April 2025 Highlights: What’s New in Private and Charter Schools

Arizona School for the Arts strings students presented an outdoor amphitheater concert for their peers in March (submitted photo).

In March, students from the Arizona School for the Arts showcased their talents during an outdoor concert in the school’s amphitheater. The repertoire included recognizable pieces such as “Phantom of the Opera” and adventurous tunes from “Pirates of the Caribbean,” captivating their audience throughout the event.

The school expressed pride in the performances, stating, “The weather was perfect, the performances were fantastic, and the energy was unforgettable! Hats off to all our talented student musicians and our amazing strings department faculty for putting on such a wonderful show.”

Grand Canyon University Girls Golf team members read Dr. Seuss books with kindergartners at SS. Simon & Jude in March (submitted photo).

In a community outreach effort, the Grand Canyon University Girls Golf team visited SS. Simon & Jude Cathedral School on February 27 to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday and National Read Across America Day. Members of the golf team read Seuss classics to kindergartners, sparking curiosity and engagement with the young students.

Student in the Service Club at Madison Highland Prep are learning about the need for medical supplies in developing countries through their volunteer efforts (submitted photo).

The Madison Highland Prep Service Club recently contributed to Project C.U.R.E., a nonprofit dedicated to collecting and distributing medical supplies to underdeveloped countries. Students sorted medical gear based on expiration dates, assisting in prioritizing urgent needs during their visit.

By volunteering at Project C.U.R.E., the Service Club learned about the organization’s expansive efforts. Each week, Project C.U.R.E. delivers four to five cargo containers of medical supplies worldwide, also deploying healthcare professionals to provide treatment and training.

Freshman Kiera shared her perspective, expressing her enjoyment of the Service Club and the knowledge gained about underserved countries. Junior McKenna noted the fulfilling experience of community engagement while serving others.

Brophy College Prep’s 41st Annual Fashion Show will take place on April 11 at the Camelback Inn. The event sold out rapidly, but supporters can still contribute to financial aid through raffle ticket purchases available on the Fashion Show’s website.

Xavier students worked together to support women in need in the Phoenix Metropolitan area (photo courtesy of Xavier College Preparatory).

In March, the Xavier College Preparatory Key Club organized a Women4Women drive, collecting essential feminine hygiene products for disadvantaged women in the community. These products are often excluded from government assistance programs and can be financially burdensome for low-income households, which represent a significant portion of the local population.

Brophy’s tennis team had impressive results at the California Tennis Classic in March. After defeating Bishop O’Dowd 4-1 in the finals, the team emerged victorious again, with a semifinals win against Clovis North. Brophy maintained an undefeated streak over the weekend.

The Brophy basketball team took home their first state championship title after defeating Mesa in the AIA 6A State Championship (submitted photo).

On March 8, the Brophy College Prep basketball team made history by claiming their first AIA 6A Conference State Championship, beating Mesa 62-49. Junior Daylen Sharper led the team with 18 points, while key contributions came from seniors Luke Wieskamp, Ryan Burbach, Ayden Madi, and Xander Koehler.

Despite trailing at halftime, Brophy’s strong second-half performance secured their victory. The championship marks a significant milestone for the school’s athletic program.

Jennifer Gillom

The Arizona Cardinals recognized Jennifer Gillom, the head coach of the varsity basketball team at Xavier College Preparatory, in honor of Women’s History Month. Gillom, a former WNBA player and Olympian, was honored for her influence in the community.

Having been part of the inaugural Women’s Professional League, Gillom’s impact extends beyond her athletic achievements. She emphasizes the importance of using her platform to inspire and support young individuals, and her coaching led to Xavier’s first state championship in 2024.

John Chambers

The Brophy community mourns the loss of John Chambers, a revered figure who passed away on March 7. After 45 years of service, including a decade as the varsity basketball coach and 24 years as Athletic Director, his legacy is marked by his profound impact on countless students.

Following his passing, Brophy won its first state championship, a poignant reminder of Chambers’ lasting influence. The school encourages the community to keep the Chambers family in their thoughts and prayers.