Madison Richard Simis School

I loved my elementary years at SImis! THe teachers were fun and really knew how to get kids learning. THe AEP teacher and class was excellent for those who like challenges and want to learn. I am glad that I got to attend there as a kid.

Madison Simis has wonderful and energetic teachers, wonderful at home activites that keep me engaged with my childs progress and learning and great access to extra activities.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter will be in 3rd grade. She has been here for two years, one in regular classroom, one in gifted/excel class. We really like this school. I could and would pay for private if I felt it was better, but with enrichment and other programs, I really like the teachers administration, annual fair, campus, and the after schools program is second to none, even better than the really expensive private schools. And you can't beat the price of a public school, even if out of district, which they are happy to accept. Even though I'm moving to downtown Phoenix, I still plan to bring my daughter here, because she is really thriving and excelling in this school. I'd recommend Simis to anyone.
—Submitted by a parent

Our children are in first grade this year and I have to say we are very disappointed in the quality of education. The Principal did not stand up for our children on a number of issues. She appears pleasant and friendly but will 'stab you in the back'. The school seems to be run by the PATS board and fund raising often feels like the # 1 concern. There is a chaotic overcrowded feeling in the school and on the playground, not to mention the parking lot nightmare. The teachers seem to have good intentions but are overwhelmed as well. The children get the same homework packet each week regardless of what level they are working at. We plan to move to Madison Hts. for the next school year as have some of our friends.
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers and staff really care about my son's success.
—Submitted by a parent

Parent involvement is Wonderful and has been for the 4 years we have been there. Teacher Quaility is wonderful also. All in all we have had a very positive experience at Madison Simis School!
—Submitted by a parent

Great teachers, great programs, well maintained facilities very good after school sports programs
—Submitted by a parent

Simis has provided such a great education! It is wonderful to see how much time and effort they also put into personal development and respect of others...the 'loop' program is excellent. Also, it is fabulous to still have our own art, music, etc programs and not have to share them with other schools; not to mention all of the 'extra' programs such as DIGGS, Coverstory, etc. Simis is the best school ever!!!!
—Submitted by a parent

The community involvement in this school is one of the things that makes it great. The parents of Simis students are active in many of the educational programs, as well as fundraisers
—Submitted by a parent

great teachers inovative ideas
—Submitted by a parent

This is an academically challenging, rich and vibrant school experience. Yes, the parents are overly involved, and Yes, many of the parents offer wealth that exceeds my personal capabilities - in their donations of time and money! And Yes, the children are all expected to work at levels higher than schools in this state might otherwise expect them to work. If a challenging school is not what you seek - don't send your child here to Simis. The teachers and the administration really cares. Dr. Flowers and Dr. Bitterman work very hard as do the teachers who are at the school early in the AM preparing for my son and late in the evening supporting our children who need additional input or parental communication. This is our son's 5th year at Simis, he is in 4th grade and has enjoyed every minute.
—Submitted by a parent

I am moving my child this coming year. The parents run the school more then the staff. They are always asking for money from parents, even those who don't have it feel guilty if they can't spend extra money on unnecessary purchases. The office staff isn't friendly and always seem to busy to help beyond what they are required to do. Dr. Flowers seems to avoid conflict and try to cover it up rather then solve it. Homework isn't individualized. Every child, regardless of ability is expected to do the same thing for homework even when it may be too difficult. The reason the school does excel is because of the upper class predominately white educated class of people in the area. This would not be a good placement for a second language learner needing individualized instruction.
—Submitted by a parent

This is my daughter's first year at Simis. She is in Kindergarten and her teacher is great. I feel that she takes the time that is needed for each student and replies promptly to emails and voice mail. She is willing to try what she can to keep my daughter on track. I am glad we chose Simis.
—Submitted by a parent

We moved into the Madison School District specifically so that our kids could attend Simis. Certain parents with a back-to-basics agenda disrupted our school & district, but finally got what they wanted whilst drawing millions of dollars from the district -- Madison Traditional School. This split served to lower class sizes at Simis, and now the school can again concentrate on providing excellent educations for our children. We're impressed that there are long-tenured teachers at Simis, including male teachers in the 3rd & 4th grades. The music director, Mr. Block, is first rate, and the new art instructor, Mr. Bilger, brings enthusiasm to every project. The fee-based afterschool programs are outstanding: chess, gymnaastics, Mad Science, Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, and Athletes in Training. The Parents-and-Teachers-at-Simis organization is the most active and supportive that we've ever witnessed. We're proud to be a Simis family!
—Submitted by a parent

Simis has the most active parent/teacher organization that I've ever been apart of. The PATS organization works hand in hand with the teachers and office team toward common goals. If there is a need that the District cannot fund, then the PATS organization will step in and support that request. While the student population is high Madison District just recently added two more buses to the school and the class sizes are reasonable. The teachers are really appreciated and there are committees to serve any interest. Also, there are a variety of clubs and activities such as Spanish and Mandarin language instruction, Chess Club, Art, Gymnastics, and Odyssey of the Mind (State Champions)! Simis is a great school with a wonderful student/parent/teacher community.
—Submitted by a parent

I can't say enough good things about Simis. My son is starting his 4th year there (now a third grader) and I have been very happy with every one of his teachers. I will freely admit that I am one of those very invloved parents. I know most teachers in the school and the administration. The involvement of the parents is one the things that makes Simis such a great school, I couldn't see my son going to any other school in Phoenix (we are out of district, so we obviously had a choice).
—Submitted by a parent

I have been a Simis parent for 7years and although the overall exoerience has been great my oldest who is now going into 6th grade had 2 1st year teachers and had a horrible time with curriculm changes. My younger daughter had a wonderful experience and my youngest has so far had a horrible experience. I think the turnover has gotten really bad due to the disorganization of curriculm. I have one left and am still deciding if my child will attendin Fall
—Submitted by a parent

My grandson attended kindergarten in Mis Davis' class. She is the best teacher. She truly cares and goes the extra mile to make sure each child learns what they need to learn. I only wish she could be his teacher for the next four years. The principal was also excellent in helping to help with anything that came up. This is an excellent school and we are so glad we had him transfer into the school. I only have one complaint, and that is the t-ball structure is so poorly organized. It did not compare to Orangewood/Royal Palm League. They are so much better organized.
—Submitted by a parent

My son will be in 3rd grade next year & has been enrolled at Simis since kindergarten. Parent involvement at Simis is superb! The teachers are great! We will be moving out of district soon & still plan on our son attending Simis. It's going to be quite a drive for us but I liken it to private school. Instead of paying tuition we will be paying with time & gas...all worth it! These early years are so important. I plan on my two younger children to attend as well. A+ school!
—Submitted by a parent

Our son is in Mrs. Davis' kindergarten class. We feel that she truly cares about him and his academic success. There have been some behavior issues and she is always straight forward about dealing with them. I hope his (and our) 1st grade experience goes as well.
—Submitted by a parent