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Get to Know Kyla Archie

Member Spotlight

Gilbert Arts Academy
Kyla Archie, School Leader

How many years have you been in business? 20

What product or service do you offer? At Gilbert Arts Academy, we offer an arts-enhanced elementary education that helps every child thrive. Our program blends relevant, personalized learning with the power of the arts to deepen understanding and spark curiosity. Students learn from caring teachers who foster creativity, exploration, and confidence every day.

We provide collaborative, respectful classrooms where students feel safe, seen, and supported. As a small, community-centered school, we ensure every child is known by name and encouraged to shine.

Our service is simple: A safe, joyful school experience where your child grows academically, creatively, and socially — and becomes successful in and beyond elementary school.

What makes your business different, competitive, or unique? Gilbert Arts Academy is a small, arts-engaged school where every child is known, supported, and inspired. We combine strong academics with daily opportunities for creativity, expression, and hands-on learning. Students don’t just memorize—they explore, collaborate, and create.

What sets us apart:
Arts-Engaged Learning: Arts are integrated into core subjects, making learning meaningful and engaging.
Personalized Instruction: Small classes and flexible groups meet students where they are.
Caring, Creative Teachers: Our staff build strong relationships, foster curiosity, and encourage confidence.
Safe, Family-Feel Environment: Every student is known, respected, and supported.
Focus on the Whole Child: We nurture academic, creative, and social–emotional growth.

Here, every child has a place, a purpose, and opportunities to shine.

What is the nicest thing a customer has ever said about your business? We’re proud of our school and staff—teachers and programs voted Best of Gilbert, a KTAR Pay Tribute to a Teacher award, a Fiesta Bowl Wishes for Teachers grant, and funding for innovative programs like on-campus Art Therapy and a Diamondbacks/Honeywell drone program. We’ve been an A-rated school for six years!

But the kindest feedback is:
“This is the first school where my child felt truly seen, welcome, and supported.”

Parents appreciate our individualized learning plans, thoughtful behavior supports, and the genuine care our teachers show. Even when students move away, many return to our charter network. Awards are wonderful, but nothing means more than making a child feel valued and successful.

How has your business found value in your membership with the Gilbert Chamber? We have found tremendous value in our membership with the Gilbert Chamber. Immediately after attending events, we were able to make meaningful connections with other local business leaders. The Chamber staff were also very helpful, taking the time to meet with us and explain all the benefits of membership and strategies for getting the most out of our involvement. They provided personalized suggestions for committees and events that align with our business goals, which has helped us expand our network and grow our presence in the community.

What motivates you professionally? What motivates me professionally is deeply personal. As a mom, I’ve witnessed firsthand the difference it makes when children are truly seen, understood, and supported. I am fully aware of how profoundly a school can impact a child’s mental well-being and sense of self-worth. At Gilbert Arts Academy, I never want a child to feel that they aren’t worthy of effort or meaningful relationships. I know these experiences stay with children long after their K–12 years. I take great pride in fostering a joyful, supportive campus culture, and there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing students who may have struggled in other schools blossom and thrive at GAA.

What do you consider to be your greatest success? I consider my greatest success to be creating an environment where everyone feels seen, loved, and valued. I take pride in watching our staff grow into their leadership abilities, stepping confidently outside of their comfort zones. I also love seeing students who may have struggled academically or socially elsewhere come to GAA, gain confidence, and thrive. Most of all, I cherish the joy, love, and countless hugs we receive from our students every day—it’s the heart of what we do. This automatically leads to learning and growing because students feel a sense of comfort and support.

Who do you look up to or admire? I deeply admire Brené Brown and consider myself a superfan! Her research on shame, vulnerability, courage, and empathy has had a profound impact on me. I’ve completed her Dare to Lead training, and it truly transformed the way I approach leadership, helping me lead with greater empathy, authenticity, and courage.

When you're not working, where in Gilbert do you spend your time? I moved from Indianapolis, IN, to Gilbert in 2007, and I’ve loved watching the community grow and thrive over the past 18 years! When I’m not working, you’ll often find me enjoying a wine tasting at Cooper’s Hawk, grabbing my favorite coffee at Dutch Bros, spending an evening in Downtown Gilbert exploring its amazing restaurants, or walking a trail along our beautiful canal system.

Get to Know Kyla Archie