5.2.1 Introduction

The education element provides not only a higher standard for elementary and high school education, but continuing education in the form of trade schools, colleges, and universities, as well as lifelong education within communities.

Although school districts are separate political jurisdictions, the actions of the city can have a profound impact on the ability of the schools to provide a quality educational environment. Unless coupled with cooperative planning between the school districts and the city, a high rate of residential growth could lead to over-crowding at existing school sites.

The city of Surprise, both within the incorporated city limits and Surprise Planning Area is presently served by four separate school districts: Dysart, Nadaburg, Wickenburg, and Morristown. The first three districts are unified with Morristown providing only elementary school classes. In addition to the school districts, Surprise has a number of charter schools that provide alternate educational opportunities.