Copper Ridge School enhances learning with outdoor gardens and new shadow day program

The SUSD Spotlight Episode 56, aired on June 6, 2025, highlighted the launch of an all-honors middle school at Copper Ridge School in Arizona. The episode featured discussions about the school's unique campus design and educational initiatives aimed at enhancing student learning.

The meeting began with an overview of Copper Ridge's expansive campus, which accommodates various grade levels from pre-kindergarten to eighth grade. The school is structured with dedicated wings for different grades, including a separate building for middle school students. A notable feature of the campus is its outdoor school garden, which serves as a peaceful retreat for students and families, showcasing a variety of vegetables and flowers. The garden is a focal point of community engagement, with activities such as the art and garden walk, where families can enjoy the produce grown by students.

In addition to the garden, the school boasts a full-size gym for physical education and athletics, as well as fields for outdoor activities. The administration is working on enhancing the garden initiative in collaboration with Blue Zones, aiming to promote health and wellness within the school community.

The episode also introduced new programs designed to foster student engagement, including scheduled tours for families and "shadow days" for prospective students. These initiatives allow students to experience the school environment firsthand, paired with student ambassadors to guide them through the campus culture.

The discussion concluded with a tribute to impactful educators, specifically highlighting Miss Jill Gerding, a sixth and seventh-grade language arts teacher at Copper Ridge. Her supportive approach and dedication to student success were praised, illustrating the importance of strong teacher-student relationships in fostering a positive educational experience.

Overall, the meeting underscored Copper Ridge School's commitment to academic excellence and community involvement, setting a promising foundation for its all-honors middle school program.