Sunfire High School

General Information

About Sunfire High School

Sunfire High School is a highly regarded public institution located in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona. Known for its dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and student empowerment, Sunfire High School offers a robust educational environment designed to prepare students for college, careers, and civic engagement. The school serves grades 9 through 12 and is part of the Phoenix Union High School District. It has built a reputation for fostering leadership, creativity, and resilience among students through a balanced curriculum that combines rigorous academics with diverse extracurricular opportunities. Sunfire High School’s mission is to ignite every student’s potential by creating a safe, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating learning atmosphere. Through a commitment to modern teaching practices, digital literacy, and personalized instruction, the school ensures that each learner receives the support needed to thrive. With a strong emphasis on STEM, fine arts, and athletics, Sunfire High School continually develops students who are both academically competent and socially responsible.

Contact Information

Address: 1245 East Sunfire Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85042
Phone Number: (602) 789-4520
Email Address: info@sunfirehs.edu

School Facts

CategoryInformation
Founding Year1997
Motto“Igniting Minds, Inspiring Futures”
TypePublic High School
Grades9–12
School DistrictPhoenix Union High School District
Enrollment1,850 Students

Sunfire High School Rankings

Ranking TypePosition
State Ranking (Arizona)Top 10% of High Schools
National RankingRecognized by U.S. News for STEM Excellence
District Ranking#1 in Phoenix Union High School District

Sunfire High School Academics

Sunfire High School Faculties / Departments

  • English and Language Arts
  • Mathematics
  • Science and Engineering
  • Social Studies
  • Fine and Performing Arts
  • Health and Physical Education
  • World Languages (Spanish, French, Mandarin)
  • Technology and Computer Science
  • Counseling and Student Support Services

Sunfire High School Courses and Programs / Majors

  • Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
  • Dual Enrollment Programs
  • STEM Academy
  • Business and Entrepreneurship Track
  • Fine Arts and Music Program
  • Health Sciences Pathway
  • Computer Science and Robotics Program
  • Environmental and Sustainability Studies
  • Leadership and Public Speaking Development

Online Learning

Sunfire High School provides hybrid and online learning options for students who need flexible scheduling or prefer a virtual environment. The school’s online platform allows students to access coursework, attend virtual lectures, and interact with teachers in real time. This blended approach ensures academic continuity and accommodates students with unique learning needs or extracurricular commitments.

Average Test Scores

Test TypeAverage Score
SAT1190
ACT25
AP Exam Pass Rate81%

Retention and Graduation Rates

Sunfire High School maintains a strong graduation rate of 96%, well above the state average. The school’s retention rate is approximately 94%, reflecting its effective academic support programs and dedicated student counseling services.

Sunfire High School Admissions

GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range

While standardized tests are not required for general admission, Sunfire’s honors and AP tracks typically accept students with a minimum GPA of 3.0. For specialized programs such as STEM or Dual Enrollment, a GPA above 3.5 and strong academic performance in math and science are preferred.

Sunfire High School Acceptance Rate

CategoryRate
In-District StudentsOpen Enrollment
Out-of-District Applicants78%

Sunfire High School Application Requirements

Admission to Sunfire High School is open to all students residing within the Phoenix Union School District boundaries. Applicants must provide proof of residency, previous academic records, and up-to-date immunization forms. Students applying for advanced programs such as STEM Academy or Honors Tracks may need to submit teacher recommendations and transcripts reflecting academic readiness.

Application Process

  • Complete Online or In-Person Enrollment Form
  • Submit Required Documentation (Proof of Residence, Academic Records, Immunization Records)
  • Attend Orientation Session
  • Receive Schedule and Attend First Day of Classes

Sunfire High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates

EventDate
Enrollment OpensMarch 1
STEM and Honors Applications DueMay 15
OrientationAugust 2
First Day of SchoolAugust 12

Essay Prompt

Students applying for specialized academies or leadership programs may be asked to write a short essay describing their goals, strengths, and reasons for wanting to join Sunfire High School’s advanced learning tracks.

Sunfire High School Scholarships

Sunfire High School partners with local organizations and foundations to offer scholarships for academic excellence, community service, and leadership. Students are encouraged to apply for merit-based scholarships and district grants to support their post-secondary goals.

Sunfire High School Tuition and Fees

CategoryCost
TuitionFree (Public School)
Activity Fee$35 per Semester
Technology Fee$60 per Year

Student Profile and Demographics

Student Demographics

Sunfire High School reflects the cultural diversity of Phoenix with a student population that includes Hispanic, African American, White, Asian, and Native American backgrounds. Approximately 51% of the students identify as female and 49% as male, with ages ranging from 14 to 18. The school’s inclusive environment promotes mutual respect, equity, and cultural awareness through clubs and community events.

Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities

Around 47% of Sunfire’s students qualify for free or reduced lunch programs. The school provides additional academic and social support for low-income families through counseling, tutoring, and technology access initiatives. Students with disabilities receive specialized assistance through individualized education programs (IEPs) and resource teachers.

Student Body

CategoryNumber
Total Students1,850
International Students35
Student-Teacher Ratio17:1

University Diversity

Diversity at Sunfire High School is one of its greatest strengths. The school celebrates multiculturalism through annual cultural fairs, heritage assemblies, and student-led inclusion campaigns. Diversity initiatives promote tolerance, empathy, and understanding, helping students develop global perspectives and cultural competence.

Average Earnings

While Sunfire High School does not track direct graduate earnings, its alumni have shown exceptional college acceptance rates and success in vocational training programs. The school’s emphasis on career readiness, technical skills, and leadership prepares students for strong economic opportunities in various industries.

Sunfire High School Faculty and Staff

Teachers and Staff

Sunfire High School employs over 90 certified teachers and 30 support staff members, all dedicated to maintaining high educational standards. Faculty members engage in continuous professional development to ensure they deliver modern, research-based teaching strategies.

Faculty Profiles

Many teachers at Sunfire High School are nationally certified educators with expertise in STEM, arts, and humanities. Several faculty members have been recognized for excellence in education and contribute to curriculum development at the district level.

Sunfire High School Campus and Student Life

Campus Life / Housing

Sunfire High School features a modern campus equipped with state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic facilities. While the school does not provide housing, its vibrant campus life includes over 40 clubs, athletic teams, and arts programs that encourage student engagement and personal growth.

Transportation

The school offers comprehensive transportation services for in-district students, with bus routes covering all major neighborhoods. Ample parking, bike racks, and public transportation access make commuting convenient for students and staff alike.