property report 20646 n 74th st, scottsdale, az...

PROPERTY REPORT

20646 N 74th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

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Copyright 2016 Realtors Property Resource® LLC. All Rights Reserved. Information is not guaranteed. Equal Housing Opportunity.

10/17/2016

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RVM® Confidence:


Legend: Subject Property

CancelledMLS Listing 5384358, 1/15/2016

List Price$609,000Cancelled Date: 2/9/2016Days in RPR: 25

Current Estimated Value$613,560Last RVM® Update: 9/4/2016

RVM® Est. Range: $558,340 – $668,780

RVM® Change - Last 1 Month: -$5,930

RVM® Change - Last 12 Months: -1.44%

This report contains data and information that is publicly available and/or licensed from third parties and is provided to you on an "as is" and "as available" basis. Theinformation is not verified or guaranteed. Neither this report nor the estimated value of a property is an appraisal of the property. Any valuation shown in this report hasbeen generated by use of proprietary computer software that assembles publicly available property records and certain proprietary data to arrive at an approximateestimate of a property's value. RPR and its information providers shall not be liable for any claim or loss resulting from the content of, or errors or omissions in,information contained in this report.


Copyright 2016 Realtors Property Resource® LLC. All Rights Reserved. Information is not guaranteed. Equal Housing Opportunity. 10/17/2016

Home FactsPublic RemarksPhenomenal 4 bd/2.5 bath. Single level in Grayhawks popular Coventry neighborhood!A backyard w/ family in mind! Built-in BBQ, fireplace, huge grass areaand gorgeous pool/spa!! All the touches you`d expect-- built-ins, plantation shutters, R/O system, security etc. Bedrooms are big and bright, living room & kitchenare meant for family!!! No homes behind & no two stories beside! All new stainless appliances in kitchen. Seconds from Grayhawk Elementary and El DoradoPrivate Schools. The best of North Scottsdale living!

HomeFacts Public Facts Listing Facts

RealtorRefinements

Property Type Single FamilyResidence

Single Family Residence –

PropertySubtype

Single Family Single Family - Detached –

Bedrooms – 4 –Total Baths 4 3 –Full Baths 3 2 –Partial Baths 1 1 –Living Area (sqft)

2,806 2,806 –

Lot Size 9,374 sq ft 9,374 sq ft –Lot Dimensions 9374 SF – –Garage Yes – –Garage(spaces)

3 3 –

Pool Yes Fenced Pool, Pool Private, Heated Pool –Year Built 1997 1997 –Total Rooms 8 – –Style – One Level –Roofing Concrete Tile –Heating Yes Gas Heat –Cooling Refrigeration Refrigeration –Fireplaces – 2 Fireplaces, Gas Fireplace, Fireplace Living Rm, Fireplace Family Rm, Firepit,

Exterior Fireplace–

Construction Frame Frame - Wood –Exterior Walls Wood – –Number ofStories

1 – –

Homeowner Facts

Owner Name (Public) Nolan Properties LlcMailing Address 9868 E Sharon Dr Scottsdale AZ 85260-8865Vesting Company/Corporation



Interior FeaturesBathroom 2 Master Baths, Separate Shwr & Tub,

Double Sinks, Full Bth Master BdrmCooling RefrigerationDining Eat-In Kitchen, FormalFireplace 2 Fireplaces, Gas Fireplace, Fireplace

Living Rm, Fireplace Family Rm,Firepit, Exterior Fireplace

Floor Carpet, TileHeating Gas HeatKitchen Dishwasher, Wall Oven, Walk-In Pantry,

Refridgerator(S), Pantry, Kitchen Island,Disposal

Laundry Inside Laundry, Wshr/Dry Hookup OnlyGeneral Drink Wtr Filter Sys, Vaulted Ceiling(s),

Soft Water Loop, No Interior Steps, FireSprinklers

Window Sunscreen(S)Room Details Family Room

Interior DetailsNumber of PlumbingFixtures

11

Exterior FeaturesConstruction Frame - WoodFence Block, View/Wrought IronRoof TileSpa Spa - Heated, Spa - PrivatePool Fenced Pool, Pool Private, Heated PoolParking Attched Garage Cabinets, Electric Door

OpenerSewer Sewer - PublicUtilities Aps, SW GasWater City WaterGeneral Children's Play Yard, Patio, Covered

PatioLot Size Range 7,501 - 10,000

Exterior DetailsLot Size - Square Feet 9374 sq ftLot Size - Acres 0.215 acNeighborhood Code 003

Extended Home Facts

Legend: Subject Property



Location DetailsBuilder Name CoventryModel La PalmaDirections to Property Grayhawk Dr. E to 74th Pl, S to Thunderhawk,

E to 74th Way, South to Jouney Lane, W to74th St (Home Straight Ahead)

Subdivision GrayhawkZoning R-7Community Features Walking/Bike Trails, Golf Course, Community

Tennis Courts, Clubhouse/Rec. Facility,Playground

Walkability Score (out of 5) Overall: 1.6 | Amenity: 1.6 | Leisure: 1.5

Other DetailsBuilding Condition AveragePool Size 388

Schools (from Listing Data)

Elementary School Grayhawk Elementary SchoolMiddle School Mountain Trail Middle SchoolHigh School Pinnacle High School

(based on location)

Elementary School Grayhawk Elementary SchoolMiddle School Mountain Trail Middle SchoolHigh School Pinnacle High SchoolSchool District Paradise Valley Unified District

Homeowners Association InfoDues $215Association Features Common Area Maintenance



Property Photos



Historical Photos



LEGEND: Subject Property Pending Active Expired Listing Distressed Recent Sale Off Market

Comps and Adjustments

This Property

20646 N 74th StScottsdale, AZ 85255

Proxim.

–

Daysin RPR25 days

Date

–

Amount

–

$/sq ft

$217

Living Area

2,806 sq ft

Lot Size

9,374 sq ft

Beds

4

Baths

3

Built

1997

No comps have been selected for this property.



This House85255Maricopa CountyArizona

Median Estimated Home ValueThis chart displays property estimates foran area and a subject property, whereone has been selected. Estimated homevalues are generated by a valuationmodel and are not formal appraisals.Data Source: Valuation calculationsbased on public records and MLS sourceswhere licensedUpdate Frequency: Monthly

Sales Date Sales Amount Price per sq. ft.8/22/2003 $410,000 $146

Sales History

Date Improvements Land Total Tax2017 $38,600 $9,650 $48,250 –2016 $38,600 $9,650 $48,250 –2015 $37,080 $9,270 $46,350 $5,0822014 $31,520 $7,880 $39,400 $4,7362013 $30,360 $7,590 $37,950 $4,7022012 $30,360 $7,590 $37,950 $3,7762011 – – – $3,6752010 $36,670 $9,160 $45,830 $3,4222009 $44,410 $11,100 $55,510 –2008 $47,280 $11,820 $59,100 –2007 $45,280 $11,320 $56,600 –2006 $28,640 $7,160 $35,800 –

Assessed Values

Property History

Legal DescriptionParcel Number: Zoning: Census Tract: Abbreviated Description: City/Municipality/Township:212-31-449 R-7 040132168.422024 LOT:51 SEC/TWN/RNG/MER:SEC 23

TWN 4N RNG 4E GRAYHAWKVILLAGE 1 PARCEL 1E (A) MCR 403-18

Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Mortgage Records



Mortgage RecordsRecordingDate 6/7/2005 4/19/2004 4/19/2004 6/19/2003

BorrowerName

LEONARD F NOLAN JR,KERRY C NOLAN

LEONARD F MOLAN JR,KERRY C NOLAN

LEONARD F NOLAN JR,KERRY C NOLAN

JAMES B STOUFFER, JILLA STOUFFER

VestingType

Community Property(Marital Community) – – –

LenderName TRUWEST CU FIRST HORIZON HOME

LOAN CORPFIRST HORIZON HOME LOANCORP

M & I MARSHALL &ILSLEY BANK

LenderType Credit Union Mortgage company Mortgage company Bank

LoanAmount $190,700 $36,500 $360,000 $150,000

DocumentNumber 2005-0763111 2004-0414938 2004-0414937 2003-0797091

Loan Type Credit Line (Revolving) Credit Line (Revolving) Stand Alone Refi (Refinance ofOriginal Loan) Credit Line (Revolving)

ContractDate 5/18/2005 4/14/2004 4/14/2004 5/20/2003

TD DueDate 5/24/2025 5/1/2024 5/1/2034 –

FinanceType Variable – Fixed Rate –

InterestRate – – 4.37% –

Deed RecordsRecording Date 1/9/2007Document Type Special Warranty DeedSales Price –Sales Price Code Transfer Tax on doc. indicated as EXEMPTBuyer Name NOLAN PROPERTIES LLCBuyer ID CompanySeller Name LEONARD F NOLAN JR, KERRY C NOLANSeller ID Husband and WifeDocument # 2007-0035226City Transfer Tax –County Transfer Tax –Total Transfer Tax –Contract Date 1/2/2007Inter-family Transfer –



Sales and Financing ActivityThis chart shows a property's sales and financing history. It can be used to compare the value of the property as seen by public records, such as deeds and taxrecords, with the estimated home value. Actions taken against the owner, such as the issuance of a Notice of Default, are noted. Sales activity, such as listingdate and price reductions, are highlighted.

KEY Sale ListingActivity

FinancingActivity

DistressedActions

AssessedValue

AssessorMarket Value

AVM orRVM®

Sales CompValuation

Est. LoanBalance

Data Source: Public records and proprietary data; listing data from on- and off-market listings sourcesUpdate Frequency: Valuations are updated twice monthly; actions on the home, such as listing activity or distressed property notices, are updated daily as madeavailable from public records sources



Estimated Home Values

This map layer shows the average estimated home values, based on the AVMs and RVMs® for properties in an area. Source(s): Public records and MLS datawhere licensed; updated Quarterly.

12-Month Change in Estimated Value

This map layer shows the change in estimated home values over the past 12 months, based on the AVMs and RVMs® for properties in an area. Source(s): Publicrecords and MLS data where licensed; updated Quarterly.



Estimated Value per Square Foot

This map layer shows average estimated value per square foot of homes, based on the AVMs and RVMs® for properties in an area. Source(s): Public records andMLS data where licensed; updated Quarterly.

Flood Zone

This property is in Flood Zone: AO, High RiskRiver or stream flood hazard areas, and areas with a 1% or greater chance of shallow flooding each year, usually in the form of sheet flow, with an average depthranging from 1 to 3 feet. These areas have a 26% chance of flooding over the life of a 30-year mortgage. Average flood depths derived from detailed analysesare shown within these zones.

This map layer shows an area’s flood zone designation as determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). A high-risk area has a 1 percentor greater annual chance of flooding and a 26 percent chance of flooding over the life of a 30-year mortgage. High-risk areas are red or orange. The coast areas,shown in purple, are also considered high risk. Green areas are low to moderate risk. A moderate-risk area is between risk limits of a 100-year and 500-year flood.White areas are undetermined, and all other areas are considered no or low risk. For more details on the categories of flood risk, seehttp://support.narrpr.com/entries/319901-what-is-the-flood-zone-heat-map. Source(s): FEMA; updated Annually.



Median Estimated ValueMedian List Price

Median Estimated Home Valuevs. Median Listing PriceThis chart compares a ZIP code's medianestimated home value with its medianlisting price. Estimated home values aregenerated by a valuation model and arenot formal appraisals.Data Source: Public records data; listingprice data from on- and off-market listingssourcesUpdate Frequency: Monthly

Neighborhood: Housing Stats and Charts 85255 Scottsdale Maricopa County Arizona USAMedian Estimated Home Value $629K $411K $228K $199K $319KEstimated Home Value 12-Month Change +4.9% +4.7% +8.6% +8.2% –Median List Price $630K $465K $270K $232K $95KList Price 1-Month Change -5.6% -3.1% -1.9% -1.3% -3.1%List Price 12-Month Change -9.9% -1.1% +3.8% +6.9% –Median Home Age 17 29 28 28 –Own 78% 67% 61% 63% 64%Rent 22% 33% 39% 37% 36%$ Value of All Buildings for which Permits Were Issued – – $1.46B $2.42B $102B% Change in Permits for All Buildings – – -12% -16% +2%% Change in $ Value for All Buildings – – -10% -11% +7%



Median Sales PriceSales Volume

Median Sales Price vs. SalesVolumeThis chart compares the price trend andsales volume for homes in an area.Home prices typically follow salesvolume, with a time lag, since salesactivity is the driver behind pricemovements.Data Source: Public records dataUpdate Frequency: Monthly

Median List PriceListing Volume

Median Listing Price vs. ListingVolumeThis chart compares the listing price andlisting volume for homes in an area.Listing prices often follow listing volume,with a time lag, because supply can driveprice movements.Data Source: On- and off-market listingssourcesUpdate Frequency: Monthly

ZIP Count Listings by PropertyType

Listing InventoryThis chart shows the number of activelistings in a ZIP code.Data Source: On- and off-market listingssourcesUpdate Frequency: Daily



Inventory of Distressed Listings

Inventory of DistressedListingsThis chart shows the count of distressedproperties (all stages of foreclosure) thatare for sale in a ZIP code.Data Source: Public records and MLSdata where licensedUpdate Frequency: Daily

This HouseComps

Median Sales Price by SquareFootageThis chart shows the median price ofhomes reported sold in the past sixmonths, according to the size of theliving space (square footage sourcedfrom public records). The amount shownfor the subject property is sold data whereavailable, or the property's estimatedvalue when sales data are unavailable(such as non-disclosure states) orprovided in range format.Data Source: Public records and MLSdata where licensedUpdate Frequency: Monthly

This HouseComps

Price per Bedroom of HomesSoldThis chart shows the distribution ofhomes reported sold in the past sixmonths at different prices per bedroom inthe area of your search. The amountshown for the subject property is solddata where available, or the property'sestimated value when sales data areunavailable (such as a non-disclosurestate) or provided in range format.Data Source: Public records and MLSdata where licensedUpdate Frequency: Monthly



This HouseComps

Price per Square Foot ofHomes SoldThis chart shows the distribution ofhomes reported sold in the past sixmonths at different prices per square foot(living area sourced from public records).Data Source: Public records and MLSdata where licensedUpdate Frequency: Monthly

This HouseComps

Price Range of Homes SoldThis chart shows the distribution ofhomes reported sold in the past sixmonths within different price ranges inthe area of your search. The amountshown for the subject property is solddata where available, or the property'sestimated value when sales data areunavailable (such as a non-disclosurestate) or provided in range format.Data Source: Public records dataUpdate Frequency: Monthly

This HouseComps

Age Range of Homes SoldThis chart shows the distribution ofhomes reported sold in the past sixmonths of different age ranges in thearea of your search.Data Source: Public records dataUpdate Frequency: Monthly

Sales Count By Living Area

Size of Homes SoldThis chart shows the distribution ofhomes reported sold in the past sixmonths of different sizes in the area ofyour search.Data Source: Public records dataUpdate Frequency: Monthly



