Growing Concern School

I love this school. And to the parent who said the kids test below grade level when they leave; that is not true. My son left the school scoring post-secondary in all areas, and skipped a grade at his new school. My younger son is a current student, and also scores very high. My youngest is about to start kindergarten here in the fall. The school has a very nurturing environment, and encourages the children to be curious. The school created an environment where the kids love to learn.
--Submitted by a parent

This is a great school for kids and their parents. There is a lot of individual attention and learning that is applicalble to life and academics. Kids learn how to get along with each other and develop critical thinking skillls as well compassion, time management, and good characters. I wouldn't send mine anywhere else as they receive a very well rounded "liberal arts" type of education at the Growing Concern, which is uncommon today. They have tested strongly and above grade/age for science, social studies, math, spelling etc. The GC is a model of the succesful skills that businesses are looking for in their employees. Important skills related to teamwork, analysis, good communication and presentation abilities, innovation, and inspiration are highlighted. It is important to instill these in children's minds while they are still plastic rather than waiting for college and upper grades.
--Submitted by a parent

This schoool is deficient in every regard. Firstly, they are on the verge of bankruptcy - ask for a financial statement and see for yourself. This is especially bad when their entire ciriculum is based upon a three year cycle. They are not a true Montessori - they have no accredation. Children who are self-motivated will do okay here but for those that need extra assistance or simply a nudge, forget it. Many of the children leaving here from the higher grades test out well below their grade level - especially for math and science - even when entering other alternative schools. Administration is very weak and not forthcoming about problems. Definitely explore other options.
--Submitted by a parent

We love GC! Love the teachers, the support staff, the other students and their parents. Aside from being a great Montessori experience, we love the stress on outside play, and they do great activities with the kids that really help them enjoy what they are learning. Our 3-yr-old was even disappointed on occasion to learn that it was Saturday and she couldn't go to school! As another parent said, after researching the options in the area, we really felt this was a no-brainer - after seeing this place, we couldn't imagine sending her anywhere else.
--Submitted by a parent

The Growing Concern is a wonderful, nurturing environment for children. They learn in the Montessori way which is at their own pace with plenty of manipulatives and supporting material to make certain that what they learn, they learn well. The teachers in both the Pre-school and Elementary classroom are involved, supportive and kind. My daughter received an outstanding education at this school for 4 years. She is a kind, compassionate child who loves to learn and I thank the Growing Concern for nurturing and encouraging that in her. The community at this school is fabulous - involved caring administration, teachers and parents all working together to create a perfect educational start for the children.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter is in her third year at GC. We researched all the private preK options in the area and visited here last. It was a no-brainer. The school backs onto a state park that also is Camelback Mountain, and the playground is part of the woods. This is why we moved to this area! Outside play is stressed, and mandatory in all weather except rain. The playground is not dangerous, but it isn't a plastic Little Tikes structure either. Inside, my daughter is learning without even realizing it, thanks to the Montessori way. She is happy in school and has become confident and empathetic. She also has a love of 'Mother Nature,' which I do not believe is a priority in many other schools. Downside: Cost is a struggle for us, and we worry about what to do after 5th grade, since there are so few public school alternatives
--Submitted by a parent

My son attends Pre-K at The Growing Concern and I highly recommend it for all age levels. The classroom is amazing and my son enjoys the freedom to choose his activities each day. They play outside every day, even in the snow, which most schools limit once the weather changes. The teachers are very well educated, patient and encouraging. It's well worth the tuition expense and I feel good leaving him at the door each day.
--Submitted by a parent

I had Twins at GC for Pre-School & Kindergarden GC is a school where the children come first. Each child is encouraged to do their personal best. The teachers are highly skilled and work hard to bring out the best in each child.
--Submitted by Betty, a parent

The Growing Concern Center offers a high quality preschool program. My child was an student at the school for two years. The program provided an interactive agenda each day for the students to follow, rather than feeling like a babysitting service, as most preschool programs appear to be.
--Submitted by a parent

Every child is treated as if they are a shining star. The teachers provide a loving and nurturing environment. My child has developed a love for nature and mankind. You will not find this anywhere else. The playground is not dangerous, it is a typical school playground with a slide and swing.
--Submitted by a parent