Aztec Elementary School in Phoenix, Arizona

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2009-04-13

“My children each had Mrs. Albers-Pennell for 2 years and I believe no one could have better prepared them for their road ahead. Her caring, professionalism and attention to detail is unsurpassed. My kids even today speak of their time with her and they hardly remember the teachers that came after.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2009-01-22

“Outstanding! My child has thrived at aztec in ways i never dreamed of. Aztec is the most unique school i've ever seen. The children are academically challenged and held to high standards. They are positively encouraged to push themselves beyond thier limits and the emphasized lifeskills are always demonstrated by the staff, not simply conveyed through words alone. Children who attend aztec go on to higher education taking with them, the foundations and principals that create strong, ethical and high-contributing citizenship. The parent involment is also very high and important for enabling the individualized learning. I can't say enough great things about this school. Mrs. Carrie miller- 2/3 teacher, is among the finest teachers you will ever mmet and your child will be very lucky if he/she ever has the chance to be in her class.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-11-26

“Aztec was the best education experience my children could have. They attended K-6 and both are striving in middle school and high school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-04-09

“After careful consideration, we chose to leave a very popular Charter School in the area to give our daughter (2nd grader) an opportunity to go to her neighborhood school. Coming from a small charter preschool / elementary schoo where she knew everyone, we were a little worried for her since she didn't know anyone in her new class. We chose a multi-age class (2nd and 3rd Grade combined / Mrs. Miller) and she has truly thrived. She made friends instantly and they welcomed her from the start. She looks forward to school every day and is excited about learning. The teaching style (theme based) has made learning fun and interesting and still offers quite a challenge where she needs it. We feel that we made the right decision and look forward to the next four years at Aztec!!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-04-08

“This school is truly great. I was apprehensive to leave private school. But they have a wonderful way of teaching children in a cutting edge fashion.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-04-08

“I chose Aztec after much research when we moved here. I have two children in the multi-age classrooms. Both my children are ahead of their grade level in some areas. In a multi-age classroom my kindergardener can work at 1st grade math and yet has children her age to socialize with. I am not a big fan of skipping grades but I still want my children to be academically challenged. There are private schools in the area that offer the same teaching model, so I feel lucky that I can get this at a public school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2008-04-08

“I chose Aztec for my two children after much research in many valley schools. To be successful in this global economy, children need much more than just a good education and Aztec, with its gifted teaching model, provides that. My kids are ahead of their grade level in some areas. IN the multi-grade classrooms my kindergartener can work on 1st grade math, and yet socialize with kids her age. I am not a big fan of skipping grades but I do need my children to be challenged and the multi-grade classrooms do just that. There are private schools offering the ITI teaching model, so it is amazing that we cab get this at a pubic school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-25

“I have three children at Aztec (two 3rd graders and a 6th grader). Each of our children have totally different learning in the ITI/Brain Based Learning environment. This is not a 'one-size-fits-all' school! Onestyles from the others, yet all three are thriving of my 3rd graders is in the special ed SUCCESS program; after years of struggling, he is finally feeling successful! All of the teachers at Aztec are terrific; they are well-trained, engaged with the students and curriculum, communicative with parents, and (most important) they really care about each student and the entire Aztec community. Special kudos to Mrs. Picard ... she is amazing. I only wish Aztec had 7th & 8th grades!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-03-17

“My son has absolutely thrived since he started attending Aztec Elementary 4 years ago. The hands-on learning approach that is supported with brain-based curriculum has helped him become a student who has the ability to think outside the box. He has learned how to problem-solve and practices the skills necessary to become a solid, contributing member of society. The core curriculum now makes sense to him because the teachers take the time to teach the 'why' behind what the students are learning, rather than just have the students memorize facts and information. This teaching style allows students to make connections to real-life applications. It has been, and continues to be an outstanding experience for our family. Sending him anywhere else is not even an option. Aztec is an excelling elementary school, and it is easy to see how they have earned that title.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-12