85255

Population of Children by AgeGroupThis chart shows the distribution of thepopulation of children by age range —from birth to 17 — in the area of yoursearch.Data Source: U.S. CensusUpdate Frequency: Annually

85255

Population of Adults by AgeGroupThis chart shows the distribution of thepopulation of adults by age range —from 18 to 75-plus — in the area of yoursearch.Data Source: U.S. CensusUpdate Frequency: Annually

85255

Households With ChildrenThis chart shows the distribution ofhouseholds with children, categorized bymarital status, in the area of your search.Data Source: U.S. CensusUpdate Frequency: Annually

Neighborhood: People Stats and Charts 85255 Scottsdale Maricopa County Arizona USAPopulation 38.7K 224K 3.95M 6.56M 314MPopulation Density per Sq Mi 743 1.22K 429 57.8 –Population Change since 2000 +46.2% +10.3% +28.5% +27.9% +11.6%Median Age 46 46 35 37 37Male / Female Ratio 49% 48% 49% 50% 49%High School Graduate 11% 14% 23% 25% 28%2-Year Degree 25% 29% 33% 34% 29%Bachelor Degree 34% 32% 19% 17% 18%Post-graduate Degree 28% 21% 11% 10% 11%



85255

Household Income BracketsThis chart shows annual householdincome levels within an area.Data Source: U.S. CensusUpdate Frequency: Annually

Presidential Voting PatternThis chart shows how residents of acounty voted in the 2012 presidentialelection.Data Source: USElectionAtlas.orgUpdate Frequency: Annually



ScottsdaleMaricopa CountyArizonaUSA

Unemployment RateThis chart shows the unemploymenttrend in the area of your search. Theunemployment rate is an important driverbehind the housing market.Data Source: Bureau of Labor StatisticsUpdate Frequency: Monthly

85255

Occupational CategoriesThis chart shows categories ofemployment within an area.Data Source: U.S. CensusUpdate Frequency: Annually

Neighborhood: Economic Stats and Charts 85255 Scottsdale Maricopa County Arizona USAIncome Per Capita $65,378 $51,564 $27,477 $25,537 $28,555Median Household Income $114,966 $72,455 $53,689 $49,928 $53,482Unemployment Rate – 4.2% 4.9% 5.9% 4.9%Unemployment Number – 5.42K 101K 190K 7.85MEmployment Number – 125K 1.95M 3.02M 152MLabor Force Number – 130K 2.05M 3.21M 159M



85255

Average Commute TimeThis chart shows average commute timesto work, in minutes, by percentage of anarea's population.Data Source: U.S. CensusUpdate Frequency: Annually

How People Get to WorkThis chart shows the types oftransportation that residents of the areayou searched use for their commute.Data Source: U.S. CensusUpdate Frequency: Annually

Average MonthlyTemperatureThis chart shows average temperatures inthe area you searched.Data Source: NOAAUpdate Frequency: Annually

Neighborhood: Quality of Life Stats and ChartsQuality of Life in 85255 85255 Scottsdale Maricopa County Arizona USAElevation (in feet) 2,161 2,116 1,635 – –Annual Rainfall (in inches) 13.2 13.15 10.08 13.12 –Annual Snowfall (in inches) 0.87 0.93 0.76 13.11 –Days of Full Sun (per year) 180 180 180 172 –Travel Time to Work (in minutes) – 22 25 25 26Water Quality - Health Violations – – 0.75 – –Water Quality - Monitoring and Report Violations – – 0.59 – –Superfund Sites 0 1 8 15 2,302Brownfield Sites No No Yes Yes Yes



10 out of 10

N/A out of 10

School Facts This School

Total Enrollment 784

Students in Free or Reduced Price Lunch Program 1%

This School

Grade 3 AZ MeritThe chart shows results of standardizedtests for this school. Test results areprovided by GreatSchools, whichcompiles test scores, community reviewsand other data about schools across theUnited States. Ratings for this school arebased on the most recent availablestandardized test results for each state.Data Source: GreatSchoolsUpdate Frequency: Annually

This School

Grade 4 Arizona's Instrumentto Measure StandardsThe chart shows results of standardizedtests for this school. Test results areprovided by GreatSchools, whichcompiles test scores, community reviewsand other data about schools across theUnited States. Ratings for this school arebased on the most recent availablestandardized test results for each state.Data Source: GreatSchoolsUpdate Frequency: Annually

School: Grayhawk Elementary School

School DetailsNameGrayhawk ElementarySchool

Address7525 East Grayhawk DrScottsdale, AZ 85255

Phone(602) 449-6600

School DistrictParadise Valley UnifiedDistrict

Grades ServedPK-6

GreatSchools RatingA school's rating is determined by its students' performance on state standardized tests compared with other schools in thestate.

Grayhawk Elementary School

Scottsdale



This School


This School


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This School

Grade All Arizona's Instrumentto Measure StandardsThe chart shows results of standardizedtests for this school. Test results areprovided by GreatSchools, whichcompiles test scores, community reviewsand other data about schools across theUnited States. Ratings for this school arebased on the most recent availablestandardized test results for each state.Data Source: GreatSchoolsUpdate Frequency: Annually

This School

Grade All AZ MeritThe chart shows results of standardizedtests for this school. Test results areprovided by GreatSchools, whichcompiles test scores, community reviewsand other data about schools across theUnited States. Ratings for this school arebased on the most recent availablestandardized test results for each state.Data Source: GreatSchoolsUpdate Frequency: Annually

4 out of 5

Rating: 4

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Rating: 3

Community Ratings for this SchoolBased on 61 Reviews

Posted: 1/20/2015 by parentI have been at this school for many years, and the one thing that needs to change is the front office staff. They are very rude. They don't even acknowledge mostparents when they walk in. If you ask for help, they act like you are bothering them. The only time that they act nice is when the principal is right there, or one oftheir "friends" comes in. There is one who has been there a long time (too long), and she seems to train all the new ones to act like her (sour). I don't know whythe principal puts up with it. The classroom teachers are great, though! They have a real handle on core knowledge, which sets this school apart academically.

Posted: 10/22/2014 by parentThere is a reason the enrollment numbers are down...besides the total lack of leadership, where the leadership will listen to parent concerns but do nothing aboutthem, the reason enrollment is down is because the two ladies at the front desk are cold and unfriendly, unprofessional and have been give way too much powerby the leadership. It's hard to believe that one in particular is the "greeter" for the school with her bitter and unhappy personality.

Posted: 10/3/2014 by parentThis school has gone down hill since the old principal left. There are still some amazing teachers but they are few and far between. Ever since the newleadership, or should I say lack of leadership, amazing teachers have left the school. There used to be strong cores of amazing teachers within a grade level -that is no more. The current leadership will listen to your concerns but do nothing about them. If your kid is considered "gifted" take them elsewhere. There'sbeen a change in Honors and it's not for the better. It's so sad to see a school deteriorate.



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Posted: 2/1/2014 by parentIf you are looking for a public school that provides your child with a solid education Grayhawk is it! We have had four children at Grayhawk and they have allbeen successful despite varying needs and abilities. The teachers are caring and willing to reach out extra to meet a child's needs. In addition there is a fantasticstrings, band and choir program. The leadership is responsive and appropriate when problems have arisen. No school is perfect but Grayhawk is a very solidchoice!

Posted: 1/24/2014 by parentI agree with comments other parents made...this school is in a downhill spiral since the long term principal left. This is my second child in the fourth grade andour teacher does not communicate with parents. Grayhawk is touting they are a technology school and this grade does not use there websites, they do notcommunicate homework clearly, they do not send newsletters to parents. At any given time I know more about what is going on in the PTO than in my child's ownclassroom. There are no parent volunteers in this grade and the parents are kept out of the classroom. I know people chose this school because it rates highly onrankings but there is nothing special about this school. I am not impressed.

Posted: 12/5/2013 by othera lot better than pinnacle peak, which is one of the worst schools ever, this is an extremely good school expect for Assistant Principle Miss Sherwood, who is WAYover protective

Posted: 11/28/2013 by parentGrayhawk continues to be a great school!! This is our 7th year there.We have 2 children there currently. All of our teachers have always sent out weekly updateson what the children are learning, we also receive info. throughout the week via email. I have 1 child in the gifted honors program, as well as one child with alearning disability. Both my children receive a lot of attention for their very different needs. Whenever I have asked to meet with any of the educators they havealways made time to meet with me. Sure Mr. Heimstra was great, but Mr. Pratt is as well. He is very involved and cares very much about the school, the kids, andthe families' concerns. Unfortunately it only takes a couple of people to cast a very long shadow on a good light.(BTW-I see many reviews with a lot of typo's-LOL). We really like the families and kids at Grayhawk. We moved to Scottsdale from a very progressive east coast city and have been happy with the "down toearth" families we have met here, many who are new to the state as well.

Posted: 11/1/2013 by parentI agree with the last post completely! This school was once amazing, until Mr. Hiemstra left a couple of years ago. It is so sad that a school of such high calibrewas left in the hands of really poor leadership. The school has gone so downhill, the proof is in the the low enrollment numbers. The only good thing left at thatschool is the PTO!

Posted: 11/1/2013 by parentI disagree with the previous posts. We moved from another school this year and so far we can tell our son has improved a lot. In the first quarter we have seengood changes on our child. There will always be things that parents don't approve about school. Nothing is perfect but we are more than happy with the school.Especially after moving from an expensive private school where we didn't achieve as much as we have here so far.

Posted: 9/26/2013 by parentThe teachers are very caring and my son enjoys going to school every day. I can see how much my first grader has learn is great!

Posted: 7/30/2013 by parentThis school has good academics, very poor communication on the teacher's part, the principal is useless, he'll make promises but not follow through! The dutyaids treat the kids like inmates to where my kid is scared of them, and it's a good kid! There is no communication as to what they are learning in class... so if youwant to help your kid you'll just have to guess! Positives: PTO does bring money to facilitate more programs, field trips, books, etc.



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Posted: 6/27/2013 by parentI put my oldest into Kindergarten at Grayhawk. Extreme lack of duty aides, the teachers seem disinterested and push for the students that give them the test scoresthey want. Kindergarten averages about 20 kids per class while the upper grades have 40 or more! The office staff was friendly and I am actually sad to part wayswith the administration but do not care to see another one of their teachers again. My sons teacher actually emailed parents asking for what parents wanted toearn "brown nosing points" for volunteering. I could not agree more with previous posts that the money begging is excessive (more than my other child's privateschool ever begged for). I never have a problem spending money on my child's education but when it comes to holding a whose parent spends the most onschool staff I get annoyed. Also huge lack of communication. Parent class helpers were always chosen by the teacher who played favorites. I feel like I spent moretime teaching my son concepts he should have learned in class instead of playing 4 times throughout the schooldays. Also found it inappropriate that one uppergrade teacher was able to wear short sleeve shirts that showed his tats.

Posted: 4/29/2013 by parentMy daughter has been in this school for 4 years and we about to switch. The change in leadership is striking, with many experienced teachers now looking toretire or move on. I don't know about the specifics of why, but it seems more than random retirements and certainly makes you wonder. Over the 4 y, there isprogressively less communication coming from teachers and administration, with some significant decisions being made with little or no parental input, or at leastnone that they have solicited from me. Perhaps if I were one of the parents who was at the school frequently it would be different, but we are both careerprofessionals. Nonetheless it shouldn't alter our opportunity to weigh in. My child also endured some hurtful bullying at the end of last year that was completelyinvisible to her teacher and staff, which is amazing to me, so nothing was done. I agree with excessive $ solicitation- even teacher appreciation week is now aweek of catered lunch, flower bouquets, etc. Can't help but think it's about creating a favorite. We thought the school was amazing early on but believe it's justrun it's course.

Posted: 2/1/2013 by parentI think Grayhawk is a fantastic school. I feel like the teachers and administrators are constantly looking for ways to improve things for the students. I have alwaysfelt heard, and when I reach out to a teacher or staff member I always receive a timely response. I disagree with the Oct 25th comments about requests formoney. With state funding as it is, much of the extras that make our school great are actually paid for with funds raised by the PTO. I never feel pressured toparticipate in the fundraising efforts, and in fact this past year there has been very little fundraising going on. The PTO also sponsors several free family eventsthat have been a huge hit with my kids. We love Grayhawk, and I feel fortunate that I have such a great school for my kids.

Posted: 10/25/2012 by parentGrayhawk is a good school....not great! We moved last year from another state which my child went to a great school-so I know what makes a great school. Thepositive is the academics. The negative they always want money from you. They hold an auction and ask that you donate iPads and other expencive gifts asthere example. There PTO holds events and always run out of what they are selling. There fall festival is $25 per child and is lame! Anyone can walk into theschool at anytime and are not questioned as to who they are and where they are going. Right now there is a huge LICE breakout. The nurse has not keep up onchecking classes. The communication is horrible!

Posted: 9/27/2012 by parentI am very disappointed in the change of leadership at this school. It's sad to see it go downhill in such a short period of time.Some of the best teachers and aidesdid not come back this year. It's unorganized and the new principal doesn't seem to want to handle important issues. He makes promises to parents and studentsthen doesn't fulfill them.

Posted: 12/3/2011 by otherLeadership at this school was essential. What you see on the outside is not always indicative as to what's going on on the inside. Inappropriate remarks covering avariety of "genres" should never be made by "leadership."

Posted: 11/6/2010 by otherBoth ny niece & nephew have attended Grayhawk, my nephew is still attending. The principal is the best I've meet & I've meet a lot of principals.



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Posted: 4/19/2010 by parentMy child has not been there very long but I already want to move back to the Scottsdale schools which are much warmer, friendlier and while they have rules tofollow they don't feel like a prison camp like Grayhawk does. When I see my child during lunch, I'm even nervous being there!! It's so rigid and I believe it'sprobably time to get a younger principal who actually knows how things should run and how kids should be treated in the 2000's. They might be excelling, butthere is a lot of pressure to get them there, I'm sure just for the funding. Not a community feeling type school at all compared to Scottsdale school district. thatone is top notch!!

Posted: 3/6/2010 by parentI have been a parent at Grayhawk Elementary for five years now. Two of my children attend. I am blown away at the high expectations that are set by the staff,for the students. Don Hiemstra is involved and takes an active roll in maintaining a great environment for the kids and staff. The teachers my children have had,are kind, caring, dedicated & respectful. I have seen many parents leave to attend charter or private schools and end up coming right back because they don'trealize how awesome this school is until they experience other schools. Why would any parent leave a wonderfully run school to go to a charter or private schoolwhere teachers don't even have to hold a teaching certificate!? That's crazy! All the teachers at Grayhawk are highly qualified. It's the best!

Posted: 10/24/2009 by parentMost of the teachers love what they do and want to help the children learn.

