Villa Montessori - Phoenix Campus in Phoenix, Arizona

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2009-04-19

“I am a student of Villa Montessori and have been in this school since the third grade. Not only have I soared academically, but I have transformed from a scared, insecure child, to a social, fun-loving young teen. I am currently in seventh grade, and loving it. We are not only encouraged to do the best that we can, middle school students actually take part in multiple fundraisers, like Salad Bar, the student-run company that orders food from restaraunts, and distributes that food to fellow kids. I am a part of that mini-company, and in the position of secretary, I order food from other companies. In that experience I have learned how to deal with strangers in a professional manner. In the curriculum there are three 'worlds', or classes that teach particular things, like 'Natural World' is basically science class. I love this school, just beware some teachers for the 4-6th”
This review was posted by a student.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-12-03

“My child has been at Villa since the 4th grade. What seems chaos in the class is actually 'structured freedom'. The children know the assignments and are given the freedom to work on the assignments in the way that it is confortable to them whether it is on the floor or at a table. If any parent spent time in the classroom they would see the creativity that comes from this environment. It's the way Montessori schools were meant to be and I for one love it. The teachers are incredible at handling the various personalities of all the children. My child is not only learning more than she did in the traditional public schools but is no longer bored.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-12-03

“Villa Montessori is a wonderful school. My daughter was moved from a 'gifted' school where she was bored to death and hated school. Now she is challenged and really enjoys going to school. She is happy, feels safe, and adores her teacher. She has been at Villa for two years and each year has been better than the last. Management and discipline are handled better at Villa than the previous school, too. Villa and other charter schools get less money than traditional public schools so there is more fund raising. However, the fund raising is optional and I have never been pressured to contribute but I do because I love the school and want to see it thrive. Villa is truly a wonderful educational experience.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-11-30

“My child transferred in from a school that was 'performing' or worse. It was ranked well below the bottom 1/3 of all schools in the state and it showed. The teacher was a wonderful person but overwhelmed, underpaid, and overworked, especially with the class being a 28:1 ratio. When my child arrived at Villa she was obviously way behind her peers but I was assured that she would make her own progress and never feel pressured to 'catch up'; thanks to the montessori philosophy she has truly begun to thrive. I love the single digit ratios and the relaxed environment. We are thrilled and priviledged to have our child in a top 25 school like Villa and it is worth every penny they might try to squeeze out of us in the near future.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-10-28

“Our daughter started at Villa when she was two years old and is now in 8th grade. She has done fabulously in both academics and social growth! When she leaves Villa she will be ready for the world. Thank you Villa Montessori - both the school leaders and all of the teachers our daughter has been fortunate to have. What a blessing for our family!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-10-28

“I have two children at Villa. One in preprimary and one in elementary. Villa has and still is providing an incredible education both inside and outside the classroom. Their teachers are amazing. Both teachers understand my children as individuals and teach them based on their academic advances and academic needs. This is the beauty if Villa Montessori! Your child does not try to fit into the school (like most schools need you to do). The school fits around the needs of your child. That is why Villa Montessori is a 'superior' and 'excelling' school. That is why we choose Villa to educate our children!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-09-29

“I have had an incredible experience with the teachers at Villa. I am always made to feel welcome and enjoy my opportunities to volunteer for ceramics, help out with class parties and attend the great variety of field trips that the teachers have set up for the students. If there is a concern, teachers are always available after school or via e-mail. I find Villa to be an enriching environment that allows for opportunities for parents to be involoved.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-09-28

“I love Villa! My teacher is awesome!”
This review was posted by a student.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-08-15

“I've been a great school supporter in the past and consistently given them the benefit of the doubt. Enough is enough with their continued sales pitch and lack of follow-through. The Villa mantra of we love our parents and want them involved in their classroom stops at the classroom door and the car line. My student's upper and lower elementary teachers all talked the talk but do not walk the walk. I've had a student at this school for many years. Parents are not made to fell welcome in the classroom unless you are a big money donator or have free resources they want. They consistently avoid returning phone calls or emails about important issues regarding students, problems or academics. This is common knowledge among the non-teaching staff and other parents I have spoke to about the school. Too much click -i-ness and not enough love of students.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 1

