The Peoria Unified Governing Board is considering a proposal that Cactus becomes a 7-12th grade school next year. This is an opportunity to grow Cactus High School’s O’hana and expand educational opportunities for junior high students. A detailed plan will be shared before any decisions are made on how students will be supported in a transition to their new schools and how safety, supervision and programming will be central considerations in any potential changes to the current high school model.
Separate & Secure Spaces
Junior high students would have:
Specific classrooms in the Cobra Courtyard/300 Building
Separate restrooms, locker rooms, lunch periods, breakfast area, and dances
Electives designed just for junior high students
Clubs, student leadership opportunities (Student Council/National Junior Honor Society), and events tailored to their age group
Designated IDs/lanyards for easy visibility and safety
8th Grade Promotion
Integrated-Accelerated Model and 16 Elective Options
If the new model is approved, students will have access to accelerated learning and more elective opportunities than any other junior high students in the Peoria Unified School District. Students who are a part of the Integrated-Accelerated Model have the opportunity to earn one to two high school math credits in their 8th grade year.
All 7th and 8th grade students will be able to select four classes from three different pathways including career exploration, creative arts and physical education.
Junior High Camp Cobra
We also introduced Camp Cobra, a summer experience for incoming Junior Cobras from July 20–23 to help students build confidence, meet new friends, and get comfortable on campus.
Interested in joining Cactus High School? Complete this form.