Desert Springs Elementary School in Phoenix, Arizona

“As a new teacher at Desert Springs, I have found the staff to very helpful and a wonderful group to work with. I am amazed at how the parents are so willing to help and it is much appreciated. Being new to a school is a lot of work and everyone has been extremely helpful! I love being here!!!!”
This review was posted by a teacher.

“My daughter loves going to school where the kids and teachers really interact with each other. I enjoy being a volunteer working with the kids, teachers & faculty. Derert Springs is a great school!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My daughter started at Desert Springs this past year and we have had an awesome experience! The teachers are very experience, top notch!! The principal is excellent. She is committed to advancement of education and success of every student. She is also strict as heck, something that I totally appreciate since my daughter tends to be one that gets bullied. Parents that don't like her are the ones that don't like that they and their kids DO have to follow the rules. The PTA has been great. I really don't understand some of these comments. I showed up as a new parent, went to the meetings, volunteered willingly, gave ideas when I had them, and I was totally accepted. As a matter of fact, I did not see one parent that wasn't?!? The PTA is small and super-friendly, I look forward to 10 more years here!!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I currently have 2 children here at desert springs an we all love the school! the PTA is in no way cliquie and the principal is great she greets every student with yes their name and knows them what other principal could do this except for ours!! parents help a lot at the school and it is nice the school welcomes us in. For that to be said I still believe in my heart that our school is #1, sure many others agree w/me! ps.....It's the bullies that get in trouble that the parents that....Do not like the principal! not too hard to figure out!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“When my son attended Desert Springs 5 years ago, it was a great school. My daughter is finishing up there now and it has really changed...and not for the better...it's a shame to see the difference...the teachers seem unmotivated and the principal is focused on career advancement...What about the kids? When the kids are openly asking the staff to be nicer to them you know there is a problem...take away the smoke and mirrors and it's just a public school with leadership problems...utilize the district open enrollment policy and get your kids out before they end up unprepared for middle school...there are 2 or 3 much better schools close by!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Bravo-kudos to the other brave souls for speaking up! Do your research thoroughly- don't bother to voice your opinion or try to get involved they want it the way it has always been done, they are not open to new ideas or trying things- no matter what they say you will meet resistance. Yes there are only a few good teachers there! With the teacher cuts going into effect next year I wonder what will be of the school then?”
This review was posted by a parent.