Posted: 5/27/2009 by otherWe have lived in the area for about 10 years. We don't have any kids in school today, because they have all moved onto other grade levels. Our experience's atGreyhawk go beyond our expectations. The principal, Don Hiemstra, is very much involved with the students and teachers. Our family has experienced'exceptional' help from teachers and aids. They have been wonderful people. I have been told that many teachers will loose their jobs next fall. If this is true andyou have children at Greyhawk, it's time for you to 'speak out'. My concern/yours should be centered around the teachers/students ratio. From talk amongstneighbors, we have heard that the numbers will approach/surpass 30 students/classroom: this should concern every parent. I don't know what you will do, but youneed to respond and take action.

Posted: 1/12/2009 by parentThis is a wonderful school. It has extra activities such as spanish, choir and many others. The staff is also committed to teaching your children. Over all this is anexcelling school.

Posted: 10/8/2008 by parentOver-rated! I agree whole-heartedly with the Sept 7 posting. Teachers need a more modest dress code so they don't become a distraction to learning.

Posted: 9/7/2008 by parentIf you want to attend a school where the principal is full of it, then this is the school for you. He tells you what you want to hear and then does nothing about it. Ihad my 2 daughters at Grayhawk for a year and pulled them and put them into a private school. There are so many children in the classroom I don't know howthey learn anything. My girls would cry every morning and not want to go to school. Now they love school and want to attend on the weekends. Would notrecommend this school to anyone.

Posted: 8/27/2008 by parentWonderful teachers, but with little interaction with the parents. The principal has lost sight of what the school once was. Great curriculum for gifted students. Thisschool forgets it is a public school and tries to be private. Definite favoritism towards the 'in' parents and the PTO does NOT have the interests of its entire studentbody at heart, only their own.



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Posted: 7/26/2008 by parentMy daughter attends this school with wonderful teachers, an awsome Principle and rich Core Knowledge method of teaching. The Principle is a dynamicindivdual with a true passion for educating children. I have never encouter a leader who is more in the forefront of his orgazination than MR. Heimstra. He isalways present making the children and parents feel welcome. Additionally, he seems to provide wonderful support to the teachers, which all trickles down to aquailty education for our children. I am yet to encounter a teacher who is not enthusastic about his/her role in the school. We love the award winning CoreKnowledge. It provides exceptionally rich knowledge to the children. We are always blown away with how excited our daughter is to learn new things in herschool.

Posted: 3/26/2008 by parentI have 2 children that attend this school for 4 years now. I am getting more disappointed in the school as the years go on. My children are having a difficult timesocializing at this school and have made no solid friends in 4 years. They are told to work harder and are paid by the teacher with treats, candy, gum and pretendmoney. As if they are employees of a business not a school. My children are very bright and gifted. They get high marks on all there work, tests and report cards.They are looking for praise for there efforts. I expect the school would treat them with more respect. This school will one day have students saying I won't read thebook or do the homework unless you pay us. Is this what it is all about at Grayhawk.

Posted: 2/12/2008 by parentGreyhawk is a wonderful School. Both kids think curriculm is way too easy. We don't live in Grayhawk thus not much interactions with people living in Grayhawk.School will not let kids skip grades either. For a public school, they do a great job. Awsome principal!

Posted: 1/9/2008 by parentMy children have attended Grayhawk for four years now. We have been very impressed with the core knowledge curriculum. The teachers are top notch. The PTOleadership is cold, and even abrasive. On a more positive note, though, there are plenty of parents there who are friendly and don't fall into the previouscategory.

Posted: 12/19/2007 by parentI've been very displeased with Grayhawk. The classrooms are very crowded and the teachers are very distant unless your their favorite. Favortism is very apparentin this school. Children that are average fall through the cracks because the teachers throw so much info at them all at once. The ciriculum is very excelleratedand I don't feel the children really absorbe it all.

Posted: 11/28/2007 by parentMy daughter has been attending for five years. Good school overall if you live in the area and are socially involved. The school is community based so mostprominent parents have the money to live and be active in the community. Almost run like a private school. The school is not particularly attetive to thosestudents who are in need socially or academically. The teachers are somewhat distant from the parents and do not necessarily give valid feedback unless theparent is one of the prominent influential parents. I think the school is great for wealthy neighborhood residents who can afford and have the time to be involvedin the school on a daily basis.

Posted: 10/17/2007 by parentAwesome school! My child has been attending Grayhawk for 6 years and has made the best friends, learned as much as I could possibly expect and enjoys goingto school each and every day. I never hear that he doesn't want to go to school! It has its challenges, which are great for him. He is a very competitive kid, so Iknow he needs challenge. Kudos to the principal. The women up front are a bit grumpy, but you don't have to talk to them very much, just go to your kid'sclassroom, you'll be greeted very warmly by any of the teachers there.

Posted: 5/30/2007 by parentWe moved here in october and my 2 children (1st and 3rd) were extremely challenged at 1st. We came from New Mexico and this school absolutely blows theschools there away academically and otherwise, private ones included. The teachers and principal are top notch, it is very clear that they are extremely welleducated and the best I have ever encountered. The higher expense of living in this area is offset by not having to pay for a 'private school' which essentiallywhat this school is, the only 'drawback' of this school is parents must help their children with the homework which is fairly difficult, which suits us just fine.



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Posted: 6/14/2006 by parentAwesome environment. My daughter attended 6th grade there and did extremely well. They had a wonderful class trip experience going to Catalina Island inCalifornia. It was a wonderful school year for her.

Posted: 6/7/2006 by parentGrayHawk elementay is very nice school with teachers and students. It has family atmosphoere since the most of people are from same community and has hugeplayground. But when my son was transferred to this school he had hard time to new friends since the most of them started at the same time.

Posted: 4/28/2006 by parentgreat staff, reasonable ratios.. graet extracurrirular activities

Posted: 4/24/2006 by parentWe have been 100% happy with this school. We had our daughter in private pre-school and kindergarden and choose to move her here in 1st grade. She hasbeen in the honors program since 3rd grade and has truly excelled. The teachers and staff are top notch. We would highly recommend Grayhawk.

Posted: 4/8/2006 by parentWe've attended Grayhawk for 5 years. Although I like the Core Knowledge program I've seen the principal become very single minded and as a result they've lostfocus on the basics. Although they make an attempt with the Accelerated Reading program, there is no process to identify kids that may be struggling. My overallexperience is that there is very little communication between the teachers and the parents. They refuse to recognize that a student maybe struggling and evenworse do nothing to find the proper program to ensure future success. The reading specialists do not communicate adequately. If you have a child that needsextra help, Grayhawk is not the school to consider. Although it is an excelling school, they put a lot of emphasis on getting prepared for these tests and putpressure on the kids to prepare. Grayhawk is not preparing my child for future success.

Posted: 2/16/2006 by staffGreat school with great teachers. Effective teaching programs to enhance all levels of knowledge. Core knowledge have worked great with my kids. Highlyrecommend this school to anybody with children who are in K-6th grade.

Posted: 1/3/2006 by parentGrayhawk is a Godsend. My daughter is in the third grade and has been at Grahawk for three years. The teachers are the best and very well educated and up todate. The leadership is second to none. Parents are involved and committed. I just cannot think of anything negative to say about Grayhawk. I am moreconcerned about schools after Grayhawk or in the seventh grade. I will not move until my daughter is finished with the school. I am a single mother and find theaddtition of the Boys and Girls Club, located nearby, the greatest thing on earth.

Posted: 1/3/2006 by parentMy daughter has been at Grayhawk for 3 years. I really like the school and the Principal is a star! Mr. Hiemstra takes it to the next level! I have been very pleasedwith her education up to this point. I am however a bit concerned with the lack of minorities that attend Grayhawk. This is just a recent observation in her dailylife there. She is being teased a bit now and is feeling very insecure. I am trying to find a better fit for her at this time. She is also involved in Drama and Theatreoutside of school. I wish it was offered there, so she could find kids with the same interests! It is amazing how cliquey 2nd graders can be! I want to emphasizethat the education is top notch for a public school. It just isn't working out for us!

Posted: 11/16/2005 by parentMy children, currently in 3rd and 1st grade, have been attending since kindergarten. I cannot speak highly enough of the school and the leadership provided bythe principal. The Core Knowledge curriculum has been exciting for the kids and fun for me as parent to participate in the projects and special areas. Overall, avery good school.



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Posted: 9/7/2005 by parentThis school has been very challenging academically for both of my kids, and has given them an amazing thirst for learning. We have been very happy with thequality of education, and every teacher we've had has been great. The teachers are very happy with their work environment, because of the leaderhip ofPrincipal Don Heimstra. It shows every day with the teachers attitudes and enthusiasm for their jobs. This school has given our kids a great base of education forthe future. Can't say one negative thing!

Posted: 8/21/2005 by parentGrayhawk is a wonderful overall school experience!

Posted: 7/15/2005 by parentThe quality of the prgrams are great. I love the core knowledge program...the children really to rise to the occassion. I do wish this school as well as others hadmore year long access to extracarricular activities. like Art and Music which is split up...one each semester. I do like the potential parent involvement and theactivities the school holds that are feasible for all to enjoy. The teachers also keep the school open to parents and easygoing about campus visits...not all schoolsdo.

Posted: 7/3/2005 by parentExcellent school. Wonderful teacher experience and principal is very hands on. Great 'specials'. Lots of parent involvement. Should reduce class/school sizethough.

Posted: 6/19/2005 by parentOur family loved this school. They use the 'Core Knowledge' corriculumn as their foundation. The school spells out what your child is expected to learn, by grade.The curriculmn is made interesting by intergrating subjects such as Greek Mythology, Western Expansion, the Roman Empire into writting projects, art projects,spelling words, and mathmatics. You have never seen kids so interested. They know if one month they are covering 'important inventors' and it's not interesting tothem, the next month will be China. Some teachers, end modules with parties that celebrate the food & cultures of what they're studying. Not only did my kidslearn, I learned. The principal is totally ingaged. He knows whats going on and handles discipline appropriately. Parents are everywhere!! The teachers couldn'tteach these subjects without the help of an army of parents. I can't say enough about this school.

Posted: 6/8/2005 by parentGrayhawk is a wonderful school their core knowlede has been very successful for all grades.

Posted: 5/12/2005 by parentThe curriculum is very focused on Core Knowledge, level of education is very high, can be overwhelming to some kids, homework load is fair, reading is an othervery strong focus with frequent reports due. My son is in 3rd grade and he has had 1 research project per quarter and has had to do 3 class presentations, two ofwhich had to be memorized.



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School: Grayhawk Elementary School

School DetailsNameGrayhawk ElementarySchool

Address7525 East Grayhawk DrScottsdale, AZ 85255

Phone(602) 449-6600


Grades ServedPK-6


Grayhawk Elementary School

Scottsdale



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Posted: 1/20/2015 by parentI have been at this school for many years, and the one thing that needs to change is the front office staff. They are very rude. They don't even acknowledge mostparents when they walk in. If you ask for help, they act like you are bothering them. The only time that they act nice is when the principal is right there, or one oftheir "friends" comes in. There is one who has been there a long time (too long), and she seems to train all the new ones to act like her (sour). I don't know whythe principal puts up with it. The classroom teachers are great, though! They have a real handle on core knowledge, which sets this school apart academically.

Posted: 10/22/2014 by parentThere is a reason the enrollment numbers are down...besides the total lack of leadership, where the leadership will listen to parent concerns but do nothing aboutthem, the reason enrollment is down is because the two ladies at the front desk are cold and unfriendly, unprofessional and have been give way too much powerby the leadership. It's hard to believe that one in particular is the "greeter" for the school with her bitter and unhappy personality.

Posted: 10/3/2014 by parentThis school has gone down hill since the old principal left. There are still some amazing teachers but they are few and far between. Ever since the newleadership, or should I say lack of leadership, amazing teachers have left the school. There used to be strong cores of amazing teachers within a grade level -that is no more. The current leadership will listen to your concerns but do nothing about them. If your kid is considered "gifted" take them elsewhere. There'sbeen a change in Honors and it's not for the better. It's so sad to see a school deteriorate.



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Posted: 2/1/2014 by parentIf you are looking for a public school that provides your child with a solid education Grayhawk is it! We have had four children at Grayhawk and they have allbeen successful despite varying needs and abilities. The teachers are caring and willing to reach out extra to meet a child's needs. In addition there is a fantasticstrings, band and choir program. The leadership is responsive and appropriate when problems have arisen. No school is perfect but Grayhawk is a very solidchoice!

Posted: 1/24/2014 by parentI agree with comments other parents made...this school is in a downhill spiral since the long term principal left. This is my second child in the fourth grade andour teacher does not communicate with parents. Grayhawk is touting they are a technology school and this grade does not use there websites, they do notcommunicate homework clearly, they do not send newsletters to parents. At any given time I know more about what is going on in the PTO than in my child's ownclassroom. There are no parent volunteers in this grade and the parents are kept out of the classroom. I know people chose this school because it rates highly onrankings but there is nothing special about this school. I am not impressed.

Posted: 12/5/2013 by othera lot better than pinnacle peak, which is one of the worst schools ever, this is an extremely good school expect for Assistant Principle Miss Sherwood, who is WAYover protective

Posted: 11/28/2013 by parentGrayhawk continues to be a great school!! This is our 7th year there.We have 2 children there currently. All of our teachers have always sent out weekly updateson what the children are learning, we also receive info. throughout the week via email. I have 1 child in the gifted honors program, as well as one child with alearning disability. Both my children receive a lot of attention for their very different needs. Whenever I have asked to meet with any of the educators they havealways made time to meet with me. Sure Mr. Heimstra was great, but Mr. Pratt is as well. He is very involved and cares very much about the school, the kids, andthe families' concerns. Unfortunately it only takes a couple of people to cast a very long shadow on a good light.(BTW-I see many reviews with a lot of typo's-LOL). We really like the families and kids at Grayhawk. We moved to Scottsdale from a very progressive east coast city and have been happy with the "down toearth" families we have met here, many who are new to the state as well.

Posted: 11/1/2013 by parentI agree with the last post completely! This school was once amazing, until Mr. Hiemstra left a couple of years ago. It is so sad that a school of such high calibrewas left in the hands of really poor leadership. The school has gone so downhill, the proof is in the the low enrollment numbers. The only good thing left at thatschool is the PTO!

Posted: 11/1/2013 by parentI disagree with the previous posts. We moved from another school this year and so far we can tell our son has improved a lot. In the first quarter we have seengood changes on our child. There will always be things that parents don't approve about school. Nothing is perfect but we are more than happy with the school.Especially after moving from an expensive private school where we didn't achieve as much as we have here so far.

Posted: 9/26/2013 by parentThe teachers are very caring and my son enjoys going to school every day. I can see how much my first grader has learn is great!

Posted: 7/30/2013 by parentThis school has good academics, very poor communication on the teacher's part, the principal is useless, he'll make promises but not follow through! The dutyaids treat the kids like inmates to where my kid is scared of them, and it's a good kid! There is no communication as to what they are learning in class... so if youwant to help your kid you'll just have to guess! Positives: PTO does bring money to facilitate more programs, field trips, books, etc.



