Joseph City, Arizona is a small community located in Navajo County with a population of about 1,500. We are located on Interstate 40, approximately 80 miles east of Flagstaff, Arizona. Joseph City is surrounded by some of the most scenic landscapes in Arizona, including the Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest National Park.

Joseph City, Arizona was originally founded in 1876 as St. Joseph. St. Joseph, Arizona was located along the Santa Fe Railway line. And in 1923, because St. Joseph, Missouri was also on the Santa Fe line, the name St. Joseph was changed to Joseph City.

Since that beginning in 1876, Joseph City has retained its small-town feel and supportive community. We are proud of the small school environment. Our district consists of two schools, Joseph City Elementary School and Joseph City Jr. High/ High School. We work hard to maintain high educational standards for our district’s students.

The district operates two separate campuses with a combined PK-12 enrollment of around 500 students. Joseph City High School has earned “Excelling” status under Arizona’s system for rating school and district performance for the past several years, and has been recognized by U. S. News and World Report with a bronze medal as one of the best high schools in the country. Joseph City Elementary attained “High Performing” status this last school year and continues to strive for excellence in student achievement.

The district Maintenance and Operations budget for the current year is approximately $4.6 million while boasting one of the lowest tax rates in Navajo County. A recent $5 million bond election allowed the district to complete some desirable and needed additions to the campuses including more classroom space, a new athletic/activity facility with weight training and conditioning room, a new all-weather track, and major upgrades to the district pool. Other important projects aimed at conserving energy and reducing ongoing costs included electrical upgrades to the high school and auditorium, more efficient heating system at both campuses and window replacement. Two new buses were also purchased as part of the bonding project.

At Joseph City School District, we believe that students come first. Each of us is dedicated to encouraging our students to be the best they can be. Our teachers and staff are dedicated and enthusiastic about helping our district’s children achieve their highest potential. And our small community supports us in our efforts.