Top Schools & Districts in Tucson: A Guide for Families Relocating
If you’re considering a move to Tucson, one of the biggest factors in your decision may be the quality of schools in the area. Tucson offers a variety of excellent public, charter, and private school options, making it a fantastic place for families seeking strong educational opportunities. Whether you’re moving for work, lifestyle, or a fresh start, here’s a guide to some of Tucson's top school districts and schools and surrounding areas.
Top School Districts in Tucson
Catalina Foothills Unified School District (CFUSD)
Why It Stands Out: Consistently ranked among the top school districts in Arizona, CFUSD boasts high academic achievement, excellent extracurricular programs, and strong community support.
Notable Schools:
Catalina Foothills High School (Top-rated public high school in Tucson)
Orange Grove Middle School
Manzanita Elementary School
Ideal For: Families looking for a high-performing district with strong arts and STEM programs.
Vail School District
Why It Stands Out: Recognized for its innovative curriculum, Vail School District is known for its A-rated schools and commitment to student success. The district offers various programs, including STEM and early college preparation.
Notable Schools:
Vail Academy and High School
Empire High School (Technology-integrated learning environment)
Ocotillo Ridge Elementary School
Ideal For: Families seeking an academically strong district focusing on technology and career readiness.
Tanque Verde Unified School District (TVUSD)
Why It Stands Out: One of the smallest districts in the Tucson metro area, Tanque Verde is known for its personalized learning environment, high test scores, and strong community involvement.
Notable Schools:
Tanque Verde High School
Emily Gray Junior High School
Agua Caliente Elementary School
Ideal For: Families looking for a close-knit, high-achieving district with a suburban feel.
Tucson Unified School District (TUSD)
Why It Stands Out: As the largest school district in Southern Arizona, TUSD offers a diverse range of programs, including dual-language immersion, International Baccalaureate (IB), and magnet schools focused on the arts, STEM, and beyond.
Notable Schools:
University High School (Nationally ranked and highly competitive admission process)
Tucson High Magnet School (Strong arts and STEM programs)
Davis Bilingual Elementary Magnet School (Spanish immersion program)
Ideal For: Families seeking a variety of academic pathways, diverse educational programs, and arts-focused schools.
Top Charter Schools in Tucson
Tucson is home to some of the best charter schools in Arizona, offering specialized curricula and alternative education models.
BASIS Tucson North & BASIS Oro Valley – Nationally ranked charter schools with a rigorous academic curriculum focused on college prep.
Leman Academy of Excellence – Classical education charter school with a strong emphasis on character development.
Presidio School – A small, community-oriented charter school that consistently ranks high for academic excellence.
Top Private Schools in Tucson
Tucson has a range of highly regarded private schools for families considering private education.
The Gregory School is an independent college preparatory school known for its strong academics and extracurricular programs.
Salpointe Catholic High School – A Catholic college prep school with strong athletics and academic programs.
St. Michael’s School – A well-regarded K-8 Episcopal school known for small class sizes and individualized attention.
Final Thoughts
Tucson and its surrounding areas offer fantastic educational opportunities, whether you’re looking for top-rated public schools, charter schools with specialized curricula, or prestigious private institutions. If you’re moving to Tucson and have questions about school districts and neighborhoods, I’d love to help! Feel free to reach out for personalized guidance on finding the perfect home in the best school zone for your family.
Alissa Noël, Realtor
