Desert Willow Elementary School

Our first year at Desert Willow was excellent and I am excited for what lies ahead. I have a son starting first grade this year and another in his second year at the Spanish immersion preschool program. We have been extremely pleased with everything we have experienced with the school, thus far. In my oldest sons kindergarten class they only had, at most, 19 students with one full time aide. The curriculum was challenging yet FUN and the students ended the year knowing how to read (with phonics books that they took home to read at their own individual pace). Communication between the school, teacher and parents was more than I could ask for. I always felt like I knew everything that was going on in the school and classroom. Whenever I had a question, it was always answered in a timely mannner. My oldest has been accepted into the Spanish immersion program for 1st grade so we are eagerly anticipating how that compares. Another bonus is the special programs they have: music, art, Spanish for non-immersion students, p.e., after school programs. We have also been very pleased with the preschool program. In a state that puts education last, Desert Willow is a breath of fresh air.
--Submitted by a parent

I have daughter in the Spanish Immersion Program and she loves it! We have had good teacher after good teacher. Mrs. Richards, Mrs. Peterson, Sra. Smith, Sra. Arneri, Mrs. Scholer, Sra. Glidden, Mr. Cieslewicz, Sra. Murguia, Mr. Langley to name a few! Great curriculum. We love Student Council! Keep up the good work
--Submitted by a parent

This school is not only a perfect '10' on greatschools.org but a double A+ school(one for the school and one for their Spanish Immersion program) in an all Excelling Cave Creek school district. It's numerous school and teacher awards are not only impressive but some of them like the FLAP grant are beneficial in ensuring qualified staffing and ensuring current and future programs are somewhat safe from budget cuts. The Spanish Immersion program is amazing and that is one thing my children and I miss most about the school along with the great parent volunteers and community. Dr. Miller was an amazing principal and was promoted to Assistant Superintendant in the school district....so I know she will take care of our school especially the Spanish Immersion program which she headed at DWES. Great job and my kids and I wish you the best:)
--Submitted by a parent

This school offers a Spanish class 2-3 times a week (30 min. classes) or a partial Spanish immersion track where instruction is 50% in each language. It's an amazing school and the leader in International Education in AZ.
--Submitted by a parent

If you get the right teacher then I would say this is an excellent school. I don't agree with there dicipline policies. I have a child who constantly loses her recess privileges because she has boys who misbehave in her class. I don't feel that having the whole class lose out for a few kids misbehaving. Doesn't teach the misbehaving kids anything. My child is miserable and hates to go to this school! The parking lot situation is a disaster waiting to happen! They need a parking lot monitor to make the flow of the traffic go. Not impressed with this school overall!
--Submitted by a parent

In addition to being an 'A+ School of Excellence' this school is the only school in AZ to be a recipient of a FLAP Grant(Foreign Language Assistance Program) for almost $500k over 3 years, provided for schools who recognize the importance of teaching Critical Foreign Languages. The school leadership is outstanding.
--Submitted by a parent

This is our first year in public school (private bofore). Desert Willow has far exceeded our expectations. My son is in 2nd and has Mrs. Scholler. She is terrific and has great, but realistic expectations of the kids. The school has a lot to offer. They have several programs to enhance your childs learning and plenty of opportunity for parent involvement as well. It is a friendly and warm atmosphere. They just received the states A+ award.
--Submitted by Nicole Schnitzer, a parent

My daughter has Ms. Scherf for kindergarten and we've been very impressed! She's firm and warm at the same time, and my da is really learning. She'll be in the Spanish Immersion program next year. So nice to see the principal Dr. Miller outside every am greeting the kids! The only issue for us is the lack of parking for parent pickup, but to keep my child in this excellent school I'll do what it takes.
--Submitted by a parent

This is a great school. I have two kids in the Spanish Immersion program and have been very impressed. I love hearing my kids learn a new language. It seems to me that everyone takes a lot of pride in the school
--Submitted by Dave, a parent

What can I say? Great school with lots of parental involvement. Many good teachers.
--Submitted by a parent