Post Date:2008-08-05

“I agree with the previous posting saying the meanness and cruelty would not be tolerated at public school and also those who say the administration is difficult to deal with. Some of the teachers also model unkind behavior. We will not be returning. I recommend anyone considering the school really listen to their gut and observe whether the children look happy. I also recommend that if you do choose this school you 'drop in' to visit your child in class, PE and at recess. Don't just listen to the teachers and pep talks, listen with your own ears to what is going on at Villa.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-07-29

“Good Montessori schools, like Villa, foster a love of learning in kids, no matter what Admin problems may exist (as discussed by other reviewers- HINT: just ignore the fundraising!). Public school systems in many areas very often erode kids self esteem with harsh grading and obsessive rules, while Admin follows rules to the point that kids suffer needlessly. Villa cares about the kids there. My daughter attended Villa from K-3rd. Her 4th & 5th were in public. Public really took the wind out of her sails- severely. We're going back to Villa 6th-8th for her self esteem!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-07-01

“The previous reviewer referenced 'over the top fundraising'. That is nonsense. Of course there are fundraisers (the main one being the auction)--such is the reality of trying to run a charter school with poor funding from the state--but there are no 'high pressure' calls to your home asking for money or anything like that. On the other topic, I'd like the Head of School to be a bit more visible around campus, but she is certianly a million times more capable than leaders that you will find at a typical district school...”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-06-27

“Our experience matches those who previously expressed disappointment with the Head of the School (inattentive and unprofessional), unmet academic expectations, and over the top fundraising. Certainly there are problems at any school...some schools self evaluate and correct them, it's called accountability.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-06-22

“Certainly, there are problems at any school, and the last few posters have written about theirs. But, to give some perspective, as a parent of a pre-primary and toddler at Villa, I offer the following: (1) I have been impressed with the Head of School -- she has been attentive to my (few) concerns and neither my wife nor I are one of the 'super-involved.' (2) The infant and toddler programs are magical--it is why we looked at Villa to begin with (esp the unheard of 7:3 ratio in the infant room). Of course...these programs are not cheap...only slightly below the tuition at Phx Country Day, for example. Ouch! (3) I very much like my child's pre-primary teacher and, in our experience, the curriculum for that program is solid. My son learns new stuff everyday and has made good friends. (4) The after school (Circle) program is a bit inconsistent.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 1

Post Date:2008-04-10

“Villa is only great if your child does not have special needs. I have fought with them for so long to provide the proper education for him. Unfortunately their only solution was for him to be taken to a different school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-03-20

“I was fortunate to find Villa Montessori 13 years ago when I was looking for childcare for my then infant son. In our time at Villa, my son has become a self assured young man ready to take on the challenges of high school next year. I believe he has received a superb education from the well trained teachers he has had. He has also learned about a multitude of topics that he might not have learned until high school had he attended any other school. I count myself lucky that Villa has been there to educate my son and I would highly recommend it to any parent seeking a high quality school that has a great family like atmosphere.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-02-12

“Villa Montessori has been the best experience for 2 of my children. Both my children excelled and thrived afer changing from other schools. For a child, the environment and influence at Villa elementary and middle schools provide a strong foundation for compassionate leaders and lifelong learners.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 1

Post Date:2008-02-06

“Villa was great in the younger grades but my kids lost ground after 3rd grade. When they hated school, I knew it was time to look elsewhere. Their classes were wildly out of control in terms of discipline and order. My eldest child just reminded me that for his entire 6th grade he 'got away with doing nothing.' We have found a school that is far more organized and challenging and my kids finally love school and learning.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-01-22

“I have put trust in the teachers and administrators at Villa Montessori for 10 years and found that they are helpful and honest. It is this honesty along with knowledge about the Montessori philosophy that makes the administration effective and good for the community. I know that Montessori isn't the perfect place for all children with it's need for self-direction, but it has been great for both of my children.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-01-17

“I think this is a wonderful school and have been nothing but happy. My child has attended for many years and he is excelling in all areas, but more importantly, he loves school. The teachers are wonderful, caring, supportive and well trained. The parent community is like a family and full of support. Bravo Villa Montessori!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 1