“There are a few outstanding teachers at Desert Springs- Mrs. Johnson and Mr. Ely, to name a few. They are both best of the best! But....look out otherwise. Your family may not be welcome if you don't fit into the PTA clique- it's more damage control than anything else...If you see a few comments that seem negative, ask why...the brave ones care enough to speak up!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Desert Springs is an A+ school in every way -- from academic performance to the caring teachers and the dedicated principal who knows every student's name. Many of the teachers have advanced degrees and some have chosen to spend their entire careers at DSES because of the family atmosphere at the school. The PTA and an active parent community also contribute to the welcoming atmosphere at Desert Springs ahd sponsor a host of special programs and events for the students. The principal has an open door policy for parents and students and is very receptive to new ideas and suggestions. She has no tolerance for bullying and inappropriate behaviors. For all these reasons, I open-enrolled my child at Desert Springs and drive him to school, while our home school is within a short walk from our home.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“This principal is very negative, and I have observed her humiliating children. The staff members are great, but the principal's negative leadership is stifling the creativity of the teachers. No way would I recommend this school. Families are leaving due to this principal. Don't be fooled by her outgoing personality. She is not kid-friendly.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“As a new parent, I have felt nothing but welcomed. The principal seems very involved with the kids. She seems to know all of their names and they seem to be very drawn to her. I love all the science my son is getting in Kindergarten. WOW. Plus the parent involvement is huge here. We just went to Family math night and it was really neat. My son had so much fun and it was free.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My 12 year old daughter graduated from Desert Springs last year and is now in Middle School. I am happy to say that she is breezing through the first quarter with all A's and one B in Spanish. She is my oldest daughter I also have 2 kids at Desert Springs, as well as 2 Nephews, and 2 nieces there. Out of our 4 families, 3 are open enrolled. Not only is this a great school but it has a very involved PTA. Anyone is welcome and all are encouraged to help out. I volunteer alot but don't attend the PTA meetings, I kind of fly under the radar and help wherever needed. The Principal is very outgoing. She came to our school new a couple years and has really done a fantastic job. My children are better for being at this school around the amazing staff.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My son is a 6th grader and has been here since Kindergarten. I have been very impressed with every teacher he has had. I am also impressed with the Staff and Parent involvement here. I was asked to volunteer his kindergarten year and have continued to do so since. I have felt very welcomed by both the staff and other parents. My son was a bit behind when we started and got the extra help he needed to get caught up. His 5th grade AIMS test scores were fantastic. I am amazed at the success in his education from a public school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I am thrilled at the wonderful experiences & opportunities my daughter has had at Desert Springs! The principal is the most involved principal I have ever seen or heard about. She knows almost every child, personally, and is at practically every event that occurs. I involved myself to not only help, but to see the goings-on and see how difficult issues are handled. I have yet to see bullying or behavioral problems be ignored. The teachers are absolutely amazing and the incredible PTA there offers endless activities for both kids & parents! Being an active parent, it's reassuring to see any complaints about no- one listening to suggestions and taking action are coming from the parents that do nothing but drop off and pick up. While that can be found at any school, it's great to know that they are a very small % of parents at Desert Springs!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“After checking out 8 schools in the area, we decided to open enroll our children at Desert Springs. We have 3 children there, and after 4 years, we couldn't be happier. The principal is dedicated to her staff and students, and the teachers are top notch. It saddens me to see the negative reviews that have been written, because they were all written by two families who have tried for years to disrupt the quality education and strong PTA foundation that make up Desert Springs. If you are considering this school, go meet the principal and staff members yourself. Do not rely on the negative reviews posted by two people who clearly have an axe to grind.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I am new to the area and have 2 children in Desert Springs. I have been so impressed at the 'community' atmosphere of the school. I love the small size, and HUGE involvemengt of parents. I have noticed the principal everwhere and very involved! I have been so impressed, and look forward to our time at Desert Springs.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Best School in the Neighborhood. Most of the teachers have their Master Degrees!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“This school is amazing specially Mr. Ely my son and daughter had him he was so great i suggest moving your kids to this school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Desert Springs is a strong traditional school of 450 students. My son attends the 3rd grade. It is controlled by a small community of parents. The low enrollment keeps the classrooms small as well as limit the amount of behavior/discipline issues that can arise from a larger diverse student population. DS is part of the PV Valley school district so the opportunity for new programs are limited. Therefore, DS is also one of the last schools to try something new or step out of the box. They implemented the gifted program this year and they had to shy away from really promoting it because parents who's children didn't make it were giving negative feedback. Desert Springs is a good school if you have a child that can conform and that won't stand out with a strong personality. Similiar to the principal, most students are pleasant.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My grandchild has gone to DSES since kindergarten. DSES is a school where the children come first. Each child is encouraged to do his personal best without being labeled as the smart or dumb. The teachers are highly skilled and work hard to bring out the best in each child. The principal is kind and knows each child by name. She is a great example of a leader. Thank you Mrs. Hough and all the teachers at DSES for bringing out the best in my grandchild. The extracurricular activities at DSES have shown my grandchild that there is more to life than just books; although, she is an avid reader and an honor student.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I have just finished putting three children (one had an IEP) through this school. One went for three years. The other two for 7 years. I found that the class sizes were very small from 13 in kindergarten to 24 in 6th grade. There were plenty of extracurricular activities (choir, drama club, keyboarding, art club, chess, karate, cheer, science club and more!) to keep any child busy. The teachers were great--mature, approachable, and very experienced with great longevity at this school. Volunteer opportunites were abundant at the school from helping in the classroom, PTA functions, nurses office, numerous field trips, etc. Find it clicky, then get involved. I never saw anyone turn away help at this school. My children all have done wonderfully on the SAT/AIMS/Terra Nova tests--a testament to the instruction they have been given and a great foundation now for middle and high school!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My children go to this school. It is a very clicky school and the PTA control alot of what goes on or doesn't go on. Extracurricular activities are few and limted to the traditional types of things. The principal is new and is still learning the ropes. She hasn't demonstrated any dynamic part of her personality yet as the previous principal did. She is friendly to the students. The children get a good education, so we just don't get involved that much in the social aspects of the school anymore.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“At first, I thought this school was great. Small school, less students, more attention. WRONG! There is a big click problem in this school, with the parents, and the kids. It is ridiculous how the same set of parents run this school year after year, and if you're not on their good side, watch out. My child has been bullied by the same child for 3 years. Nothing has been done. Everyone says they care about the kids, but their actions show otherwise.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Desert Springs is a top notch public school. We have had nothing but positive experiences at the school. The teachers are concerned about all the children succeeding and keeping them excited about learning. They continue to offer after school activities at a reasonable cost. The school has a small town feel with many parents helping out each day. Whether you want to be involved in the PTA or help out with in your child's classroom, volunteers are made very welcome. The PTA offers many after school programs at little or no charge which helps to build a lot of friendships and excitement about school. We are very excited to be a part of this school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My daughter attended Desert Springs grade 1-6. Each year she had an excellent teacher. The staff provided me with all the information I needed to keep informed with educational & business issues of the school. Unfortunately, a lack of federal funding required some programs being cut but overall my daughter had a great six years at Desert Springs.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Excellent school in every way! Great class sizes & high level of parent involvement.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Very concerned about their A+ rating. Willing to sweep things under the rug, to avoid negative image, rather than dealing with the issues.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My son only attended this school for one year. I found that we were lost in a sea of children. His teacher was very uncooperative, and the front office staff were extremely rude. The children were not well behaved and my son learned more filth than he did academics.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“This principal is not concerned about the children at all, only her own career path.I am leaving this school after two years. The school has a great social worker, whose hands are tied. I will never again return to this school. If you aren't part of the PTA clique, you won't last here. Don't sacrifice you child, take them somewhere else!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Despite high test scores, children suffer a great deal from bullying that has gotten out of control. The anti-bullying policy looks good on paper and to district. My kids have been bullied to the point of depression, and the principal refuses to act. We are leaving this school before they suffer any more. When this principal is gone, and the aides are replaced, then the excellent teachers that are here can finally get down to business. But how many children's self-esteem will be sacrificed until then??”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Desert Springs is a top notch school. They have an excellent Drama, Music and Band program. The parent involvement is great. I haven't known a bad teacher there either. My kids never complain about going to school, they do have a lot of homework, but their grades are great. A reflection on the teaching. I would give it a 5 rating.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Although the school has had a good reputation with many parents and students, our child suffered greatly from uncaring teachers and staff. Leadership in the school was biased and unfair leadership. I witnessed many cliques where parents think and much politic-king. Our child came home often with complaints of inappropriate language and actions by the students and Staff!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“The first grade academic program is superb. Kids are involved in many extracurricular activities. But what amazed me the most is the extent of parent involvement. it is a great school!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“This is a very nice school. Good education.”
This review was posted by a former student.