“We are really happy with the attention teachers give to students and parents. The small size groups allow our children to get the most of the classroom time. Also, the children do not only learn about math and science, but also some of the basic values to be a great person; like respect, honesty, cooperation and friendship.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-03-09

“My 2 children (4th and 2nd grades) have thrived at Aztec since Kindergarten! They enjoy the ITI (instruction around a theme) cirriculum. We have a choice to be in a single grade classroom or multi-grade. Both have their advantages. The teachers take the time necessary to deliver instruction on all the children's different levels. It is highly individualized. Some schools charge up to 15,000 a year for this individualized instruction. If only they knew they could receive this for free at Aztec! We are a true community, the Children, Parents, Teachers and Staff. You will be welcomed at Aztec!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-08

“I have two children at Aztec, both in the newly offered single grade program (a typical classroom with Integrated Thematic Instruction). If you're looking for a school that truly is a model for the '21st century school' this is it. I love the thematic curriculum, the collaborative learning. My children are learning academics in a 'real world' setting. They aren't just given worksheets, times tables and spelling words. They're learning how all of this actually relates to the world around them. I've never seen a more open, friendly, energetic school campus. Aztec fosters community and my kids love it and haven't missed a day when they weren't truly too sick to be there. If you want your kids to learn to think outside the box, this school is for you.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-07

“I have two children at Aztec Elementary, one in the single grade program and one in the multi-grade program. Both students are doing really well. I love the safe and caring environment that my children are in. I love the numerous ways in which learning occurs and the fact that the students are taught to become responsible and contributing members of the community. Check it out! Aztec rocks!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-03-07

“I have four children that have attended Aztec since preschool. They are all well educated and doing great at their respective schools. I enjoy the unique thematic learning style. multiage classrooms that encourage mentorship, a life lone”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-06

“I have been a proud Aztec parent for 5 years. We left Aztec for a year and a half due to our family needing to move and all my kids wanted was to move back so they could return to Aztec. We love the teachers and the programs Aztec has to offer. I have three children and two of them have academic challenges and have excelled greatly because of the compassion and programs offered at Aztec.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-06

“Aztec is providing an excellent educational environment for my 2 children.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-06

“Since being introduced to Aztec 3 years ago I have found that Aztec is not only an 'Excelling' school, Aztec is a 'Lifeskills' school. In addition to receiving an excellent education utilizing the Integreted Thematic Instruction (ITI) our children are taught lifelong skills that include caring, common sense, integrity, and resourcefulness to name just a few. Parent involvement is highly encouraged and there are always parents on campus involved in daily activities. The warm, approachable, professional staff is one of many of Aztec's great assets.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-06

“My experience in this school has been great.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-06

“My first grader is doing really well at this school. I sometimes can't believe all that she has learned the past two years. The brain based ITI instruction is the key. This school is very special because of this teaching style. The children are receiving a very well rounded education that includes all aspects of life. The environment is very non-threatening and happy and comfortable. The children learn at their own level. They also help each other while working at tables facing each other rather than individual desks looking at the back of someones head. This creates a great sense of community. If you are deciding what school to send your child to, call Aztec, make an appointment with the Principle, take a tour of the campus and be impressed! I shopped around to 5 other schools. I'm so glad we chose Aztec!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-06

“My son has been to 3 schools prior to Aztec, and did not want to go to school. He is an intelligent and creative boy, who needs more stimulation than the typical traditional methods used. Before coming to Aztec, he was bored and would find himself getting into trouble while having nothing to do. Now, his teacher, Mrs. Mooney, has shown that teaching is a skill, not a mindless act of teaching to a book. He has been happier than ever and is excelling with the ITI methods that Aztec uses. My only complain is that I wish that they would offer 7th and 8th... we do not want to leave! : )”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-03-06

