Carden of Tucson

No one works harder or longer hours than the principal of Carden of Tucson. She tutors students after school and on weekends free of charge. In fact, it is hard to keep her away from the school. She was probably ill on the day a parent saw her napping (mentioned in prior review). She was treated for cancer this year--most parents are not aware of this--there was no announcement. True to form, she juggled running the school with her treatment. She did this very successfully (perhaps with the exception of a new parent finding her napping). Our principal is a living saint. For the first 20 years of Carden's existence, she worked as both the administrator and a full-time teacher WITHOUT PAY. That's right, for 20 years she did not pay herself a dime. Even Mother Teresa got a stipend. It troubles me that anyone would imply that our amazing principal is lazy. At the same time, I understand the new parent's interpretation of the scenario. I hope this parent will post another review, now that he/she has had time form a more informed opinion about the school.
--Submitted by a parent

Carden provides a community environment that is unbeatable. The teachers have extremely high standards, but teach with love, compassion, and flexibility. Small classes allow students to develop deep relationships with each other and the staff. The education goes much further than the state standards, meaning students receive well-rounded instruction. From character to public speaking, from in depth subject content to respect, from nutrition to environmental sciences.... the school has it all. Thanks to the staff who go above and beyond time after time, children at this school thrive.
--Submitted by a parent

The administration is very unorganized. I went into the office last week to turn in some paper work for my child, and saw the Principal asleep at her desk. I am new to the school this year, so I hope my child will get a good education here.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is a great academic environment for kids and all the staff are wonderful and helpful..I have three kids there and other tow in the waiting list .I hope the school can make the system to 12 grader ,so we don't have to move our kids to other school.......
--Submitted by a parent

I have had 4 children go to this school. I can't believe how helpful the staff is. They are so willing to help and spend extra time with my kids to make sure they succeed. They are awesome!!!
--Submitted by a parent

We are so grateful to have found this school. Our kids are thriving emotionally, socially, and academically. They literally look forward to going to school every day! Thank you to all the wonderful teachers and staff that make Carden an ideal environment for our children to learn and grow. I just can't say enough.
--Submitted by a parent

I cannot say enough good things about this school! My daughter attended 5-8th grade and if we hadn't moved too far away my sons would attend also. Administration is fabulous, teachers are great and this is an exceptional school!
--Submitted by Amber C, a parent

I loved Carden and my son thrived there. Carden is a small school and the kids know each other throughout all the grades. And all the teachers know all the kids. The kids learn how to work together with kids of all ages. There's a great deal more structure than at other public schools, and the kids are taught to respect authority, as well as other kids. I didn't see a fraction of the issues we've seen at the public school. I loved the environment and wish we didn't have to move. The teachers and staff were all wonderful and I really can't say enough good about the school.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is great with all types of kids and are really focused on the children. They are a little disorganized. Not a lot of sports or extracurricular activities. Alway welcome parent involvement.
--Submitted by a parent

In my years of experience through my childrens' attendance and my volunteer work I have enjoyed the small class sizes, social values and well-maintained premises including modern play equipment. The instructors, with one exception, are progressive and approachable.Science not stong in curriculum until 6th grade.
--Submitted by a parent