Important Updates for Mesa Arts Academy Families
Dear Mesa Arts Academy Families,
Starting next year, in the Fall of 2026, Mesa Arts Academy will become part of the Academy of Math and Science (AMS) — a high-performing, values-based public charter network that shares our deep commitment to academic excellence, community, and student growth.
AMS brings aligned values, including academic excellence, family support, and operational strength. And our Club will continue to partner with the school to provide high-quality affordable after school and summer programs on our campus.
Please know that for the entire 2025–2026 school year, nothing changes for you or your child. Your student will have the same amazing teachers, school routines, and programs you trust.
What’s changing — and why this is great for families:
AMS is investing millions of dollars to construct a brand-new, two-story school building that will open in Fall 2026 on our BGCAZ campus. As part of this plan:
- Two of the portables (buildings 1 & 2) — now over 30 years old — will permanently close this summer.
- Some students will have their classrooms move inside our on-campus Boys & Girls Club building during the 2025–2026 year. These spaces will be ready for learning and supervised closely.
- We’ll work together to make these spaces safe, functional, and student-ready
- Boys & Girls Clubs operations continue as normal in the afternoons/evenings.
We know construction is never easy, but it’s worth it. By next fall, your child will walk into:
- A modern, climate-controlled school with state-of-the-art classrooms
- Beautiful new playground and field
- A safe, dedicated drop-off and pick-up lane
- Room for 500+ students to learn and grow
What this means for your family:
- Tuition-Free: AMS, like MAA, is a free, public charter school — no tuition now or in the future.
- Full-day support starting in 2026-2027 school year: From 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, students will safely learn, eat, and play — all on campus!
- All meals included: Students will receive breakfast, lunch through school and snack and dinner through the Club.
- Affordable after-school care: The Boys & Girls Club will continue at just $60/month, including daily programs, snacks, and dinner.
What’s next:
- We will have more information about this transition at our Open House on July 29.
- A detailed FAQ is included below.
- You’ll hear from us regularly with updates and timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Download our PDF with these questions and our side-by-side comparison here.
Why is the school transitioning?
Our school will join the Academies of Math and Science (AMS) network in Fall 2026 to expand opportunities for students and improve facilities. AMS shares our mission and will invest deeply in our children’s future.
What’s happening to the portables?
The current portable classrooms are over 30 years old. We are removing two of them now to begin construction on a brand-new building that opens in Fall 2026. The remaining portable classrooms will be closed and removed before the 2026–2027 school year.
Where will students learn during construction?
Some classes will temporarily move into the Boys & Girls Club building on campus. These spaces will be adapted for learning and supervised by our MAA staff.
What will the new school include?
A two-story, state-of-the-art building; air-conditioned classrooms and restrooms; new playground and field; dedicated car line/drop-off area; and space for 400 students.
Will this cost families anything?
No. Mesa Arts Academy and AMS are tuition-free charter schools. The Boys & Girls Club remains just $60/month and includes programming, snacks, and dinner.
What are the new school hours?
For this year, the school hours remain the same. Next year, in Fall 2026, students can attend AMS Early Learning from 7:00 AM and Boys & Girls Club through 7:00 PM. Your child will be safely cared for from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on the same campus in school year 2026–2027.
Will my child’s teachers stay?
There are no changes to staffing this year. AMS will ensure opportunities for all MAA staff members and will encourage them to apply for 2026–2027 roles. AMS’ preference is to employ MAA staff who align with their culture, skills, and mission expectations.
Will the school still feel like MAA?
Yes. We are working closely with AMS to preserve the spirit and culture of MAA — our creativity, warmth, and deep relationships with families. They want to keep what’s best of the Mesa Arts Academy!