Montessori Academy

After reading other reviews, I have to respond to the teachers and parents who point fingers at those of us who've had negative experiences at AZMA. Why do you feel that just because *you* had one kind of experience, that *everyone* must have experienced the same? If you're happy with the school, that's great and thank you for sharing your feelings on the subject. There are LOTS of us who are/were not happy with the way our children are/were being educated, and we have just as much right as you to express our opinions. Furthermore, our "claims" are absolutely based in FACTS, which are quite easily verifiable. There is no standardized curriculum, or at least not one that is enforced for the lower grades (We had friends in other classes in the same grade level, and the curriculum taught was completely different in all three classes! The Principal is too busy trying to be everyone's "buddy" to be an effective manager and leader. The communication was improved, but is still severely lacking. There is very little pre-planning or forethought at this school, and the lackadaisical attitude from the administrators is completely unacceptable! This school simply does not set a good example.
—Submitted by a parent

I could have written a similar review about remaining positive when there warning signs of problems. Great report cards but other signs of trouble, etc. The principal is a great saleswoman for the school but she is only selling her vision for the school, she does not have any leadership skills to run the school to attain her goals. The reality is that the school is currently a mess. Many mid year withdrawals and now end of the year transfers to other schools may make it hard for the school to survive. GIven the low level of education at this charter school I am not sure if they should. Children should not pay the price for their disorganization and huge egos.
—Submitted by a parent

We gave this school a chance, remained positive and hopeful, although our first grader seemed to be learning at a very slow pace in all areas. Yet the report cards were always great and the teacher kept assuring us that everything was fine and told us to be patient every child learns at their own pace etc. Not being sure of the this assessment, we had our child tested by a third party school and was told that our first grade child was at a mid-to-low kindergarten level in all areas and recommended that repeating the first grade would be highly recommended. During our conversation it became apparent that we had experienced a lost school year and really only had been sending our child to a daycare facility. Needless to say we will not be back; and regardless of the positive reviews I have personally spoken with over a dozen parents who have expressed the same concern as ours. Some have left while others have stayed. The teachers are unprofessional, uncaring, lacking proper leadership from the principal who is more interested in whether there are sweets in lunches than properly leading her staff. Teachers avoid parent contact unless you are volunteering to help out in class.
—Submitted by a parent

We moved our son to Montessori Academy in the middle of 2nd grade this year and could not be happier. While he was more academically challenged at his previous school (Madison Traditional Academy), he was bored to tears with repetition. In addition, he was treated with disrespect and this attitude came home with him. From the day he started at Montessori Academy his attitude changed. He is treated with respect and encouraged to work on his character as well as his academics. Within a week or two in his new class his teacher, Ms. Cross, had correctly surmised his strengths and weaknesses and was gently nudging him in the right direction. Amazing! I have done several tours of the school and EVERY time I have walked into a classroom all the students (including the early education, i.e. preschool and kindergarten) are calm and engaged in learning. Thank you Montessori Academy and especially Ms. Cross!
—Submitted by a parent

Teachers are the backbone to this country's future and this school has dedicated personelle. The real concerns for anyone who is serious about educating their child; should be around curriculm - which this school needs to prioritize. The public vs montessori student ratios casues issues of frustration for all involved - With time this school could become quality - No patence to wait as our children can not be the byproduct.
—Submitted by a parent

I have worked at Montessori Academy for about 4 years. It would be interesting to know from the negative comments how long they have been part of the community. The "turnover" that these posts speak of is totally blown out of proportion. Yes, teachers have left for personal reasons, but that happens everywhere, in all speres of life. The communication complaints have been remedied through email accounts for all teachers and newsletters that are sent out on a weekly basis and voicemail boxes for all teachers to facilitate phone contact,, a homework line so that parents can be aware of the work that their children are doing, as well as an open door policy with staff and adminstration. As for the credentials of the staff at this school all lead teachers have their Montessori certification, and there are several assistants who are currently going through Montessori training for certification. As a staff member of this school I am very pleased with the professionalism of the administration, and the overall environment in which I work. I am very saddened that people are upset with the school, but would say that most if not all of their claims are totally unfounded. I LOVE working at MA
—Submitted by a teacher

We absolutely love this school and feel so fortunate that our child can attend here for free. For this quality of education along with the beautiful campus you would normally have to play high-price private fees. Our child is absolutely thriving here academically and socially. The Montessori method nurtures the whole child and gives each student a world view and and a thorough understanding of science and culture. There are also many fun and enriching outside activities and a real sense of community.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter and son have gone to this school for many years. I have come to appreciate the Montessori philosophy and culture. My children have thrived in the community and I enjoy the parent community. My son has gone on to high school and has excelled academincally and socially. I would recommend this school to anyone.
—Submitted by a parent

