Benjamin Franklin Charter School - Mesa

One thing to mention is that this school has no team sports, only what is played in PE. The library is an occasional offering in an empty classroom, but when there are too many students, there is no more library. There are no computers available to the students. There is not always a play each year, but sometimes there is one play offered for older students. It is a small school with most classes in trailers and very limited resources. Otherwise, the school does what it can with what it has.
--Submitted by a parent

I initially loved this school for my child based on the ideas of teaching the constitution, principles and preparing them to be good citizens. As previously posted, there is nothing available for advanced/gifted students. While there is no proclaimed religion at this school, you will find that the dress code is in accordance with LDS guidelines and the social aspect is not friendly towards non LDS families. There is definately a pecking order when it comes to the administration caring about parental concerns, if you are not in the club, do not expect the principal to even respond to your questions or ideas. With that being said, the kindergarten teacher is an incredible lady who will go above and beyond to help your child do their best. Safety is also a concern, the outdoor aides are useless and often daydreaming or socializing when they should be watching the children.
--Submitted by a parent

I think this is a wonderful school. My children have been attending for many years. I think your race survey was right on track. Another item that parents may want to consider is the religious orientation of the school. This school is primarily based on a staff and student population from a particular religious base and families that are not a part of this religion can be made to feel uncomfortable. This is something they may want to research before becoming a part of the program.
--Submitted by a parent

When I was searching for schools for my daughter who was entering kindergarten I found Benjamin Franklin. I am so glad that I found this school because it is such a wonderful place. They have just the right amount of love and dicipline to make this school work. I love how envolved this school is with the children and keeping parents envolved. They keep the classrooms at a decent size so every child is taken care of. I love the fact that they praise kids and recognize them for the good things they do and not just the bad like I have seen a lot of schools because they are overwhelmed. They teach children to reach their full potential and they also teach respect which was a huge thing for me. They also encourage and love parents to be in the class rooms to help. I recommend this school to everyone!
--Submitted by a parent

From the principal to the teachers, this school really cares about every single child. I love the concentration on Reading, Writing and Arithmetic. I am also impressed with the way each teacher consistantly structures the class so that no time is wasted and every minute is spent on learning. They even skip count on there way to class! I also love the Flag Ceremony in the morning where the teachers talk about different virtues every month and the students are honored for displaying these values. What a great school this is. I highly recommend that you pop in any time and visit a class, you will be so impressed.
--Submitted by a parent

Super happy with the teachers and staff. I really like the small campus and how much everyone cares about the students. The expectations are high but not unachievable. The Spalding method is wonderful and even the kindergarteners learn how to read, write, and spell. Yeah!
--Submitted by a parent

We are in our 10th year at Ben frankin mesa campus, and very pleased with the entire program. Parents can be and are encouraged to be involved with their childs education.I feel extreamly informed about all of my childrens strengths and weaknesses, great parent teacher communication, your child will recieve an excellent education here, and obedient behavior is not only expected but insisted on, so all of the classrooms are very much 'under control' their is never a need to wonder what your childs day is like because at any time any parent is welcome to either help in the classroom or simply observe.Our new principal Mrs.Baker is wonderful addition to our school ,keep up the great work!
--Submitted by a parent

Franklin provides an adequate education for an average student but they cannot provide for the advanced student or the struggling student. They simply don't have the resources nor the training. I would suggest the public school setting if your child falls into either of these categories.
--Submitted by a parent

This was our first year at Benjamin Franklin, but we knew we needed something different, that our local distric school wasn't providing. We have been very pleased with every aspect of the schools acedemic program and quality. We love our boys teachers and the attention given to their acedemic progress. My husband and I always felt well informed. Thanks for a great first year! We'll be back!
--Submitted by a parent

As a parent I chose this school because I could be involved with my childs education. When choosing this school remember that it was a choice to attend. This school delivers what it says. It has high expectations and an excellerated curriculum. Parents who support the curriculum help to make the program work. One thing that I have learned is that the policies are set in place and the teachers are expected to adhear to them. I, as a parent must also adhear to the policies whether I like them or not. If I choose to not agree with the policies, I have the choice to move my child to another school. I love the small personal feel of the Mesa campus and enjoy the faculty and staff. I highly recommend Benjamin Franklin Charter School Mesa.
--Submitted by a parent