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Posted: 6/27/2013 by parentI put my oldest into Kindergarten at Grayhawk. Extreme lack of duty aides, the teachers seem disinterested and push for the students that give them the test scoresthey want. Kindergarten averages about 20 kids per class while the upper grades have 40 or more! The office staff was friendly and I am actually sad to part wayswith the administration but do not care to see another one of their teachers again. My sons teacher actually emailed parents asking for what parents wanted toearn "brown nosing points" for volunteering. I could not agree more with previous posts that the money begging is excessive (more than my other child's privateschool ever begged for). I never have a problem spending money on my child's education but when it comes to holding a whose parent spends the most onschool staff I get annoyed. Also huge lack of communication. Parent class helpers were always chosen by the teacher who played favorites. I feel like I spent moretime teaching my son concepts he should have learned in class instead of playing 4 times throughout the schooldays. Also found it inappropriate that one uppergrade teacher was able to wear short sleeve shirts that showed his tats.

Posted: 4/29/2013 by parentMy daughter has been in this school for 4 years and we about to switch. The change in leadership is striking, with many experienced teachers now looking toretire or move on. I don't know about the specifics of why, but it seems more than random retirements and certainly makes you wonder. Over the 4 y, there isprogressively less communication coming from teachers and administration, with some significant decisions being made with little or no parental input, or at leastnone that they have solicited from me. Perhaps if I were one of the parents who was at the school frequently it would be different, but we are both careerprofessionals. Nonetheless it shouldn't alter our opportunity to weigh in. My child also endured some hurtful bullying at the end of last year that was completelyinvisible to her teacher and staff, which is amazing to me, so nothing was done. I agree with excessive $ solicitation- even teacher appreciation week is now aweek of catered lunch, flower bouquets, etc. Can't help but think it's about creating a favorite. We thought the school was amazing early on but believe it's justrun it's course.

Posted: 2/1/2013 by parentI think Grayhawk is a fantastic school. I feel like the teachers and administrators are constantly looking for ways to improve things for the students. I have alwaysfelt heard, and when I reach out to a teacher or staff member I always receive a timely response. I disagree with the Oct 25th comments about requests formoney. With state funding as it is, much of the extras that make our school great are actually paid for with funds raised by the PTO. I never feel pressured toparticipate in the fundraising efforts, and in fact this past year there has been very little fundraising going on. The PTO also sponsors several free family eventsthat have been a huge hit with my kids. We love Grayhawk, and I feel fortunate that I have such a great school for my kids.

Posted: 10/25/2012 by parentGrayhawk is a good school....not great! We moved last year from another state which my child went to a great school-so I know what makes a great school. Thepositive is the academics. The negative they always want money from you. They hold an auction and ask that you donate iPads and other expencive gifts asthere example. There PTO holds events and always run out of what they are selling. There fall festival is $25 per child and is lame! Anyone can walk into theschool at anytime and are not questioned as to who they are and where they are going. Right now there is a huge LICE breakout. The nurse has not keep up onchecking classes. The communication is horrible!

Posted: 9/27/2012 by parentI am very disappointed in the change of leadership at this school. It's sad to see it go downhill in such a short period of time.Some of the best teachers and aidesdid not come back this year. It's unorganized and the new principal doesn't seem to want to handle important issues. He makes promises to parents and studentsthen doesn't fulfill them.

Posted: 12/3/2011 by otherLeadership at this school was essential. What you see on the outside is not always indicative as to what's going on on the inside. Inappropriate remarks covering avariety of "genres" should never be made by "leadership."

Posted: 11/6/2010 by otherBoth ny niece & nephew have attended Grayhawk, my nephew is still attending. The principal is the best I've meet & I've meet a lot of principals.



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Posted: 4/19/2010 by parentMy child has not been there very long but I already want to move back to the Scottsdale schools which are much warmer, friendlier and while they have rules tofollow they don't feel like a prison camp like Grayhawk does. When I see my child during lunch, I'm even nervous being there!! It's so rigid and I believe it'sprobably time to get a younger principal who actually knows how things should run and how kids should be treated in the 2000's. They might be excelling, butthere is a lot of pressure to get them there, I'm sure just for the funding. Not a community feeling type school at all compared to Scottsdale school district. thatone is top notch!!

Posted: 3/6/2010 by parentI have been a parent at Grayhawk Elementary for five years now. Two of my children attend. I am blown away at the high expectations that are set by the staff,for the students. Don Hiemstra is involved and takes an active roll in maintaining a great environment for the kids and staff. The teachers my children have had,are kind, caring, dedicated & respectful. I have seen many parents leave to attend charter or private schools and end up coming right back because they don'trealize how awesome this school is until they experience other schools. Why would any parent leave a wonderfully run school to go to a charter or private schoolwhere teachers don't even have to hold a teaching certificate!? That's crazy! All the teachers at Grayhawk are highly qualified. It's the best!

Posted: 10/24/2009 by parentMost of the teachers love what they do and want to help the children learn.

Posted: 5/27/2009 by otherWe have lived in the area for about 10 years. We don't have any kids in school today, because they have all moved onto other grade levels. Our experience's atGreyhawk go beyond our expectations. The principal, Don Hiemstra, is very much involved with the students and teachers. Our family has experienced'exceptional' help from teachers and aids. They have been wonderful people. I have been told that many teachers will loose their jobs next fall. If this is true andyou have children at Greyhawk, it's time for you to 'speak out'. My concern/yours should be centered around the teachers/students ratio. From talk amongstneighbors, we have heard that the numbers will approach/surpass 30 students/classroom: this should concern every parent. I don't know what you will do, but youneed to respond and take action.

Posted: 1/12/2009 by parentThis is a wonderful school. It has extra activities such as spanish, choir and many others. The staff is also committed to teaching your children. Over all this is anexcelling school.

Posted: 10/8/2008 by parentOver-rated! I agree whole-heartedly with the Sept 7 posting. Teachers need a more modest dress code so they don't become a distraction to learning.

Posted: 9/7/2008 by parentIf you want to attend a school where the principal is full of it, then this is the school for you. He tells you what you want to hear and then does nothing about it. Ihad my 2 daughters at Grayhawk for a year and pulled them and put them into a private school. There are so many children in the classroom I don't know howthey learn anything. My girls would cry every morning and not want to go to school. Now they love school and want to attend on the weekends. Would notrecommend this school to anyone.

Posted: 8/27/2008 by parentWonderful teachers, but with little interaction with the parents. The principal has lost sight of what the school once was. Great curriculum for gifted students. Thisschool forgets it is a public school and tries to be private. Definite favoritism towards the 'in' parents and the PTO does NOT have the interests of its entire studentbody at heart, only their own.



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Posted: 7/26/2008 by parentMy daughter attends this school with wonderful teachers, an awsome Principle and rich Core Knowledge method of teaching. The Principle is a dynamicindivdual with a true passion for educating children. I have never encouter a leader who is more in the forefront of his orgazination than MR. Heimstra. He isalways present making the children and parents feel welcome. Additionally, he seems to provide wonderful support to the teachers, which all trickles down to aquailty education for our children. I am yet to encounter a teacher who is not enthusastic about his/her role in the school. We love the award winning CoreKnowledge. It provides exceptionally rich knowledge to the children. We are always blown away with how excited our daughter is to learn new things in herschool.

Posted: 3/26/2008 by parentI have 2 children that attend this school for 4 years now. I am getting more disappointed in the school as the years go on. My children are having a difficult timesocializing at this school and have made no solid friends in 4 years. They are told to work harder and are paid by the teacher with treats, candy, gum and pretendmoney. As if they are employees of a business not a school. My children are very bright and gifted. They get high marks on all there work, tests and report cards.They are looking for praise for there efforts. I expect the school would treat them with more respect. This school will one day have students saying I won't read thebook or do the homework unless you pay us. Is this what it is all about at Grayhawk.

Posted: 2/12/2008 by parentGreyhawk is a wonderful School. Both kids think curriculm is way too easy. We don't live in Grayhawk thus not much interactions with people living in Grayhawk.School will not let kids skip grades either. For a public school, they do a great job. Awsome principal!

Posted: 1/9/2008 by parentMy children have attended Grayhawk for four years now. We have been very impressed with the core knowledge curriculum. The teachers are top notch. The PTOleadership is cold, and even abrasive. On a more positive note, though, there are plenty of parents there who are friendly and don't fall into the previouscategory.

Posted: 12/19/2007 by parentI've been very displeased with Grayhawk. The classrooms are very crowded and the teachers are very distant unless your their favorite. Favortism is very apparentin this school. Children that are average fall through the cracks because the teachers throw so much info at them all at once. The ciriculum is very excelleratedand I don't feel the children really absorbe it all.

Posted: 11/28/2007 by parentMy daughter has been attending for five years. Good school overall if you live in the area and are socially involved. The school is community based so mostprominent parents have the money to live and be active in the community. Almost run like a private school. The school is not particularly attetive to thosestudents who are in need socially or academically. The teachers are somewhat distant from the parents and do not necessarily give valid feedback unless theparent is one of the prominent influential parents. I think the school is great for wealthy neighborhood residents who can afford and have the time to be involvedin the school on a daily basis.

Posted: 10/17/2007 by parentAwesome school! My child has been attending Grayhawk for 6 years and has made the best friends, learned as much as I could possibly expect and enjoys goingto school each and every day. I never hear that he doesn't want to go to school! It has its challenges, which are great for him. He is a very competitive kid, so Iknow he needs challenge. Kudos to the principal. The women up front are a bit grumpy, but you don't have to talk to them very much, just go to your kid'sclassroom, you'll be greeted very warmly by any of the teachers there.

Posted: 5/30/2007 by parentWe moved here in october and my 2 children (1st and 3rd) were extremely challenged at 1st. We came from New Mexico and this school absolutely blows theschools there away academically and otherwise, private ones included. The teachers and principal are top notch, it is very clear that they are extremely welleducated and the best I have ever encountered. The higher expense of living in this area is offset by not having to pay for a 'private school' which essentiallywhat this school is, the only 'drawback' of this school is parents must help their children with the homework which is fairly difficult, which suits us just fine.



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Posted: 6/14/2006 by parentAwesome environment. My daughter attended 6th grade there and did extremely well. They had a wonderful class trip experience going to Catalina Island inCalifornia. It was a wonderful school year for her.

Posted: 6/7/2006 by parentGrayHawk elementay is very nice school with teachers and students. It has family atmosphoere since the most of people are from same community and has hugeplayground. But when my son was transferred to this school he had hard time to new friends since the most of them started at the same time.

Posted: 4/28/2006 by parentgreat staff, reasonable ratios.. graet extracurrirular activities

Posted: 4/24/2006 by parentWe have been 100% happy with this school. We had our daughter in private pre-school and kindergarden and choose to move her here in 1st grade. She hasbeen in the honors program since 3rd grade and has truly excelled. The teachers and staff are top notch. We would highly recommend Grayhawk.

Posted: 4/8/2006 by parentWe've attended Grayhawk for 5 years. Although I like the Core Knowledge program I've seen the principal become very single minded and as a result they've lostfocus on the basics. Although they make an attempt with the Accelerated Reading program, there is no process to identify kids that may be struggling. My overallexperience is that there is very little communication between the teachers and the parents. They refuse to recognize that a student maybe struggling and evenworse do nothing to find the proper program to ensure future success. The reading specialists do not communicate adequately. If you have a child that needsextra help, Grayhawk is not the school to consider. Although it is an excelling school, they put a lot of emphasis on getting prepared for these tests and putpressure on the kids to prepare. Grayhawk is not preparing my child for future success.

Posted: 2/16/2006 by staffGreat school with great teachers. Effective teaching programs to enhance all levels of knowledge. Core knowledge have worked great with my kids. Highlyrecommend this school to anybody with children who are in K-6th grade.

Posted: 1/3/2006 by parentGrayhawk is a Godsend. My daughter is in the third grade and has been at Grahawk for three years. The teachers are the best and very well educated and up todate. The leadership is second to none. Parents are involved and committed. I just cannot think of anything negative to say about Grayhawk. I am moreconcerned about schools after Grayhawk or in the seventh grade. I will not move until my daughter is finished with the school. I am a single mother and find theaddtition of the Boys and Girls Club, located nearby, the greatest thing on earth.

Posted: 1/3/2006 by parentMy daughter has been at Grayhawk for 3 years. I really like the school and the Principal is a star! Mr. Hiemstra takes it to the next level! I have been very pleasedwith her education up to this point. I am however a bit concerned with the lack of minorities that attend Grayhawk. This is just a recent observation in her dailylife there. She is being teased a bit now and is feeling very insecure. I am trying to find a better fit for her at this time. She is also involved in Drama and Theatreoutside of school. I wish it was offered there, so she could find kids with the same interests! It is amazing how cliquey 2nd graders can be! I want to emphasizethat the education is top notch for a public school. It just isn't working out for us!

Posted: 11/16/2005 by parentMy children, currently in 3rd and 1st grade, have been attending since kindergarten. I cannot speak highly enough of the school and the leadership provided bythe principal. The Core Knowledge curriculum has been exciting for the kids and fun for me as parent to participate in the projects and special areas. Overall, avery good school.



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Posted: 9/7/2005 by parentThis school has been very challenging academically for both of my kids, and has given them an amazing thirst for learning. We have been very happy with thequality of education, and every teacher we've had has been great. The teachers are very happy with their work environment, because of the leaderhip ofPrincipal Don Heimstra. It shows every day with the teachers attitudes and enthusiasm for their jobs. This school has given our kids a great base of education forthe future. Can't say one negative thing!

Posted: 8/21/2005 by parentGrayhawk is a wonderful overall school experience!

Posted: 7/15/2005 by parentThe quality of the prgrams are great. I love the core knowledge program...the children really to rise to the occassion. I do wish this school as well as others hadmore year long access to extracarricular activities. like Art and Music which is split up...one each semester. I do like the potential parent involvement and theactivities the school holds that are feasible for all to enjoy. The teachers also keep the school open to parents and easygoing about campus visits...not all schoolsdo.

Posted: 7/3/2005 by parentExcellent school. Wonderful teacher experience and principal is very hands on. Great 'specials'. Lots of parent involvement. Should reduce class/school sizethough.

Posted: 6/19/2005 by parentOur family loved this school. They use the 'Core Knowledge' corriculumn as their foundation. The school spells out what your child is expected to learn, by grade.The curriculmn is made interesting by intergrating subjects such as Greek Mythology, Western Expansion, the Roman Empire into writting projects, art projects,spelling words, and mathmatics. You have never seen kids so interested. They know if one month they are covering 'important inventors' and it's not interesting tothem, the next month will be China. Some teachers, end modules with parties that celebrate the food & cultures of what they're studying. Not only did my kidslearn, I learned. The principal is totally ingaged. He knows whats going on and handles discipline appropriately. Parents are everywhere!! The teachers couldn'tteach these subjects without the help of an army of parents. I can't say enough about this school.

Posted: 6/8/2005 by parentGrayhawk is a wonderful school their core knowlede has been very successful for all grades.

