A good school for children in lower grades, but bullying issues with administration doing nothing about the issue in the upper grades. Very disappointed this year in this school on attention to major problems.
—Submitted by a parent
Very happy with the school so far. Very nice facilities, plenty of room for the students and a staff that has experience. They are a "B" rated school but only missed an "A" rating by a couple of points. The teachers seem to focus on positive reinforcement rather than negative as many young teachers do.
—Submitted by a parent
I was not impressed in the least. The teachers we good for the most part but the district as a whole needs a LOT of improvement. Ending up pulling my kids (not because of the teachers) because of the poor practices of the district.
—Submitted by a parent
I have lived very close in proximity to this schools for over 6 years now. Prior to this year, I didn't have any children old enough to attend. I must admit that the reason I purchased my house in the location that it resides was partly due to the closeness to the school. Now that my child attends Kindergarten here, I am quite impressed. Before enrolling my child, I was concerned as there are many children that live in the neighborhood that go to the newer charter type schools that have opened up recently. This made me question whether or not Simonton was the right school for us. After a referral to my child's teacher, I was elated with the outcome of this school year. I think that you should consider all of the negatives you are hearing and research them for yourself. I haven't had any issues with the school and my child's teacher is very warm, caring and provides a great learning environment. Also, the parent involvement is outstanding. I think you can send your child to the "worst or best" school out there, but yout child's education really comes down to how much you are willing to put in to him/her.
—Submitted by a parent
There has been little improvement over the last year with the leadership of the school. The teachers are great with communicating with the parents. When asking the teachers about the leadership they usually do not want to dicuss it because of fear of reprocussions. This school has improved over the years but still has a long way to go to be the best in the district. The district did grow from one school a little over five years ago to have a High School now. This does not mean training should not be provided to administrators on how to manage. There are somethings I take very seriously and my kids safety is first and foremost. I will not allow them to attend this school. This would require a change in leadership.
—Submitted by a parent
I have really enjoyed all of the staff and administration at my children's school. I feel that all of the teachers go above and beyond to help the students suceed!
—Submitted by a parent
Excellent principal! Her years of experience, leadership, love for the students and vision for what our children deserve in an education set her apart from other principals. She and the teachers have a cooperative effort that focuses on improving our school and the quality of education our children receive each year. She really seeks out opportunities to be involved with the kids and know who each and every one of the students. Keep up the great work!
—Submitted by a parent
Why do you love Kathryn Sue Simonton Elementary School? The staff is great and quick to rectify a situation without hesitation. They are also easy to talk to and keep me well informed about my children who attend.
—Submitted by a parent
My kindergarten child has received a wonderful education from this school. Her teacher has been an amazing support and been wonderful to the students and families!
—Submitted by a parent
My child has had 4 really great teachers. They care about the kids, provide great support, and understand how to keep the kids interested in learning. The kids get a well rounded education; including teachings about dinosaurs, wildlife, forests, people in history, growing plants, making maps, designing, and writing reports. At times my child comes home AFTER TURNING IN A BOOK REPORT that was enjoyed so much that the book report writing and drawing continues at home. My child also now loves to read and often time reads while I am driving.
—Submitted by a parent
Community ratings and reviews do not represent the views of GreatSchools
nor does GreatSchools check their accuracy or verify the reviewers' identities.
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About these ratings
The Community Rating is the school’s average rating from its community members (e.g., parents, students, and school staff). The highest possible rating is five stars; the lowest is one star.
In 2011-2012 Arizona used the Arizona Instrument to Measure Standards (AIMS) to test students in reading and mathematics in grades 3 through 8 and 10, writing in grades 5, 6, 7, and 10, and in science in grades 4, 8 and 10. AIMS is a standards-based test, which means that it measures how well students have mastered Arizona learning standards. Students must pass the grade 10 AIMS in order to graduate. The goal is for all students to meet or exceed state standards on the test.
In 2011-2012 Arizona used the Arizona Instrument to Measure Standards (AIMS) to test students in reading and mathematics in grades 3 through 8 and 10, writing in grades 5, 6, 7, and 10, and in science in grades 4, 8 and 10. AIMS is a standards-based test, which means that it measures how well students have mastered Arizona learning standards. Students must pass the grade 10 AIMS in order to graduate. The goal is for all students to meet or exceed state standards on the test.
In 2011-2012 Arizona used the Arizona Instrument to Measure Standards (AIMS) to test students in reading and mathematics in grades 3 through 8 and 10, writing in grades 5, 6, 7, and 10, and in science in grades 4, 8 and 10. AIMS is a standards-based test, which means that it measures how well students have mastered Arizona learning standards. Students must pass the grade 10 AIMS in order to graduate. The goal is for all students to meet or exceed state standards on the test.
In 2011-2012 Arizona used the Arizona Instrument to Measure Standards (AIMS) to test students in reading and mathematics in grades 3 through 8 and 10, writing in grades 5, 6, 7, and 10, and in science in grades 4, 8 and 10. AIMS is a standards-based test, which means that it measures how well students have mastered Arizona learning standards. Students must pass the grade 10 AIMS in order to graduate. The goal is for all students to meet or exceed state standards on the test.
In 2010-2011, this school was designated "Performing Plus".
In 2009-2010, this school was designated "Performing Plus".
In 2008-2009, this school was designated "Performing Plus".
About the tests
Arizona uses AZ LEARNS Achievement Profiles to indicate schools' overall performance each year. For elementary and middle schools, the profiles are based on current and historical aggregated AIMS results, MAP results and whether or not the school made Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP). For high schools, AIMS results, AYP status and graduation/dropout rates are used. Schools are identified as Excelling, Highly Performing, Performing Plus, Performing, Underperforming, Failing to Meet Academic Standards or Pending.
GreatSchools Ratings are based on the most recent standardized test results for schools.
Use the breakdown ratings below to compare types of students at this school.
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