Gifted and Talented Academy

Phoenix Union Gifted & Talented Academy

Maryvale's Gifted and Talented Academy is dedicated to supporting gifted learners to excel academically and grow holistically.  Our unique curriculum is designed especially for gifted learners.  We support not only gifted students' learning aptitude and habits, but also their social-emotional health.  Our creative approach to gifted education is setting in motion a new future for gifted urban students.

Mission  

To meet the needs of gifted students by challenging and developing their talents and critical thinking skills in a holistic campus environment. We provide an engaging and rigorous curriculum that empowers students to reach their full potential.

Vision

Empowering gifted learners to thrive cognitively, emotionally, and professionally in a dynamic world.

Questions?  Please Email Jessie Femiak or call 602-764-2057.

Learn More About GTA

History

Phoenix Union High School District founded the Gifted and Talented Academy in 2016 on the campus of Maryvale High School.  Beginning with a freshmen class and expanding each year to an incoming class, the Academy has grown to a full four-year curriculum.  

The Gifted and Talented Academy is changing the way we look at education. It was awarded Phoenix Union's 2018-2019 Micro-School of The Year award.

During the summer of 2020 the building was remodeled to create a comprehensive school within a school at Maryvale High School.  Ribbon cutting for the new GTA facility brought district personnel, teachers and staff to the festivities.

 

Thank You!

In 2020 we held a ribbon cutting for the newly renovated Gifted & Talented Academy, Library, Performing Arts & Music facilities, as well as the grand opening of the new JROTC building. 

Please click below to view the video from the event.


Admissions For the 2024-2025 School Year

Letter from the Principal and Microschool Leader 

Dear Prospective Students,

Thank you for your interest in the G &T Academy. As part of Phoenix Union High School District (PXU) commitment to bring quality education for gifted learners, we recognize a need to provide students with a multi-dimensional education that prepares them for the 21st century era.   Our G & T Academy is fulfilling that commitment to our students and community.

We expect to receive more applications than the number of available spaces. Therefore, we use an application and interview process for decisions in selecting the students who show the potential to achieve success in the Academy.  Typical qualities of a G & T Academy candidate include the following:

  • A score of the 97th Percentile or above on any gifted test approved by the State of Arizona.

  • A self-motivated, creative & critical thinker

  • A willingness to learn and grow

  • An ability to connect with care to themselves and others

     

  • Willingness to complete 150 hours of community service by the time they graduate high school

You are invited to apply to attend the G & T Academy if you think it may be a good fit for you.  Be advised to turn in the complete application to Maryvale High school front office.  If the Application Packet is complete, an interview will be scheduled. 

Timelines to apply are included in this application packet. If you have any additional questions, please reach out to us via email – Email Us or call Mrs. Angela Groves in the front office 602-764-2006.  Best wishes!

Sincerely, 

John Doherty, M.Ed.

Principal of Maryvale High School

Jessica Femiak M.S., M.Ed.

Gifted & Talented Academy Microschool Leader
Apply Now - Admissions Form

Aplicación en español

GTA Foundations

People gathered in a park pavilion for an outdoor event.
A group of people, possibly a team or class, posing for a photo in front of a building.
Modern open office area with a variety of furniture, decorative lighting, and a warm color scheme.
Three individuals engaged in an outdoor activity involving a red plastic object.
A group of people posing in front of a classroom, each holding up a face mask with different sayings written on them.
College Admission
Academic Pep Rally
2 million dollar scholar

GTA Foundations

Our students collaborate and innovate.  

Transform Yourself:

At the Academy, you are accepted as you are. Your holistic growth is supported in a nonjudgmental environment. Our educators support and nurture the unfolding of your potential while nurturing you to dream big and invest your gifts and talent to impact the world for a better future!

Take The Challenge:

We offer a unique and challenging curriculum that is carefully crafted for gifted learners like you. Courses are accelerated to allow the exploration of various pathways through personalized advisory. We make learning engaging and more meaningful. At Maryvale Gifted & Talented Academy, your learning will feature interdisciplinary connections and experiential learning that guide you to a greater understanding of the concepts explored within your classroom. There are multiple opportunities for advanced placement and dual enrollment courses that begin your freshman year.

Your Kind Of Space:

The learning environment is designed with 21st century learners like you in mind.  You will find a variety of flexible seating and open workspace that offers seamless technology integration.  We also have a wall dedicated to your creative expression.

Embrace Diversity:

At the Gifted and Talented Academy, we celebrate diversity. This allows you to learn through understanding different perspectives, and it allows you to grow as a well-informed global citizen. This is a place where you’ll make friends for life, and you’ll combine your unique gifts to create a progressive community.

One Community:

We believe that we can contribute in meaningful ways to our community. GTA students are expected to complete 150 hours of community service by the time they graduate from high school.

 Questions?  Please email Jessica Femiak