MESA — Arizona’s largest school district is expanding its high school offerings. Mesa Public Schools announced it will open two new high schools next fall, emphasizing smaller class sizes, individualized instruction, and opportunities for college credit.
The new campuses — Franklin High School and Shepherd College Preparatory — will be built onto existing junior high campuses, allowing the district to add one grade level at a time while keeping costs low.
Superintendent Matthew Strom said the initiative takes advantage of underused classroom space at junior highs originally designed for 1,200–1,600 students but now serving 600–900. By combining facilities, the district can create high schools without major construction expenses.
Each of the new schools will cap enrollment at 600 students, with incoming freshman classes limited to around 150 students, offering a more personalized approach to learning.
Franklin High School will share a campus with Franklin Junior High and Franklin Accelerated Academy (Brimhall campus) near Southern Avenue and Higley Road. Shepherd College Preparatory will be located alongside Shepherd Junior High near Alta Mesa Drive and Brown Road.
Shepherd College Prep will emphasize dual enrollment and early college pathways, with the goal of students earning college credits or associate degrees before graduation.
The addition of these campuses will bring the district’s total to 10 high schools, including six traditional campuses, two alternative schools, and two advanced learning models.
Applications for Franklin High School open Nov. 10, while Shepherd College Prep applications open Nov. 18, with an information session for interested families scheduled on the same date.
Families can learn more and apply through the Mesa Public Schools website.