“Desert Springs has provided a great education for my children. The teachers genuinely care about their students and provide an appropriate learning environment. My kids are thrilled with the afterschool opportunities.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Our two children have just completed their 1st year at Desert Springs. The teachers and principal have proven to be the best! The teachers have high expectations for their students and really care about their well being. The school is definately that of a 'family atmosphere', with a lot of extra curricular activities, as well as many family programs and functions. Desert Springs has a strong discipline program with an emphasis on 'no bullies allowed'. Parent involvement is welcomed and appears to be key for the success of the school. The principal is highly visible and available for parents whenever needed. My children love their teachers and look forward to going to school everyday.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Desert Springs is an outstanding school. On April 15, 2004, the school was recognized by the Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF) as an 'Arizona A+' school. The school has outstanding partnership between parents, teachers, students, and community. Be sure to visit the school website and look at the A+ application that was submitted to the AEF. It deals all the outstanding programs at the school. I highly recommend the school to anyone moving to the Phoenix area. AZ is a open enrollment state, so even if you live in another schools' boundary, you can request to attend Desert Springs.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Desert Springs just received the Arizona A+ rating for good reason. The school has all of the elements a family wants for their children-fantastic teachers, supportive administrators and staff, terrific parents-and most importantly- incredible children! Desert Springs has embraced many social awareness programs, such as bullying, stranger danger, and D.A.R.E. The school environment is one of true caring and genuine concern for each student. Desert Springs is a great place for a child to grow and learn, it is safe, diciplined, has strong leadership, lots of activities, and overall the best school in the area!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Desert Springs continues to be an excellent school, with challenging classrooms where all students can succeed. My sons are flourishing and are well-prepared for middle school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“In my opinion there is no better elementary school in the Paradise Valley School District. It is home away from home for my two girls during the day. They are thriving academically and socially. I feel so lucky to have my daughters at school at Desert Springs Elementary.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“The bullying situation at Desert Springs has gotten completely out of hand with little or no intervention from the staff or principal. My children have complained numerous times to the duty aides about bullies, only to be told to 'stop tattling' - this threatening environment my children are in every day has forced me to look elsewhere for a school for them. Until the principal and staff are trained on how to handle these situations and not blame the victim, this school will just go downhill.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I have my two children open-enrolled at Desert Springs (rather than going to our neighborhood school) for a few reasons: 1) The teachers are like a family. All of them have worked together for over 10 years and show a great deal of care and respect for eachother. 2) Test scores are excellent! 3) Their kindergarten enrichment program is taught by a warm, enthusiastic teacher named Mrs. Hollman who loves math and science and has an outstanding reputation in the district. 4) The PTA is strong and there are many family-oriented activites.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I chose this school for my child sight unseen based on the enhanced profile alone... Once I visited the school, I was even more convinced it was the perfect environment for my son! From the principal, to the staff, to the excellent teachers, to the parent community, to the children themselves, this truly is a special school and I am convinced there is no better place for my son to learn and grow!”
This review was posted by a other.

