RAK Magazine Schools, Etc. 2019

raisingarizonakids.com SCHOOLS, ETC 2019

SPECIAL ANNUAL ISSUE

What to know when

CHOOSING A SCHOOL

6 SCHOOL CHOICES families and their

Tips on navigating

TRANSITIONS

Libraries offer FREE

HOMEWORK HELP

Schools and education resources in greater Phoenix Preschools, private schools, charter schools, public school districts, online learning programs, special needs schools and education support

Natalie Rose Soto Fuchs (16) of Phoenix.

IMAGINE. Developing Character, Enriching Minds

Imagine Schools is built upon expectations high enough to live up to a child’s potential. It is imperative for student success that academics go deeper and outcomes go higher.

Our values-based culture inspires learners to become leaders. In our non-profit, free public charter schools, success means developing character and enriching minds as we graduate students well-prepared for college, career, and life.

FIND A SCHOOL NEAR YOU

Imagine serves students on twelve school campuses throughout the Greater Phoenix Area.

At Imagine we: • Value parents as partners in their child’s education • Promote academic excellence • Instill values of Justice, Integrity and Fun in our students IMAGINE CAMPUSES

IMAGINE HIGH SCHOOLS

Imagine Avondale PreK-8 Van Buren and Dysart 623.344.1730 ImagineAvondale.org

Imagine Coolidge K-5 AZ 87 and Vah Ki Inn 520.723.5391 ImagineCoolidge.org

Imagine East Mesa PreK-8 Southern and Crismon 480.355.6830 ImagineEastMesa.org

Imagine Prep Coolidge 6-12 AZ 87 and Vah Ki Inn 520.424.2790 ImaginePrepCoolidge.org

Imagine Bell Canyon PreK-8 Union Hills and I-17 602.547.7920 ImagineBellCanyon.org

Imagine Cortez Park K-8 Dunlap and 35th Ave 602.589.9840 CortezPark.org

Imagine Rosefield PreK-5 Cactus and Bullard 623.344.4300 ImagineRosefield.org

Imagine Prep Superstition 6-12 Southern and Ironwood 480.355.0530 ImaginePrep.org

Imagine Camelback K-8 Camelback and 19th Ave 602.344.4620 ImagineCamelback.org

Imagine Desert West K-8 McDowell and 67th Ave 623.344.7150 DWDragons.org

Imagine West Gilbert PreK-8 Ray and Gilbert 480.855.2700 ImagineWestGilbert.org

Imagine Prep Surprise 6-12 Reems Rd and Acoma Rd 623.344.1770 SurprisePrep.org

For more information, please visit imagineschools.org

Public Charter Schools Developing Character, Enriching Minds

LUTHERAN* SCHOOLS OF THE VALLEY

Great Places to Grow!

ATONEMENT LUTHERAN SCHOOL (Preschool–grade 8) 4001 W. Beardsley Rd., Glendale 85308 623-374-3019 • school@atonementlc.org • www.theexperientialschool.org CHRIST LUTHERAN SCHOOL (Preschool–grade 8) 3901 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix 85018 602-957-7010 • clsinfo@cclphoenix.org • www.clsphx.org CHRIST’S GREENFIELD LUTHERAN SCHOOL (Age 2½–grade 8) 425 N. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert 85234 480-892-8314 • ogarcia@cglschool.org • www.cglschool.org GETHSEMANE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (Age 2-Kindergarten) 1035 E. Guadalupe Rd., Tempe 85283 480-839-0906 • carnold@glstempe.net • www.gatempe.org NORTH VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY AND HIGH SCHOOL (Age 2–grade 12) 33655 N. 27th Dr., Phoenix 85085 623-551-3454 • admissions@northvalleyca.org • www.gonvca.org RISEN SAVIOR PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN (Toddlers - kindergarten) 23914 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler, AZ 85248 480.802.1505 • school@rslcs.org • www.rslcs.org SHEPHERD OF THE DESERT LUTHERAN SCHOOL (Ages 2-5 years) 9400 E. Mountain View Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85258 480-860-0488 • dosman@sotdaz.org • www.scottsdalepreschool.org TRINITY LUTHERAN SCHOOL (Age 1–grade 8) 830 E. Plaza Circle, Litchfield Park 85340 623-935-4690 • office@trinitylcs.org • www.trinitynewthinking.org VALLEY LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL (Grades 9–12) 5199 N. 7th Ave., Phoenix 85013 602-230-1600 • info@vlhs.org • www.vlhs.org * Schools listed are affiliated with The Lutheran Church — Missouri Synod.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com SCHOOLS, ETC. 2019

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2019

contents

FEATURES

6 Choosing a school: Where to start Arizona offers open enrollment for its public schools, plus tuition-free charter schools and tuitionbased private schools. So many choices can be overwhelming. Carrie Wheeler details the process and offers questions to ask when touring a school.

10 Six families, six different approaches to school choice Scottsdale writer Amy Carney explains how she and her neighbors made very different decisions for their children when choosing schools.

ARTICLES

4 About “Schools, etc.”

Making choices

14

Q&A: Why is recess important?

15

Arizona School Tuition Organizations explained

15

What is scrip?

15

What is open enrollment?

16

A+ Schools of Excellence in greater Phoenix

18

Top-Ranking Maricopa County high schools

19

The “hidden” costs of education

20

National Blue Ribbon Schools

21

Mesa schools make national “Healthiest Schools” list

21

Public school tax credit

21

What are Empowerment Scholarship Accounts?

22

From STEM to STREAM

22

What is gifted education?

24

Local libraries offer homework help

26

Navigating to a new school or to college

28

What is Red for Ed?

10

6

20

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

29 Schools and education resources in greater Phoenix More than 85 preschools, private schools, charter schools, public school districts, online learning programs, special needs schools and sources for education support.

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SCHOOLS, ETC. 2019 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

COVER PHOTO SHOOT

Natalie Rose Soto Fuchs (16) of Phoenix is joined by her sister Callista Koebergen of Phoenix and nephew Daniel Lofton (2) at Luci’s at the Orchard. Natalie is a sophomore at Xavier College Preparatory.

PHOTOS BY RICK D’ELIA

THERE IS NO UNIVERSAL TEACHING CODE THAT UNLOCKS EVERY MIND. New Way Academy is Arizona’s premier independent K-12 school specializing in students with learning differences such as dyslexia, ADHD and executive functioning difficulties.

Small class sizes, individualized instruction and on-campus therapists empower learning in the classroom. Our large campus with sports and numerous after-school activities promotes building friendships and learning outside the classroom. Learn more at NewWayAcademy.org.

5048 E OAK STREET PHOENIX, AZ 85008 | T: 602 389 8600

RaisingARIZONAKids.com SCHOOLS, ETC. 2019

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about “Schools, etc.”

2019

Publisher Karen Davis Barr Editor Kara G. Morrison Calendar Editor Liz Petroff Copy Editor Debra Citron

ISTOCK

Contributors Amy Carney, Debra Citron, Hattie Linam, Carrie Wheeler Art Director Michèlle-Renée Adams Photography Rick D’Elia

MAKING CHOICES LAST YEAR ON THIS PAGE, our publisher wrote about the “predictability of change.” Again this year, we have substantially changed our approach to this special annual education issue.

Schools, etc. began as a primer on school choice with the introduction of charter schools to our state more than 20 years ago.

It morphed into a comprehensive directory of the hundreds of private, public, charter, online and specialized schools in greater Phoenix. The months-long process to collect, research, distill and offer descriptions of these schools (at no cost to the schools) became unsustainable.

This year, we focused our efforts on what we do best: Offering thought-provoking stories for parents about schools and education.

Writers Carrie Wheeler and Amy Carney did a great job explaining the complex and sometimes overwhelming process of choosing a school — a process that starts as a child enters preschool or kindergarten, and often repeats during his or her middle or high school years.

Both writers explained their experiences and those of other local families and offered tips from Elie Gaines of All Schools Consulting, who knows a thing or two about helping parents navigate school choice. We hope their pieces and the other articles, tips and explanations in this issue help parents and kids during these precious, fleeting years between preschool and high school graduation.

The directory portion of Schools, etc. is

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now a Special Advertising Section, allowing participating schools to describe their strengths, programming and campuses in their own words.

THERE’S BEEN ONE more big change in Arizona education since our last Schools etc. issue, and that’s the Red for Ed movement. It still seems mind-blowing that in the heat of April and May, tens of thousands of teachers walked out of the classroom, took to the streets and demanded better funding for public education in Arizona, following a decade of spending cuts.

In the end, lawmakers did pass a state budget raising teacher salaries by up to 20 percent by school year 2020-21 and increasing support staff pay and funding for schools and universities. Even so, the state has not restored Arizona education funding to pre-2008 levels.

As this issue was going to press, teachers were showing up at the polls and on ballots running for office. It will take awhile to determine whether Red for Ed remains a force, but it’s exciting to see the state awakening, engaging and voting on how Arizona schools can excel.

Operations Manager Tina Gerami-Bynum Sales Representatives Shannon Cornall, Kate Reed

Contact Us: editorial@RAKmagazine.com familytime@RAKmagazine.com advertising@RAKmagazine.com subscriptions@RAKmagazine.com

Follow us! @RAKmagazine RAKmagazine

RAKmagazine RAKmagazine

“Schools, etc.” is an annual publication of Raising Arizona Kids magazine (ISSN 1051-4295), which was created in 1990 to connect Valley families to local resources and share real life stories about the challenges and joys of raising children. Copyright 2019 by Raising Arizona Kids, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Additional copies of “Schools, etc.” are available for purchase online or by phone. Bulk-quantity discounts available.

