A Brief History – Over 90 Years of Tradition and Excellence

Kenilworth Elementary opened in 1920 during the first major growth spurt for the new City of Phoenix. During this period, it was fashionable for public buildings to reflect a community’s hopes for the future. Kenilworth was meant to be a statement that a small town would become a major force in the history of Arizona and of the United States. Named after a novel written by Sir Walter Scott, Kenilworth continues to be a shining beacon of educational excellence within the community.

In the early 1970s, when the state began to map the course of the I-10 freeway, Kenilworth was briefly scheduled for demolition, along with many homes. It was saved by a committee of prominent citizens, neighborhood activists, and parents.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the oldest school in Maricopa County, Kenilworth continues to serve students. Extensive improvements were made to the Kenilworth campus and building in 2010