“My 5th grade daughter has flourished at Aztec and is excelling in math. Each and every teacher she has had since Kindergarten has been superior in their teaching ability and in their ability to relate to her. I have the greatest respect for these teachers and for the staff of Aztec who have consistently been professional and compassionate in their dealings with my daughter and our family. The art and music programs are well run and so much fun that my daughter plays second string violin with enthusiasm that used to be reserved for other non-school activities. I endorse this school and believe it has contributed to my daughter s high self esteem and her enjoyment of learning.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-06

“My son is a very bright 5 year old who has a mind that runs 100 mph...he has ADHD and has a difficult time focusing/concentrating/staying on task. Aztec has a magnificent program called 'Success' that is a small class environment to help him acquire his skills for academic success in an engaging environment, while he is also able to mainstream back into his home K/1 class at a pace that enables & encourages his successful learning. The special education and special hands and hearts that teach him are a blessing for him/us!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-06

“My son, now in 3rd grade, has been to four different schools since kindergarten. This is by far the best school he's been to and I have seen major improvements in reading and math. And his teacher is hands down the best he's had. I have never seen a PTO ran better than the Aztec PTO and I love the 'community' feel of the school and feel like the parents' and teachers' goals are alligned.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-03-06

“I open enrolled my children at Aztec because I thought their teaching philopsophies were unique and would teach the children the love of learning. I now have a 5th grader and a 3rd grader at the school and I can say without a doubt, that this was the best choice for my children. The teachers are amazing and the parental involvment goes far and beyond what other schools have. The kids are learning what all other schools teach, but they are learning it in a creative way that allows intereation and hands on discovery. The school goes above and beyond the core curriculum and teaches the 'whole child' by enforcing Life Skills and Lifelong Guidelines. As a Vice President in an organization, I can say with determination that these skills will serve them well throughout their lives. The school itself is clean and safe and has large brightly lit classrooms.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-03-06

“Aztec is a great school. It usines thematic and integrated learning to give children the best ovrall elemenatary and foundational education.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-05

“Aztec utilizes a Gifted Model of teaching called Integrated Thematic Instruction (ITI). Children are very fortunate the receive this education without having to pay a tuition. Children learn by collaborating, doing, experimenting and moving in the classroom which is essential to learning. The campus is filled with teachers who are committed to your child's learning and the parents keep you well informed and connected through their email distribution list. I've had a great experience and as a former teacher, I can honestly say that I wish I was trained in this Gifted Model so that I could have delivered this high quality education when I taught other students.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2008-03-05

“I have read the comments rom parents the lst one dated June 2007. Yes Aztec has undergone some changes and for a better lack of terms tourmoil. If you haven't had the opportunity to visit our campus I encourage you to do so. this year has been an exceptional year for everyone. The comments made by parents about the past are no longer true. We have united as a community and the atmosphere on our campus in one that is hard to describe. I have been a parent of children enrolled at Aztec for 6 years and my youngestr is just a 1st grader. I look forward ro the opportunities he has aead of him. My 3 yes 3 5th graders have grown academically an emotionally and have truely become great 'little' citizens. They have learned so much about life and how to use what they have learned academiclly an apply”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2008-03-05

“Aztec utilizes Integrated Thematic Instruction (ITI) which is a Gifted Model of Teaching. When I was teaching, I was offered to teach at a private school in Paradise Valley that teaches their students with ITI and charges approximately $15,000/student. I am thrilled that my children are able to receive this incredible education at Aztec. One of the best parts of Aztec that helps it to succeed is the wonderful and committed teachers, staff and parents. The parents welcome new families and keep them in the communication link so they always feel connected. The campus is so conducive to learning with it's large windows that allow natural sunlight in and the classrooms that allow movement which is essential to learning. This is by far the best education a child can receive.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2007-05-17

