The Mesa Public Schools (MPS) Governing Board has approved several exciting opportunities to expand school choice for our high school students and provide parents options in our portfolio of schools. These changes will take effect beginning with the 2026-27 school year.
Franklin High School
The Governing Board approved the creation of Franklin High School, building on the district’s successful Franklin model of academic rigor and family engagement. Franklin High School will provide a small-school environment focused on accelerated coursework, honors classes and a strong academic culture. The school will extend the Franklin tradition through high school, giving students a seamless K–12 Franklin pathway within Mesa Public Schools. Franklin High School will be located at the current Franklin Junior High/Franklin Accelerated Academy, Brimhall Campus.
Applications for Franklin High School will open on Nov. 10.
Shepherd College Prep
Shepherd College Prep will launch on the current Shepherd Junior High campus, serving students in grades 7–9 for the 2026-27 school year and eventually moving 7-12. This innovative model will offer a college-preparatory focus, allowing students to stay connected with the same teachers and peers through their junior high and high school years. The program will emphasize academic excellence, college readiness, and strong mentorship. Shepherd will continue their strong emphasis on performing arts as is the tradition at the junior high level.
Applications are now open for Shepherd College Prep for ninth grade only. There will be an information night on Nov. 18 for prospective families.
Wilson Elementary Transition
With these changes, the Board also approved the transition of Wilson Elementary School into Franklin Accelerated Academy at Wilson. The campus will serve as a choice school offering a traditional, accelerated curriculum consistent with the Franklin philosophy.
Students currently residing in the Wilson Elementary transportation boundary will be re-boundaried into three nearby neighborhood schools: Jefferson Elementary, Johnson Elementary, and Madison Elementary. Families in this area will continue to have the option to apply for enrollment at Franklin Accelerated Academy at Wilson (K-4) or other district choice programs.
Expanding Opportunities
These decisions aim to provide every student with high-quality options that meet their interests and learning goals. The new schools and program realignments reflect thoughtful planning to serve students’ academic needs, support family choice, and make effective use of existing district facilities.
For more information about these changes and future updates, visit mpsaz.org/schoolopps.
Franklin High School and Shepherd College Prep will be at the Mesa Public Schools School Choice Fair on Nov. 12 at Red Mountain High School.