The Saddle Mountain Unified School District is located in Tonopah and Buckeye, rural areas in far west Maricopa County. With a population of under 5,000, there is certainly room for growth, and growing we are, with an average population increase of about 36 percent. We encompass more than 500 square miles of land in Tonopah and Buckeye and have purchased land neighboring our current schools to allow for growth when necessary.

Tonopah rests at an elevation of about 1,100 feet and enjoys the mild winter temperatures for which Arizona is famous. We are located near the White Tank Mountain Park as well as Estrella Mountain Regional Park, both perfect for hiking.

SMUSD serves students from both Tonopah and neighboring Buckeye. We strive to hire and retain the best teachers possible. We encourage our teachers to become lifelong learners, with nearly half holding a master’s degree or beyond.

Our mission is to educate all students to become responsible, college-and-career-ready community members.

Everyone learns, every day.

SMSUD has a commitment to:

• Accountability

• Being trustworthy

• Caring

• Taking initiative

• Being respectful

• Believing all children are capable of success. No exceptions.

1. Educational Programs & Services: SMUSD will provide a superior education geared toward student success by maintaining, developing, and implementing high quality programs and services.

2. Students: SMUSD will prepare all students to graduate college-and-career-ready. 

3. Staff: SMUSD will attract, develop, and retain high quality, dedicated staff who believe all children are capable of success.

4. Community: SMUSD will achieve its mission and vision by engaging all stakeholders.

5. Asset Management: SMUSD will effectively manage facilities, finances, and resources in support of student learning.