For families eyeing the iconic white picket fences and tree-lined streets of Morrison Ranch, one question inevitably rises to the top: "Is Morrison Ranch in a good school district?"
As specialists in this community, Mike and Heather Steck of Steck Residential understand that a home isn’t just about the floor plan—it’s about the educational ecosystem that surrounds it. The short answer is a resounding yes. Morrison Ranch is situated in one of the most high-performing pockets of the East Valley, primarily served by Gilbert Public Schools (GPS), which currently ranks as the #8 school district in Arizona for 2026.
The Pillar of Excellence: Gilbert Public Schools (GPS)
Gilbert Public Schools has long been the gold standard for public education in the Phoenix metro area. In 2026, the district continues to excel, with metrics showing it is one of the safest and highest-achieving districts in the state.
Currently, 32 schools within the district have earned "A" ratings from the Arizona Department of Education. For Morrison Ranch residents, this means your children are zoned for institutions that prioritize both core academic proficiency and holistic development.
Greenfield Elementary: The Neighborhood Anchor
Most Morrison Ranch students begin their journey at Greenfield Elementary.
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Current Standing: Rated as an A-minus school for 2026.
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Academic Proficiency: Students here consistently outperform state averages, with recent data showing 67% proficiency in math and 68% in reading.
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The "Gator" Culture: Beyond the numbers, Greenfield is famous for its "Gator" community, offering enrichment programs ranging from LEGO engineering and robotics to Young Rembrandt art classes.
Greenfield Junior High & Highland High School
As students grow, they transition to Greenfield Junior High (ranked in the top 15% of middle schools in Arizona) and eventually to Highland High School.
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Highland High Excellence: Highland is a powerhouse for both academics and athletics. In 2026, it remains a leader in Dual Enrollment partnerships, allowing students to earn college credits—and sometimes even an Associate’s Degree—before graduation.
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Diverse Pathways: Whether your child is interested in STEM programs, Career and Technical Education (CTE) like Veterinary Science, or the rigorous AP Capstone diploma, Highland provides a tailored path.
Top-Tier Alternatives: Charter and Private Options
One of the greatest advantages of living in Morrison Ranch is the proximity to top "choice" schools. Arizona is a leader in school choice, and Morrison Ranch sits at the heart of several premier options:
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San Tan Charter School (Recker Campus)
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Focus: Offering Montessori, Gifted, and Mainstream K-12 pathways.
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Proximity: Less than 5 minutes away on Recker and Elliot.
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Note: Known for its "Roadrunner Roadmap" which personalizes learning for every student.
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Gilbert Classical Academy (7-12)
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Focus: A high-rigor, "A" rated classical education focused on preparing students for top-tier universities.
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Proximity: Approximately 10 minutes away.
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Ranking: Consistently ranked among the top 20 public high schools in Arizona.
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Benjamin Franklin Charter School (Gilbert Campus)
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Focus: A traditional "back-to-basics" approach for K-6 with an accelerated pace of instruction.
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Proximity: Less than 10 minutes away.
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Vibe: Heavy emphasis on patriotism, civic virtues, and high parental involvement.
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Great Hearts (Archway Arete)
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Focus: A classical Liberal Arts curriculum (K-12) featuring Latin and Socratic seminars.
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Proximity: Approximately 12 minutes away.
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Distinction: Famous for its "screen-free" classroom environment and focus on Truth, Goodness, and Beauty.
The "Walkability" Factor: Why the Location Matters
At Steck Residential, we often tell our clients that the value of Morrison Ranch schools extends beyond the classroom. The neighborhood’s design—characterized by wide greenbelts and interconnected trails—allows many students to walk or bike to school safely. This "small-town" feel fosters a unique environment where teachers, parents, and students interact at the local parks and the silos, reinforcing the "village" mentality that helps children thrive.
Expert Insight from Mike and Heather Steck
"We’ve seen firsthand how the reputation of Gilbert Public Schools drives property values in Morrison Ranch," says Mike Steck. "In 2026, buyers aren't just looking for four bedrooms; they are looking for a 15-year plan for their children’s education. Morrison Ranch provides that stability."
Heather Steck adds, "Having raised our own family in the area, we know the nuances of these schools. Whether you need a school with a robust gifted program or a high school with top sports and arts, we can help you find the specific subdivision within the Ranch that fits those goals."
Is Morrison Ranch Right for Your Family?
Choosing a home is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make for your family's future. With its "A" rated schools, diverse charter options, and a community built for safety and connection, Morrison Ranch stands out as a top-tier choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which school district is Morrison Ranch in?
Most of Morrison Ranch is served by the Gilbert Public Schools (GPS) district. Depending on your specific subdivision, students typically attend Greenfield Elementary, Greenfield Junior High, and Highland High School. Some eastern portions of the community may fall within the Higley Unified School District, which is also highly rated.
Can students walk to school from Morrison Ranch?
Yes. One of the primary design features of Morrison Ranch is its extensive trail system. The neighborhood was engineered to be "pedestrian-first," meaning many homes are within walking or biking distance of Greenfield Elementary and Greenfield Junior High via safe, off-street greenbelt paths.
What are the 2026 ratings for schools near Morrison Ranch?
For the 2025-2026 academic year, Greenfield Elementary and Highland High School both maintain "A" ratings from the Arizona Department of Education. Highland High is also ranked among the top 15 schools in Arizona for high school athletics and STEM programs.
Are there school boundary changes planned for 2026?
Gilbert Public Schools has proposed some boundary adjustments for the 2026-2027 school year to manage district-wide enrollment. While Morrison Ranch's core schools (Greenfield) are stable, we recommend checking the specific address of any home with Mike and Heather Steck to confirm the most current zoning.
Does Morrison Ranch have private or charter school options?
Absolutely. Morrison Ranch is home to the San Tan Charter School (Recker Campus), which offers Montessori and gifted programs. Other nearby elite options include Gilbert Classical Academy and Great Hearts Archway Arete, both located within a short 10-15 minute drive.