Posted: 5/12/2005 by parentThe curriculum is very focused on Core Knowledge, level of education is very high, can be overwhelming to some kids, homework load is fair, reading is an othervery strong focus with frequent reports due. My son is in 3rd grade and he has had 1 research project per quarter and has had to do 3 class presentations, two ofwhich had to be memorized.



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This School


This School


School: Mountain Trail Middle School

School DetailsNameMountain Trail MiddleSchool

Address2323 East Mountain GatePassPhoenix, AZ 85024

Phone(602) 449-4600


Grades Served7-8


Mountain Trail Middle School

Phoenix



This School


This School


This School


4 out of 5

Rating: 5


Posted: 8/29/2014 by parentMy daughter is an 8th grader at MTMS. I have been extremely impressed with the Principal, front office, staff, nurse and all of the teachers. The Principal isextremely approachable and the communication with the Princiapal, teachers and PTO is excellent!



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Posted: 11/4/2013 by otherSuch an amazing school! I was a new student and I was welcomed instantly into a wonderful group of students and teachers. There was no bullying, no drama,and good education and extra-curricular programs. I loved my experience at Mountain Trail!

Posted: 9/16/2013 by parentMountain Trail Middle School..Mountain Trails Middle School is among the most exceptional junior High Schools in Arizona.Their CORE Knowledgeprogram,scores among the BEST in North Phoenix-Paradise Valley. It's an EXCELLENT middle school. The students have remarkable respect for one another.This is the result of the morally positive mission statement at Mountain Trails Middle School. Mountain Trail Middle School not only promotes (butencourages),the morals of honesty, kindness and "mutual respect.". It's certainly working in a very positive way. My son recently lost his(semi-costly),watercontainer. It was later located in one of his school's classes,days later. This says a lot.Not just for the student(s),but for the positive actions of the facility at thismiddle school, as well. :-) This is a 5+-Star School, with 5+-Star Leadership,(in our families opinion). Mountain Trails Middle School has our family vote(collectively),of 5 members, as being a Middle School of "excellency," in the North Phoenix/Paradise Valley School District area. Mountain Trail Middle Schooldeserves "EXCEPTIONALLY," high marks of achievement and recognition from among all U.S. Middle Schools :-)

Posted: 5/1/2013 by otherI'm an eighth grader at Mountain Trail right now (supreme). School is almost done with, and then I'm off to Pinnacle HS. Mountain Trail is an awesome school! Ilove it! First off, it's clean! Second, the teachers are really great. I never really had a thing for science, English, or social studies... But the teachers attitude makesyou a lot more motivated to learn. The bullying issues are taken care of quickly and fairly. And Mountain Trail has a really strict policy for bullying. So that'sgood. I was on Principals list for the whole first semester, and I was on honor roll for second semester. This school, I feel is really going to help me prepare for HS.The principal is awesome :D so are the duty aids. Most of my best memories were made at MTMS (like when the principal got pumpkin pie all in his face!) Yourson/daughter would really really like it at Mountain Trail. I did :)

Posted: 3/30/2013 by parentI had a daughter graduate from this school 4 years ago and presently have s son in 7th grade. Both my children have had an excellent experience in this school.My daughter absolutely thrived in honors classes and was very involved in student government. My son is completely blossoming thanks to fabulous sportsprogram (5 star coaches!) and his interaction with the principal. I would agree there are a few mediocre teachers but for the most part my children have been wellprepared. Both enjoy/emjoyed their time at this at this school.

Posted: 2/22/2013 by parentI dont understand why this school is getting so many stars. Look at the test scores people the proof is in the pudding. The school seems mediocre at best. theydont push and strive for excellence at all. Very disapointed that I wasted 2 critical years for my child's future at this school. I wish I would have done my researchbeforehand so that she will enter high school more prepared. Dont send your child this school if you want academic excellence for your child you wont get it atthis school. My child got honor roll the 2 years here and his writing skills is below grade level. Teachers are not motivated to engage and enlighten kids. Stayaway from this dismal school.

Posted: 11/8/2010 by parentThe principal, asst. principal, and counselor are excellent when it comes to dealing with parents. They listen and take you seriously when issues arise. There aresome EXCELLENT teachers here, and some AWFUL teachers, too. Most I would say are average overall. Bullying here is an ongoing problem, and punks areoften moved from one class to another, just to cause trouble elsewhere. The curriculum, Core Knowlege, is fantastic, although I think science here is weak, withalmost no labs to get the kids interested. In summary, I would say Mountain Trail is okay, better than many, probably not as good as a few others.

Posted: 5/4/2010 by studentthere are NO fights/bullying at our school....pretty much EVERYONE gets along :)



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Posted: 6/3/2009 by parentMy child just completed 7th grade, I feared a drastic change from P.P. Elementary to M.T.M.S. On the contrary, he adjusted very well, the homework page andgrades available on the website helped keep up with middle school pressure, even if some teachers do not keep their site updated, we did not struggle too muchand the year passed very fast. Thank you to Ms Carstens for being a great teacher, always available to help.

Posted: 4/1/2009 by parentMountain Trail School set the foundation for my children at Pinacle. Thanks

Posted: 2/10/2008 by parentMy daughter loves Mountain Trail! The teachers are fantastic and go above and beyond the expectations! What a good transition from Elementry school!

Posted: 12/9/2007 by studentI do like MTMS but I have noticed (I'm in Honors English and Math) that in honors english you recieve more chances to expand your learning where as in regularclasses you don't really get to expand your learning as much.

Posted: 11/20/2007 by parentEven though I have left a review about Mountain Trail in the past, I feel I must respond to the last reviews. Yes, Jan Hamrick does a tremendous job. Yes, JimLee left and the teaching staff has changed over the past couple years, Teachers move, retire, quit, and leave for various reasons. It happens in the corporateworld every day, why would teaching be any different. There are several former MTMS teachers who left for the district office, giving them the opportunity to helpall students in the district. I think that speaks highly for the quality of teachers who come to MTMS. The new teachers at MTMS have gotten rave reviews from mystudent, are responsive to me and challenge my student. MTMS is an Excelling school. So, obviously teaching to all student levels. Quality teachers + Excellingschool = bad leadership. How?

Posted: 11/19/2007 by parentAlthough I agree Jan Hamrick is a good asst. princ. and the campus is extremely clean, I have to bring this schools rate down because through all of myexperience as being a teacher and a mother of 2 and of coarse my own scholastic career, I have never had so many consistent disappointments. I watch as myson and his friends are left behind. I see the non gifted kids falling through the cracks.

Posted: 10/31/2007 by parentMy oldest who is now in high school attended MTMS, my youngest attends now. I have been greatly impressed with the dedication that I have seen from most ofthe teachers. As with any school you are going to bump heads occasionally with instructors, that happened once with one teacher who is no longer there. Therehas been a great deal of teacher turnover in the last couple of years. I do feel that since Jim Lee moved to District Office, the school has declined in itsleadership. Jan Hamrick does a wonderful job as assistant principal. I wish I could express such confidence in the current principal.

Posted: 10/15/2007 by studentI am currently an 8th grade student at Mountain Trail. It is an absolutely amazing school. The honors programs gives students the opportunity to challenge theirthoughts, which leads to ultimate success in the near future. The campus is clean and the teachers work together to make MTMS the great school that it is.Mountain Trial is one of the best schools i have ever attended. I would recommend MTMS to you if you want to set your child up for success. There are alsomany after school sports. MTMS 8th grade boys basketball is undefeated in the Paradise Valley School District! Go coyotes!



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Posted: 10/10/2007 by studentI attended MTMS for my 8th grade year and I am now attending St Marys HS as a senior. That being said, there are 2 reasons I am giving MTMS 4 stars, and 1personal reason I am not giving it 5. MTMS has the most beautiful, clean, and efficient campus I have attended to this day. Personally, I find this very important.(Keep in mind though, this was 4 yrs ago..) The 2nd reason is because of the teachers. I wasnt too interested in my studies at the time and they somehow keptfaith and motivation in me. I actually have just been nominated for Americas Future Leaders and I am listing a teacher of mine from MTMS as my most inspiringteacher. Trust me, I have gone through many teachers, some public, some private, and it is safe to say that MTMS has one of the best faculties.

Posted: 9/5/2007 by parentThis school is an excellent school. They teachers make sure that the students understand. There are no lockers so drugs are unlikely to be sold. Also, mydaughters are happy they love this school. I would recommend any student going to this wonderful school.

Posted: 8/6/2007 by studentI went there last year. I loved all the teachers sooo much! I'll never forget any of them! Everyone who goes there is lucky.

Posted: 7/31/2007 by parentWow! We were new to Mountain Trail last year. My son and daughter received a great education and as new parents we were very impressed with the campus,learning environment and administration. Thanks for a great year.

Posted: 6/7/2007 by parentAll the reviews prior to 2006 are correct. MTMS was a wonderful school. It all went down hill when Mr. Lee left. Now is a shame. Lack of leadership by theprincipal who not visible or caring. Lack of discipline and lack of quality teachers. All the good ones like Mr. Maynard, Mrs.Coyle, and Mrs. OBrien are gone.Dances were cut. I could go on. 2007-2008 will not be any different since I heard that move of the good teachers are leaving. I would think twice about sendingmy child to this school. PTO is very good. Something has to be done about the principal.

Posted: 5/1/2007 by parentFor the most part all of the teachers we have had contact with are good. Communication could be better and more detail on schoolnotes.com. We have hadrepeated problems with bullies that the school is slow to respond to and in our opinion has dropped the ball in providing a safe environment. The campus beingclosed to parents is rediculous! At open house they encouraged parents to continue to be involved, but obviously not on campus.

Posted: 4/18/2007 by former studentThe campus is closed to parents, so there is little parental involvement. Though clubs are nonexistent, there are plenty of varsity sports. The math program is verygood. The school dances, which used to bring in quite a bit of money, were cut. The range of teachers varies widely.

Posted: 9/20/2006 by parentI have a seventh grader and I am very very very happy with Mountain Trails Middle School.The academic programs and the teachers are probably the best that Ihave seen. Plus the communication and online tools are so nice to have.

Posted: 11/10/2005 by parentGreat school with great teachers and administration. Very safe, very disciplined. Our daughter loved the school and did very well.



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Posted: 8/24/2005 by studentMountain Trail Middle school is an excellent school!! It is a great campus with extremley good teachers and is very safe. Students learn a ton in just one year andit is taught to them well. There are a ton of available things to do for example culinary arts, spanish, applied tech, chorus, drama, band etc. They have manysports and you can try out even if you are a beginer. Im not sure about parent involvment because im not a parent. This school is one of the top in the district andpossibly state and if you are thinking about sending your kid here it is an EXCELLENT choice. - Former Student

Posted: 8/3/2005 by parentGreat school for academics! This school has a great offering of elective courses such as the tech program. The teachers were very committed and promote aexcellent learning environment. Diversity is somewhat of an issue, but overall my daughter enjoyed the school.

Posted: 7/19/2005 by studentMountain trail middle school is a very good school- your kids would love it there it is very high tech and up to date. I hope you choose this school for your child.

Posted: 5/30/2005 by parentMy daughters have just finished 7th grade and had a fantastic school year. They wished the school year would have been longer. The programs andparticipation/enthusiasm of the teachers is fantastic. Both of my daughters loved all of their teachers. Mr. Weaser, Spanish teacher did an incredible job increating enthusiasm and interest I never thought could be done in a language class. My kid went around singing and acting out songs, learning more in asemester than most would need all year to learn and be bored with the class. We just wish we could have Mr. Weaser in 8th grade. Mr. Maynard is veryenthusiastic about his math class and participates in all kinds of activities with the kids. Mr. Burt made social studies fun. Mrs. Scott was very sweet and mydaughter loved her class. Whenever we had a question the teachers/principle were very helpful/responsive to the issue.

Posted: 8/14/2004 by former studentAs a former student I'm telling you that anyone who says that this is a bad school has obviously never set foot on campus. It is such a beautiful school. The class Igraduated with was the first to ever go through Mountain Trail, so we were there when the school was brand new. Disipline isn't a big issue and with our StudentResource Officer, Officer Peterson, fights are broken up before they begin.

Posted: 8/3/2004 by former studentI used to go to this school, but then I moved to Avondale, Arizona in December 2003 during Winter Break. None of the schools here compare to Mountain Trail,its by far the best school I've ever gone to. Kids don't have to fear their peers there, yet at my new public school, Underdown Jr. High, I feel afraid to go thereevery morning. So far, a lot of my peers have been involved in horrible things that kids would not imagine doing at Moutain Trail. So, if any of you parents moveto Avondale, make sure your kids go to a Private school or Charter school. It'd be worth paying the money. I will miss Moutain Trail for forever, and I'll neverforget all my friends, its awesome staff, and the wonderful activities there.

Posted: 11/8/2003 by parentMountain Trail Middle School is a wonderful school. Students love going there and participating in all the wonderful extracurricular activities they offer. Anystudent in the area should go there. It's as good as any private school.

Posted: 6/27/2003 by –There were several problems with this school, ranging from poor academics and teaching standards to the inadequate discipline given to bullies. Theadministration had the 'kids will be kids' attitude and said they couldn't do anything about students who harassed and bullied.



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Posted: 4/3/2003 by –Mountain Trail is an excellent middle school and I would recommend it to any parent. Mountain Trail is a core knowledge school which is a wonderfulcurriculum. I can only say great things about my 7th grader's teachers and I have had a great working relationship with the 7th grade advisor. I have excellentcommunication with all of his teachers and I know how much his teachers truly care about his success in school. Although I haven't personally dealt with Mr. Lee Ihave the utmost respect for him based on his staff.

Posted: 3/28/2003 by –Inagural school year has been wonderful. This is a Core Knowledge School. Leadership is outstanding and there have been few, if any, glitches. Well planned,very safe, and excellent communication with parents.



7 out of 10

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This School


This School


School: Mountain Trail Middle School

School DetailsNameMountain Trail MiddleSchool

Address2323 East Mountain GatePassPhoenix, AZ 85024

Phone(602) 449-4600


Grades Served7-8


Mountain Trail Middle School

Phoenix



This School


This School


This School


4 out of 5

Rating: 5


Posted: 8/29/2014 by parentMy daughter is an 8th grader at MTMS. I have been extremely impressed with the Principal, front office, staff, nurse and all of the teachers. The Principal isextremely approachable and the communication with the Princiapal, teachers and PTO is excellent!



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Posted: 11/4/2013 by otherSuch an amazing school! I was a new student and I was welcomed instantly into a wonderful group of students and teachers. There was no bullying, no drama,and good education and extra-curricular programs. I loved my experience at Mountain Trail!