5229 N. Seventh Ave. #102 Phoenix, AZ 85013-1974 P: 480–991–KIDS (5437) • F: 480–991–5460 raisingarizonakids.com

Kara G. Morrison, Editor kara@RAKmagazine.com

PHOENIX UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

Exceptional Schools for Exceptional Students Maryvale Gifted & talented acadeMy GTacademy.org 602.764.2011

Offers its scholars an opportunity to excel academically and grow holistically. Teachers facilitate their students’ learning academically and support the whole-child development.

Students take electives and participate in sports, arts, and clubs on the Maryvale campus.

• ACCELERATED • PROJECT-BASED • PERSONALIZED

ARIZONA PRIVATE EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Since 1998, we’ve awarded tuition scholarships to thousands of K-12 students attending Arizona private schools thanks to individual and corporate donations.

Donations qualify for a dollar-for-dollar credit on AZ income taxes.

caMelback Montessori colleGe PreParatory CamelbackMontessori.org 602.764.7000

Arizona’s 1st Montessori High School, offering Montessori education for the development of the whole child. Through intentional community building, our students learn to value interpersonal relationships as they strive to find their role in society. Students take electives and participate in sports, arts, and clubs on the Camelback campus.

Families apply one time per school year for tuition scholarships.

Scholarships are awarded monthly.

We partner with 100+ private schools in AZ.

APPLY OR DONATE @

apesf.org (480) 699-8911

A.R.S. § 43-1089 NOTICE: A school tuition organization cannot award, restrict or reserve scholarships solely on the basis of donor recommendation. A taxpayer may not claim a tax credit if the taxpayer agrees to swap donations with another taxpayer to benefit either taxpayer’s own dependent.

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SCHOOLS, ETC. 2019 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

CHOOSING A SCHOOL: Where to start

By Carrie Wheeler

If

“

someone tells you the name of another school, plug your ears,” my husband joked after we’d completed what felt like our hundredth school tour.

In our school search, we had visited several public schools, a Montessori charter, a Waldorf charter and a handful of private schools.

We had researched homeschooling, too — all in the name of finding a good fit for our school-averse son who has a few learning differences, which makes finding a good fit a little tricky.

Even for kids without special school needs, Arizona’s robust “school choice” environment makes the process of considering options and settling on a school both daunting and overwhelming for parents.

It’s not like the pre-1995 days, when your zip code dictated which public school your child attended. “In Arizona, your ZIP code is not your destiny,” explains Eileen Sigmund, president of the Arizona Charter Schools Association, a nonprofit organization that advocates for and works to strengthen Arizona’s charter schools. In addition to home district schools, kids who participate in open enrollment can attend their pick of public schools or one of hundreds of public charter schools, not to mention private options.

Our kids spend the better part of their days at school. They’re learning academic skills but also developing attitudes about learning, building self-esteem, figuring out how to interact with other kids and adults, learning organization and time management, and (hopefully) getting a better understanding of how they fit into their community and the world. No wonder the decision is so rife with anxiety!

After the exhaustive quest of trying to find the holy grail of education for my child, here are a few things I learned along the way.

LIGHT FIELD STUDIOS

STEP 1: Assess your child’s needs Knowing your child’s learning style and interests will help focus your search.

Take a good look at your child and ask yourself: Is my child a selfstarter? Does my child respond well to rules or enjoy a more creative environment? Is my child gifted, struggling with a learning challenge, or both? Is my child social, or anxious in social situations?

It’s not easy breaking down what makes a 4-year-old tick. When my son was in preschool, we knew he lacked focus, but we thought it was just a byproduct of youth. “He doesn’t do anything unless a teacher sits next to him,” my husband and I were told at one parent/teacher conference.

That inability to focus was later diagnosed as ADHD, which eventually put “small class size” at the top of our list for education options.

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Understanding your options

Public district schools. Despite Arizona’s poor record on education spending, there are a lot of positives that favor public district schools: Well-educated teachers (public district schools require teachers to have a college degree and pass an assessment for their content area); ethnic, cultural and socioeconomic diversity; a sense of community (everyone in the neighborhood’s property taxes are funding the school, after all) and stability. Plus, it’s free; you’ve already paid with your tax dollars.

Many public schools are now offering specialized programs such as language immersion, arts, STEAM, International Baccalaureate, back-to-basics curriculums, Montessori and programs for the highly gifted. Arizona’s open enrollment law allows students to apply for admission to any public school.

Admittance is based on available classroom space, with in-district students getting first priority.

Public schools are, by law, required to address a student’s needs. This is why Dr. Kenneth Baca, superintendent of the Madison School District in central Phoenix, says public schools have an edge. “We have a spectrum of services at our disposal.

We have counselors, occupational therapists [and other staff] available for kids who need them.” The vast majority of public district schools also partner with the National Food Program to offer free or reduced-fee breakfast and lunch programs, bus service for in-district students, optional before- and after-school programs, and extensive extracurricular activities, including clubs and athletics.

Public charter schools. Also funded by the state, charter schools started popping up in the mid-1990s to expand school choice for public education. While they share many traits with public district schools — they are free, participate in standardized testing, enforce anti-discrimination policies — they are independently run and have more autonomy and flexibility than public district schools. Charters vary wildly in teaching philosophies — from Montessori, Waldorf, and arts schools to hard-core academics. Some cater specifically to at-risk students

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who have failed to thrive in other educational environments.

Montessori. Montessori schools generally believe in child-led education. Every child has different interests and abilities, so instructors follow their lead and guide them on their learning journey. Many Montessori schools combine age groups so that older children help guide younger ones and build confidence by letting kids master practical achievements.

Waldorf schools. A Waldorf education focuses on hands-on activities and creative play that develops imagination and artistic expression using little to no technology. At a Waldorf school, kids will spend a lot of time diving into a single topic of study, learning practical skills such as finger knitting and gardening, while also exploring creativity with music, art and free play.

Private schools. Private schools are responsible for their own funding through tuition, donations, etc. Because private schools are privately funded, they do not have any enrollment requirements and can offer small class sizes and/or religious education. Private schools are not required to have special programs for learning differences, but there are several private schools in the Valley geared specifically toward kids who need extra support. Check out Empowerment Scholarship Accounts and School Tuition Organization scholarships for options to defray tuition costs.

Homeschooling. With the ability to choose a specific curriculum and design a program entirely around the needs of a child and family, a growing number of families are choosing the flexibility of homeschooling to educate their children. With more and more co-ops and other learning centers like Arizona Science Center and Childsplay offering classes designed for homeschoolers, parents also have the option to share the teaching burden and add some social interaction.

STEP 2: Decide what’s important to your family Rigorous academics, a desire for an expanded worldview, religious or personal beliefs, financial constraints and transportation needs — all these should be taken into consideration when picking a school. Make a list of priorities for what you want in a school, but also keep an open mind and be sure your family values and your child’s needs align.

As an exchange student in Japan, I saw the children of American business people speaking Japanese like natives. I, on the other hand, struggled and never became fluent. When I had my own child, I wanted to give him the gift of a second language. But after two years at a language-immersion preschool, he didn’t show any signs of liking or wanting this gift. People would say, “He’s absorbing it. It takes a while to speak.” After another year and a half of glazed looks and foreignlanguage avoidance, we learned he had a reading problem, which probably contributed to his delay. So we bailed on the language (at least for now) and shifted the focus to reading.

STEP 3: Give yourself time to explore schools. A

lot of them.

School placement expert Elie Gaines of All Schools Consulting has made it her job to find schools for students from preschool to high school throughout the state. “Just like every child is unique, every school is unique,” she explains. “Every school has its own personality and culture.

It’s important to find a solution that feels good for the child, the parents and the school.”

Gaines recommends starting your school search at least 15 months before your child is entering or changing schools. “Optimally, you will have a handful of schools to apply to a year before [the child is set to enter].”

Ask friends who have school-age kids about their school experiences.

Attend orientations — schools typically have regular weekly or monthly dates. Schedule a tour, or make an appointment to talk to the principal.

“Spend time researching the school. Read the website like a marketing tool, and then look for evidence when you visit the school,” recommends Gaines. She also suggests visiting while school is in session to see what it’s like on a typical day. Take note: Are teachers attentive?

Are students engaged? Do the kids seem happy? How does the principal communicate with kids?

My husband and I went to the orientation of one highly-ranked public school that received raves from friends. Upon visiting, we saw walls devoid of art, which the school claimed would distract from school work. They boasted that each child was a full grade level ahead in math.

For our friends’ high-achieving kids, this was a great fit. For our visual learner who balks at math, this wasn’t going to be the best match.

STEP 4: Choose schools, apply and wait.

Now that you’ve gathered information, narrow your school choices and apply. “I don’t believe there’s only one school that’s going to be a best fit,” explains Gaines. “Apply for a handful of schools … maybe three to five.” That way, waitlists and rejections won’t derail your goals.

Open enrollment typically starts in the fall. Those who apply early

What to ask when touring a school School-placement expert Elie Gaines of All Schools Consulting in Scottsdale (allschoolsconsulting.com) suggests parents ask these questions when when considering a school: ✔ What is the school’s signature program? What is the school well known for? ✔ What is the student-to-teacher ratio in classrooms?