Post Date:2008-01-11

“The common line at Villa is trust us. Okay, I will trust you when you respond to parents concerns begin providing consistent education and provide a classroom of learning that stimulates my child. I say this to perspective parents. Margo (principle/owner) has a long history of being inattentive to parents concerns and is unable to offer or provide any substance beyond philosophical Montessori practices. Her conflict resolution skills are horrendous and she would rather you leave the school then question how she runs the school. Our problem is that we have expectations that a school has experienced consistent teaching practices, administrators that are responsive and a curriculum that can be taught consistently.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2007-10-15

“Villa has been and continues to be a second home for my 3 girls. My oldest daughter attended Villa from the age of 2 thru the 8th grade. She nows attends a public high school and has thrived in all Advanced placement classes. She was extremely well prepared for the jump to 'public' school and cherishes her years at Villa. My two youngest daughters are currently enrolled in Villa's Toddler and Elementary programs. They are also thriving and I am confident that they are having their individual academic and emotional needs met. The teachers are outstanding and go the extra mile for the children. My experience with the administration has been nothing but positive, they are always looking at ways to have the school be the best there is and what is right for all children is at the top of the list. Schedule a tour, it's the best there is.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2007-09-25

“I had researched many schools before choosing Villa Montessori for my children. I couldn't be happier with my decision. My children are challenged daily while receiving nuturing support from their teachers and peers. The classrooms are clean, organized, peaceful and stimulating. As far as extra-cirricular activities, all charte schools struggle with this due to finances and space availability. With this in mind, my second grader has managed to be involved in Karate, Boy Scouts, Running Club and soccer. All on campus! I am exhausted, but he is having a blast! I absolutely love this school, this faculty and staff, and my fellow parents who all work tirelessly to keep improvements happening! I highly recommend that you schedule a tour of this school and learn what we are all about!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2007-09-25

“I have two children here at Villa in the toddler and preprimary program. I feel that my children are getting the best care possible. The teachers are fantastic and really make each child feel special. I feel blessed to be a part of such a great community.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2007-09-25

“We've had two children at Villa for five years. We researched every Montessori School in the Phoenix area before moving to Phoenix. We were amazed at the extracurricular activities offered! We have had experience with the Pre-Primary, Elem.I, Elem.II and Middle School levels. Our children have different needs and challenges. We have been very happy at every level. Each stage has been appropriate for its Montessori and developmental level. Our children have been treated with respect to their individual needs and personalities. Their teachers have been wonderful, kind and have prepared them for the next step. We also experienced Special Education. They helped walk us through the process and provided the support that our child needed to achieve personal best. The Middle School experience has been amazing! Watching our anxious child blossom and excel academically and socially has been a joy! Villa has been worth the daily 90 minute drive!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2007-09-24

“I now have two children at this school... soon to be three, as we are on the waiting list. We are so impressed with the supportive administration, compassionate and knowledgeable teachers, and respectful students at this school. We wonder what took us so long to find this gem! The teachers and staff have an impeccable way with supporting each child s needs and developing the whole child . Extra curricular activities are age appropriate for each grade level, with a wide variety of options. Volunteering opportunities are endless and enjoyable. We love getting the chance to participate in our children s education. We feel we are getting a private education for free. We have found the Villa Montessori community to be one of the most supportive and positive influences in our family s lives. I feel I can t do this school justice in just a few words.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2007-09-24

“My experience with Villa gets better and better each year. My children love school! Focus is placed on the whole child and both my son and daughter are excelling both academically and socially. This last year, with the new discipline policy many positive changes occured. The administration really stepped up and got involved in a consistent plan and behavior in classrooms and on the playground is better. They really took a stance against bullying. I see the teachers as organized, committed, and helpful. They have a genuine love for the students. I love the community at Villa Montessori and I plan to keep my children there through middle school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2007-09-24

