Families considering a move to Gilbert, Arizona, often start their research by looking at the local school options. The city is served by three distinct public school districts, each with its own size, strengths, and boundaries. Understanding how these districts compare can help you choose the neighborhood that best fits your family's needs. This article breaks down the key facts about Gilbert school districts, from student counts and school ratings to higher education opportunities nearby.
Overview of School Districts in Gilbert, Arizona
Gilbert is home to portions of three public school districts: Gilbert Public Schools, Higley Unified School District, and Chandler Unified School District. Together they provide education to tens of thousands of students living within the city limits. Because each district has different boundary lines, the specific school your child will attend depends on your exact address. Always confirm your home's designated district and school before making a move.
Each district offers a range of elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as specialized programs. The city of Gilbert itself does not operate schools; all public education is managed by these three independent districts. Below is a closer look at each one.
Gilbert Public Schools
This is the district most commonly associated with the city, though it also serves parts of Chandler and Mesa. Gilbert Public Schools is the seventh largest district in Arizona. According to the city's official website, the district operates 43 schools and serves over 35,000 students. Meanwhile, Wikipedia reports the district has 39 schools and over 34,000 students. The difference may reflect updates or variations in counting methods, but in either case it is a large, well-established system.
The district covers about 60 square miles. For the 2024/25 school year, all Gilbert Public Schools received an "A" or "B" letter grade from the Arizona Department of Education, and the district itself earned an "A" rating. This consistent high performance is attractive to families looking for strong academic foundations.
Higley Unified School District
The Higley Unified School District serves the southern and eastern portions of Gilbert, including areas near the San Tan Mountains. It is smaller than the other two districts, with 15 schools and nearly 12,000 students. Families who prefer a tighter‑knit school community often find Higley appealing. The district has grown rapidly as new housing developments have gone up in its boundary area, so school facilities tend to be newer. Because the district is smaller, class sizes and school communities may feel more personal compared to the larger districts.
Chandler Unified School District
Chandler Unified School District is the largest of the three districts serving Gilbert, with 45 schools and over 44,500 students. While Chandler Unified is based in the neighboring city of Chandler, its boundaries extend into parts of western and northern Gilbert. This district is known for its broad range of programs, including Advanced Placement, career and technical education, and fine arts. The large size means more course offerings and extracurricular options, but also larger school populations. As with the other districts, families should verify their address to see if they fall within Chandler Unified's attendance area.
Comparison of Gilbert's Three School Districts
The table below summarizes the key statistics for each district as reported by the city of Gilbert and the districts themselves.
| District | Number of Schools | Approximate Student Enrollment | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gilbert Public Schools | 43 (or 39 per Wikipedia) | Over 35,000 | "A" district rating; serves Gilbert, Chandler, and Mesa; covers 60.26 square miles |
| Higley Unified School District | 15 | Nearly 12,000 | Smaller, growing district; newer school facilities |
| Chandler Unified School District | 45 | Over 44,500 | Largest district; wide variety of programs; extends into Gilbert |
Because enrollment numbers and school counts can change with new construction, it is wise to check each district's official website for the most current data.
Family Life and Choosing a School District in Gilbert
Gilbert is a popular destination for families, and school districts play a major role in deciding where to buy a home. Homes within the boundaries of highly‑rated districts often see higher demand, which can affect home prices and availability. The three districts all have strong reputations, but each offers a different experience.
Families who value smaller schools and a newer campus environment may lean toward the Higley Unified area. Those who want access to a wide range of advanced courses and extracurriculars might prefer the larger Chandler Unified or Gilbert Public Schools zones. Real estate agents and district boundary maps are essential tools when house hunting.
Beyond the classroom, families benefit from Gilbert's many parks, community events, and family‑friendly amenities. The city's reputation for safety and well‑maintained neighborhoods adds to its appeal.
Higher Education Options Near Gilbert
For families with older children or parents considering continuing education, Gilbert and the surrounding area offer several higher education institutions. Arizona State University operates a Polytechnic Campus in nearby Mesa. Chandler‑Gilbert Community College provides affordable two‑year degrees and transfer programs. The East Valley Institute of Technology offers career and technical training for high school students and adults. Northern Arizona University, Park University, and the University of Arizona coding boot camp also have a presence in the region. These options mean that students can pursue everything from a bachelor's degree to specialized technical skills without moving far from home.
A Note About Gilbert Community School District
It is important not to confuse Gilbert Public Schools in Arizona with the Gilbert Community School District located in Iowa. The Iowa district is a separate entity and serves the town of Gilbert, Iowa, which is in the "heart of Iowa." The Arizona schools discussed in this article are entirely unrelated. Anyone searching for information about Gilbert, Iowa, should look for resources specific to that state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which school district in Gilbert, Arizona is the best?
All three districts serving Gilbert – Gilbert Public Schools, Higley Unified, and Chandler Unified – have schools that earn high marks from the Arizona Department of Education. The best district for your family depends on your priorities, such as school size, program offerings, and location. Gilbert Public Schools holds an "A" district rating for the 2024/25 school year.
How can I find out which school district a Gilbert address belongs to?
Each of the three districts has a boundary map on its official website. You can also contact the district administration offices or use the city of Gilbert's online resources. Because boundaries can change, it is best to verify directly with the district before purchasing or renting a home.
Does Gilbert, Arizona have private or charter schools?
Yes, in addition to the three public school districts, Gilbert has a number of private and charter schools. While this article focuses on public districts, families interested in alternative options can find a variety of choices by searching online or contacting the Arizona Department of Education for a list of accredited schools.
How do Gilbert Public Schools compare in size to Chandler Unified?
Chandler Unified is the largest district serving Gilbert, with 45 schools and over 44,500 students. Gilbert Public Schools is also large, with 43 schools and over 35,000 students. Both are among the biggest districts in the state, but Chandler Unified enrolls roughly 10,000 more students.
Choosing a school district is one of the most important decisions for any family moving to a new area. Gilbert offers a range of strong public education options through its three districts, along with convenient access to colleges and universities. By researching boundaries, visiting schools, and considering your family's unique needs, you can find a district that will support your children's success.