(This speaks to the capacity of a teacher to provide oneon-one learning support.) ✔ What are the actual class sizes for each grade? (This is different from ratios. A child who easily becomes distracted in a large group will be better off with one teacher in a small group than two teachers in a group twice that size.) ✔ How involved are parents? How involved can parents be? ✔ How does the school use technology? ✔ How does the school deal with learning difficulties or gifted students? ✔ What is the school’s method of discipline? ✔ How much homework can students expect? ✔ Where do the students come from? Where do they go after they graduate?

or by the deadline are often given priority. Applications might require a birth certificate, proof of residency and immunization and prior school records. Some also require teacher recommendations, testing, shadow days, interviews and a fee.

Even homeschoolers have to fill out an Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool for their county of residence within 30 days of starting a child’s education. Count on more time to figure out how to set up a homeschool, explore curriculums and apply for co-ops and other support.

If you land on a waitlist, don’t despair. Waitlists vary. At some schools, waitlisted students have a good chance of being admitted. At others, the waitlist is basically an empty gesture. The admissions staff should let you know if you have a chance, or if you should focus your attention elsewhere.

Also know this: Rejections happen. School enrollment is competitive.

Sometimes schools are full. Sometimes school administrators have a clearer sense of whether a student will thrive in the environment than parents have.

In our search, we were rejected twice. One school gave our son a battery of tests and ultimately decided he didn’t have enough focus to succeed there. Another was more arbitrary. Rejection feels awful in the moment — but it’s better to focus on finding a good fit than dwelling on a place that doesn’t want to educate your kid.

Carrie Wheeler is a Phoenix freelance writer and mom to Wilson (7).

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families, Six different approaches to school choice

By Amy Carney

We

are mothers, neighbors and friends. Each of us values faith, family and education. Yet each of us made different school choices for our

children.

When I was pregnant with our first-born triplet sons, my husband and I bought a house across the street from one of the top public elementary schools in our district. We envisioned our children walking across the street to their neighborhood school, and that is precisely what they did.

What we hadn’t realized was that many of our children’s friends would take different paths. Their parents chose to drive their children out of the neighborhood to attend schools around the Valley.

Seeing other parents who shared our values and ZIP code making different educational choices for their children sometimes made my husband and I wonder if we had made the right decision for ours. But our choice felt consistent with our family’s overall goals, and we have kept our five children in the public school system. My children are thriving, and at 7 a.m. I can still be home in my pajamas while my neighbor drives 20 minutes to drop her children at school.

It’s intriguing to see how families with similar backgrounds, interests and situations can make such different education choices. I applaud my friends’ differing choices when it comes to preferences like school uniforms, stricter guidelines on cellphone use or higher academic expectations. There are pros and cons to every educational decision parents will make for their children. We all have to figure out what is most important and weigh the advantages and disadvantages of our options.

Here’s a look at six neighboring families who chose six unique educational paths.

THE SNYDER FAMILY

Scottsdale Christian Academy, Scottsdale Preparatory Academy, Scottsdale Unified School District Mark and Robin Snyder are Arizona natives with a family legacy at Scottsdale Christian Academy. The Snyders’ three children began their educational journey at SCA, where they enjoyed going to school with their cousins. The Christian curriculum at this K-12 non-denominational private school – and its school

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Amy and Morgan Carney

Lain and Callie Ehmann

Robin and Clara Snyder

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Ellie and Debbie Bartolino

uniforms policy – were big draws. But the inconvenience of a long commute caused Mark and Robin to move the kids to their local public elementary school.

Back in the neighborhood, the Snyder family enjoyed biking to school for a couple of years before deciding to try Scottsdale Preparatory Academy, a member of the Great Hearts Academies network of charter schools. Other Great Hearts families raved about the school, which offers an honors-level liberal arts curriculum for grades 5-12. But the Snyders found the curriculum a bit too rigorous for their kids, and the drive was once again taxing. So their sons and daughter headed back into public school, where they remain today.

What advice does Robin have for other parents? “I wish someone had told me ‘just stay local’ and go to school in your neighborhood,” she says. “Don’t always listen to what you hear in the media, either. There are incredible teachers and families in our public schools.”

THE EHMANN FAMILY

St. Francis Xavier, Brophy College Preparatory, Xavier College Preparatory, Rancho Solano Preparatory School John and Lain Ehmann both grew up in northern California’s public school system and believed they would raise their three children in public schools as well. They started out that direction while living in California and in Boston, Massachusetts.

When they moved to Arizona four years ago, they toured many local schools before deciding on private, faith-based education in downtown Phoenix for all of their children. (The Ehmann’s youngest daughter recently made the switch to northeast Scottsdale’s Rancho Solano Preparatory for middle school and finds its smaller class sizes and more rigorous academics to be a better fit for her.)

“Each kid is so different in what they need. Academics are most important to us, as well as their safety,” says Lain. “The good thing is we don’t have any bad options here. Each of our kids has gotten what they needed, and we’ve made changes when we’ve needed to along the way.”

Lain says the downsides of going to a private school outside of the neighborhood include the cost of tuition and the fact that classmates do not live close by. The upside is smaller classes and the customized learning her children receive.

THE BARTOLINO FAMILY

Scottsdale Unified School District, Great Hearts Academies, Phoenix Country Day School Debbie Bartolino and her husband, Peter, chose schools for their children based on what would best meet their family’s needs at particular times.

When they moved from New York to Arizona, they wanted a local public school so they could make neighborhood friends and have the luxury of riding bikes to school.

“This choice worked out well as some of the friends we made then remain some our closest friends in Arizona today,” says Debbie.

They moved their three daughters to Great Hearts Academies charter schools because the academic curriculum and extracurricular activities lined

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Monica and Elizabeth Woudenberg

to the same schools for the same Catholic education she received because it’s familiar, instills basic morals and values within a balanced educational environment and has a strong community of parents who are involved with their children and the school.

“I respected families who made the financial sacrifice to send their kids to parochial schools; I figured those families would be grounded and practical,” says Monica. “A diverse socio-economic group of families was important to me, and overall I believe my daughters are receiving a good education and a strong moral foundation for life.”

At times, she says, the girls struggled with the limitations of attending the same small elementary school for nine years (K-8). Monica’s oldest daughter especially craved a broader social group and could not wait to move on to the larger high school environment at Xavier College Preparatory.

THE SCHILLINGER FAMILY

Scottsdale Unified School District, Veritas Preparatory Academy

Jenifer and Anna Schillinger

up well with what the Bartolinos wanted for their children at the next stage.

For high school, their oldest daughter chose to attend Phoenix Country Day School. She has thrived in an innovative, rigorous learning environment and the positive vibe of the campus community.

“Children are individuals and might have such different learning styles that they need to go to different schools,” says Debbie. “Though it can be stressful for parents and children to think about changing schools, the transitions were easier than I thought they would be. We are very grateful to have had these different experiences and choices to meet the needs of our family at different times.”

THE WOUDENBERG FAMILY

Our Lady of Perpetual Hope, Xavier College Preparatory

While growing up on the East Coast, Jim and Jennifer Schillinger had positive experiences in the public school system. They intended to educate their three children the same way. Just before their oldest daughter entered kindergarten, they moved to Paradise Valley, expecting their children to attend schools in the Scottsdale Unified School District.

After several years at the public elementary school, the Schillingers’ grew concerned about increasing class sizes and limited honor classes and electives at their district middle school. They moved their children to Veritas Preparatory Academy, a Great Hearts charter school for grades 6-12 located in northeast Phoenix, where they remain today.

“At Veritas, we see the kids being challenged academically, and we like the fact that all the students there are expected to meet high standards,” says Jennifer. The kids enjoy playing multiple sports at Veritas, and its school uniforms policy makes life easier, she says.

Jennifer advises parents to try to remember that there is no one “perfect” school. She recommended embracing the strengths in your kids’ schools and working toward improving any weaknesses.

All Schools Consulting founder and adviser Elie Gaines agrees that perfection is not the goal. “Pull back from the academics and start with your child. Identify who they are as a person and student first, then consider academic factors. And then find a school culture that fits who your child is,” she says.

So look around at the schools your neighbors, family members and friends are choosing for their children’s education, but don’t hesitate to make the decision that is best for your own family. Real friends will support whatever choices you make.

Amy Carney is a Scottsdale writer, speaker and founder of Parent on Purpose. The mother of five children ages 11 to 17, she is married to retired pro hockey defenseman Keith Carney of the Phoenix Coyotes. Learn more at amycarney.com.

As a Phoenix native, Monica Woudenberg grew up wearing a plaid skirt to school as she attended Our Lady of Perpetual Hope, then Xavier College Preparatory, before she went off to college. Monica sends her two daughters

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RECESS

ISTOCK

Q&A STANFIELD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Principal Chris Lineberry has been a big fan of recess since having a health scare in 2007. “I left my school on a stretcher after that heart attack,” he says. “I was 36.”

At Stanfield, a Title I school near Casa Grande, Lineberry has mandated better nutrition in the cafeteria, more P.E. time and daily recess for every student. Lineberry also co-authored the book, “Recess Was My Favorite Subject…Where Did It Go?” Before the Arizona legislature passed a law in 2018 mandating two recess periods per day for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, some schools had limited recess time to 20 minutes or less; others had eliminated it entirely. Here’s why Lineberry says that’s wrong: “What I can tell you is I have happier, healthier kids; our absenteeism has decreased; behavior issues have decreased and academic performance has improved,” he says. We asked Lineberry what parents should know.

