
The second quarter was marked by moments that showcased the energy, creativity, and commitment found throughout Queen Creek Unified School District. From hands-on learning and community service to student achievements and meaningful celebrations, schools across the district continued to create engaging experiences that support student growth and bring families together.
Desert Mountain Elementary
- Sixth-grade students explored real-world STEM concepts through laser tag physics and raced like pros during a hands-on learning experience at Andretti Indoor Karting.
- Desert Mountain Elementary proudly participated in the Queen Creek Hometown Christmas Parade with a themed float.
Faith Mather Sossaman Elementary
- FMSE families came together for the Color Run 2025 fundraiser, raising an incredible $68,763 to support playground shade, a new swingset, Chromebooks, and teacher requests throughout the year.
- The Family Learning Night Committee and FMSE teachers hosted a fun and well-attended Family lLearning Night, welcoming students, families, and grandparents to the first event of the year.
Frances Brandon-Pickett Elementary
- The PTO created the Lil’ Shoppers Shoppe, giving students the opportunity to shop for gifts for family and friends during the winter season.
- Frances Brandon-Pickett Elementary was awarded a $10,000 charitable donation from The Roger & Sybil Ferguson Charitable Foundation in recognition of its service to the community.
Gateway Polytechnic Academy
- Lead Out Loud students spent a Saturday delivering 1,200 new and gently used toys to Sunshine Acres, organizing donations, loading nine vehicles, touring the campus, and learning about the organization’s mission.
- GPA’s 5th and 6th grade choir performed the national anthem at Eastmark High School.
Jack Barnes Elementary
- Local businesses joined Jack Barnes Elementary for the festive table & treat event during the school’s Boo Bash celebration.
- Mrs. Smith, the library media aide, hosted a successful Book Fair with the help of parent volunteers, raising funds for new library books and supplies.
Katherine Mecham Barney Elementary
- Lead Out Loud students led a schoolwide kindness initiative during Kindness Week, creating and sharing kindness clips with positive messages to spread joy throughout campus.
- Preschool teacher Melissa Axman received a QCSEF grant to support preschool center resources.
Mountain Trail Academy
- Mountain Trail Academy hosted its second soaring summit, where student houses competed in friendly challenges.
- The MTA choir participated in the Matilda Jr. musical at the Queen Creek Performing Arts Center, with Skyhawks attending to cheer on the talented performers.
Queen Creek Elementary
- The PTO hosted a snowball dance that brought together students and families for a night of fun.
- Queen Creek Fire Department joined the school’s Veterans Day assembly, featuring a ladder truck proudly flying the American flag.
Schnepf Elementary
- Teachers Kate Daily, Angie Murphy, and Kylie Bryan each received $1,000 grants from the Friends of the Queen Creek Library to create classroom book nooks.
- Schnepf students hosted a Resolution Copper STEM Dugout at an Arizona Diamondbacks game, engaging fans with hands-on STEM activities at Chase Field.
Silver Valley Elementary
- Students participated in an agricultural experience at Queen Creek High School, exploring hands-on activities and learning where their food comes from.
- Lead Out Loud students organized a blanket drive, donating 380 blankets to the Pinal County Animal Care Center, along with food donations to the East Mesa food bank.
Newell Barney College Prep
- Newell Barney College Prep hosted a winter festival for current and future families, featuring food, games, and activities.
- Staff welcomed more than 50 incoming families to the first STEM/Future Buc Night, highlighting hands-on learning and future-focused opportunities.
Queen Creek Junior High School
- Student Council surpassed its goal during the FRC food drive by collecting 1,050 food items for families in need.
- The QCJH wrestling team celebrated strong performances at the EVC championship meet, including a championship win by Cason Aldrich and multiple podium finishes by team members.
Crismon High School
- Crismon High School’s holiday band and choir concert filled every seat and showcased the impressive growth and talent of the fine arts programs, ending with a community sing-along of holiday carols.
- Students also brought the stage to life with a school production of The Little Mermaid.
Eastmark High School
- The Eastmark girls dive team earned outstanding results at the state competition, with Natalee Stratton placing first, Daylee Bluth placing second, and Kensie Campbell placing fourth.
- In its first year, Eastmark’s JROTC program earned an outstanding rating on its inaugural annual military inspection.
Queen Creek High School
- QCHS students Devin Mock, Kayla Rowley, and Kamden Tinsley earned spots in the Arizona all-state show choir and delivered a stellar performance after learning an entire set in just three days alongside professional composers, arrangers, and choreographers.
- Queen Creek High School Student Council and Key Club students volunteered at the food bank, helping serve families during a food distribution event.
Queen Creek Unified School District
- Across the district, schools honored Veterans Day by hosting tributes, concerts, and breakfasts in appreciation of those who served.
- Once again, Queen Creek Unified School District earned an “A” rating, reflecting the district’s continued commitment to excellence.
Queen Creek Unified School District is committed to excellence. Interested in making a difference? Visit our Arizona Tax Credit page to make a tax credit donation today to support students, staff, and programs.

