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Welcome to Ward Traditional Academy K-8!
Recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School for Academic Achievement in 2025!

Ward Traditional Academy received an 'A' grade from the Arizona Department of Education in 2024-2025.

Reasons to Believe

• How is a traditional academy different from other elementary or middle schools?
  The word "traditional" can have a variety of definitions depending on what school you visit. For Ward, traditional identifies a high level of direct instruction, the use of The Spalding Phonics/Vocabulary, uniforms, and required parent involvement.

• The complete K-8 experience allows students to enjoy our small, close-knit community where they can learn and grow from early childhood through the middle school years! 

• Accelerated curriculum with a direct instruction approach: Ward is the only school in the District that uses the Spalding Method. The direct model of instruction prepares students for high school and beyond with their tenacity and commitment to excellence. Lessons are fast-paced and accelerated  while delivered with kindness, respect, and dignity for all. Ward students are graded on an elevated grading scale and are held to the highest educational expectations.

• Students can expand their talents through music, art, library and PE

• Spanish is required for 6, 7 and 8th grade students

• Esports at the 6th -8th grade level allows exploration elements of video game design, learn how STEAM comes together all in the context of students playing a variety of games competitively. 

• Honors PBL is designed to challenge students at their level of intellectual ability. 

• A variety of clubs are offered before and after school such as Book Club, Basketball Club, Chess and tutoring.

• All grade levels are offered two field trips a year- previous locations include Desert Botanical Gardens, AZ Museum of Natural History, BizTown and the MIM.

• Ward requires parents to complete 12 hours of parent service each year, requiring a signed contract. 

• Ward PTA provides opportunities for our community to be involved many times in the school year. We welcome volunteers!

Ward Traditional Academy is a great place for students to grow and learn. We invite you to enroll in our Warrior family today!

Our Promise

Ward Traditional Academy commits to the highest standards of educational excellence by providing a learning environment that fosters students’ academic strength, character, and potential for achievement as outstanding citizens of their generation.