Arizona Cardinals Preparatory Academy

The Arizona Cardinals Preparatory is proud to offer many programs and services to our students and families including:

• Academic Curriculum
• Community Experiences and Service
• Athletics
• Band and Orchestra
• Choir and general music electives
• Art
• After-School Activities

Students are identified as eligible for an interview with the Arizona Cardinals Preparatory Academy based on teacher recommendation, State and District test scores.

Each Spring, eligible students are invited to an Open House to learn more about the Cardinals Academy.

Parents are expected to support their child's learning outside of school, including homework and independent reading time.

The Arizona Cardinals Preparatory Academy was founded to assist Washington Elementary School District (WESD) students achieve academic success by creating a small-school community that:

• Teaches curricula aligned with Arizona academic standards
• Provides high quality, research materials to support curricula

• Invites parents and community to participate in meaningful school activities

• Sets high goals and expectations for student achievement

• Empowers students to grow through service learning opportunities

• Aligns with the WESD mission, vision, and values

• Provides student uniforms consistent with Arizona Cardinals colors

We are committed to providing high expectations and continuous communication among students, parent, and teachers. The Arizona Cardinals Preparatory Academy was formed as a community partnership to offer intensive instruction and service learning to help students reach their full potential.

Every year, one of our eighth grade students will be nominated for a chance to win the Carson Scholarship Award. This will provide a monetary award toward college tuition.

All eighth grade students will take honors algebra for an opportunity to receive a high school credit.

Our students will also have the option with teacher recommendation to take Honors English entering high school.

Cardinals Academy students also attend multiple field trips throughout the year and connect with different non-profit groups and other schools in the Washington Elementary School District.

"As a parent, choosing the right school for my child was one of the most important decisions our family has made. From the moment we joined Arizona Cardinals Preparatory Academy we knew we had made the right choice.The teachers are not only highly qualified, but genuinely invested in my child’s growth—academically, socially, and emotionally. They take the time to understand my child’s strengths and areas for development. My child feels supported, valued, and motivated to do his best every day.The school’s academic standards are excellent, with a well-balanced curriculum that promotes critical thinking, creativity, and a love of learning. Beyond academics, the emphasis on character development, respect, and responsibility truly sets Arizona Cardinals Preparatory Academy apart. The Royal Palm leadership team is approachable and transparent, and communication with parents is consistent and meaningful. I am incredibly grateful for the positive impact this school has had on my child’s confidence, curiosity, and overall development. I would wholeheartedly recommend this school to any parent seeking a nurturing, high-quality educational environment."
- Amanda W.

"The teachers are the highlight of the Cardinals Preparatory Academy. They know and care for each individual student and share their love and passion for their content area in an inspiring way. They are supported by a strong administrative team. We are so grateful to find a positive middle school experience right in our own neighborhood."
- Stephanie C.

"Cardinals Academy is definitely an Amazing program. Not only the Education, but also the everyday lessons in life that are instilled here. My daughter will complete her third and final year with Cardinals as an 8th grader next year! She has grown so much from all aspects of life while attending Cardinals. The communication and care of her teachers is indescribable! They are not only exceptional teachers, but even better human beings! I would HIGHLY ENCOURAGE ANYONE whos child gets the opportunity to be a student here, that they take it full force and head on with an open
mind and heart! Parents as well! It is a truly AMAZING, UNIQUE, AND ONE OF A KIND PROGRAM! I owe a huge thank you to the Cardinals Staff and everyone who has touched my daughters heart and contributed to helping her succeed to be the exceptionally hard working, smart, and beautiful young women that I am beyond proud to call mine! Thank you Cardinals!"
- Jeff G.

"I love how the Cardinals Academy is its own small community, it has been a great fit for our child. Because each class sticks together as a cohort, the students get to know each other and their teachers very well. It is apparent that the teachers are very invested in their students' outcomes and they push them to work hard and do their best. I am confident my child is leaving this program very well prepared for the rigors of high school."
- Casey S.

"I enjoyed the community, the curriculum, and the teachers of Arizona Cardinals Academy. Being with the same class for 3 years helps you grow closer and it truly felt like a second family, even now in high school, I am still closer with my ACPA alumni than anybody else. The curriculum was extremely high school preparation focused and prepared me for beyond just my freshman year. The ACPA teachers all truly care about each and every student, just as they would their own children. Without the care of which the teachers displayed each day, I would not be nearly as successful in high school as I am today."
- Travis G.