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Q:

Why is recess important, and what questions should parents ask about recess when choosing a school for their child?

A:

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, in a statement released this summer, recess and physical education are as important to the healthy development of a child as reading and math. There are multiple reasons ... from enhancing cognitive function to helping to address physical inactivity that has led researchers to determine that this may be the first generation of children in over 100 years with a shorter life expectancy than their parents. This is a direct result of obesity and obesity-related illness. (In fact, a disturbing recent trend in obesity rates demonstrates that the age group with the highest gain in obesity is children ages 2-5!)

We cannot educate children in the silo of academic work; we must educate children by addressing their physical, emotional and academic needs. One in three children born after the year 2000 will be pre-diabetic by the age of 18. Type II diabetes is directly related to obesity and physical activity and has demonstrated a decrease of potentially 17-27 years of lifespan. Movement enhances learning, and — in my experience as an educator for nearly a quarter of a century — is essential to

the well-rounded development of children.

When it comes to questions to ask, I would say to ask the same question that I pose to the teachers and the administration at my children’s school: Do you take away recess as a form of punishment? The decision to use recess as a form of punishment is more a comment on the pressure that educators feel to achieve high test scores. In actuality, the research demonstrates that the opposite is true. This is a practice that is a deal breaker for me. As a principal, I have told my teachers that if they take away recess, not only would that be insubordination, but I would then take away math or reading instruction and have the kids go outside to play. In fact, the Arizona Department of Education has a policy against withholding recess as a form of punishment.

I would also ask how long my children have to play outside, and when that is happening. In my school, we do 15 minutes in the morning, 15 minutes at lunch and 15 minutes in the afternoon. I let my teachers use their professional judgment to determine when the break should occur. If kids look flat and tired, get them up and take them outside. If you are engaged in a robust discussion, don’t interrupt for recess; go out when you finish.

I have found that teachers appreciate this flexibility and respect of professional autonomy.

What are school tuition organizations? Tuition organizations are legal entities that have been approved by the state Department of Revenue to collect state tax-credit donations and then disperse them in the form of tuition scholarships or grants to qualified K-12 private schools.

Who can make tax-credit donations? Individuals and corporations can make dollar-for-dollar tax-credit donations to STOs. This is different from a tax deduction; it does not reduce your overall tax bill as determined by your income and qualifying tax deductions. It does tell the state of Arizona how you want your state tax dollars directed.

How much can I give? For tax year 2018, the maximum credit allowed is $555 for single, heads of household and married filing separate filers and $1,110 for married filing joint filers. Visit Arizona’s Department of Revenue to learn more: azdor.gov

Can I designate a tax-credit donation in a way that directly benefits my child? Some tuition organizations allow donors to specify

SCRIP IS A FUNDRAISING TOOL that generates money for schools, clubs, sports teams, churches and other nonprofit organizations through the sale of retailer, restaurant and grocerystore gift cards. Organizations purchase scrip at a discount, then sell it to supporters who buy it at face value. The difference is what generates money for the organization.

Scrip has become an important fundraising tool for Arizona schools. By doing everyday shopping with scrip, families can ensure a portion of what they spend goes toward their child’s education. Hundreds of retailers, restaurants and grocery stores participate in scrip programs. Check with the school or organization you wish to support to find out which vendors they work with. Schools choose vendors based on where its leadership believes their community shops and dines. Friends and family members can participate in your child’s school scrip program.

Some private schools offer tuition rebates for families based on scrip sales.

LIGHT FIELD STUDIOS

ARIZONA SCHOOL TUITION ORGANIZATIONS

WHAT IS SCRIP?

that their contributions go to designated schools or toward tuition for specific individuals; others do not.

How long can STOs hang on to the money they collect? Tuition organizations must distribute the monies they receive within a two-year period. Only 10 percent of contributions can be spent on administrative overhead; 90 percent must be directly awarded as scholarships.

How can I apply for STO scholarship funds for my child?

Families must submit an application each academic year in order to participate in the tax credit tuition program. Your school will be able to direct you to the appropriate STOs and the application process.

How are scholarship applications evaluated? STOs have complete control and administration over the distribution of funds donated. While recommendations from donors are considered, other factors include merits of the student: character, perseverance, scholastic ability, citizenship, leadership, community involvement, other family needs (financial, health, employment, etc.). Swapping recommendations with another family as a way to reduce your own tuition liability is strictly prohibited.

Is it possible to obtain enough scholarship funding to pay the entire cost of tuition? Students may receive tuition tax credit awards from more than one organization, up to the annual cost of tuition. Any excess funds must be returned to the last awarding school tuition organization.

What is OPEN ENROLLMENT? ALL PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS in Arizona offer open enrollment, meaning your children can attend any school, in any district, subject to available classroom space.

When you live within your neighborhood school’s enrollment boundaries, you always have first priority to register at that school.

As a district resident, you also have priority enrollment at any other school within your district, assuming you meet registration deadlines and requirements.

But open enrollment periods — and policies, including those regarding access to transportation — differ from district to district.

Open enrollment applications are approved on a year-by-year basis with no guarantee of continued enrollment, according to policies posted on websites we consulted. Elementary school children who are open-enrolled must reapply for open enrollment as their children are promoted to a middle school or high school that is not their neighborhood school.

Open enrollment status also can be revoked at any time based on discipline issues, attendance issues, and/or any other disruptions by the student or parents that interfere with the school’s daily operations.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com SCHOOLS, ETC. 2019

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A+ Schools of

EXCELLENCE in Greater Phoenix THE ARIZONA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION recognizes outstanding district or charter public schools through its A+ School of Excellence designation. To be eligible, a school must be in at least its sixth full year of operation, must be rated by the Arizona Department of Education as an “A” or “B” school (for the most recent school year for which letter grades are available) and must demonstrate high student academic achievement or growth over time for all students through other assessments.

Schools that earn the designation retain their status for three and a half years, after which they must reapply. The 2019 winners will be announced in April. Learn more at azedfoundation.org

Current A+ Schools in greater Phoenix include: Agua Fria Union High School District:

Creighton Elementary District:

Gilbert Public Schools:

Desert Edge High School, Goodyear (2016)

Loma Linda Elementary School, Phoenix (2015)

Cave Creek Unified School District:

Deer Valley Unified School District:

Cactus Shadows High School, Cave Creek (2015) Sonoran Trails Middle School, Cave Creek (2018)

Anthem School, Anthem (2015) Barry Goldwater High School, Phoenix (2015) Canyon Springs STEM Academy, Phoenix (2016) Constitution Elementary School, Phoenix (2018) Deer Valley High School, Glendale (2018) Desert Sage Elementary School, Phoenix (2015) Diamond Canyon School, Anthem (2015) Gavilan Peak School, Anthem, (2016) Legend Springs Elementary School, Glendale (2016) Mountain Ridge High School, Glendale (2018) Sandra Day O’Connor High School, Phoenix (2018) Sierra Verde STEM Academy, Glendale (2018) Stetson Hills School, Phoenix (2016) West Wing School, Peoria (2017)

Gilbert High School, Gilbert (2017) Greenfield Jr. High School, Gilbert (2018) Highland Jr. High School, Mesa (2015) Highland Park Elementary, Gilbert (2015) Islands Elementary School, Gilbert (2017) Meridian Elementary School, Mesa (2018) Oak Tree Elementary School, Gilbert (2017) Patterson Elementary School, Gilbert (2017) Pioneer Elementary School, Gilbert (2016) South Valley Jr. High School, Gilbert (2018) Superstition Springs Elementary School, Mesa (2017) Val Vista Lakes Elementary School, Gilbert (2016)

Chandler Unified School District: Andersen Jr. High School, Chandler (2016) Basha High School, Chandler (2018) Bogle Jr. High School, Chandler (2015) Chandler High School, Chandler (2015) Chandler Traditional Academy – Humphrey Campus, Chandler (2015) Haley Nicole Knutsen Elementary School, Chandler (2015) Hartford Sylvia Encinas Elementary School, Chandler (2017) John and Carol Carlson Elementary School, Chandler (2018) John M. Andersen Elementary School, Chandler (2017) Perry High School, Gilbert (2017) Riggs Elementary School, Gilbert (2016) San Marcos Elementary School, Chandler (2016) Santan Elementary School, Chandler (2017) Santan Junior High School, Chandler (2017) T. Dale Hancock Elementary School, Chandler (2018) Willie and Coy Payne Junior High School, Queen Creek (2017)

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Higley Unified District: Centennial Elementary School, Gilbert (2015)

J.O. Combs Unified District: Combs High School, San Tan Valley (2016)

Dysart Unified School District: Marley Park Elementary School, Surprise (2015) Rancho Gabriela School, Surprise (2018) Sonoran Heights Elementary School, Surprise (2015)

Eduprize Schools LLC: Eduprize Schools – Gilbert (2017)

East Valley Institute of Technology: EVIT, Mesa (2015)

