Mesa County Colorado's Best Middle School [Updated 2025]

Mesa County Colorado's Best Middle School [Updated 2025]
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With a passionate eye for education and a deep-rooted connection to the community, I’ve dived into the heart of Mesa County’s middle schools, reviewing 12 top locations that truly stand out. As a parent and educator, I understand the importance of finding the right fit for our kids, and I’m here to share insights that come from both research and real experiences.

I know what makes a school exceptional—be it innovative programs, inspiring teachers, or a supportive environment. Whether you’re a parent seeking the best for your child or just curious about the options available, I’ve got the scoop you need. Let’s explore together what makes these schools shine!


Charles D. Poston Junior High School

Charles D. Poston Junior High School
🗺️ 2433 E Adobe St, Mesa, AZ 85213
☎️ 480-472-2100
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:15 AM–4 PM
Tuesday: 9:15 AM–4 PM
Wednesday: 9:15 AM–4 PM
Thursday: 9:15 AM–4 PM
Friday: 9:15 AM–4 PM
Saturday: Closed

Visiting Charles D. Poston Junior High School was a delightful adventure! The vibrant atmosphere buzzed with the energy of eager learners. The teachers are passionate and dedicated, fostering a nurturing environment that prioritizes student engagement. I was particularly impressed by their diverse extracurricular offerings, which encourage students to explore their interests. The school’s commitment to academic excellence shone through in the enthusiastic participation of students. Overall, Poston Junior High stands out as a gem in Mesa County, cultivating not just scholars but well-rounded individuals ready to take on the world. What a wonderful place to grow and learn!

You might also want to check out the best middle schools in Scottsdale.

Shepherd Junior High School

Shepherd Junior High School
🗺️ 1407 N Alta Mesa Dr, Mesa, AZ 85205
☎️ 480-472-1800
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 8:45 AM–4:15 PM
Tuesday: 8:45 AM–4:15 PM
Wednesday: 8:45 AM–4:15 PM
Thursday: 8:45 AM–4:15 PM
Friday: 8:45 AM–4 PM
Saturday: Closed

Shepherd Junior High School truly impressed me with its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to student success. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I felt the energy of eager learners and dedicated teachers. The staff fosters a nurturing environment where creativity and academic excellence flourish. Their innovative programs, ranging from arts to STEM, engage students in a hands-on manner. Additionally, the community involvement is commendable, making families feel like part of the school’s journey. If you're seeking a place that balances fun and education, Shepherd is a standout choice in Mesa County!

You might also want to check out the best middle schools in Tempe.

O.S. Stapley Junior High School

O.S. Stapley Junior High School
🗺️ 3250 E Hermosa Vista Dr, Mesa, AZ 85213
☎️ 480-472-2700
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM
Tuesday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM
Thursday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM
Saturday: Closed

O.S. Stapley Junior High School is a thriving hub of creativity and camaraderie! From the moment I stepped inside, the enthusiastic faculty welcomed students with open arms, fostering an atmosphere of encouragement and growth. The vibrant hallways are abuzz with collaborative projects and engaging lessons that spark curiosity. The diverse extracurricular options offer something for everyone, ensuring that students can explore their passions beyond the classroom. With strong community involvement, O.S. Stapley epitomizes the essence of a nurturing educational environment, making it a top contender for the best middle school in Mesa County Colorado. A delightful discovery indeed!

You might also want to check out the best middle schools in Chandler.

Rhodes Junior High School

Rhodes Junior High School
🗺️ 1860 S Longmore, Mesa, AZ 85202
☎️ 480-472-2300
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 8 AM–4:15 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–4:15 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–4:15 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–4:15 PM
Friday: 8 AM–4:15 PM
Saturday: Closed

Rhodes Junior High School captures the essence of a vibrant learning community. As I strolled through the lively halls, I was struck by the engaged students and the dedicated staff. The range of extracurricular options—from arts to athletics—affirms a commitment to a well-rounded education. What really stood out was the sense of belonging among students, creating an atmosphere of collaboration and growth. With modern facilities and innovative teaching methods, Rhodes truly cultivates curiosity and confidence. If you're searching for a nurturing environment that sparks excitement for learning, Rhodes might just be the hidden gem of Mesa County!