“The best school I could ever ask for. I have 2 kids, both are doing wonderful, high marks, and what makes me the happiest, they enjoy going to school there. The PTA is always helping with events, and I love the teachers and staff, hats off to you Desert Springs! Keep up the great work!”
This review was posted by a .

“I give excellent marks to Desert Springs. As a parent coming from private school to public, I had several concerns. When I first came to Desert Springs, I wanted to speak to a first grade teacher, view their class, see the materials, look at the curriculum, and ask plenty of questions. I left my name and number and before school was out that day, a first grade teacher had returned my call and invited me to visit her class the very next day. I was made to feel very welcome and confident. Right then, I knew that this was the school for us. I was able to leave my precious child in the hands of master teachers that love what they do and put my child first. Looking back, I realize that my former private school instilled in me alot of doubt about public school. Sure, I still ask, look, and view, but I know with certainty that my children are receiving and excellent education at Desert Springs.”
This review was posted by a .

“We have had children at Desert Springs for the last ten years, and think it is a wonderful school. I am shocked to see a negative comment, because so many parents come from other elementary schools to attend our school because of it's excellent reputation. Consistantly high test scores, parent involvement, and a superior staff are a few of the reasons why I bought in our neighborhood so my children would attend this school. The teachers all have masters degrees, and have a level of experience you don't find in other schools.(20+ years) They never want to leave! Superior art, P.E. and music programs, and the best technology/computer teacher in the district. My kids have designed their own web pages and iMovies. Check out the website: desertsprings.pvusd.k12.az.us and see the student's work. There is a great sense of family at this school. There are hundreds of parents who volunteer to make it even better. The PTA has received awards for their community involvement. My oldest is going to be a sophomore in high school, and I feel she is successful academically because of the years she spent at Desert Springs.”
This review was posted by a .

“We are no longer at this school because we felt it was not at all a positive environment. Other parents who have shared this view have chosen to move to an area with a 'better choice' of schools.”
This review was posted by a .

“Both of my sons went to Desert Springs with a 9 year gap between kids and the staff has been consistent and good quality. The school is very involved in neighbor events and much participation.”
This review was posted by a .