Cherokee Academic Programs

  • Gifted Learning

    Special Education

    Full Day Kindergarten

    Rigorous Academics

The state’s first Literary Landmark™

  • Junie B. Jones Literary Landmark Author Barbara Park (1947-2013) was inspired to write the plot of Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus when she found a young Cherokee student walking home after he missed the school bus.

    To honor her and her Stupid Smelly Bus series, the Arizona State Library, a division of the Arizona Secretary of State’s Office, nominated Cherokee Elementary School to be the state’s first Literary Landmark™. A retired bus within the district was given new life in a fully interactive experience for the students. Located in the Cherokee library, and complete with a hidden/secret door, an audio reading station, and a variety of other amenities, this very special bus is the talk of the campus among the students.

    Park’s Stupid Smelly Bus series has sold more than six-million copies worldwide.

2022 National Blue Ribbon School

  • Cherokee Named an Exemplary, High-Performing United States Department of Education National Blue Ribbon School for 2022

    We are excited to announce that Cherokee Elementary School has been named an Exemplary, High-Performing United States Department of Education National Blue Ribbon School for 2022! 

    Exemplary High-Performing Schools are among their state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests. 

    National Blue Ribbon Schools serve as models of effective school practices for state and district educators and other schools throughout the nation.

    Cherokee is one of just 6 schools in Arizona and 297 in the entire nation to receive this recognition this year. 

    Principal Walt Chantler, former assistant principal Paul Anderson and the hardworking Cherokee staff put their heart and soul into this effort, not only confirming what Cherokee does well, but also discovering ways in which it can become an even better school.  That is what is called a win-win!  

    Cherokee provides outstanding education and resources to its 700 students, starting at its Early Childhood Center and progressing through 5th grade, with …

    • a Continuous Improvement Plan that supports both children and staff
    • RTI services to offer remediation and enrichment opportunities
    • CASEL and Sanford Harmony to help guide students’ emotional growth and
    • a strongly embedded PBIS program.

    It all works together to create a wonderful school culture and a safe and supportive learning environment for all students, and one that has the strong involvement and support of its parent community.

  • Mr. Chantler, Ms. Batko, and Dr. Menzel were in Washington D.C. on November 4, 2022 to accept Cherokee’s National Blue Ribbon School award! We are so proud of all the Cherokee teachers, students, staff, and community members who have played an integral role in earning this prestigious award! Way to go Cherokee!