Kyrene School District: Kyrene Aprende Middle School, Chandler (2015) Kyrene de la Colina Elementary School, Phoenix (2018) Kyrene de la Esperanza Elementary School, Phoenix (2018) Kyrene de la Estrella Elementary School, Phoenix (2017) Kyrene de la Mariposa Elementary School, Tempe (2015) Kyrene de la Mirada Elementary School, Chandler (2016) Kyrene de la Paloma Elementary School, Chandler (2018) Kyrene de la Sierra Elementary School, Phoenix (2018)

Taft Elementary School, Mesa (2016) Westwood High School, Mesa (2016) Whitman Elementary School, Mesa (2016) Zedo Ishikawa Elementary School, Mesa (2015)

Osborn School District:

Laveen Elementary School District:

Clarendon Elementary School, Phoenix (2017) Encanto School, Phoenix (Osborn Elementary District) (2016) Osborn Middle School, Phoenix (2017)

Maurice C. Cash Elementary School, Phoenix (2018) Trailside Point Performing Arts Academy, Laveen (2018)

Paradise Valley Unified School District:

Litchfield Elementary School District: Centennial High School, Peoria (2018) Copperwood Elementary School, Glendale (2016) Marshall Ranch Elementary School, Glendale (2017) Santa Fe Elementary School, Peoria (2017) Zuni Hills Elementary School, Sun City (2018)

Saddle Mountain Unified School District: Tartesso Elementary School, Buckeye (2018)

Scottsdale Unified School District: Chaparral High School, Scottsdale (2016) Cherokee Elementary School, Paradise Valley (2017) Cochise Elementary School, Scottsdale (2016) Copper Ridge School, Scottsdale (2016) Hohokam Traditional School, Scottsdale (2016) Laguna Elementary School, Scottsdale (2018) Navajo Elementary School, Scottsdale (2016) Redfield Elementary School, Scottsdale (2018) Tavan Elementary School, Phoenix (2017)

Tempe Elementary School District: Connolly Middle School, Tempe (2017)

Tempe Union High School District: Desert Vista High School, Phoenix (2017) McClintock High School, Tempe (2016) Mountain Pointe High School, Phoenix (2018)

Washington Elementary School District: Acacia Elementary School, Phoenix (2018)

15821 N. 79th St #3, Scottsdale, AZ

o r k? Does your chilD struggle in s c h

Contact us to find out what we can do to help your child create successful habits. sign up to receive your free “5 keys to success” fawzya khosti, M.A.Ed./C.I., Ed.D. (abd) 2390 E Camelback Road, Suite 130 Phoenix, AZ 85016 (480) 648-1122 ExecutiveFunctionCoachAZ.com

RaisingARIZONAKids.com SCHOOLS, ETC. 2019

l? Does your chilD lack motivation to get things Done? is your chilD Disorganize D ?

Metro Tech High School, Phoenix (2017)

xtremegymnastics.com

oo

Phoenix Union High School District:

Mesa Public Schools: Booker T. Washington Elementary, Mesa (2015) Brinton Elementary School, Mesa (2016) Crismon Elementary School, Mesa (2017) Francis M. Pomeroy Elementary School, Chandler (2017) Eugene Field Elementary School, Mesa (2018) Highland Arts Elementary School, Mesa (2015) Irving Elementary School, Mesa (2018) James K Zaharis Elementary School, Mesa (2018) Jefferson Elementary School, Mesa (2017) John Philip Sousa Elementary School, Mesa (2015) Keller Elementary School, Mesa (2015) Las Sendas Elementary School, Mesa (2016) Mountain View High School, Mesa (2016) Porter Elementary School, Mesa (2015) Ramon S. Mendoza Elementary School, Mesa (2015) Red Mountain High School, Mesa (2018) Robson Elementary School, Mesa (2015) Shepherd Jr. High School, Mesa (2016) Sirrine Elementary School, Chandler (2015) Smith Jr. High School, Mesa (2016) Stapley Junior High School, Mesa (2017) Summit Academy, Chandler (2016)

(480) 596-3543

Peoria Unified School District:

Madison School District: Madison Camelview Elementary School, Phoenix (2018)

FREE Parent/Tot classes: Ages 10–24 months Limitations apply.

z i ng? Does your chilD forget to Do their homework or forget to turn in their hom e w

Mabel Padgett Elementary School, Goodyear (2017) Scott Libby Elementary School, Litchfield Park (2016) Verrado Elementary School, Litchfield Park (2018) Verrado Middle School, Litchfield Park (2018) Western Sky Middle School, Litchfield Park (2016)

Risk FREE Trial: All Ages

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Estrella Mountain Elementary School, Goodyear (2018)

Beginner–Competitive: Boys & Girls Ages 3–12 years

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Liberty Elementary School District:

Grayhawk Elementary School, Scottsdale (2015) Horizon High School, Scottsdale (2017) North Canyon High School, Phoenix (2015) Pinnacle High School, Phoenix (2015) Sonoran Sky Elementary School, Scottsdale (2015)

Do

Kyrene de las Brisas Elementary School, Chandler (2016) Kyrene de las Manitas Elementary School, Tempe (2018) Kyrene de los Cerritos Leadership Academy, Phoenix (2017) Kyrene de los Lagos Dual Language Academy, Phoenix (2017) Kyrene del Pueblo Middle School, Chandler (2015) Kyrene Traditional Academy – Sureno Campus, Chandler (2015)

17

U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT annually ranks what it considers to be the top high schools in the nation and in each state. Their 2018 rankings are based on factors including graduation rates, college readiness, participation in Advanced Placement coursework and math and English proficiency. Here are the publication’s rankings for public district and charter high schools in Maricopa County that made the coveted “gold” or “silver” categories.

For the first time this year, U.S. News & World Report grouped together public school districts and charter schools for its list of top high schools, and Arizona captured many top spots in the national list. Here’s how the U.S. News & World Report rankings break down for schools in Maricopa County:

TOP HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE NATION No. 1: BASIS Scottsdale No. 2: BASIS Chandler No. 8: BASIS Peoria No. 14: BASIS Phoenix No. 20: Gilbert Classical Academy (Gilbert Public Schools) No. 29: University High (Tolleson Union High School District)

TOP HIGH SCHOOLS IN ARIZONA No. 1: BASIS Scottsdale No. 2: BASIS Chandler No. 6: BASIS Peoria No. 7: BASIS Phoenix No. 8: Gilbert Classical Academy (Gilbert Public Schools) No. 10: University High (Tolleson Union High School District) No. 11: Arizona College Prep Erie Campus (Chandler Unified School District) No. 13: Paragon Science Academy - Chandler No. 14: Arizona School for the Arts - Phoenix No. 17: Hamilton High (Chandler Unified School District) No. 18: Chaparral High (Scottsdale Unified School District) No. 19: Desert Mountain High School (Scottsdale Unified School District) No. 21: Sunnyslope High School (Glendale Union High School District) No. 22: North Pointe Preparatory - Phoenix

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No. 23: Mountain View High School (Mesa Unified School District) No. 25: Mountain Ridge High School (Deer Valley Unified School District) No. 26: Campo Verde High School (Gilbert Unified School District) No. 28: Higley High School (Higley Unified School District) No. 29: Tempe Preparatory Academy No. 30: Basha High School (Chandler Unified School District) No. 31: Perry High School (Chandler Unified School District) No. 32: Chandler High School (Chandler Unified School District) No. 33: Horizon Community Learning Center - Phoenix No. 36: Highland High School (Gilbert Unified School District) No. 37: James Madison Preparatory School - Tempe No. 38: Williams Field High School (Higley Unified School District) No. 39: Washington High School (Glendale Union High School District) No. 40: Desert Vista High School (Tempe Union High School District) No. 42: Cactus Shadows High School (Cave Creek Unified School District) No. 43: Red Mountain High School (Mesa Unified School District) No. 45: Thunderbird High School (Glendale Union High School District) No. 46: Benjamin Franklin High School - Queen Creek No. 47: Horizon High (Paradise Valley Unified School District) No. 48: Moon Valley High School (Glendale Union High School District) No. 49: American Leadership Academy - Queen Creek No. 50: Apollo High School (Glendale Union High School District)

BASIS SCOTTSDALE

TOP-RANKING Maricopa County high schools

The “HIDDEN” costs of education BE SURE TO ASK ABOUT, and plan for, schools costs that may include (but are not limited to) the following: PRIVATE SCHOOLS, SOME CHARTER SCHOOLS • Registration fees (anywhere from $50 to $750 and more, typically not refundable) • Late-registration fees • Books. Some schools require students to pay for their own. We saw examples of costs as high as $400-$600 per year.

• Electronic devices. Some schools expect students to BYOD (bring your own devices) to support Internet-based curriculum and research.

• Technology fees • Uniforms ALL SCHOOLS • Additional fees for before- or after-school care • Extracurricular activities fees • School lunch fees (optional) — Lunch programs are subsidized at public schools; costs may be higher at private schools if lunch is even offered.

Most schools expect some level of fundraising support and involvement from families.

Be prepared to volunteer your time, money or both.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com SCHOOLS, ETC. 2019

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Gilbert Classical Academy High School

NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOLS IN GREATER PHOENIX THE NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOLS Program recognizes public and private elementary, middle and high schools for overall academic excellence or progress in closing achievement gaps among at-risk students. The U.S. Department of Education determines which schools receive this award.

More than 8,800 schools have earned the honor in the program’s 36-year history.

All schools are honored in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, subgroup student scores and graduation rates: Exemplary High Performing Schools are among their state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.

Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools are among their state’s highest performing schools in closing achievement gaps between a school’s subgroups and all students over the past five years.