Posted: 9/16/2013 by parentMountain Trail Middle School..Mountain Trails Middle School is among the most exceptional junior High Schools in Arizona.Their CORE Knowledgeprogram,scores among the BEST in North Phoenix-Paradise Valley. It's an EXCELLENT middle school. The students have remarkable respect for one another.This is the result of the morally positive mission statement at Mountain Trails Middle School. Mountain Trail Middle School not only promotes (butencourages),the morals of honesty, kindness and "mutual respect.". It's certainly working in a very positive way. My son recently lost his(semi-costly),watercontainer. It was later located in one of his school's classes,days later. This says a lot.Not just for the student(s),but for the positive actions of the facility at thismiddle school, as well. :-) This is a 5+-Star School, with 5+-Star Leadership,(in our families opinion). Mountain Trails Middle School has our family vote(collectively),of 5 members, as being a Middle School of "excellency," in the North Phoenix/Paradise Valley School District area. Mountain Trail Middle Schooldeserves "EXCEPTIONALLY," high marks of achievement and recognition from among all U.S. Middle Schools :-)

Posted: 5/1/2013 by otherI'm an eighth grader at Mountain Trail right now (supreme). School is almost done with, and then I'm off to Pinnacle HS. Mountain Trail is an awesome school! Ilove it! First off, it's clean! Second, the teachers are really great. I never really had a thing for science, English, or social studies... But the teachers attitude makesyou a lot more motivated to learn. The bullying issues are taken care of quickly and fairly. And Mountain Trail has a really strict policy for bullying. So that'sgood. I was on Principals list for the whole first semester, and I was on honor roll for second semester. This school, I feel is really going to help me prepare for HS.The principal is awesome :D so are the duty aids. Most of my best memories were made at MTMS (like when the principal got pumpkin pie all in his face!) Yourson/daughter would really really like it at Mountain Trail. I did :)

Posted: 3/30/2013 by parentI had a daughter graduate from this school 4 years ago and presently have s son in 7th grade. Both my children have had an excellent experience in this school.My daughter absolutely thrived in honors classes and was very involved in student government. My son is completely blossoming thanks to fabulous sportsprogram (5 star coaches!) and his interaction with the principal. I would agree there are a few mediocre teachers but for the most part my children have been wellprepared. Both enjoy/emjoyed their time at this at this school.

Posted: 2/22/2013 by parentI dont understand why this school is getting so many stars. Look at the test scores people the proof is in the pudding. The school seems mediocre at best. theydont push and strive for excellence at all. Very disapointed that I wasted 2 critical years for my child's future at this school. I wish I would have done my researchbeforehand so that she will enter high school more prepared. Dont send your child this school if you want academic excellence for your child you wont get it atthis school. My child got honor roll the 2 years here and his writing skills is below grade level. Teachers are not motivated to engage and enlighten kids. Stayaway from this dismal school.

Posted: 11/8/2010 by parentThe principal, asst. principal, and counselor are excellent when it comes to dealing with parents. They listen and take you seriously when issues arise. There aresome EXCELLENT teachers here, and some AWFUL teachers, too. Most I would say are average overall. Bullying here is an ongoing problem, and punks areoften moved from one class to another, just to cause trouble elsewhere. The curriculum, Core Knowlege, is fantastic, although I think science here is weak, withalmost no labs to get the kids interested. In summary, I would say Mountain Trail is okay, better than many, probably not as good as a few others.

Posted: 5/4/2010 by studentthere are NO fights/bullying at our school....pretty much EVERYONE gets along :)



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Posted: 6/3/2009 by parentMy child just completed 7th grade, I feared a drastic change from P.P. Elementary to M.T.M.S. On the contrary, he adjusted very well, the homework page andgrades available on the website helped keep up with middle school pressure, even if some teachers do not keep their site updated, we did not struggle too muchand the year passed very fast. Thank you to Ms Carstens for being a great teacher, always available to help.

Posted: 4/1/2009 by parentMountain Trail School set the foundation for my children at Pinacle. Thanks

Posted: 2/10/2008 by parentMy daughter loves Mountain Trail! The teachers are fantastic and go above and beyond the expectations! What a good transition from Elementry school!

Posted: 12/9/2007 by studentI do like MTMS but I have noticed (I'm in Honors English and Math) that in honors english you recieve more chances to expand your learning where as in regularclasses you don't really get to expand your learning as much.

Posted: 11/20/2007 by parentEven though I have left a review about Mountain Trail in the past, I feel I must respond to the last reviews. Yes, Jan Hamrick does a tremendous job. Yes, JimLee left and the teaching staff has changed over the past couple years, Teachers move, retire, quit, and leave for various reasons. It happens in the corporateworld every day, why would teaching be any different. There are several former MTMS teachers who left for the district office, giving them the opportunity to helpall students in the district. I think that speaks highly for the quality of teachers who come to MTMS. The new teachers at MTMS have gotten rave reviews from mystudent, are responsive to me and challenge my student. MTMS is an Excelling school. So, obviously teaching to all student levels. Quality teachers + Excellingschool = bad leadership. How?

Posted: 11/19/2007 by parentAlthough I agree Jan Hamrick is a good asst. princ. and the campus is extremely clean, I have to bring this schools rate down because through all of myexperience as being a teacher and a mother of 2 and of coarse my own scholastic career, I have never had so many consistent disappointments. I watch as myson and his friends are left behind. I see the non gifted kids falling through the cracks.

Posted: 10/31/2007 by parentMy oldest who is now in high school attended MTMS, my youngest attends now. I have been greatly impressed with the dedication that I have seen from most ofthe teachers. As with any school you are going to bump heads occasionally with instructors, that happened once with one teacher who is no longer there. Therehas been a great deal of teacher turnover in the last couple of years. I do feel that since Jim Lee moved to District Office, the school has declined in itsleadership. Jan Hamrick does a wonderful job as assistant principal. I wish I could express such confidence in the current principal.

Posted: 10/15/2007 by studentI am currently an 8th grade student at Mountain Trail. It is an absolutely amazing school. The honors programs gives students the opportunity to challenge theirthoughts, which leads to ultimate success in the near future. The campus is clean and the teachers work together to make MTMS the great school that it is.Mountain Trial is one of the best schools i have ever attended. I would recommend MTMS to you if you want to set your child up for success. There are alsomany after school sports. MTMS 8th grade boys basketball is undefeated in the Paradise Valley School District! Go coyotes!



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Posted: 10/10/2007 by studentI attended MTMS for my 8th grade year and I am now attending St Marys HS as a senior. That being said, there are 2 reasons I am giving MTMS 4 stars, and 1personal reason I am not giving it 5. MTMS has the most beautiful, clean, and efficient campus I have attended to this day. Personally, I find this very important.(Keep in mind though, this was 4 yrs ago..) The 2nd reason is because of the teachers. I wasnt too interested in my studies at the time and they somehow keptfaith and motivation in me. I actually have just been nominated for Americas Future Leaders and I am listing a teacher of mine from MTMS as my most inspiringteacher. Trust me, I have gone through many teachers, some public, some private, and it is safe to say that MTMS has one of the best faculties.

Posted: 9/5/2007 by parentThis school is an excellent school. They teachers make sure that the students understand. There are no lockers so drugs are unlikely to be sold. Also, mydaughters are happy they love this school. I would recommend any student going to this wonderful school.

Posted: 8/6/2007 by studentI went there last year. I loved all the teachers sooo much! I'll never forget any of them! Everyone who goes there is lucky.

Posted: 7/31/2007 by parentWow! We were new to Mountain Trail last year. My son and daughter received a great education and as new parents we were very impressed with the campus,learning environment and administration. Thanks for a great year.

Posted: 6/7/2007 by parentAll the reviews prior to 2006 are correct. MTMS was a wonderful school. It all went down hill when Mr. Lee left. Now is a shame. Lack of leadership by theprincipal who not visible or caring. Lack of discipline and lack of quality teachers. All the good ones like Mr. Maynard, Mrs.Coyle, and Mrs. OBrien are gone.Dances were cut. I could go on. 2007-2008 will not be any different since I heard that move of the good teachers are leaving. I would think twice about sendingmy child to this school. PTO is very good. Something has to be done about the principal.

Posted: 5/1/2007 by parentFor the most part all of the teachers we have had contact with are good. Communication could be better and more detail on schoolnotes.com. We have hadrepeated problems with bullies that the school is slow to respond to and in our opinion has dropped the ball in providing a safe environment. The campus beingclosed to parents is rediculous! At open house they encouraged parents to continue to be involved, but obviously not on campus.

Posted: 4/18/2007 by former studentThe campus is closed to parents, so there is little parental involvement. Though clubs are nonexistent, there are plenty of varsity sports. The math program is verygood. The school dances, which used to bring in quite a bit of money, were cut. The range of teachers varies widely.

Posted: 9/20/2006 by parentI have a seventh grader and I am very very very happy with Mountain Trails Middle School.The academic programs and the teachers are probably the best that Ihave seen. Plus the communication and online tools are so nice to have.

Posted: 11/10/2005 by parentGreat school with great teachers and administration. Very safe, very disciplined. Our daughter loved the school and did very well.



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Posted: 8/24/2005 by studentMountain Trail Middle school is an excellent school!! It is a great campus with extremley good teachers and is very safe. Students learn a ton in just one year andit is taught to them well. There are a ton of available things to do for example culinary arts, spanish, applied tech, chorus, drama, band etc. They have manysports and you can try out even if you are a beginer. Im not sure about parent involvment because im not a parent. This school is one of the top in the district andpossibly state and if you are thinking about sending your kid here it is an EXCELLENT choice. - Former Student

Posted: 8/3/2005 by parentGreat school for academics! This school has a great offering of elective courses such as the tech program. The teachers were very committed and promote aexcellent learning environment. Diversity is somewhat of an issue, but overall my daughter enjoyed the school.

Posted: 7/19/2005 by studentMountain trail middle school is a very good school- your kids would love it there it is very high tech and up to date. I hope you choose this school for your child.

Posted: 5/30/2005 by parentMy daughters have just finished 7th grade and had a fantastic school year. They wished the school year would have been longer. The programs andparticipation/enthusiasm of the teachers is fantastic. Both of my daughters loved all of their teachers. Mr. Weaser, Spanish teacher did an incredible job increating enthusiasm and interest I never thought could be done in a language class. My kid went around singing and acting out songs, learning more in asemester than most would need all year to learn and be bored with the class. We just wish we could have Mr. Weaser in 8th grade. Mr. Maynard is veryenthusiastic about his math class and participates in all kinds of activities with the kids. Mr. Burt made social studies fun. Mrs. Scott was very sweet and mydaughter loved her class. Whenever we had a question the teachers/principle were very helpful/responsive to the issue.

Posted: 8/14/2004 by former studentAs a former student I'm telling you that anyone who says that this is a bad school has obviously never set foot on campus. It is such a beautiful school. The class Igraduated with was the first to ever go through Mountain Trail, so we were there when the school was brand new. Disipline isn't a big issue and with our StudentResource Officer, Officer Peterson, fights are broken up before they begin.

Posted: 8/3/2004 by former studentI used to go to this school, but then I moved to Avondale, Arizona in December 2003 during Winter Break. None of the schools here compare to Mountain Trail,its by far the best school I've ever gone to. Kids don't have to fear their peers there, yet at my new public school, Underdown Jr. High, I feel afraid to go thereevery morning. So far, a lot of my peers have been involved in horrible things that kids would not imagine doing at Moutain Trail. So, if any of you parents moveto Avondale, make sure your kids go to a Private school or Charter school. It'd be worth paying the money. I will miss Moutain Trail for forever, and I'll neverforget all my friends, its awesome staff, and the wonderful activities there.

Posted: 11/8/2003 by parentMountain Trail Middle School is a wonderful school. Students love going there and participating in all the wonderful extracurricular activities they offer. Anystudent in the area should go there. It's as good as any private school.

Posted: 6/27/2003 by –There were several problems with this school, ranging from poor academics and teaching standards to the inadequate discipline given to bullies. Theadministration had the 'kids will be kids' attitude and said they couldn't do anything about students who harassed and bullied.



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Posted: 4/3/2003 by –Mountain Trail is an excellent middle school and I would recommend it to any parent. Mountain Trail is a core knowledge school which is a wonderfulcurriculum. I can only say great things about my 7th grader's teachers and I have had a great working relationship with the 7th grade advisor. I have excellentcommunication with all of his teachers and I know how much his teachers truly care about his success in school. Although I haven't personally dealt with Mr. Lee Ihave the utmost respect for him based on his staff.

Posted: 3/28/2003 by –Inagural school year has been wonderful. This is a Core Knowledge School. Leadership is outstanding and there have been few, if any, glitches. Well planned,very safe, and excellent communication with parents.



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School: Pinnacle High School

School DetailsNamePinnacle High School

Address3535 E. Mayo BlvdPhoenix, AZ 85050

Phone(602) 449-4000


Grades Served9-12


Pinnacle High School

Phoenix



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Posted: 10/17/2014 by parentPinnacle high school has great academic reviews but the front office staff is probably least friendly bunch of people that I've come into contact with. If you'relooking for a school that will make your family feel welcome, this is certainly not the school.

Posted: 9/25/2014 by studentI was a student at Pinnacle for 4 years, and I absolutely loved it. The teachers are super enthusiastic about helping, they legitimately want to give you the bestgrade and education. I didn't realize how much my teachers had helped me at Pinnacle until I had gone to college (at ASU) where I used a ton of the resourcesthat I had from high school in my college classes. I also highly suggest taking AP classes, getting involved in clubs and also sports, to get the best experience.

Posted: 12/22/2013 by otherThis school is absolutely terrible as a student for four years I can say ive only had one teacher that cared about my grade and helped me. I was an athlete and Iplayed football my freshmen year but i was mainly a soccer player and the football program was good but soccer is hands down the worst program to exist. Coachcould care less about the program and it's utterly horrific, development of the team doesn't seem to matter and favorites were chosen. I was an honors studentand thought the honors classes were a joke. Pinnacle high school is phony and I wish I never took part in the school. Students consist of snobby rich kids thatharrass other students. Drugs are of a huge problem at the school and of my time being at pinnacle I was made fun of for not doing drugs and peer pressured intodoing it (although I never did it).

Posted: 6/9/2013 by parentI am father of Paulo Henrique Fleury Biassio Mir who just graduated last May, I live in Brazil and would like to know what is the average cost of living of a seniorin a HS as Pinnacle and if you will follow up Paulo career at the University (in this case ASU) Best regards, Paulo Mir

Posted: 6/7/2013 by studentI absolutely loved attending Pinnacle. I continue to keep in touch with my teachers from all 4 years because they are still willing to help me, even in college. Iam going into my junior year and always look forward to coming back to catch up. I was part of the AP program and participated in athletics on campus, as wellas several of the clubs. When I attended the school the administration team was on a first name basis with many of the students, including myself, and provided atremendous amount of support to anyone who asked. It is easy to get lost in a school the size of Pinnacle, but there is a place for everyone if they take the time tofind it.



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Posted: 5/8/2013 by otherAs a fellow student who's going to be graduating this year, I have had a poor time with them for three years so far. The students are absolutely immature, theteachers don't care about students or parents and value their image over failing kids. Their rules are hypocritical. They claim bullying isn't allowed, but donothing about it. They ban the word retard, but they allow racial slurs. I am not even going to bother showing up for my graduation after enduring humiliation,lies, and apathy from this school. They don't even DESERVE the high rating in my eyes. I recommend that one should go to a better school.

