A single-track YRE school for the past ten years, Rancho has shown extraordinary gains during the past three years. The percent of low SES students meeting or exceeding the state standards in Arizona (AIMS) has increased dramatically in reading, writing and math.

Between 2001 and 2002, reading scores in third grade rose from 36% to 63% and from 33% to 46% in fifth grade. Writing saw a rise from 51% to 66% in grade three and more than double – 20% to 49% in fifth grade. In math the percentages rose from 26% to 61% in third grade from 11% to 44% in fifth grade.

These gains have made Rancho Viejo a showcase school in Arizona and it currently hosts a parade of educational professionals from Arizona and California. It is a testament to the realization that forgotten at risk students can learn and perform at a high level.

The school uses an eight-step program called Crane Steps to Quality Performance. It opens a door that allows additional instruction for students who require more instruction through programs during the school day, after school or during intersessions. AIMS academics have become yearly spring intersession offerings. Summer intersession also helps students who remain behind to enter their next grades.

The school has demonstrated a high level of parent and community involvement by becoming the first school in its district to average more than five volunteer hours per student.

Learning at Rancho Viejo is a year-round family affair.