Benchmark School

My son and daughter attended this school for over 5 years. They enjoyed it most of the time. Benchmark is very strong in math. It has given both my kids an excellent foundation in math and reading. They group kids based on ability which is good for the kids because it challenges them on their level. In the upper grades though, it seems to cause some social conflict, in that there seems to be a lot of comparisons going on about what group certain kids are in. I believe the prinicipals, while not super outgoing, have their hearts in the right place. They can be somewhat hard to communicate with at times. Overall, this is a great school and I would send my kids there again.
—Submitted by a parent

My son has been at this school for two years. He has learned nothing new from the first year he attended. The principals are very unresponsive. I'm a unsatisfied with this school.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is, bar none, the best possible elementary school you can find! I found this school when my daughter was struggling in her first grade class. The teacher was submitting nothing but "paper and pencil" assignments. We love Benchmark because it encourages creativity and uses several different teaching styles! Best of all, it levels the children off so each child is working at the level that is BEST for them! My son just finished their Pre-K program and I am astonished at the amount he has learned this year. "Mommy, that is not a diamond, that is called a rhombus" (he was 4 at the time) I love this school so much that when I graduated with my teaching degree, I immediatly applied at this school...unfortunately, (for me, not you) they have such a low turnover rate, that nothing was available! I will keep on trying! I will sing Benchmarks praises to anyone and everyone I meet. If you are looking for somewhere where your child will grow socially, emotionally, and most importantly, educationally, you have found it! There is a reason it has a rating of 10!
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter and son go to this school. My daughter started in Kindergarden then left for another school in second grade to another "Excelling" school. The other school was nice and had 'hug' days but academically did not challenge my daughter the way she needed to be challenged. We came back to Benchmark for 3rd grade. She loves it there! The teachers believe in educating the kids and keeps the bar high because they know these kids can do the work and do it well.
—Submitted by a parent

As a TEACHER/PARENT of Benchmark I am dismayed by the comment about the teachers of Benchmark. I am currently certified to teach in two states and have a degree in psychology in addition to a teaching certificate. I also have a Master's degree in education. I also take classes, at my own expense and as required by the state. Your child s teacher is an important ally and useful resource when it comes to raising your child. Go for the we attitude instead of the me attitude and work with your child's teacher to help your child have a great school year.Obviously some parents (not all) at our school have the "me" attitude. I certainly don't have the 'me" attitude when I spend hundreds of hours each year planning interesting lessons to engage students when I could be spending it with my own children and family. I guess my hours of planning are a waste since the parents do all the work. To that parent: Spend less time gossiping in the parking lot and reflect more on yourself and your child. Concerned about turnover, think about it. Are you the reason some teachers leave? I know I think of career changes after dealing with some parents.
—Submitted by a teacher

Our daughters have spent the past 6 years at Benchmark, and this school is top notch in every way. The academic education they received at Benchmark has surpassed all our expectations. Our 3 girls are avid readers, math whizzes and well-versed in both historical and current events. The curriculum is challenging and interesting. We can't say enough positive things about the teachers and the administrators; they clearly love teaching and working with children. Our experience at Benchmark has been overwhelmingly positive, and our girls love learning. Sadly, we are relocating to another state and have left the school. We can only hope to find another school that will inspire and support our kids' love of learning as much as Benchmark has. A big "THANK YOU" for a quality education!
—Submitted by a parent

This is to address the review about all teachers not being certified. I know that when they are audited, they have to show that all teachers are certified. I know first hand that these private schools you pay an arm and a leg for do not staff all certified teachers. My 3 kids have/are going through this school. My oldest has moved on to middle school with 4 other Benchmark students. All five of them tested into advanced math and one tested 2 grade levels ahead. Also out of 150 students in English, 5 were recommended to follow the advanced track. 4 of the 5 were former Benchmark. If this does show what kind of product Benchmark produces, I don't know what does. The kids are well prepared and transition easily to a new school. As with any school, you may have a teacher you don't see eye to eye with or an issue with admin. No school is 100% perfect, but Benchmark comes pretty close. We've been more than thrilled with it!
—Submitted by a parent

The best way to know about your child's success at their elementary school, is after they move on to middle. Our kids have moved on and are thriving in all honors programs, with all A's. They have excellent social skills, they are better prepared than most of their classmates, and are on track for top honors in high school, AP programs and academic scholarships. Hopefully Benchmark's parents know how lucky they are. Thank you Benchmark.
—Submitted by a parent

Benchmark is flat out THE best public elementary school in Arizona. What the school leadership has built here is a hidden gem. The curriculum is top notch with Singapore Math leading the way and the reading\language arts has the emphasis on phonics over whole word nonsense. The science lab out shines every elementary school in the area but you cannot beat the 15 to 1 student to teacher ratio (STR). Students are ability grouped to make sure those that need help get it and those who excel are pushed. No child at either end of the ability spectrum is left behind. This setup makes Benchmark not only unique (no other public school comes close to this STR) but truly a superior choice for your child.
—Submitted by a parent

Benchmark provides a balance of academics, life experiences and school comradery in an environment that children enjoy and excel in.
—Submitted by a parent

Charter schools and the teachers there make all the difference!

Benchmark School is the best choice for a quality education, bar none!

We have watched our grandson thrive since attending Benchmark. He loves to learn. The Teachers are wonderful!

Wonderful teachers and administration. Small class sizes, amazing curriculum. I wouldn't send my children anywhere else.
—Submitted by a parent

The level of committment to the student is fantastic. The school provides a superior learning enviroment for it's students

I love Benchmark because I think the curriculum is stimulating (core knowledge) and because they break their reading, writing, and math groups into different levels. The advanced child receives a challenging/rewarding education.
—Submitted by a parent

We love this school! My children began their career at Benchmark as preschoolers. One graduated 6th last year and the other will graduate 6th this year from Benchmark. Every aspect is appreciated from the sense of a close school community, the principals, parent involvement and the curriculum. LOVE IT!!!
—Submitted by a parent

Only here for 6th grade, best decision we ever made!
—Submitted by a parent

Benchmark is a wonderful community with parents that help make the school even better. There are so many fun and creative ways for the children to learn. I am so happy my Son has been a student there for four years. Maybe by the time he is in high school they will offer those grades, hint hint!!!! I am just glad I don't have to drive a long distance like some. Whatever it takes for a great education!
—Submitted by a parent

Benchmark is not only fantastic academically, but it is a wonderful community of families. There is an unbelievable amount of parent involvement. Our kids LOVE going to school!
—Submitted by a parent