When my daughter started at Montessori Academy last year in pre-school, she was shy and reserved. A year and a half later, she's blossomed into a very happy, outgoing and bright kindergartener. She's reading at a second grade level and she comes home never wanting to watch tv but wants to read and do arts and crafts instead. She loves learning. I really have no idea if she would be doing this well at any school or if I have Montessori Academy to thank. The school can be a little chaotic but the teachers care SO MUCH. Communication with the parents isn't perfect by any means. It's a little unorganized. But I can deal with this when I know that my child is flourishing. I'm not sure we'll be here through 8th grade, but I'm definitely not moving her anytime soon. I can understand other parents' frustration with the school but most parents I know who are not 100% happy with the school do believe their children are doing well, they're just not crazy about how some things are run.
—Submitted by a parent

This school literally changed my daughter's life. After much frustration with the AZ public school system we were seriously considering home schooling, and then we found Montessori Academy, where every child matters and every child is engaged and learning. If you are open to a non-traditional approach, I suggest you check it out. This is not your usual school based on a archaic factory-style system of education dreamed up in the 1950s, but rather it is a nurturing environment where children use their natural curiosity to learn about their world and apply their skills and creative talents in their own innovative ways.
—Submitted by a parent

Some teachers are good and not all are montessori certified. School is always filthy and have multiple issues with keeping a good cleaning company. Communication could be Alot better, we had one of the teachers quit and were never told until after she was gone finding out she gave two week notice. There seems to be always a new person or change... Lots of turnover. Won't continue taking my sons here for the money you pay vs quality it's not worth it!!!!
—Submitted by a parent

MA is amazing. Our two children just started pre K and 2nd grade and we could see them grow intellectually right from the beginning. Subjects during summer camp included continuing their education anlong with Spanish, arts, crafts and swimming. The principal was always available to meet if we had any questions and works to continually improve the programs they offer. I am totally impressed by the professionalism and desire to help educate our children.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter began at this school this past fall (2010). i'm very happy with her 1st grade teacher--i think she is very well challenged and the environment is kind and nurturing. i love the art program. The principal and my daughter's teacher have handled any concern I've had immediately--it was impressive. I think there are some growing pains as the school has more than doubled since its move to PV. Some of the school-wide activities have been slightly disorganized--but otherwise I'm very happy with MA.
—Submitted by a parent

Beautiful school with giving teachers, involved principal and office staff. Parent group is strong and dedicated.
—Submitted by a parent

Montessori Academy is an AMAZING school. It has just moved to it's new location in Paradise Valley and the school campus finally fits with the schools true spirit. This is our family's 4th year at the school. It is wonderful to see my children learn and be excited about going to school. The teachers are great and with a 10 to 1 ratio, they have time to spend with the children. My oldest just started middle school and is looking forward to the four trips throughout the year. I went with him on his big trip last year to Washington D.C. It was a fantastic trip and the children learn so much through hands on experience. The school has always exceed my expectations.
—Submitted by a parent

This school was very disappointing to our family last year. The teachers are 1st year/inexperienced teachers which lead to unprofessional ways of handling the children. The principal and teachers did not enforce various school policies, until there were numerous complaints from parents. Communication from the school to the parents was terrible. Gives Montessori education a bad name.
—Submitted by a parent

While there are some great teachers at this school, several are not state-certified and/or Montessori certified and/or college graduates. The campus is always cluttered and dirty-which surely must pose a safety issue in addition to not providing a lovely environment for learning. The administration is sorely lacking in communication skills. In the two years my child was at this school, the principal responded to less than half of my emails/phone calls and was frequently unreachable to the point that the office manager rarely knew where she was.
—Submitted by a parent

I am incredibly impressed with the faculty and students. Thay are all genuine and compassionate. I know I chose the right place for my child!
—Submitted by a parent

It's a very good school. Our children have attended for five years, and are doing great. The middle school teachers did a great job in preparing our son for highschool, where he is now and doing great. Our daughter is in seven great and loves it. We love it and would do it all over again.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter has attended for the past several years. This is a great school. Staff care about your child's progress and will do anything necessary to ensure success. Administration is visible and available. Extra curricular trips and events are amazing. Highly recommended.
—Submitted by a parent