Several greater Phoenix schools have earned National Blue Ribbon status each year from 2015 to 2018. Five greater Phoenix schools were chosen for the honor in fall 2018.

Here are the local schools that have earned blue-ribbon status:

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Exemplary High Performing Schools 2018 • Gilbert Classical Academy High School (Gilbert Unified School District) • Knox Gifted Academy (Chandler Unified School District) • Mesa Academy For Advanced Studies (Mesa Unified School District)

2014 • Franklin Police and Fire High School (Phoenix Union High School District) • Valley Academy (Reid Traditional Schools)

2017 • Seton Catholic Preparatory (Chandler) • Arizona College Preparatory - Oakland (Chandler Unified School District) • Franklin at Brimhall Elementary School (Mesa Unified School District)

2013 • Chandler Traditional Academy Liberty Campus (Chandler Unified School District) • Xavier College Preparatory - Phoenix (Catholic Diocese of Phoenix)

2016 • Fuller Elementary School (Tempe Elementary School District) • Jack Barnes Elementary School (Queen Creek Unified School District) • Vista Del Sur Traditional School (Laveen Elementary School District)

Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools 2018 • Franklin Junior High School (Mesa Unified School District) • Vista College Preparatory (Phoenix Charter School)

2015 • Madison Meadows Middle School (Madison Elementary School District)

• Vistancia Elementary School (Peoria Unified School District)

2015 • Kyrene Traditional Academy (Kyrene Elementary School District)

MESA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Mesa schools on national “HEALTHIEST SCHOOLS” list

Public school

EIGHTEEN SCHOOLS in the Mesa Public Schools district were recently recognized on a list of “America’s Healthiest Schools.” The national nonprofit Alliance for a Healthier Generation named 461 schools from 26 states and the District of Columbia to its list, which required schools to: • Meet or exceed federal nutrition standards for school meals and snacks • Offer breakfast daily • Implement district wellness policies and update progress annually • Provide students with at least 60 minutes of physical education per week and ensure physical activity throughout the school day The 18 Mesa Public Schools — the only Arizona schools to make the cut — include Summit Academy in Chandler and 17 elementary schools in Mesa and Chandler: Pomeroy, Sirrine, Crismon, Field, Hermosa Vista, Holmes, Irving, Johnson, Las Sendas, Lowell, MacArthur, Mendoza, Robson, Roosevelt, Salk, Taft and Webster. See the full list at healthiestschools.org

TAX CREDIT

AN INDIVIDUAL MAY claim a nonrefundable tax credit for making contributions or paying fees directly to a public school in this state for support of extracurricular activities. The maximum credit allowed is $400 for married filing joint filers and $200 for single, heads of household and married filing separate filers. Visit Arizona’s Department of Revenue to learn more: azdor.gov

What are Empowerment Scholarship Accounts?

EMPOWERMENT SCHOLARSHIP ACCOUNTS provide parents with the public funds that their school district would have received for their child’s education; parents can then spend these funds on qualifying educational programs and expenses. Currently, ESAs are available to Arizona children with disabilities, children in foster care, children with an active-duty military parent, children who live on a Native American reservation and children in a “failing” public school.

At press time for our “Schools etc.” issue, Arizonans were voting on whether to expand ESAs to all students. A “yes” vote on Proposition 305 in November will make all public school students eligible to apply for ESAs. It would ultimately allow families to use tax dollars to pay for private school tuition. A “no” vote stops the expansion. Save our Schools Arizona — calling ESAs a school voucher program — argued an expansion would continue to erode money from already underfunded public schools. School choice proponents favored the measure.

ESAs are administered by the Arizona Department of Education. To learn more about ESAs and eligibility requirements visit www.azed.gov/esa/

RaisingARIZONAKids.com SCHOOLS, ETC. 2019

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STEM STREAM

ZINKEVYCH

From to

THE ACRONYM STEM — Science, Technology, Engineering and Math — first came into common used about 15 years ago.

It has since become a popular buzzword and part of almost any discussion about how to best prepare students for life and careers in the increasingly complex 21st century. But STEM (like the studies it stands for) isn’t static. It is evolving. We discovered a few variations on the acronym: • STEAM - Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math • STREAM - Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts and Math • STREAM - Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts and Math

WE ALSO FOUND an interesting bit of trivia: The person credited for developing the acronym STEM is Dr. Judith Ramaley, a scientist who is now a distinguished professor of public service at Portland State University.

In 2001, as director of the National Science Foundation’s education and human resources division, she was tasked with developing curriculum that would enhance education in these four key areas. According to Minnesota’s Winona Daily News, Ramaley didn’t like the original suggestion: SMET. So she changed it.

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What is gifted education?

HAS YOUR CHILD been asked to take the CogAt? CogAt is short for the Cognitive Abilities Test, and it is one test a school district can choose to identify students for gifted education. Gifted education provides instruction for cognitively advanced students at their learning level.

According to Arizona law (Arizona Revised Statute 15-779), gifted education includes “an educational program that is an integral part of the regular school day and that is commensurate with the academic abilities and potential of a gifted pupil.”

THERE ARE MANY TYPES OF GIFTED EDUCATION: • Enrichment-type programs, offered during or after school.

• Cluster grouping, where a small group of gifted students are placed in a regular classroom.

• Self-contained programs where the whole class includes gifted students.

• Specialized schools for gifted students.

• Acceleration by a single subject or whole-grade advancement.

School districts in Arizona are required to provide gifted testing three times a year. The Arizona Department of Education website lists approved tests that districts may use. For districts that don’t blanket test, the most common referral is teacher nomination. Parents can also request their child be tested. Finally, kids can nominate themselves for gifted testing, although this is uncommon.

Districts are required to offer gifted services to students scoring at the 97th percentile or above on the test. Gifted tests can be administered individually or in a group setting, but most districts test at the group level because of the high cost of individualized testing.

LEARN MORE AT THESE WEBSITES: Arizona Association of Gifted and Talented website (aagt.wildapricot.org), the Arizona Department of Education (azed.gov) and the National Association of Gifted Children (nagc.org).

Where great gets its start.

Madison School District has a 125-year history of helping students realize their full academic potential — students like Dr. Popat, Harvard School of Dental Medicine/Harvard Medical School and Madison Simis Elementary, Class of ‘90.

Give your child a great start by applying at one of our eight schools for the 2018-2019 school year at madisonaz.org/great-start.

WHERE EXTRAORDINARY GOES TO SCHOOL.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com SCHOOLS, ETC. 2019

23

PERFECTLAB

Local LIBRARIES offer HOMEWORK HELP

By Debra Citron

GONE ARE THE DAYS of brain-wracking and finger-crossing when being asked by your child about the order of operations in algebra, how to multiply in Base 8, why the League of Nations failed or the difference between “equivocate” and “prevaricate.”

Kids can get answers to their most complicated homework or research project questions online, or on-site, at local public libraries. Not only can libraries provide computers and internet service, they let kids access some of the most exclusive, expensive databases available — for free. Here’s a roundup of free homework resources. Check with your local library for details.

Chandler Public Library 480-782-2800 • chandlerlibrary.org

The four-branch library offers free Wi-Fi, public computers with library card or fee, wireless printing and apps. The Learning Lab — located in the Citrus Room on the first floor of the downtown branch — offers free, live, basic homework assistance for students through high school most weekday afternoons. No appointments or registration required. For online homework resources: Go to the website, click on the “Kids & Teens” tab, select “Kids” or “Teens.” Kids will find links for three age-appropriate databases. Teens will find links to eight moreadvanced sites, as well as a link to “A-Z List of Databases” providing access to more than 30 additional resources. Click on the “Research & Learning” tab to go straight to “A-Z List of Databases.” These resources allow free access to reprinted material from books, magazines and newspapers.

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Glendale Public Library 623-939-3537 • glendaleaz.com/library

The three branches of GPL offer patrons computer and internet access, Wi-Fi, printing (including mobile) services and reservable study rooms (at the Foothills branch only).

GPL is the only public library that offers Brainfuse — online, live-chat, all-subject homework assistance for library card-holding students from kindergarten through college — available in Spanish or English, from 1-10 p.m. daily. To access, click on “Teens” on the GPL homepage, then the “Homework Help” sidebar listing or button on the “Teens” page, then select “Homework Help” again on the “E Source Home” electronic resources list, then sign in to Brainfuse. Or, click on “Kids” on the homepage, then select “Homework Help” from the sidebar list or by hitting the button. Then select Brainfuse and sign in. The other two selections on that Brainfuse kids page are “Got Research?” which takes the user to a list of 15 kid-friendly educational databases, or “Great Websites for Kids,” a selection of educational websites organized by topic for children from birth to age 14. For older teens looking for database information, find about 50 different selections by selecting “A to Z Databases” on the “E Source Home” page referenced above.

Maricopa County Library District

See the website for locations, hours, events and services specific to each branch.

Mesa Public Library 480-644-3100 • mesalibrary.org

The four branches that comprise MPL offer patrons computer, internet, Wi-Fi, copying and printing services. None of the branches offered wireless printing at press time. To access MPL’s online homework help resources, go to the library’s homepage and select the “Research” button. The drop-down menu offers several selections. The “Resources for Children” choice offers four databases: Kids InfoBits presents “research articles on a variety of subjects” for students from kindergarten through fifth grade; Miss Humblebee’s Academy is a curriculum for preschool through kindergarten; TumbleBook Cloud offers audio and ebooks, graphic novels and videos suitable for students and adults; and Tumble Books offers animated online picture books for kids. Slightly older students can select “eResources,” which allows selection of “Homework Help & Student Resources,” offering access to six databases, four of which are more appropriate for upper elementary/ middle school students. Teens needing more meaty resources should click on the “A-Z List of Resources,” which offers access to about 60 databases covering many research areas.

