History

In recent history, MCRSD has provided education services to homeless students through the Papas Schools, students in juvenile detention and unaccompanied refugee minors detained in private facilities throughout Maricopa County.

The Papas Schools were closed in 2008 and MCRSD turned its focus on educating students in secure care facilities.

2016-2017

In 2016, a traditional public high school was opened in the district to meet the needs of students that struggled to find a fit in their home districts. A year later an elementary school was opened for a similar population. Hope Academy and Esperanza Prep were created to support youth that were at risk or had previously disconnected from school.

2019

Beginning with the 2019-2020 school year, Hope Academy and Esperanza Prep were re-imagined. All schools became learning communities that foster joyful exploration and discovery in students. Teachers ignite students’ passions and develop their talents to deeply root them in academic study, community service and civic engagement.

Beginning with the 2022-2023 school year, Esperanza Prep was closed.

MCRSD continues to oversee and support the educational programming in the Maricopa County Juvenile Detention Center.