BUCKEYE, AZ- The Buckeye Union High School District (BUHSD) has been named the 2026 Grand Canyon University (GCU) College of Education Local School Partner of the Year, recognizing the district’s outstanding commitment to educator preparation, professional development and student success.
The annual GCU College of Education Awards of the Year recognize individuals and school and district partners whose collaboration advances educator preparation, supports PK–12 student success and strengthens the education profession. The Local School Partner of the Year award specifically honors a school or district that demonstrates an exceptional commitment to partnering with GCU in ways that positively impact teacher candidates, practicing educators and the students they serve.
BUHSD was selected following a spring nomination and review process involving GCU College of Education faculty, field experience personnel, partnership coordinators, staff and academic leaders. Recipients are evaluated based on the strength of their partnerships, documented outcomes and the overall impact of their collaboration with GCU.
According to GCU, BUHSD stood out for its consistent and meaningful investment in educator development and its commitment to providing GCU teacher candidates with valuable field experiences and mentorship from experienced teachers and administrators.
“BUHSD has been an engaged and responsive partner, working collaboratively with GCU to strengthen clinical experiences, address workforce needs, and ensure that future educators are well prepared for today's classrooms,” said Dr. Meredith Critchfield, Dean of the GCU College of Education.
GCU also recognized the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Steven Bebee and former Principal Dr. Mike Sivertson for their partnership and support. The district’s involvement with initiatives such as GCU’s RISE 360 program and the Canyon Center for Character Education further demonstrated BUHSD’s willingness to invest in talent development, foster professional growth and support innovative approaches to educator preparation.
The partnership provides benefits throughout the educational community. GCU teacher candidates gain hands-on experience in authentic PK–12 classrooms, BUHSD educators have opportunities to contribute through mentorship and professional leadership, and students benefit from well-prepared educators entering the profession.
“At GCU, we view our strongest partnerships as pathways to expanding educational opportunity for both future educators and PK–12 students,” Critchfield said. “BUHSD exemplifies the kind of partnership that benefits everyone involved.”
The recognition reflects BUHSD’s ongoing commitment to developing the next generation of educators while strengthening the district’s connections with higher education and the broader educational community.
“We are grateful for BUHSD's ongoing partnership and proud to recognize the district as the 2026 College of Education Local School Partner of the Year,” Critchfield said. “The award reflects not only accomplishments from the past year but also a shared commitment to preparing and supporting educators who will make a lasting impact on Arizona's students and communities.”
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