“My children had the pleasure of attending Aztec from its' inception through 6th grade and I am very pleased with what they have learned and taken with them through middle school and now high school. We have experienced many administrative changes, but those have been caused by the small group of bitter parents and teachers that remain at Aztec (and some who have moved on but still seek revenge), who still think they control the school. They don't. Goodness will win out and the school will grow strong again despite this little group.Our Principal and Assistant Principal were the very best this district had to offer and they will be greatly missed and our precious children will suffer because of it.Our Principal is very confident, well-read, intelligent, strong, well-spoken, soft-spoken, caring, and a great mother to all of our children. Dr. Christine Loots made Aztec a family. Thank you.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2007-04-26

“My son has enjoyed the school day and has advanced his learning more than I would have expected. The choices for after school activities are lacking, although my son is in the Spanish program and that has been incredible. There are not many other choices. I am not impressed with the principal. She lacks confidence and communication skills. The assistant principal on the other hand seems to care truly for the school its students. The school discipline is not consistent and in some ways too confusing for students to figure out. Notes are sent home for some small infraction, but more serious ones are occasionally overlooked. There are always tons of parent around and involved it the day to activities. All you have to do us show up at one of the many spirit events.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2006-06-21

“Until now, Aztec has been a multi-grade school (k/1, 2/3, 4/5 classrooms). While I was never a fan of this configuration, we enrolled our children because it is our neighborhood school. I've been thinking about leaving Aztec for the past year and a half because I feel that the teachers are unable to effectively deliver quality education in a multi-grade classroom. The teachers feel this way as well, and after a very stressful and contentious year (2005/2006) (2 parents in particular lead the opposition to change), Aztec finally got the go ahead to introduce single grade classrooms. There are still a couple of parents determined to undermine this new opportunity for this school so I'm doubtful we will stay at Aztec--too much controversy, not enough academic strengths at this point--Aztec's 'exceeding the standards' test scores are below other schools in the area.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2006-06-21

“I think Aztec is a good school. I think it will be an even better school in the future with the introduction of traditional 'one-grade' classrooms (versus the combined grade classrooms). Parent involvement is fair, but seems to be the same few parents volunteering for everything. Extracurricular activities are pretty good but the fitness classes could use some help (pretty much the kids 'run the loop' and not much else). Overall, we've been happy here and look forward the school becoming a more traditional school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2006-04-24

“This school has the highest level of parent involvement and a caring community like feel.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2006-02-19

“My son went to Aztec for speech therapy. Aztec was instrumental in helping my son catch up to the other children his age.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2006-01-31

“Awsome school, wonderful staff.”
This review was posted by a teacher.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2005-10-15

“The Aztec Community Team actively & consistently tries to get parents involved in their children's education & school community. This year an after school program has been made available with choices of activities such as science club, computers, gymnastics, music, etc.”
This review was posted by a administrator.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2005-07-26

“Great school, good location.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2005-07-18

“I really like the combined K and first grades!”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2005-04-01

“My grandson recently transferred from Desert Canyon to Aztec because of his temper and bad behavior which was disruptive to his class. Since attending Aztec for approximately six months his temper and bad behavior has been curtailed and he has excelled academically beyond his grade level. My grandson has never been happier and looks forward to going to school for the first time. His behavior at home has also improved. I am very grateful to Aztec Elementary for my grandson's success.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 2

Post Date:2004-10-28

“Unhappy with current school administration”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2004-08-25

“My son went to 1st thru 3rd grade at Aztec and my daugther k-1 currently. This school is wonderful and the teacher's care about the students progress within the class. As far as the VP part time issue, this is not Aztec's fault it is the school district cutting back. Other schools in the district have the same issues. I've compared Aztec to all the other schools in the district and find that Aztec's way of teaching in the muilt-grade way is a very great concept. This is a one of a kind school in the district. My son now attends Pima, because of a new program the district has created. My son is able to attend this program because he was able to achieve about his grade level through the individual way Aztec can teach a student.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 1

Post Date:2004-07-26

“This school failed to meet our needs in many ways. No gifted services were provided even with a gifted evaluation, discipline is downright frightening at this school - beware! I know of many families who reside in this district who choose not to send their children here. Grade levels are combined yet the teachers teach to the median...plus a part time Assistant Principal and overall poor leadership.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 3

