Staff Reports | Community Updates
ASU Preparatory Academy Phoenix has been named a 2025 School of Excellence by ACT as part of its American College Application Campaign.
ASU Prep Phoenix is one of 26 schools nationwide to receive the designation and the only school in Arizona selected for its work supporting first‑generation college students and those from under‑resourced communities in pursuing higher education, according to a press release.
“Receiving the 2025 School of Excellence Award is a proud moment for our entire school community,” Dr. Kim Higginbotham, principal of ASU Preparatory Academy Phoenix, said. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our college counselor, teachers and staff who work every day to ensure every student has the opportunity to pursue higher education.”
ACT’s American College Application Campaign partners with coordinators across nearly every state and the District of Columbia to host events that encourage students to apply to college. Participating schools, including ASU Prep Phoenix, organized activities such as college and career fairs, individual financial aid meetings with students and families, campus visits and other application‑support efforts.
College application events contributed to increased student participation nationwide. Nearly 2 million seniors attended college preparatory events and submitted more than 2.6 million college applications during the campaign.
Applying to college can be a significant challenge for many students. Over the past year, ASU Prep Phoenix counselors and college‑going advocates worked closely with students to explain application requirements and guide them through the process.
As a result, 99% of seniors in the ASU Prep Phoenix Class of 2025 completed at least one college application. Dr. Higginbotham said preparing students for college involves more than completing applications.
“We provide support, resources and a college‑going culture so students feel motivated and confident taking the next step to apply; it’s the natural progression after they graduate,” Dr. Higginbotham said. “Real ASU courses, faculty connections and college‑level experiences turn interest into direction and give students a head start. Then we add in helpful sessions, reminders and tools that encourage families to file FAFSA, use fee waivers and find scholarships, so cost is less of a barrier,” Ms. Higginbotham said.
ASU Prep Phoenix High School serves 355 students, many of whom will be the first in their families to pursue a four‑year college degree. The school has focused on postsecondary access and success for 16 years.
Students may begin taking Arizona State University courses as early as their freshman year, with tuition covered by ASU Prep. The program aims for students to graduate with at least 12 university credits, though many earn more. This year’s graduating class includes nine students on track to earn associate degrees.
“The 2025 School of Excellence award belongs to our students,” Dr. Higginbotham said. “Watching them take that important first step toward college is one of the most rewarding parts of this work. We are honored that ACT and ACAC have recognized our commitment to making college a reality for all students.”
