Desert Trails Elementary School

The one problem at this school, PARENTS. The talk in the neighborhood is filthy. These parents don't mind tearing down other parents, teachers or the principal. Would not recommend this school only because the parents are horrible, horrible, horrible.
—Submitted by a parent

I have to disagree with the bullying aspect. The posters have been lucky enough not to deal with it but I have had to deal with it for my child. We have constantly kept the principal in the loop of what is happening and even when our child was slapped in the face in the lunchroom in front of the duty aides and many witnesses the principal barely handled it. She only addressed it once I followed up to see what was being done and the resolution was far from satisfactory. I am extremely involved and at the school often so I observe many things. My older child was not as prepared for middle school as they should have been and this is not being remedied. So many parents have written the district about this principal and her lack of administrative knowledge she should have been gone long ago. Will probably pull my youngest out because she shouldn't fear for her safety everyday!
—Submitted by a parent

I agree with Feb 12, 2013 post. School is not crowded and any bullying is taken very seriously. Principal is a caring, kind person as are the teachers. This school is not in Surprise or Scottsdale. The post on Feb. 11, 2013 must be referring to a different school.
—Submitted by a teacher

HORRIBLE, HORRIBLE School.... Teachers & Principal lack in proper education and GOOD discipline. Expect allot of bullies, crowding, and poor leadership.. The only plus to this school is Kinder and 1st grade. I live in Surprise and drive my kids to Scottsdale everyday just for high quality teachers and good schools..
—Submitted by a parent

New to this school as our district has taken full kindergarten away. My child has a good teacher school is friendly principal involved. We will stay.
—Submitted by a parent

Congratulations to the principal and teachers for receiving the new mark- A and keeping the Excelling label. The parents thank and appreciate you all.
—Submitted by a parent

I am surprised that the School Board has allowed this administration to stay. Many families are using school choice to leave this school. The teachers are very good especially in lower grades.
—Submitted by a parent

Lower grade teachers are great, higher grades leave a bit to be desired. Definitely not preparing the kids for middle school.
—Submitted by a parent

My child has attended Desert Trails for the past five years. For the most part we have been very pleased with the teachers and with our experience at Desert Trails. However, the principal is the biggest problem at the school. She is not a leader and has a difficult time addressing any problems or concerns. I have seen the school gradually deteriorate under her leadership.
—Submitted by a parent

Great school, wonderful teacher and staffs. I wish we could duplicate a teacher like mrs Maule, she's the best.
—Submitted by a parent

I have two children enrolled at DTES. The teachers, as a whole, are phenominal. Unfortunately, the principal leaves much to be desired for and the school is beginning to show signs of deterioration due to this. She has poor communication and is slow to implement things which should be occurring. The school class sizes are growing due to budget cuts. I am looking for other schools to place my children in.
—Submitted by a parent

I have sent both children to Desert Trails, and find everything just wonderful. The teachers, parents involved, other children, the school has just the right amount of space for all the children. We love the school and plan to stay here until the 6th grade year is over.
—Submitted by a parent

Our experience at DTES has been outstanding! Teacher communication (and Principal) are always open...anytime. The community spirit surrounding the school can not be out done. I am grateful I have 5 more years being apart of DTES!!
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers at Desert Trails are excellent. The principal, however, is far below average. I do not feel that my children are the main priority especially when it comes to their safety. It is a shame to see such an excellent school heading downhill fast because of one person!
—Submitted by a parent

Our son has attended DT from 1st to 6th grade. All of his teachers have gone above and beyond to meet the needs of the varied students in the classrooms. The many parent volunteers at this school have also added to the excellent experience we have had. We will miss DT as we head to Middle School.
—Submitted by a parent

I don't think desert trails is a very good school for children who plan to have a productive future. My kids have been at desert trails for 2 years and i am considering transferring. This school needs a new principal, new teachers and major help!
—Submitted by a parent

I feel that Desert Trails is an excellent school. My children are getting an outstanding education with many extra activities offered. The students are the first priority for the staff at Desert Trails. Parent involvement is amazing!
—Submitted by a parent

Our daughters have attended DTES for 4-6 grade, and K-3. While the school is large/crowded, we are very pleased with the teachers and how our daughters have progressed. Some view the large school as a problem. If parents hold their children accoundable for their actions and require them to be a positive contributor, not a negative one, the school being large (or overcrowded as some say) should not be a problem. Parents always have the option of moving their child to another school-public or private. If you are not happy at DTES, I suggest you move your child elsewhere. Negativity in any school is counterproductive and should be avoided as often as possible.
—Submitted by a parent

My son has attended Desert Trails since kindergarten. I have been dissapointed from the first day. The school is far too crowded. The teachers are overwhelmed and the students receive no individualized attention. This is fine some however, my son would benefit greatly from a more personalized setting. There is a cold, drab, dull, characterless feel to it.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is overcrowded. Class sizes are too large for one teacher to be effective. The district also uses the 'Make Your Day' program which focuses on how many points each child earned for behavior. This program overshadows the academics and teaches children that the points they earn are all that matters.
—Submitted by a parent