Ann Ott Revitalization
Introduction
Welcome! This is your home for real-time updates and exciting developments surrounding the revitalization of the former Ann Ott School site at 1211 E. Apache St., Phoenix, AZ.
The surrounding neighborhood is north of I-17 and east of 7th Street. It's near the original location of the legendary Carolina's Mexican Food and Barrios Unidos Park. Here, you’ll discover the story behind the Ann Ott legacy, learn why this historic site is ready for new life, and see how you can help shape what comes next. Don’t miss opportunities to share feedback and join us for a special community celebration in April 2026.
Scroll down to learn more about the purpose of the project and why moving Plant Services, which serves as headquarters for school bus, child nutrition, and warehouse operations from 120 E. Grant Street in downtown Phoenix to the Ann Ott site will benefit students.
Ann Ott's Legacy
Ann Ott was an educator, community member, and friend whose life revolved around increasing the quality-of-life of low-income children. Ann Ott, born in Hamilton, Kansas, relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, with her sister in 1926 to pursue a career in education. She taught at the Grace Court School and later at the Adams School before becoming principal of the newly established Robert Louis Stevenson School, which opened during the 1929–30 school year with just four teachers and 86 first and second-grade students ranging in age from six to sixteen.
As Phoenix grew in population, the one-room school underwent several periods of construction from 1930 until the late 1940’s for additional infrastructure to support the increase in students. Ann Ott’s dedication to being of service in the lives of low-income and multi-racial pupils was undeniable. Her mission was not only to educate children, but to feed them and clothe them. When she noticed a pattern of students entering the classroom without eating breakfast, having wounds on their bodies from working in fields, and without shoes, she did not hesitate to request funding from the district superintendent.
Ann Ott's philosophy for philanthropy was rooted in love. As she once explained, “I always try to do a great deal for others. If you start thinking of yourself, you don’t get anywhere.” Her selflessness, so uncommon that she was often described as “odd,” was reflected in her decisions—most notably when she declined an opportunity to work in a wealthier neighborhood and school district, viewing it as a threat to the goodness in her life that came from years of giving to others. Ms. Ann Ott retired in 1960, and the Robert Louis Stevenson School was renamed in her honor.
Ann Ott passed away on April 18, 1971, but her kindness and generosity left a lasting mark on the Phoenix community. In her final will, she donated $68,854.01—equivalent to an estimated $547,334.98 in 2025—to the Phoenix Elementary School District, instructing the Board of Trustees to use the income annually “for the benefit of needy children in said District for scholarships and for other financial assistance.”
Our Plans For The Future:
What began as a small group of underprivileged students blossomed into a vibrant community of nearly 800 children, each nurtured by learning and care. Though the school closed in 2007 and later served other charitable purposes, Ann Ott’s vision continues to inspire.
In summer 2025, the School Facilities Division determined that the existing Ann Ott building had reached the end of its useful life. The site will be prepared for a full rebuild to create a new, purpose-built facility that honors the legacy of Ann Ott while supporting the future needs of Phoenix #1 and the community.
By the summer of 2028, Phoenix Elementary School District #1 plans to honor that legacy by transforming the site, relocating the District’s Plant Services, Transportation, Warehouse, and Child Nutrition to the property, along with a community gathering space—a new home for hope, growth, and opportunities. This move will also help improve daily operations, including reducing transportation delays caused by large-scale events and downtown congestion.
We Want to Know your Thoughts About This Change! Ways to Share your Feedback:
1. Email us at reimaginephoenix1@phxschools.org
2. Call us at 602-257-3819
3. Fill out this form.