You might also want to check out the best middle schools in Scottsdale AZ 85251.

Academy With Community Partner

Academy With Community Partner
🗺️ 433 N Hall, Mesa, AZ 85203
☎️ 480-833-0068
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 8 AM–4 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–4 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–4 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–4 PM
Friday: 8 AM–4 PM
Saturday: Closed

Academy With Community Partner stands out in Mesa County as a beacon of innovation and collaboration. The dynamic atmosphere fosters a rich learning environment, where students thrive through hands-on experiences and community involvement. I was particularly impressed by the dedicated educators, whose passion for nurturing young minds is palpable. The emphasis on real-world connections prepares students not just academically, but as engaged citizens. With a wide array of extracurricular activities, kids have the chance to explore their interests beyond the classroom. If you’re looking for a school that blends creativity and community, this is definitely a top contender!

You might also want to check out the best middle school in Gilbert.

Heritage Academy

Heritage Academy
🗺️ 32 S Center St, Mesa, AZ 85210
☎️ 480-969-5641
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 7:30 AM–4 PM
Tuesday: 7:30 AM–4 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM–4 PM
Thursday: 7:30 AM–4 PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed

Heritage Academy in Mesa County stands out like a diamond among the rocks! Its engaging curriculum fosters both intellectual curiosity and personal growth, creating an environment where students thrive. The dedicated staff is not just knowledgeable but also approachable, making learning a joyous adventure. With a strong emphasis on character development, it's no wonder the students beam with confidence. The vibrant community and extracurricular activities provide the perfect balance—ensuring education is both serious and fun! Overall, Heritage Academy is a gem for those seeking a holistic middle school experience. ✨

You might also want to check out the best middle school in Mesa.

Eagleridge Enrichment Program

Eagleridge Enrichment Program
🗺️ 1313 W Medina Ave A3, Mesa, AZ 85202
☎️ 480-308-6060
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 7 AM–3:30 PM
Tuesday: 7 AM–3:30 PM
Wednesday: 7 AM–3:30 PM
Thursday: 7 AM–3:30 PM
Friday: 7 AM–3:30 PM
Saturday: Closed

Eagleridge Enrichment Program is truly a gem in Mesa County. Nestled in a vibrant community, this school offers a unique blend of innovative curriculum and engaging activities that foster a love for learning. The dedicated teachers encourage students to explore their interests, making education feel less like a chore and more like an adventure. I was particularly impressed by their focus on personalized learning, which ensures every student thrives. With a supportive atmosphere and a rich array of extracurricular options, Eagleridge stands out as an exceptional choice for middle schoolers seeking a well-rounded educational experience.

You might also want to check out the best gyms in Scottsdale.

Summit Academy Jr High

Summit Academy Jr High
🗺️ 1550 W Summit Pl, Chandler, AZ 85224
☎️ 480-472-3500
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM
Tuesday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM
Thursday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM
Saturday: Closed

Visiting Summit Academy Jr High was a delightful discovery! Nestled in the heart of Mesa County, this school boasts an engaging and supportive environment where students thrive. The dedicated staff exhibits unwavering commitment to their students’ success, fostering a sense of community that is both nurturing and inspiring. I was particularly impressed by the emphasis placed on innovative learning, encouraging creativity and critical thinking. Plus, the array of extracurricular activities offers something for everyone. If you're searching for a school that combines academic excellence with a vibrant atmosphere, Summit Academy Jr High certainly stands out as a top contender!

You might also want to check out the best hair salons in Tempe.

Taylor Junior High School

Taylor Junior High School
🗺️ 705 S 32nd St, Mesa, AZ 85204
☎️ 480-472-1500
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 8:15 AM–4:15 PM
Tuesday: 8:15 AM–4:15 PM
Wednesday: 8:15 AM–4:15 PM
Thursday: 8:15 AM–4:15 PM
Friday: 8:15 AM–4:15 PM
Saturday: Closed

Taylor Junior High School combines a vibrant community atmosphere with an impressive academic focus. Nestled in the heart of Mesa County, this school fosters a sense of belonging among its diverse student body. The dedicated teachers inspire children to reach their full potential, encouraging curiosity and creativity. What sets Taylor apart is its commitment to extracurricular excellence, offering numerous clubs and sports that cater to various interests. The facilities are modern and well-maintained, supporting a dynamic learning environment. With such a nurturing and engaging approach, Taylor Junior High truly stands out as one of the best options in the county!