“I think Villa Montessori is a wonderful school. I recently moved my son from a 'gifted' school to Villa to join my daughter in Elementary II. My daughter is happy and thriving and I couldn't be happier with her teacher. My son, now in another Elementary II class, is also feeling challenged and loving school. His brightness and talents are better met with the Montessori philosophy and I feel the level of commitment from the teachers is much higher. Management and discipline are handled better, too. I love the level at which I can be involved and the unique experiences both children get to have. I appreciate everyone at Villa Montessori and the personalized attention our family has received.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 1

Post Date:2007-09-18

“Villa is decent in preprimary but not in later grades. Teaching quality is inconsistent. You never know what your child is learning, if anything. Most teachers are too busy to listen to parents. There are some really good teachers, however, many are defensive, disorganized and can't seem to manage the students. The principal is never around. She didn't return phone calls for weeks. Once she did, we were met with denials, excuses, promises but no results. Nothing is perfect but there are better schools around. Our new school has weekly progress reports, great extracurriculars, a brilliant principal, a PTA, fewer demands on parents and happy families who stay! I waited some time to write this in case I changed my mind, but I can now say without regret that our decision to leave Villa was a wise one for our family.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2007-07-18

“I have 2 children here, both of whom entered in kindergarten. We are very happy here and the Montessori style classrooms/instruction work for my children. Too often though, parents of kids w/special needs or behaviors think Villa is the answer to their child's problems. Those problems follow the child to our school. I do see frustration among parents that their child's school experience is negatively impacted by other kids. I don't know what to suggest. Villa cannot refuse to accept these kids; and is not a school made up of special ed teachers. They do what they can to deal with each situation as it arises. I think kids who have a hard time controlling their behavior and are not self-starters,would benefit from a more traditional environment. I have experienced loving and caring teachers who have helped mold my kids into wonderful learners. Is Villa right for everyone? No. For us? Yes.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 1

Post Date:2007-06-12

“We've been very disappointed in Villa after only a couple years. Our local public school was better organized, equipped and managed. The school is demanding of parents' time & money, but parents are turned down when they want improved discipline or better communication. A few teachers seem to be pretty good, but others can't manage the kids or they're gone all the time. Many of the kids are wildly out of control and no one seems to notice. Our kids' AIMS scores actually declined in the years we were there. We've hired tutors for the summer and we're playing catchup for the new”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 1

Post Date:2007-06-04

“chaos in classrooms, poor communication at administrative levels, discipline problems and underachievement of kids. My kids are at a new school and their scores have soared along with motivation and self-confidence. Villa was great in the younger grades, but once most kids get beyond grade 3, they lose ground. We miss the great families and some of the talented teachers, but we've never been happier since the move. Villa was once the finest in the Valley. They need to catch up to neighboring public schools with basics such as a developed music program, computer lab, library, lunch program, weekly progress reports emailed to parents, discipline policy they stand behind, etc. If they listened to parents, they may be able to turn it around!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2007-05-24

“Our children have enjoyed their preprimary and elementary years at Villa. Teachers have been kind, compassionate and thoughtful in their teaching methods and interaction with children and parents. Extracuriculars are available and quite varied. Our kids are growing academically (above grade level) and personally. It is a community in which they feel safe and we feel comfortable.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 2

Post Date:2007-05-08

“My experience was nightmarish as I watched my child go from a motivated to non-motivated learner in Elem I. Villa's assessments validated a downhill trend; I was treated dismissively by teacher and admin. as I sought solutions to the problem; 'let's wait and see' was a put off because there is not enough admin. to address parent concerns, or supervise teachers/classrooms. An independent reading comprehension eval revealed 'holes in learning.' My advice to parents: use open enrollment and find a good school quickly if you see problems. The new school contacted me the first week to address deficits. This child now reads voraciously and made the Principal's list. Some Villa parents fear public schools; when I read the new school Code of Conduct, I knew there were peer behaviors (harassment, meanness) tolerated at Villa that would NEVER be tolerated in the new setting. My child is now more secure and flourishing.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 1

Post Date:2007-04-25

“We're pulling our kids out of Villa. The classrooms are disorganized, the teachers don't have a good handle on classroom management. The administration lacks leadership. They won't return phone calls and evade parent concerns. Compared to other schools, Villa is weak in music, art, extracurriculars. I am worried that my children have fallen behind.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2007-02-06