Posted: 4/24/2013 by parentThis school does not deserve a high rating. I had 2 kids that went there; one graduated and the other is graduating from a charter school that cared alot moreabout their students. Overworked teachers who don't care (except for a few) and don't communicate with parents; and an administration who cares more abouttheir image than their students. Drugs are a HUGE problem there and the administration has a habit of kicking out kids that they even perceive have any type ofissue so that they can keep up their rating. Sports teams are very political also. My daughter would have been short of credits to graduate if the administration inthe charter school she transferred to would not have caught it in time.

Posted: 2/15/2013 by parentmiddle of the road kids fall in the gaps all over this country that is a fact. Until we change the education system in this country this will continue to happen. Allstudents should be held to the same high standards and I dont believe classes should be segregated the way they are. As far as the comment that the 'failing'teacher is still at the school-that is another one of America's problems. They probably cant get rid of the bad teacher because of the teacher's union..I wouldyoutube John Stossel's special Education in America or watch Waiting for Superman. The problems mentioned here are due to our current screwed up educationsystem.

Posted: 2/7/2013 by parentI 100% agree with the 8/6/12 parent review. Following a full semester and my freshman entering high school, I am having the exact same experiences. I was toldby a school administrator that 64% of the freshman taking Physics this year 2012/2013 are failing the class. HELLO!!! Is anyone taking note of this??? I was alsotold my student's Math teacher is being fired at the end of the school year because the teacher is failing as a teacher, yet this teacher remains at the school forthe 2nd semester and has a class load of students failing due to the lack of teaching. Not only was I told this by the administration but my teen and all thestudents know about this so why would this teacher put any effort or desire for that matter into teaching our kids knowing they are a goner at the end of the year?So to answer the question posed, the new principal is not making any difference. Still high teacher turn over and no one there cares about the middle of the roadstudents who need teachers to teach and administrators who care when you reach out for assistance. This school does not deserve a high rating and is failing inmy grade book on every level!

Posted: 9/6/2012 by parentMy daughter graduated in 2005, she had all AP and honors classes and loved her teachers, the Principal and everything about Pinnacle.

Posted: 8/6/2012 by parentFor a school that is said to be one of the best in Arizona I would completely disagree. If you have a middle of the road kid average they will just fall through thegaps. Even with constant involvement form both parents this school falls way below average. They have huge teacher turnover and teach the kids like they arejust on a assembly line. There is no over site from administration, counselors. The sports are so political that if you don't have money to "donate" forget your kidever playing. They bring in the top players from all over the state so if you live in district there is little chance of ever playing unless you are really really good.Over all I find this school pathetic. Maybe just maybe with the new principle this school year he will snap at least the teachers in line.

Posted: 5/20/2012 by parentBoth my children graduated from Pinnacle High School. Their experience was great. The teachers were invested in the children and would spend any extra timerequested from them to make sure they understood all material covered. Both my children graduated with over a 4.0 (weighted scale for AP classes), andreceived scholarship money for college. Both of them still keep in touch with teachers they had at Pinnacle because of the great impact they had on them. Myson as a pre-med student now still values the strong educational foundation that he received from his AP chemistry and AP physics teachers, as it gave him anadvantage in his college classes. Pinnacle High School is phenomenal and deserves the high ratings it has received.



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Posted: 5/7/2011 by otherPinnacle is one of the best high schools in Arizona. Being in the Education industry and having a nephew that graduated from PHS I feel I have goodinformation to make that statement. Parents forget some of the responsibility for their Child's performance is on them. It is not all on the teachers. Don't blameschools if your child struggles. Many of the issues kids have in school start at home not the other way around. If pinnacle kids have money to get drugs thequestion needs to be why does my child use drugs. My nephew didn't even though all schools have them around.

Posted: 9/9/2010 by parentI opened enrolled my daughter here mainly for the highly touted academic program. I am pleased with the cirriculum but this is where I end being satisfied. Ifeel the school is seriously over-crowded with the result of having a very high student teacher ratio in every class she has. (about 35:1) The traffic for dropping offand picking up students is ridiculous and poorly handled. The school grounds are in need of fresh paint and maintenance and the main electronic sign does noteven work. I can see why Arizona schools are next to last in per student spending.

Posted: 8/16/2010 by parentMy daughter attended 9th grade here last year. It was the worst year of her academic life. In Middle School she was a student leader, member of the NationalJunior Honor Society... model student. At Pinnacle, she had such poor teachers (with the exception of the Spanish teacher and Honors Physics teacher) that I wasabsolutely amazed. Math was the pits... despite me meeting with the teacher. She became disengaged and was extremely unhappy the entire year. Needless tosay, she is not there this year.

Posted: 8/9/2010 by parentMy son had the choice of attending the newest private Catholic high school in N. Scottsdale (where his sibling started out) or PHS. After getting the opinions ofothers who attended BOTH schools, he chose Pinnacle and is he glad he did! PHS has a superior Counseling Dept. They make out 4-yr.plans for EACH studentprior to their beginning and are always available for face-to-face meetings (not so at the private school--far from it, in fact). My son has qualified for Honors andAP classses, plays on 2 PHS sports teams, and likes almost everybody at PHS. They do not have the deep rooted substance problems on campus like the schoolwe were zoned for or the private school my son was considering. I know all schools have that issue, but at PHS it is comparatively minor. Being rated in the top100 public schools nationally for academics doesn't hurt either!

Posted: 7/3/2010 by parentMy child has been introduced into Drugs since starting that this school. We are working on help, but with the money that these kids have, it's a hard battle.

Posted: 10/5/2009 by parentIt is an excelling school with a lot of support from administration and outside parties. Pinnacle tries to involve the community in anything they do. Pinnaclestrives for excellence.

Posted: 10/5/2009 by parentGreat staff and great kids.

Posted: 10/4/2009 by teacherI love Pinnacle High School because of the amazing staff. All the teachers are willing to go the extra mile for their students. Pinnacle also provides a communityfor the students. An example of this is the mentoring program where a senior is paired with a freshman in order to help with the transition from the middle schoolinto High school. The special ed department is also wonderful in providing services for learning disabled children.

Posted: 10/3/2009 by teacherWe have a great community of students, staff, faculty and parents who are committed to high academic standards as well as a full range of extra-curricularactivities. Our community is also dedicated to serving the greater community and those in need. It's a great school!



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Posted: 10/3/2009 by parentPinnacle has great teachers and is rated #1 public school in Arizona. Athletics are awesome too.

Posted: 10/3/2009 by teacherPinnacle offers its students superior academics, outstanding sports and excellent fine arts opportunities.

Posted: 10/3/2009 by parentGreat staff, Great students

Posted: 10/3/2009 by parentIt's a great community with bright kids and lots of school spirit.

Posted: 10/3/2009 by otherGreat Teacher's and staff

Posted: 10/3/2009 by parentThe teachers are so nice i love this school

Posted: 5/26/2009 by parentPinnacle High is overrated in my opinion. I find most of the staff and administration under Principal Reynolds to be heartless as opposed to caring about thestudents. Unlike under former Principals, I find that Reynolds cares more about numbers and ratings more than meeting individual student needs.

Posted: 5/27/2008 by parentI have twins that just graduated from pinnacle and now ave a jr and a freshman as well. It is a fantastic school that cares about not only the academics but sports,and all other extracurricular activities. Alot of school spirit as well.

Posted: 5/26/2008 by studentI'm going to be a Sophmore at Pinnacle and i love it their! Everything is so much fun like the football games & basketball games.. you have to sit in the crazysection! This may sound strange but the food they serve is really good! Go Pioneeeeeeeeeers!

Posted: 5/17/2008 by studentI will graduate from Pinnacle high school in about a week and I have to say my experience there has been incredible. I have been to three different high schoolsand this one has to be the best. I definately recommend Pinnacle High School



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Posted: 2/9/2008 by studentAs a student of Pinnacle High, I'm a freshman. But since I've been here, I loved it! The athletics are great, although football didn't make it to state. Our basketballteams didn't go as far either, but soccer is amazing, as well as swim and dive, and golf. If you're involved in Student Government, the students are all full ofschool spirit, as well as the Crazies club. Our rivals, the Horizon Huskies have very often vandalized our school before big games, which makes the security not sogood on weekends. The campus is overall great, except for the areas with lots of gum all over the pavement, and the main quad grass could use a little help.Overall, Pinnacle has tremendous academics, teachers, faculty, athletics, ethnics, ect. The student body consist of many races, caucasion seems to be the main,but there's a mixture of everything.

Posted: 10/17/2007 by parentSchool is amazing. Teachers really know how to do their jobs and the students are brilliant.

Posted: 10/9/2007 by studentIt's a great school to go to. The teachers are always willing to help in any way possible, and most of the teachers make class and fun,safe enviroment to learn in. Ihave a horrible time staying on task, and turning things in, and it's nice to know that there are teachers there to remind you of those things and help you stayfocused, and only for your benifit. These teachers and staff treat us as if we are young adults and give us respect. They also give us encouragement to reach ourgoals and help us do that by teaching us to 'Make It Count'. This school is the best school I have attended, and I hope that all kids feel the same way I do when Iwake up in the morning and walk through those school gates.

Posted: 10/7/2007 by former studentPinnacle High School is full of a large group of over-privileged students who believe that rules do not apply to them. As a former student I witnessed fights,vandalism to expensive school property, a complete lack of respect for the teachers, and a blatant disregard for any type of authority figure. Recently the 2007Senior shirt depicted the school mascot dressed as a 'gangster' complete with bandanna and a gold tooth. And the yearbook will include a page honoring bestdressed, bookworm, and the student who has collected the most speeding tickets. This coming from a school where at least two students have been paralyzed intraffic accidents. Pinnacle has the potential and the funding to be a great school, but for now it's not even close.

Posted: 8/11/2007 by studentI recently graduated from Pinnacle High School and I must say that I had an amazing four years there. The teachers and staff really are all dedicated toproviding a better learning environment and experience for their students. Because of my teachers' encouragement and the skills I learned in their classes, I havebetter study habits and I use my time more effectively and efficiently. Plus, all the programs, dances, and evetns held there were so fun! I highly recommendPinnacle High School to any and all incoming High School student, or any parent.

Posted: 7/31/2007 by studentSpectacular fine arts programs the choirs in particular are amazing. Very safe and beautiful campus. Wonderful educators who have an obvious passion forteaching - they go above and beyond. Many AP and Honor opportunities. School keeps parents up to date on college information, SAT/ACT information,scholarships, and extracurricular activities.

Posted: 6/25/2007 by parentThis school is wonderful.My oldest son has graduated and has been very successful in life.My daughter now goes to Pinnacle and she loves this school from thecurriculum to the after school activities.This school is wonderful!

Posted: 5/24/2007 by parentI've had two children attend pinnacle high school and it is by far the greatest high school in Arizona. Numerous Advance placement classes are offered and extracurriculum activities are wonderful. The teachers are pleasant and their guidance is unmatched by any of the other schools. It is the ideal school for giftedchildren and those who want to challenge themselves. This school is a heaven for opportunities so parents take advantage of what this school has to offer andenroll your children. You will be glad you did. It is a guarantee.



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Posted: 10/24/2006 by parentI have been a Pinnacle parent since the first day they opened and have two children who have graduated and are currently in college and two children stillattending Pinnacle. Not only is the leadership of Mr. Jason Reynolds excellent, the support staff is very efficient and helpful whenever I have a need. The extra-curricular activities are great - the coaches realize that academics come first. Have had experience with many different groups including: football, swim & dive,girls soccer, band, chorus, track & field. The teachers work hard in helping the student succeed. The campus is beautiful and well maintained. The parentorganization is active and supportive of the staff but especially the students providing a wonderful opportunity for a safe graduation night experience each year.Thanks Pinnacle for taking such good care of my kids!

Posted: 4/25/2006 by parentExcellent AP and Honors classes.

Posted: 4/19/2006 by parentPinnacle High is a beautiful campus and full of promise. Unfortunately, thats where it ends. The curriculum is sub-par and the educators are indifferent. I highlyrecommend caution if your child is to attend this school.

Posted: 2/2/2006 by parentI know several of the teachers really well. Though some of them may seem to have other priorities, they are skilled teachers. Don't judge a book by its cover, theones I've encountered know how to get the best out of the kids.

Posted: 1/26/2006 by former studentMediocre at best. Some good teachers. Not many. Good creative departments.

Posted: 12/15/2005 by studentGreat academics, extremely good sports teams and very very high parental involvement

Posted: 9/14/2005 by teacherThis school is one of the best, if not the best high school in Arizona!

Posted: 4/7/2005 by parentThis school has been a generally positive experience for our child who moved in during her Sophomore year. The teachers, staff and students went out of theirway to make her feel welcome. There have been several opportunities to participate in sports and clubs that were more accessible than her old school.Acedemically, there seem to be a majority of teachers that are commited to helping kids move into post high school education well prepared to succeed. Thefacilities are excellent and new.

Posted: 4/3/2005 by parentMy daughter is now a Senior at Pinnacle High School. She has had a wonderful high school experience. By taking advantage of honors classes, she has beenacademically challenged and prepared for college. One huge weakness at the school is the counceling dept.; definitely not easily accessible for one on onemeetings.

Posted: 10/21/2004 by studentIm not a parent but I am a student and I think the school is great and the teachers and studens there are fun.



Rating: 5Posted: 10/16/2004 by parentThis school's teachers are excellent. They provide a great education and are very experienced. My daughter loves the school. She loves the many lunchactivities and music on Fridays. There are many clubs for her to get involved in. The only thing I would like is for the principal to be more involved.



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School: Pinnacle High School

School DetailsNamePinnacle High School

Address3535 E. Mayo BlvdPhoenix, AZ 85050

Phone(602) 449-4000


Grades Served9-12


Pinnacle High School

Phoenix



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Posted: 10/17/2014 by parentPinnacle high school has great academic reviews but the front office staff is probably least friendly bunch of people that I've come into contact with. If you'relooking for a school that will make your family feel welcome, this is certainly not the school.

Posted: 9/25/2014 by studentI was a student at Pinnacle for 4 years, and I absolutely loved it. The teachers are super enthusiastic about helping, they legitimately want to give you the bestgrade and education. I didn't realize how much my teachers had helped me at Pinnacle until I had gone to college (at ASU) where I used a ton of the resourcesthat I had from high school in my college classes. I also highly suggest taking AP classes, getting involved in clubs and also sports, to get the best experience.

Posted: 12/22/2013 by otherThis school is absolutely terrible as a student for four years I can say ive only had one teacher that cared about my grade and helped me. I was an athlete and Iplayed football my freshmen year but i was mainly a soccer player and the football program was good but soccer is hands down the worst program to exist. Coachcould care less about the program and it's utterly horrific, development of the team doesn't seem to matter and favorites were chosen. I was an honors studentand thought the honors classes were a joke. Pinnacle high school is phony and I wish I never took part in the school. Students consist of snobby rich kids thatharrass other students. Drugs are of a huge problem at the school and of my time being at pinnacle I was made fun of for not doing drugs and peer pressured intodoing it (although I never did it).

