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Gilbert Public Schools Welcomes Sixth Graders to Junior High Through Level Up

Gilbert Public Schools Welcomes Sixth Graders to Junior High Through Level Up
Tristan Chavez
Flyer that says For Immediate Release by GPS

Over the past two weeks, Gilbert Public Schools (GPS) has helped 6th-grade students build confidence and excitement for the next step of their learning adventure - Junior High! Through an initiative called Level Up, GPS junior highs and middle schools welcomed sixth-grade students from elementary schools across the district to their campuses for an early introduction to the academics, routines, and programs that will be available to them next school year.

During Level Up, 6th-grade students tour campuses, visit classrooms, and experience their first lunch at a junior high cafeteria. The elementary students are greeted with orchestras and bands playing, cheerleaders chanting, and an introduction from the school principal and staff. For many, this is the first opportunity to navigate a secondary campus and begin picturing themselves as a successful junior high student. By immersing them in the school culture, Level Up helps every student feel a sense of belonging before they ever receive their first class schedule.

“Level Up is so exciting, and it’s an amazing way to get students familiar with and have pride in their school before they attend,” said Clarissa O’Bryant, a parent of a future South Valley Junior High student. “My daughter and I made it a point to go because I wanted her to get excited to go to South Valley. My daughter is in 6th grade at a charter school, so I signed her out of class to take her! She was able to be in the same group as her best friend, and she had so much fun!”

Level Up also introduces students to the unique opportunities available at schools across the district. From hands-on multimedia labs and the Sports Performance Academy to accelerated honors coursework and award-winning performing arts, students explore a wide variety of specialized programs. Whether a student is looking for rigorous academics, International Baccalaureate pathways, or a community-focused school with a wide range of electives, Level Up helps incoming 7th-graders see exactly what their Junior High experience can look like.

“Level Up gives students a chance to see what’s next after elementary school and experience what junior high will really be like,” said Laura Helt, Head of Gilbert Accelerated Middle School. “By spending time on campus, meeting students and staff, and seeing a day in the life of the school, they leave feeling more comfortable and excited about the move to Junior High or Middle School.”

In addition to on-campus experiences, Gilbert Public Schools provides families with access to a districtwide Course Database. This online resource allows students and parents to explore courses available at each junior high and middle school, including detailed descriptions, prerequisites, and pathway information. Together, Level Up and the Course Database give families both an in-person experience and a clear academic roadmap as they prepare for junior high.

All GPS junior high and middle schools are hosting Family Preview Nights throughout February and interested students and families are invited. Families are welcome to visit their student's future campus, meet the principal and staff, and learn more about specific course offerings and electives.

2026 Preview Night Schedule (6:00 PM – 7:30 PM):

  • Greenfield Junior High: Monday, February 2
  • Highland Junior High: Tuesday, February 3
  • Mesquite Junior High: Tuesday, February 3
  • Desert Ridge Junior High: Thursday, February 5
  • South Valley Junior High: Thursday, February 5
  • Gilbert Classical Academy: Thursday, February 12
  • Gilbert Accelerated Middle School: Tuesday, February 17

Gilbert Public Schools is committed to ensuring every family finds the perfect environment for their student to thrive. If you are unable to attend a Family Preview Night or would like a more personalized look at our "A-rated" academic programs and specialized campus cultures, schedule a tour at GilbertSchools.net/Tour. To read more about secondary courses available to 7th and 8th-grade students, visit GilbertSchools.net/Teaching-Learning. 

A large group of people, likely students, gathered in a gymnasium with a %22Rattlers%22 banner displayed prominently on the wall.
A crowded sidewalk lined with bare trees, with people of various ages and attire walking along the path on a sunny day.
A large group of people, mostly young students, gathered in a school hallway with various posters and displays on the walls.
A large group of people, likely students, gathered in a gymnasium with basketball hoops and graffiti-style artwork on the walls.
A large group of people, including musicians with various instruments, are gathered in a gymnasium-like setting, with a scoreboard and other sports-related equipment visible in the background.
The image shows the exterior of South Valley Junior High School, with a group of students gathered outside the building on a sunny day with a cloudy sky.
A crowded school cafeteria with students purchasing snacks and pizza from the food service area, surrounded by signage and seating.