“Villa Montessori has been a great choice for our three children since preschool. The best asset that Villa has, are the teachers. The teachers provide very individualized attention with academics and with each child personally. Our experience has been exceptional and it has impacted the independence and self confidence of our children, each in their own way. The staff is approachable, willing and caring.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 1

Post Date:2007-02-01

“It became another job for my husband and me. Poor quality teaching. Too many kids in ea. class. Kids are out of control. Parents always fundraising. They nickle and dime you to death. Lots of nice parents and some good teachers, but too inconsistent for us.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2006-11-12

“Villa has been home to my family since 1994. My son attended school here at Villa, from the time he was 4 years old. He is now a Junior at Brophy. He was well prepared for his classes in high school, and has had the confidence to tackle all of the new challenges that come his way, both academically and socially. I always felt welcome by the teachers to discuss issues that related to my son, academically and personally and found them a great resource, as a parent. I volunteered often and made many close friends over the years doing so. We have another child at Villa, now in kindergarten, and I see him thriving, as well, and as before, the teachers and assistants have been there at each step to give 100% and more for his individual needs as well as mine.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 2

Post Date:2006-08-15

“Love the idea of villa, but gave up on unmet promises. Great parents. Teachers are hit or miss. Some are excellent. One of my kids lost 2years in an out-of-control room. Assistants and subs belittled the kids, creating a culture of 'bad kids.' The promise of one teacher for 3 years was a mirage. Coordination between campuses is frustrating. The bus - sometimes the only option - is costly and unreliable. Despite numerous attempts by parents to creat one, there is no organized parent organization. Infighting and competition among grades 4-6 teachers made fundraising difficult for costly overnight field trips. Parents have no voice with administration. The middle school, which is what drew us to villa in the first place, went downhill. My kids begged to switch schools. Villa gave them a great beginning, and I hope the school can recapture the founding strengths that contribute to its great reputation.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2006-08-03

“I have been going to Villa since third grade, and i have loved every minute of it. I went to a traditional school before this, and it struggled to keep nme interested. At villa, however, I am kept very busy=).Another thing I feel I must add is that I have clinical anxiety, and while I have faced many challenges life has thrown at me, my teachers and peers have been by my side. The middle school is amazing...I advise you to look into it. I am now about to enter eigth grade (my last year at villa), and I can honestly say that I would not be the person I am today without this school. I have done more in my thirteen years of living than many people do in their entire lives because of this school. I really will miss this school...because of them, I know I can succeed in life.”
This review was posted by a student.

Quality Score: 2

Post Date:2006-05-05

“Villa is wonderful for the preprimary education, but after that, it's hit or miss depending on the teacher you get. Some are incredibly qualified and exceptional, some are, shall I say, Not! When my children moved on to other programs because we were not satisfied with Villa, we found they were unacceptably behind (i.e. not reading after the third grade) although we had been led to believe otherwise by their teachers. It is a great community, but unfortunately, that isn't much consolation.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2006-03-29

“Just an outsiders view of my initial impressions. The school definitely offers the wide range of activities that any average school would have. There was a calm atmosphere in the rooms, lots of things going on without disruption. Definitely a place for self starters, the kids were so interested in their work--very refreshing to see.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2006-01-25

“Our daughter has been attending Villa Montessori since she was three, in the Pre-Primary program, and she is now in 3rd grade. She is academically at the top of the charts and I love the Montessori method that allows her to progress at her own pace and not be held back by slower kids in the class. All the kids get individualized teacher lessons and attention allowing them to work at their own level. Montessori groups children in three ages/grades together to allow the younger children to see how the older kids work and what they can be doing in the next few years. Older kids can be leaders and mentors for younger kids. I am able to drop by the school at any time and pop into the classroom, something I'm not certain the typical public schools allow.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2006-01-24

“Have been a Villa for years and years since toddler age. It is wonderful for infants/toddler, preprimary and lower elementary. A bit less satisfied with upper elementary and middle school...but this could be due in part to this being a more difficult age for kids.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 3

