Tempe Champions Education through ‘Thrive in Tempe’ Initiative: A New Collaborative Vision for Success
Tempe, Arizona has long stood as a beacon of educational opportunity, where the spirit of learning intertwines with community identity and economic development. Established as the site of the Territorial Normal School—the first institution of higher education in Arizona—Tempe has evolved into a hub known for its commitment to educational excellence. This legacy continues with the launch of the Thrive in Tempe initiative, a collaborative effort involving the City of Tempe, Arizona State University (ASU), and three local school districts: Kyrene, Tempe Elementary, and Tempe Union High School District.
The Thrive in Tempe initiative aims to enhance educational access for families while promoting innovative programs and community resources that support students’ pathways from pre-kindergarten through higher education. Mayor Corey Woods articulated this vision, stating, “Education has always been at the heart of Tempe—it’s what makes our community thrive.” The initiative seeks to ensure that all families have the opportunity to engage with award-winning schools, utilizing ASU’s innovative culture alongside city and private sector partnerships.
Recognizing the importance of this initiative, the Tempe City Council recently proclaimed October 23 as “Thrive in Tempe Day.” This declaration not only celebrates community engagement but also signals the city’s commitment to collaboratively shaping its educational future. Councilmember Berdetta Hodge, a lifelong resident and product of Tempe’s public education system, played a pivotal role in launching Thrive in Tempe. Hodge emphasized the interconnectivity between education and economic vitality, underscoring how strong educational institutions fortify neighborhoods and local workforces.
Echoing this sentiment, Robin Arredondo-Savage, President and CEO of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the initiative’s significance for businesses: “In Tempe, education isn’t just a value—it’s a business imperative.” By strengthening the educational landscape, Thrive in Tempe aims to cultivate a robust talent pool essential for local employers.
Quintin Boyce, ASU’s Associate Vice President for Outreach, noted that this collaborative effort represents a unified commitment across various leadership levels to advance educational success. The Tri-District team, which Boyce convenes, has been working for nearly two years to synchronize long-term educational goals, track student success metrics, and develop strategies that link education, workforce development, and community well-being.
Evidence of Tempe’s educational achievements is reflected in recent accolades. In 2025, all six Tempe Union High Schools received “A” ratings from the Arizona Department of Education, while numerous schools, including Aguilar Elementary, were recognized as A+ schools by the Arizona Educational Foundation. Additionally, the Tempe Elementary School District achieved the distinction of being the No. 1 Elementary School District in Arizona, based on recent assessments.
These achievements contribute to Tempe’s reputation as one of the top three innovation hubs in the western United States, according to the 2025 Western Innovation Survey. “Thrive in Tempe builds on the city’s proud legacy as a place of learning and innovation,” Boyce remarked. “This initiative demonstrates that when a community invests in its learners, everyone benefits.”
The collaboration among educational institutions, local government, and businesses in Tempe showcases a proactive approach to creating a unified educational ecosystem. By building a continuum of learning that extends from preschool to doctoral programs, this initiative not only enhances individual opportunities but also fortifies the community’s overall strength and sustainability.
