Staff Reports | Community Updates
At Anasazi Elementary School, learning extends beyond the classroom into a broader school community focused on student development and engagement.
The National Association of Elementary School Principals has named Anasazi Elementary a 2026 National Gold Star School, one of 57 schools nationwide to receive the inaugural recognition, according to a press release.
For the Anasazi community, the recognition reflects the work of educators, families and students.
“This recognition belongs to every student, staff member, and family who makes Anasazi such a special place,” Principal Jennifer Waldron said. “Our school is built on meaningful relationships, a love of learning, and the belief that every child has incredible potential. To see that work recognized nationally is both humbling and deeply rewarding.”
The designation is awarded through a national selection process based on NAESP’s Three Pillars of the Principalship framework, which includes building school culture, supporting collaboration and developing systems for student and educator success.
At Anasazi, these approaches are reflected in the school’s International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, where students engage in inquiry-based learning and classroom discussions designed to support both academic growth and global awareness.
The recognition highlights the school’s continued focus on creating an environment where students are encouraged to engage in learning and explore their interests.
“National Gold Star Schools represent what is possible when strong leadership, dedicated educators, engaged families, and supportive communities work together,” NAESP Executive Director L. Earl Franks, Ed.D., CAE, said. “These schools are models of excellence and inspiration for school leaders and schools nationwide.”
