors are eligible to take ASU courses for college credit, and all students have the opportunity to participate in an annual capstone project, where students take knowledge learned in the classroom and use it to benefit the community.

ASU Prep Phoenix’s commencement exercises will take place at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 26, at ASU Gammage in Tempe.