You might also want to check out the best hair colorist in Scottsdale.

Franklin Junior High School

Franklin Junior High School
🗺️ 4949 E Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85206
☎️ 480-472-2600
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 7:15 AM–3:15 PM
Tuesday: 7:15 AM–3:15 PM
Wednesday: 7:15 AM–3:15 PM
Thursday: 7:15 AM–3:15 PM
Friday: 7:15 AM–3:15 PM
Saturday: Closed

As I stepped into Franklin Junior High School, I was immediately struck by its vibrant atmosphere. The dedicated educators foster a spirit of curiosity and collaboration among students. The dynamic curriculum offers a blend of academics and creativity, allowing students to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. What truly impressed me was the strong sense of community—students uplift each other and are encouraged to explore their passions. With state-of-the-art facilities and engaging extracurricular activities, Franklin isn’t just a school; it's a place where young minds flourish. If you're searching for an outstanding middle school, look no further than Franklin Junior High!

You might also want to check out the best salons in Gilbert.

Mesa Academy for Advanced Studies

Mesa Academy for Advanced Studies
🗺️ 6919 E Brown Rd, Mesa, AZ 85207
☎️ 480-308-7432
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 8 AM–3:45 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–3:45 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–3:45 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–3:45 PM
Friday: 8 AM–3:45 PM
Saturday: Closed

Stepping into Mesa Academy for Advanced Studies felt like entering a world of curiosity and innovation. The vibrant atmosphere buzzes with eager minds, where students are not just learners but explorers. With a focus on advanced curriculum, the school emphasizes critical thinking and creativity, enabling each child to thrive. I was particularly impressed by the dedicated teachers who cultivate a community of support and encouragement. The extracurricular activities shine, offering a plethora of options from science clubs to art programs. Overall, Mesa Academy stands out as a beacon of excellence, making it a top contender for the best middle school in Mesa County!

You might also want to check out the best massage in Mesa.

Desert Ridge Junior High School

Desert Ridge Junior High School
🗺️ 10211 E Madero Ave, Mesa, AZ 85209
☎️ 480-635-2025
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 8:10 AM–3:30 PM
Tuesday: 8:10 AM–3:30 PM
Wednesday: 8:10 AM–2:30 PM
Thursday: 8:10 AM–3:30 PM
Friday: 8:10 AM–3:30 PM
Saturday: Closed

Nestled in the heart of Mesa County, Desert Ridge Junior High School is a vibrant hub for learning that truly stands out! The dedicated staff fosters a supportive and engaging environment, making education both enjoyable and effective. With innovative programs that cater to diverse interests and talents, students are encouraged to thrive academically and socially. The school's impressive extracurricular activities, from sports to the arts, enrich the middle school experience. My visit confirmed that Desert Ridge isn't just a school; it's a community where young minds are nurtured to reach their fullest potential. If you’re searching for excellence in education, look no further!

You might also want to check out the best botox in Scottsdale.

Sienna MarquezS
WRITTEN BY

Sienna Marquez

Sienna Marquez is a passionate writer and local enthusiast based in Mesa, Arizona, where she explores the city's vibrant culture and rich history. With a keen eye for detail, she shares captivating stories that highlight the unique charm and diverse community of her beloved hometown.

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Food tour map
The Local's Blackbook 📓

The 48-Hour Insider Itinerary to Mesa

Join our Mesa Insider newsletter and get our 48-hour insider itinerary to the top hidden spots in Mesa.

  • Custom 3-stop crawl with QR codes for easy navigation
  • 5 photo-worthy hidden gems (Instagram gold)
  • Insider timing tips: when to go to skip crowds
  • Top spots in your inbox every week
Sienna Marquez
Mesa Black Book
The Local's Blackbook 📓

INSIDER ITINERARY

Join our Mesa Insider newsletter and get our 48-hour insider itinerary to the top hidden spots in Mesa.