Post Date:2004-07-22

“My children attended 2nd grade and Kindergarten at Aztec. The Aztec philosophy of cross-disciplinary, hands-on learning in a multi-age classroom is wonderful with the right teacher. Veteran teachers have been trained in the approach, and know how to tailor the curriculum to the wide range of abilities present. Newer teachers appear not to be given training in the Aztec method, and our experience of one new teacher was nearly disasterous. We were able to change to a veteran teacher and the experience was many times better. The school also goes a long way towards teaching community values and respect for fellow students.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2003-09-22

“Aztec Elementary has been wonderful for our 2nd grader and our kindergartener is thriving in this multi-age environment. Aztec thinks out of the box and focuses more on the individual student's learning than lumping them all together for that particular grade. My oldest was one of the top students last year in her class so the teacher tailored her homework to challenge her because the teacher noticed she was bored with the typical homework assignments. Also having the multi-age classroom challenges the younger grades and the students can become mentors when they are in the older grade. The lifelong guidelines and skills should be taught in all schools and can be carried over into your home. I think this is a wonderful school that has a well rounded approach toward learning and life.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 3

Post Date:2003-04-28

“This is a non traditional school. Combined grades has it's advantages and disadvantages. Then you have the old great teacher, good teacher terrible teacher in the mix. Only a 1/2 time Vice Principal and so on. Overall, it is an average school. Since Maricopa County is an open enrollment county, you have a choice. Make it wisely. Parents should be aware ....it's difficult if you are either a single parent or dual working household. Parent participation is considered mandatory.”
This review was posted by a .

Quality Score: 4

Post Date:2003-03-28

“I have 3 sons in the Scottsdale School System. They range from 8 to 17. I have moved around quite a bit so unfortunately my oldest 2 boys have been to 3 different elementary schools in the District. I can say without a doubt Aztec Elementary School has been the best. My 8 year old has been taught how to study and is reading at a 9th grade level in 2nd Grade. The focus is based on each individual childs ability, and accomplishs learning through hands on group involvment, field trips,very well educated teachers, and a group of parents that really care. I walked in the classroom yesterday to find the teacher playing a game she made for the children about fractions, I don't know who was having more fun! Being a single mom I relay on school to be a fun,safe enviroment for my son. What a blessing to have a teacher that cares so much.”
This review was posted by a .

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2002-10-15

“I have a second grader who has bloomed in the Aztec environment. He is a visual learner with ADD. His primary teacher along with his special ed teacher have helped my son to re-gain his self esteem and to know what a valued student he is at school. My daughter is a fifth grader who has done well in other more traditional schools, however she has also bloomed at Aztec. She has learned the importance of teamwork both in and out of the classroom. She has also learned how to apply her learning out of the classroom.As a family, we all have come to appreciate and live by the lifeskills and lifelong guidelines that Aztec teaches. Aztec is the first school that has ever felt like an extension of our own family. We wish all schools could be this way for all children.”
This review was posted by a .

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2006-11-28

“I'm really happy. The energy on campus is high and everyone is so friendly. My child is getting a great education and loves his school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

Quality Score: 5

Post Date:2006-09-19

“Aztec is stellar! It has specific programs to mainstream challenged students in regular classrooms. Aztec believes that treating all children equally raises the success level of those children with inherent problems. Second (most important), aztec is a life skill school. Creating empathetic children is far more important than churning out robo-kids that have memorized civil war facts. Children that are blessed with good physical and mental health benefit and become better citizens when exposed to those with challenges. Aztec students have friends that were not all created from the same mold. They are given many opportunities to demonstrate responsibility and kindness when those kids require some assistance. Middle school teachers always tell me that they know who comes from aztec because aztec kids are nice. :-)”
This review was posted by a parent.

Aztec Elementary School in Phoenix, Arizona

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