Post Date:2005-11-21

“There are tons of great extra curricular activities like a chess club, drama, hip-hop, and cooking. The only sport available through the school is soccer. The teacher turnover for my son's classroom has been ridiculous. One teacher just left in the middle of the year without saying anything to her students or thier parents. If you child is not a self-starter or very self disciplined, this school does not do much to help them. I find that I tell the teachers when my son's homework has not been turned in. They don't seem to notice on thier own. The sense of community between parents is nice. We're leaving the school this year. They just don't seem to be trying to better themselves anymore, thier test scores are unimpressive, and I'm tired of feeing like I'm the only one taking a special interest in my son's individual sucess.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2005-10-10

“Villa Montessori is a wonderful school. My child was not successful in a traditional school setting. She has been very successful at Villa. With their hands-on Montessori Math, she has made a great deal of progress. The school offers Music, PE, Art Masterpiece, and many fieldtrip experiences.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2005-08-29

“I have two children at Villa - both under 4-years old. They love it and they are thriving so I am very pleased with the programs. The teacher to student ratio is good. The programs keep children interested and involved. I like the parental involvement required - 10-hours/year. I researched many options before placing my kids at Villa. I have never regretted my decision.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2005-08-22

“My daughter has attended Villa since 1st grade, she's now in the 4th grade. While academically I am satisfied with the school and the teachers, I am rather displeased with the senior facility. The people that make the decisions like where the bus is to pick up and drop off, the times when the childeren can be dropped off obviously either do not have children or do not have two working parents in the household. Each year it is different. They do not make it easy on parents who work at all. Also, the cost of before and after care is astronomical along with all the other nickel and dime stuff throughout the year. The only reason I choose to keep my child there, is I feel she is in a safe and healthy environment, she is taught good values and what responsibility is. And, academically she's doing very well.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2005-08-20

“Excellent program. Kids work at their own pace. Student responsible for making sure tasks are completed on schedule. Values stressed. Non-violent, peaceful resolution to problems practiced. Bullying is not tolerated. They teach to the whole child, working with the student's strengths and weaknesses. Teachers are very caring and involved with the students. Small groups, hands-on teaching. Low student-to-teacher ratio. Parental involvement required, 10 hours per family per school year. Many parents actively involved in all aspects of school life. Several teachers are former Villa students.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2005-08-19

“What a great year! Villa has got their act together!! Staff working fabulously together, campuses just seem so peaceful! Definitely upward and onward! So organized and ready for a great year!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2005-07-24

“My son starts 3rd grade at Villa Montessori this year, and has gone since Kindergarten. He loves it there. He has needed some extra attention, and he's gotten it. Their philosophy of teaching each child at their own level works out great. We have really been impressed with the level of parent involvement at its many functions. They offer P.E. twice a week, music, Spanish and pottery once a week and many extra-curricular activities. Even among other Montessori schools, we think this one is special. Worth driving 30 minutes each way for!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 2

Post Date:2005-07-13

“My daughter has attended Villa from kindergarden through 5th grade. On the surface the Montessori method, their teaching philosphy, seems like a great way to approach elementary education. Unfortunately, lack of structure, academic discipline lead to under permormance and weak motivation. The teachers expectations of the students performance is too flexible, allowing them to turn in homework assignments and projects 'whenever they get them done' doesn't teach real world consequences. I'm dissapointed in the education my child has received and will be transferring her to another school next year.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2005-06-01

“My child hs been at Villa since he was 2. He just completed second grade. His teacher's at Villa have all been diligent at seeing to his academic development. But equally importantly, they have all been equally attentive to his emotional and social development. I am also very happy that the school hads a peace curriculum and works hard at helping the children to resolve conflict. I love the warm encouraging atmosphere of the school as well. I do wish that the school had more of an emphasis on the arts. There is not a music program(i.e no band or orchestra), not is there theater. There is some art, but not as frequently as I would like to see. My other greatest concern is the amount of staff turnover of the assistants, though the lead teachers have many years seniority. We are very happy with the education our son receives.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2005-04-01

“This school has great community/parent involvement. My children love the school and the teachers.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2005-02-25