Posted: 6/9/2013 by parentI am father of Paulo Henrique Fleury Biassio Mir who just graduated last May, I live in Brazil and would like to know what is the average cost of living of a seniorin a HS as Pinnacle and if you will follow up Paulo career at the University (in this case ASU) Best regards, Paulo Mir

Posted: 6/7/2013 by studentI absolutely loved attending Pinnacle. I continue to keep in touch with my teachers from all 4 years because they are still willing to help me, even in college. Iam going into my junior year and always look forward to coming back to catch up. I was part of the AP program and participated in athletics on campus, as wellas several of the clubs. When I attended the school the administration team was on a first name basis with many of the students, including myself, and provided atremendous amount of support to anyone who asked. It is easy to get lost in a school the size of Pinnacle, but there is a place for everyone if they take the time tofind it.



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Posted: 5/8/2013 by otherAs a fellow student who's going to be graduating this year, I have had a poor time with them for three years so far. The students are absolutely immature, theteachers don't care about students or parents and value their image over failing kids. Their rules are hypocritical. They claim bullying isn't allowed, but donothing about it. They ban the word retard, but they allow racial slurs. I am not even going to bother showing up for my graduation after enduring humiliation,lies, and apathy from this school. They don't even DESERVE the high rating in my eyes. I recommend that one should go to a better school.

Posted: 4/24/2013 by parentThis school does not deserve a high rating. I had 2 kids that went there; one graduated and the other is graduating from a charter school that cared alot moreabout their students. Overworked teachers who don't care (except for a few) and don't communicate with parents; and an administration who cares more abouttheir image than their students. Drugs are a HUGE problem there and the administration has a habit of kicking out kids that they even perceive have any type ofissue so that they can keep up their rating. Sports teams are very political also. My daughter would have been short of credits to graduate if the administration inthe charter school she transferred to would not have caught it in time.

Posted: 2/15/2013 by parentmiddle of the road kids fall in the gaps all over this country that is a fact. Until we change the education system in this country this will continue to happen. Allstudents should be held to the same high standards and I dont believe classes should be segregated the way they are. As far as the comment that the 'failing'teacher is still at the school-that is another one of America's problems. They probably cant get rid of the bad teacher because of the teacher's union..I wouldyoutube John Stossel's special Education in America or watch Waiting for Superman. The problems mentioned here are due to our current screwed up educationsystem.

Posted: 2/7/2013 by parentI 100% agree with the 8/6/12 parent review. Following a full semester and my freshman entering high school, I am having the exact same experiences. I was toldby a school administrator that 64% of the freshman taking Physics this year 2012/2013 are failing the class. HELLO!!! Is anyone taking note of this??? I was alsotold my student's Math teacher is being fired at the end of the school year because the teacher is failing as a teacher, yet this teacher remains at the school forthe 2nd semester and has a class load of students failing due to the lack of teaching. Not only was I told this by the administration but my teen and all thestudents know about this so why would this teacher put any effort or desire for that matter into teaching our kids knowing they are a goner at the end of the year?So to answer the question posed, the new principal is not making any difference. Still high teacher turn over and no one there cares about the middle of the roadstudents who need teachers to teach and administrators who care when you reach out for assistance. This school does not deserve a high rating and is failing inmy grade book on every level!

Posted: 9/6/2012 by parentMy daughter graduated in 2005, she had all AP and honors classes and loved her teachers, the Principal and everything about Pinnacle.

Posted: 8/6/2012 by parentFor a school that is said to be one of the best in Arizona I would completely disagree. If you have a middle of the road kid average they will just fall through thegaps. Even with constant involvement form both parents this school falls way below average. They have huge teacher turnover and teach the kids like they arejust on a assembly line. There is no over site from administration, counselors. The sports are so political that if you don't have money to "donate" forget your kidever playing. They bring in the top players from all over the state so if you live in district there is little chance of ever playing unless you are really really good.Over all I find this school pathetic. Maybe just maybe with the new principle this school year he will snap at least the teachers in line.

Posted: 5/20/2012 by parentBoth my children graduated from Pinnacle High School. Their experience was great. The teachers were invested in the children and would spend any extra timerequested from them to make sure they understood all material covered. Both my children graduated with over a 4.0 (weighted scale for AP classes), andreceived scholarship money for college. Both of them still keep in touch with teachers they had at Pinnacle because of the great impact they had on them. Myson as a pre-med student now still values the strong educational foundation that he received from his AP chemistry and AP physics teachers, as it gave him anadvantage in his college classes. Pinnacle High School is phenomenal and deserves the high ratings it has received.



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Posted: 5/7/2011 by otherPinnacle is one of the best high schools in Arizona. Being in the Education industry and having a nephew that graduated from PHS I feel I have goodinformation to make that statement. Parents forget some of the responsibility for their Child's performance is on them. It is not all on the teachers. Don't blameschools if your child struggles. Many of the issues kids have in school start at home not the other way around. If pinnacle kids have money to get drugs thequestion needs to be why does my child use drugs. My nephew didn't even though all schools have them around.

Posted: 9/9/2010 by parentI opened enrolled my daughter here mainly for the highly touted academic program. I am pleased with the cirriculum but this is where I end being satisfied. Ifeel the school is seriously over-crowded with the result of having a very high student teacher ratio in every class she has. (about 35:1) The traffic for dropping offand picking up students is ridiculous and poorly handled. The school grounds are in need of fresh paint and maintenance and the main electronic sign does noteven work. I can see why Arizona schools are next to last in per student spending.

Posted: 8/16/2010 by parentMy daughter attended 9th grade here last year. It was the worst year of her academic life. In Middle School she was a student leader, member of the NationalJunior Honor Society... model student. At Pinnacle, she had such poor teachers (with the exception of the Spanish teacher and Honors Physics teacher) that I wasabsolutely amazed. Math was the pits... despite me meeting with the teacher. She became disengaged and was extremely unhappy the entire year. Needless tosay, she is not there this year.

Posted: 8/9/2010 by parentMy son had the choice of attending the newest private Catholic high school in N. Scottsdale (where his sibling started out) or PHS. After getting the opinions ofothers who attended BOTH schools, he chose Pinnacle and is he glad he did! PHS has a superior Counseling Dept. They make out 4-yr.plans for EACH studentprior to their beginning and are always available for face-to-face meetings (not so at the private school--far from it, in fact). My son has qualified for Honors andAP classses, plays on 2 PHS sports teams, and likes almost everybody at PHS. They do not have the deep rooted substance problems on campus like the schoolwe were zoned for or the private school my son was considering. I know all schools have that issue, but at PHS it is comparatively minor. Being rated in the top100 public schools nationally for academics doesn't hurt either!

Posted: 7/3/2010 by parentMy child has been introduced into Drugs since starting that this school. We are working on help, but with the money that these kids have, it's a hard battle.

Posted: 10/5/2009 by parentIt is an excelling school with a lot of support from administration and outside parties. Pinnacle tries to involve the community in anything they do. Pinnaclestrives for excellence.

Posted: 10/5/2009 by parentGreat staff and great kids.

Posted: 10/4/2009 by teacherI love Pinnacle High School because of the amazing staff. All the teachers are willing to go the extra mile for their students. Pinnacle also provides a communityfor the students. An example of this is the mentoring program where a senior is paired with a freshman in order to help with the transition from the middle schoolinto High school. The special ed department is also wonderful in providing services for learning disabled children.

Posted: 10/3/2009 by teacherWe have a great community of students, staff, faculty and parents who are committed to high academic standards as well as a full range of extra-curricularactivities. Our community is also dedicated to serving the greater community and those in need. It's a great school!



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Posted: 10/3/2009 by parentPinnacle has great teachers and is rated #1 public school in Arizona. Athletics are awesome too.

Posted: 10/3/2009 by teacherPinnacle offers its students superior academics, outstanding sports and excellent fine arts opportunities.

Posted: 10/3/2009 by parentGreat staff, Great students

Posted: 10/3/2009 by parentIt's a great community with bright kids and lots of school spirit.

Posted: 10/3/2009 by otherGreat Teacher's and staff

Posted: 10/3/2009 by parentThe teachers are so nice i love this school

Posted: 5/26/2009 by parentPinnacle High is overrated in my opinion. I find most of the staff and administration under Principal Reynolds to be heartless as opposed to caring about thestudents. Unlike under former Principals, I find that Reynolds cares more about numbers and ratings more than meeting individual student needs.

Posted: 5/27/2008 by parentI have twins that just graduated from pinnacle and now ave a jr and a freshman as well. It is a fantastic school that cares about not only the academics but sports,and all other extracurricular activities. Alot of school spirit as well.

Posted: 5/26/2008 by studentI'm going to be a Sophmore at Pinnacle and i love it their! Everything is so much fun like the football games & basketball games.. you have to sit in the crazysection! This may sound strange but the food they serve is really good! Go Pioneeeeeeeeeers!

Posted: 5/17/2008 by studentI will graduate from Pinnacle high school in about a week and I have to say my experience there has been incredible. I have been to three different high schoolsand this one has to be the best. I definately recommend Pinnacle High School



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Posted: 2/9/2008 by studentAs a student of Pinnacle High, I'm a freshman. But since I've been here, I loved it! The athletics are great, although football didn't make it to state. Our basketballteams didn't go as far either, but soccer is amazing, as well as swim and dive, and golf. If you're involved in Student Government, the students are all full ofschool spirit, as well as the Crazies club. Our rivals, the Horizon Huskies have very often vandalized our school before big games, which makes the security not sogood on weekends. The campus is overall great, except for the areas with lots of gum all over the pavement, and the main quad grass could use a little help.Overall, Pinnacle has tremendous academics, teachers, faculty, athletics, ethnics, ect. The student body consist of many races, caucasion seems to be the main,but there's a mixture of everything.

Posted: 10/17/2007 by parentSchool is amazing. Teachers really know how to do their jobs and the students are brilliant.

Posted: 10/9/2007 by studentIt's a great school to go to. The teachers are always willing to help in any way possible, and most of the teachers make class and fun,safe enviroment to learn in. Ihave a horrible time staying on task, and turning things in, and it's nice to know that there are teachers there to remind you of those things and help you stayfocused, and only for your benifit. These teachers and staff treat us as if we are young adults and give us respect. They also give us encouragement to reach ourgoals and help us do that by teaching us to 'Make It Count'. This school is the best school I have attended, and I hope that all kids feel the same way I do when Iwake up in the morning and walk through those school gates.

Posted: 10/7/2007 by former studentPinnacle High School is full of a large group of over-privileged students who believe that rules do not apply to them. As a former student I witnessed fights,vandalism to expensive school property, a complete lack of respect for the teachers, and a blatant disregard for any type of authority figure. Recently the 2007Senior shirt depicted the school mascot dressed as a 'gangster' complete with bandanna and a gold tooth. And the yearbook will include a page honoring bestdressed, bookworm, and the student who has collected the most speeding tickets. This coming from a school where at least two students have been paralyzed intraffic accidents. Pinnacle has the potential and the funding to be a great school, but for now it's not even close.

Posted: 8/11/2007 by studentI recently graduated from Pinnacle High School and I must say that I had an amazing four years there. The teachers and staff really are all dedicated toproviding a better learning environment and experience for their students. Because of my teachers' encouragement and the skills I learned in their classes, I havebetter study habits and I use my time more effectively and efficiently. Plus, all the programs, dances, and evetns held there were so fun! I highly recommendPinnacle High School to any and all incoming High School student, or any parent.

Posted: 7/31/2007 by studentSpectacular fine arts programs the choirs in particular are amazing. Very safe and beautiful campus. Wonderful educators who have an obvious passion forteaching - they go above and beyond. Many AP and Honor opportunities. School keeps parents up to date on college information, SAT/ACT information,scholarships, and extracurricular activities.

Posted: 6/25/2007 by parentThis school is wonderful.My oldest son has graduated and has been very successful in life.My daughter now goes to Pinnacle and she loves this school from thecurriculum to the after school activities.This school is wonderful!

Posted: 5/24/2007 by parentI've had two children attend pinnacle high school and it is by far the greatest high school in Arizona. Numerous Advance placement classes are offered and extracurriculum activities are wonderful. The teachers are pleasant and their guidance is unmatched by any of the other schools. It is the ideal school for giftedchildren and those who want to challenge themselves. This school is a heaven for opportunities so parents take advantage of what this school has to offer andenroll your children. You will be glad you did. It is a guarantee.



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Posted: 10/24/2006 by parentI have been a Pinnacle parent since the first day they opened and have two children who have graduated and are currently in college and two children stillattending Pinnacle. Not only is the leadership of Mr. Jason Reynolds excellent, the support staff is very efficient and helpful whenever I have a need. The extra-curricular activities are great - the coaches realize that academics come first. Have had experience with many different groups including: football, swim & dive,girls soccer, band, chorus, track & field. The teachers work hard in helping the student succeed. The campus is beautiful and well maintained. The parentorganization is active and supportive of the staff but especially the students providing a wonderful opportunity for a safe graduation night experience each year.Thanks Pinnacle for taking such good care of my kids!

Posted: 4/25/2006 by parentExcellent AP and Honors classes.

Posted: 4/19/2006 by parentPinnacle High is a beautiful campus and full of promise. Unfortunately, thats where it ends. The curriculum is sub-par and the educators are indifferent. I highlyrecommend caution if your child is to attend this school.

Posted: 2/2/2006 by parentI know several of the teachers really well. Though some of them may seem to have other priorities, they are skilled teachers. Don't judge a book by its cover, theones I've encountered know how to get the best out of the kids.

Posted: 1/26/2006 by former studentMediocre at best. Some good teachers. Not many. Good creative departments.

Posted: 12/15/2005 by studentGreat academics, extremely good sports teams and very very high parental involvement

Posted: 9/14/2005 by teacherThis school is one of the best, if not the best high school in Arizona!

Posted: 4/7/2005 by parentThis school has been a generally positive experience for our child who moved in during her Sophomore year. The teachers, staff and students went out of theirway to make her feel welcome. There have been several opportunities to participate in sports and clubs that were more accessible than her old school.Acedemically, there seem to be a majority of teachers that are commited to helping kids move into post high school education well prepared to succeed. Thefacilities are excellent and new.

Posted: 4/3/2005 by parentMy daughter is now a Senior at Pinnacle High School. She has had a wonderful high school experience. By taking advantage of honors classes, she has beenacademically challenged and prepared for college. One huge weakness at the school is the counceling dept.; definitely not easily accessible for one on onemeetings.

Posted: 10/21/2004 by studentIm not a parent but I am a student and I think the school is great and the teachers and studens there are fun.



Rating: 5Posted: 10/16/2004 by parentThis school's teachers are excellent. They provide a great education and are very experienced. My daughter loves the school. She loves the many lunchactivities and music on Fridays. There are many clubs for her to get involved in. The only thing I would like is for the principal to be more involved.



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