602-652-3000 • mcldaz.org

Phoenix Public Library

MCLD has 19 branches serving county residents living outside the greater Phoenix area, but any county resident may apply for a library card and use their services. Go to the website and click on the “Homework Help” button to connect with 14 free databases with research and learning resources for children, teens and adults.

602-262-4636 • phoenixpubliclibrary.org

All 17 locations offer free Wi-Fi, public computer access with a library card, mobile and on-site printing. Many have reservable study rooms and/or carrels. For online homework help, go to the main website and click on either “Browse the Library,” then “Learning

& Research” and finally, the “Student HQ” button; or, “Teens” and the “Homework?” button which takes you to “Student HQ.” Both routes let you access any of 16 databases for kids, teens and adults.

A few branches offer personalized, on-site homework help and tutoring. Check scheduling by going on the PPL website and accessing the online calendar. Use “tutoring” as the keyword.

This fall, the Acacia branch is offering drop-in assistance to teens in the teen center from 6-7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The Mesquite branch is providing homework help and group tutoring from 4:30-6 p.m. Tuesdays.

Scottsdale Public Library 480-312-7323 • scottsdalelibrary.org

SPL has five branches with study rooms, internet-connected public computers, free Wi-Fi, fee-based copying, printing, scanning and outgoing faxing (except Palomino branch), and wireless printing. For online homework assistance, go to the library website, click on the “Teen” tab and then “Homework Help” to access 22 education-related databases for students of all ages, or click on the “Databases” button on the homepage and choose from “Homework Help K-12,” another of the 18 database subject icons, or click on the green “All Research Links” button to view a list of over 50 available databases and an equal number of non-library online resources, such as state and federal agency sites.

MAPS & BOOKS FOR LEARNING U.S. & WORLD GEOGRAPHY • GLOBES & PUZZLES • NATURAL HISTORY ASTRONOMY • POLITICAL HISTORY • ARIZONA & THE WEST• NAVIGATION: MAP SKILLS OUTDOOR RECREATION • PLANTS & WILDLIFE • GEOLOGY: ROCKS & MINERALS

STORE LOCATIONS

After more than 35 years in the same location we have moved the main store!

Main store:

PHOENIX

602-279-2323

2133 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Between SR 51 and 24th St)

Mini store:

NORTH PHOENIX

602-795-4868

17232 N Cave Creek Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85032 (Inside Lookout Mountain Outdoors)

www.maps4u.com • 1-800-279-7654

Tempe Public Library 480-350-5500 • tempe.gov/visitors/tempe-public-library

TPL has study rooms, a kids’ learning lab and a youth computer lab available for completing homework assignments on site.

Online, kids and teens can go from the library’s homepage to the “Kids & Teens’ menu and select “Youth 5-12” or “Teens 12-18” and the “Homework” button, which will take users to the “Students” page, full of advice on how to tackle a school project. It explains how to find overviews and books, use encyclopedias and other, more detailed resources and provides access to 23 databases as well as other specialized online tools.

Debra Citron of Phoenix is a writer and lifelong supporter of children’s literature and literacy.

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TRANSITIONS: Helping your child

navigate to a new school or on to college

By Hattie Linam

CONSIDER A VISIT to a foreign country where you don’t know anyone, you don’t speak the same language and you aren’t familiar with the local customs. This is how one student described the transition from high school to college. It is certainly an exciting time for young adults, but it can also be daunting and challenging to navigate, because there is so much change.

Though the path after high school looks different for every individual, research agrees that a strong social support network is critical to a young adult’s success. It’s never too early to start creating opportunities for your child to branch out of his or her comfort zone to develop skills and make new connections.

Here are a few suggestions that can be readily implemented with kids of all ages to help promote strong relationships and positive habits.

1. Help your child create friendships outside of the school setting.

It is convenient for a student to make friends at school, but it makes the transition from high school more difficult when his or her entire social network disperses after graduation. Consider letting your child participate in summer camps, sports, church groups or hobby-related clubs. These activities make great opportunities for children and young adults to bond over shared interests.

2. Model for your child how to ask for and receive help. When students leave high school without the skill of self-advocacy, they are more likely to be isolated and to struggle when challenges arise.

Encouraging your child to ask for help from adults teaches them a critical skill that will serve them well for the rest of their lives. Prompt them to reach out to teachers about questions for assignments and allow them the space to navigate these conversations independently.

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3. Encourage volunteering and work in the community. Not only do these opportunities help expose children to career options, new ideas and different people, they also help kids learn to positively engage with other peers and adults. Involvement in these activities can act as a constant as they transition to their next setting. Help your teen identify an organization that they’d like to volunteer with. There are ample opportunities to volunteer at food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters. Consider part-time jobs for your child as well, such as mowing the neighbor’s lawn or walking their dog.

4. Acknowledge when your child has a strong role model in his or her life and encourage your son or daughter to identify them as a mentor. It’s important for your child to have trusted adults in their lives besides you that they can reach out to for support and advice.

Mentors can be significant throughout the transition process as they can write letters of recommendation, help solve problems and provide suggestions for schools and careers.

5. Plan ways to get connected and involved at the post-secondary level. Attend orientation activities, research clubs related to interest areas and find out if there are internship opportunities available for future career interests. Encourage him or her to participate in community events such as art walks, farmer’s markets and volunteer projects. Also, look into job shadowing and internship opportunities.

Hattie Linam, a former Arizonan, is national director of Community Education and Transition at the Rockville, Maryland-based College Living Experience, a provider of post-secondary supports for young adults with learning differences.

WAVE BREAK MEDIA

EXTRAORDINARY Teachers EXTRAORDINARY Results 95% of DVUSD schools are rated A or B!

Kindergarten Registration begins November 1 www.dvusd.org/kindergarten • www.facebook.com/dvusd

SUCCESS STARTS EARLY. RaisingARIZONAKids.com SCHOOLS, ETC. 2019

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MICHÈLLE-RENÉE ADAMS

What is Red for Ed? DURING A HISTORIC SIX-DAY teacher walkout in late April and early May, more than 50,000 Arizona teachers and supporters marched to the state capitol, enduring blasting heat to call for higher pay for teachers and support staff and more funding for public schools following years of cuts to state education funding.

They were fueled by a Facebook post in Arizona and teacher walkouts in other states — including West Virginia, North Carolina, Oklahoma and Kentucky — that rank low in school funding. For years, Arizona has been near the bottom in spending per student and teacher pay, and teacher vacancies have been at near-crisis levels.

In the end, lawmakers did pass a state budget raising teacher salaries up to 20 percent by school year 2020-21 and increasing support staff pay and funding for schools and universities.

Under the plan, the average teacher salary in Arizona is expected to increase from $48,372 to $58,046 by 2021, including a 9-10 percent raise for the 2018-19 school year.

Concern remains that Gov. Doug Ducey’s budget is based on overly optimistic projections for a growing economy and that it does not provide a permanent funding source for education.

Also, it’s unclear whether Arizona will remain near the bottom now that other low-ranking states are moving up. According to the National Education Association, the 2017-18 national average teacher salary was about $60,483.

Even with the funding increases, the state has not restored Arizona education funding to pre-2008 funding levels. For that reason, the Red for Ed movement has continued to be active, with the slogan “Remember in November.”

Several teachers ended up on the November ballot running for offices including Arizona Superintendent of Public instruction and state legislature. Election results will help determine whether Red for Ed was merely a fleeting moment in Arizona history or a growing movement leading Arizonans to better support public schools.

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More than 85 preschools, private schools, charter schools, public school districts, online learning programs, special needs schools and resources for education support Legacy Traditional Schools student Joseph Compton II (10) of Chandler.

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Preschools CAMELBACK DESERT SCHOOL 9606 E. Kalil Drive, Scottsdale • 480-451-3130 • camelbackdesertschool.com • Grades: Preschool-K (during the school year), ages 1-grade 8 during summer camp • Enrollment: Year round. Open houses are 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 8, 5-7 p.m. Jan. 10 and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 23.

Camelback Desert School has been proud to serve students in Scottsdale since 1950. We provide a safe, nurturing environment where children learn, grow and thrive. Our Links to Learning curriculum prepares children for kindergarten and beyond by developing important academic, social and emotional skills. Flexible payment plans and sibling discounts available; state tax credits accepted for kindergarten.

CHILDTIME 8 schools Valleywide • 877-624-2602 • childtime.com • Ages: 0-12 • Enrollment: Ongoing Childtime provides a full-day program of nurturing care and creative learning experiences. We offer infant and toddler care, preschool, preK and school-age programs. Here, bright futures take shape. Your child will develop their best mind and their love of learning. Our School Readiness Pathway empowers children for success in elementary school, with specialized curriculum and developmentally appropriate programs for infants to school-age students. Plus, our Grow Fit® initiative ensures the complete well-being of your growing child through healthy living, nutritious eating and physical fitness. Tuition discounts for siblings.