“We just love this school. It has a great foundation of teachers and after school support staff that makes it great. Parent Involvement is a must at the school which makes it more like a family atmosphere and the kids stick around for several years - our son has known the same bunch of kids since he was 2 years old. We love the activities they have for the kids; gymnastics, soccer, cooking classes, ceramics and the retile man. Our son has turned out to be very compassionate, a quick learner and very social person and we believe that is thanks to the team work between school and parents.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2005-02-23

“This school has a fantastic middle school program. It has allowed my daughter to feel as though she has been part of a family of fellow students and teachers. The academics are challenging and are complemented by a curriculum that focuses on the whole. A very well rounded, balanced education in store if you are lucky enough to get into this program.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 3

Post Date:2005-02-15

“The school grounds are pretty big and the kids seem to love it. Parent involvement is mandatory, and the group can be somewhat cliquish. It is very different from a public school and not pure montessori.”
This review was posted by a staff.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2005-01-05

“The teachers and administration are very compassionate to the needs of their students and parents.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2004-12-01

“My god daughter goes here and it is a great school full of caring people.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2004-11-04

“Teachers are great, learning is made fun. Great student to teacher ratio. The outdoor environment is supposed to be an extension of the class room but is not overseen directly by the teachers. In some areas it has become and afterthought and neglected. The after school activities are expensive and there is not a sports program available. Art classes during school are run by parent volunteers and not funded. There is not alot of school unity because of the scattered campuses. Although we loved the teachers and beautiful campus we knew our kids would benefit from a sports program, library, computer lab, science lab, school auditorium, and lunch program. There is a heavy financial burden placed on the parents to fund the growing needs of the school. Highly recommend for preschool and early education not strong enough for most 4-8th grade students.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2004-10-02

“The teacher at this middle school are dedicated and very organized. The curriculum is strong and interesting. My child loves her school and her teachers.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 3

Post Date:2004-07-03

“Our child attended this school from prekindergarten through sixth grade.He received good to excellent academic attention and this was objectively seen through great Stanford 9 scores. However, accountability for student's behavior is poor.There was no attention given to playground bullying or general disrespect students showed each other. Also, they were continually asking for more money and parents were beginning to question appropriate use of funds.”
This review was posted by a former student.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2003-10-06

“What a great school! My two children are thriving and I couldn't be happier. The classrooms are enticing to a curious child, so much to do and see. Parents are encouraged to be involved and contribute to an overall sense of community. The school is clearly operating with the children's best interests at heart. There is a waiting list, but definitely worth the wait.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2003-04-04

“Villa is an exceptional school. Most if not all of the children are above their grade level on all of the subjects. Villa teaches excellent values and morals. All the children respect one another as well as their superiors and just get along wonderfully. We're very happy with our choice.”
This review was posted by a .

Quality Score: 3

Post Date:2003-04-04

“Great pre-school and kindergarten program. Does not have provisions for a gifted child or any child with learning disabilities. There has been a lot of teacher turn over in the past few years. School is responsive to problems and trys to correct situations as they occur, not proactive. A lot of fund raisers and letters asking for money to help update sites for various classrooms. Excellent for first grade and under but does not seem to keep up with the academic requirements that other elementary schools in the area require. Parent involvement is the backbone of the school.”
This review was posted by a .

Quality Score: 2

Post Date:2003-03-31

“Because of extensice growth, Villa has not been able to keep its quality.”
This review was posted by a .

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2002-10-15

“Villa (primary and elementary) is a great school! It's not pure Montessori, but still offers a great education!”
This review was posted by a .

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2002-10-15

“My child is in 2nd grade and reads and spells at 4th grade level. Villa is a top notch school that allows the child to grow to THEIR optimum, not the class. It also provides community, values, and promotes peace. The children are very self directed.”
This review was posted by a .

Villa Montessori - Phoenix Campus in Phoenix, Arizona

Villa Montessori - Phoenix Campus Detail

Villa Montessori - Phoenix Campus Census Data

Villa Montessori - Phoenix Campus Ratings Summary

Villa Montessori - Phoenix Campus Reviews

Advertise in Phoenix AZ