LA PETITE ACADEMY 6 schools Valleywide • 877-861-5078 • lapetite.com • Ages: 0-12 • Enrollment: Ongoing La Petite Academy offers a full-day program of nurturing care and creative learning experiences. Programs include infant, toddler, preschool, preK and school age. Here, your child will discover respect, collaboration and the joy of learning. Our exclusive School Readiness Pathway features developmentally appropriate programs for infants to school-age students. With our STEM curriculum, science, technology, engineering and math are part of everything we do in the classroom. Plus, our Grow Fit® initiative focuses on health, nutrition and fitness.

KHALSA MONTESSORI SCHOOL Primary: 346 E. Coronado Road, Phoenix, 602-252-3759 • Elementary: 2536 N. Third St., Phoenix, 602-252-2275 • khalsamontessori.org Grades: Private primary school (toddlers-preschoolers) and tuition-free public charter school (grades K-6) Khalsa Montessori School is a diverse community of families, teachers and administrators working together to create a positive environment that lays the foundation for habits of mind that support happiness and success both in school and life. The partnership of teachers and parents encourages the exchange of information and ideas for successful child rearing and education, and offers support for the challenges of today’s parents. First opened as a private school in 1971.

KINDER ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, LLC 3249 S. Lindsay Road, Suite 106, Gilbert • 480-726-0445 • kinderacademypreschool.com • Ages: 2-6 • Enrollment: Year round Tuition: $3,250-$3,500 annually with flexible payment plans, need-based financial aid, sibling discounts, and scholarships available.

We are an accelerated private preschool designed to encourage and promote higher academic standards for our youngest of students using the newest S.T.E.M. resources! Morning and afternoon programming.

KING OF GLORY PRESCHOOL 2085 E. Southern Ave., Tempe • 480-809-9934 • kingofglorypreschoolaz.com • Ages: 3-5 • Enrollment: Year round Tuition: $1,750-$3,750 (for 10 months) with flexible payment plans, need-based financial aid, sibling discounts and scholarships available.

We have a safe, nurturing and engaging learning environment with a focus on educational and life skills. We also have low teacher-student ratios, Lunch Bunch, chapel, Children’s Library, gardening, family events and Zoo Phonics. Morning and afternoon programming.

MAPLE BEAR TEMPE EARLY LEARNING CENTER 1255 W. Elliot Road, Tempe • 480-474-4455 • maplebeartempe.com • Ages: 6 weeks-preK • Enrollment: Year round Tuition: Depends on the age of the child. Paid weekly; sibling discounts available.

Full-time care and learning programs for children from 6 weeks through preK. Spanish speakers in all age groups. Low student-teacher ratios.

Developmentally appropriate curriculum that will lay the foundation for children to become lifelong learners as they prepare for kindergarten and beyond.

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Growing Greatness in mind, body and spirit.

Private School • Infants – Kindergarten (Ages 3 months and up) charter School • Tuition-free • Kindergarten – Eighth PluS we offer • Before and after care • Summer Programs (Grades 2-6)

Contact us for more information

www.villamontessori.com

602-955-2210 2802 E. Meadowbrook Ave Phoenix, AZ 85016

A Foundation for a Lifetime of Learning

Start preparing now for KINDERGARTEN SUCCESS For ages 2½ – 5. The Move-N-Learn curriculum is a comprehensive educational program, which includes: • Childhood Motor Development: Group fitness & Locomotor skills • Academics: Reading, Writing, Mathematics, Art & Science

Schedule a FREE trial today!

480-596-3543 xtremegymnastics.com 5821 N. 79th St #3 Scottsdale, AZ 85260

www.keystonemontessori.com (480) 460-7312 1025 E. Liberty Ln., Phoenix, AZ 85048 (Across the street from the YMCA)

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NEW WORLD LEARNING ACADEMY 900 E. Pecos Road, Chandler • 480-248-6125 • nwlacademy.com • Ages: 3-6; also offers summer camps ages 3-12 • Enrollment: Begins in January. Tour the school during STEM Fest, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 2 • Tuition: $430-$795, with flexible payment plans and sibling discounts available NWLA is an innovative and unique academic STEM-based school where individualized learning plans are implemented focusing on inquiry-based learning, critical thinking and creative problem-solving for children ages 3 to 6. Curriculum includes: daily writing, individual reading coach (1.5 hours per week), Spalding language arts, Saxon math, science and engineering weekly units and labs, technology (including coding and typing), art, music, global studies, library, character education and 60 minutes of play per day.

PHOENIX PREPARATORY PRESCHOOL & CHILD CARE 802 W. Osborn Road, Phoenix • 602-274-7557 • phxprep.com • Ages: 4 weeks to 5 years • Enrollment: Year round Tuition: Age dependent. Offers flexible payment plans, sibling discounts, Salt River Pima Indian Community Certificate Program.

For 12 years, Phoenix Preparatory Preschool & Child Care has educated children from age 5 weeks to 5 years. We teach Mandarin, Spanish, sign language and English as the primary language in the classroom. Phoenix Prep’s culminating goal is to teach pre-kindergarten children to read Level One Books, write their first and last names, perform basic addition and subtraction problems, correctly form all upper and lowercase letters and be polite, happy and socially appropriate children! The new building at 802 W. Osborn Road features Microbial Paint, 25 sky tubes, an infant playground, playgrounds for older children, fresh/healthy/name brand foods low in sugar and qualified teachers!

PRE-K AT HORIZON HONORS 16233 S. 48th St., Phoenix • 480-659-3000 • prekathclc.org • Ages: Must be 4 by Aug. 31 • Enrollment: Lottery forms accepted through Jan. 21 • Open house: 5 p.m. Nov. 14 • Tuition: $8,000 (full-day program); flexible payment plans available This unique pre-kindergarten program is designed for students who are eager to learn and build confidence in their academic skills in an individualized, caring and developmentally sensitive class. Pre-kindergarten is designed and taught to prepare students to move on to kindergarten the following year.

The daily schedule provides important “free exploration” time as well as class and small-group instructional activities. Mr. Andrew Creighton Harank, owner and teacher, is an accomplished educator with 35-plus years of teaching experience and numerous educator awards.

SPIRIT OF HOPE MONTESSORI SCHOOL 14403 N. 75th Ave., Peoria • 623-334-9171 • spiritofhopemontessori.com • Ages: 3-5 • Enrollment: August-May Tuition: $6,500; sibling discounts, scholarships available Spirit of Hope Montessori School is a child-centered educational environment offering morning, afternoon and full-day programs designed to assist each child in reaching his/her full potential. By helping children develop self-confidence, self-control and independence, our curriculum helps them grow physically, emotionally, socially and intellectually.

TUTOR TIME 26 schools Valleywide • 877-684-1613 • tutortime.com • Ages: 0-12 • Enrollment: Ongoing At Tutor Time Learning Center, we offer full-day infant, toddler, preschool, preK and school-age programs. We embrace each child’s individuality to nurture their learning, growth, self-esteem and imagination. With our exclusive School Readiness Pathway, we chart a course to elementary school with specialized curriculum and developmentally appropriate programs for infants to school-age students. Plus, our Grow Fit® initiative ensures the complete well-being of your growing child through a focus on healthy living, nutritious eating and physical fitness. Tuition discounts for siblings.

UCP OF CENTRAL ARIZONA 1802 W. Parkside Lane, Phoenix • 602-682-1880 • ucpofcentralaz.org • Ages: 6 weeks-5 years • Enrollment: Learn more during Open House Jan. 12 or call to schedule an introductory tour at any time.

Looking for a place where your child can learn invaluable lessons of kindness and empathy? UCP of Central Arizona’s Early Learning Center is a highquality learning environment in the North Valley, serving children 6 weeks to 5 years old with and without disabilities. UCP’s inclusive environment helps children learn acceptance of others who are different from themselves through opportunities for friendship. Staff knowledge of child development allows all children to be challenged academically at their own levels, using routine assessments of their individual progress. The UCP ELC is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and rated as a 5-Star Quality First Center. The Laura Dozer Center’s theme of the Enchanted Forest invites children to play and imagine.

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AExcellence family of schools — A community of learning in Teaching and Learning Tempe • McClintock • Marcos de Niza • Corona del Sol Mountain Pointe • Desert Vista • Compadre

All students will graduate with the skills necessary for success in college, career and life.

ENROLL TODAY! To learn more visit TempeUnion.org

A family of schools — A community of learning Tempe High • McClintock • Marcos de Niza • Corona del Sol Mountain Pointe • Desert Vista • Compadre

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XTREME GYMNASTICS MOVE-N-LEARN PRESCHOOL 15821 N. 79th St., Suite 3, Scottsdale • 480-596-3543 • xtremegymnastics.com Extensive research shows a direct and significant relationship between early childhood motor development and scholastic success. Our Move-N-Learn curriculum takes advantage of our unique ability to seamlessly combine instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, art, science, locomotor and group fitness, creating a comprehensive educational program that provides the foundation for future academic and athletic achievement. Trusted by Scottsdale families since 1996, we are known for our child development expertise and positive teaching techniques. Preschool Director Amy Bucknell has taught and coached since 2003 and is completing a PhD in educational policy. With a profound understanding of the importance of early childhood education and motor development, she brings knowledge and balance to Move-N-Learn. Our 16,000-square-foot facility offers a unique preschool experience featuring trampolines, bars, beams, rings, foam pit, climbing ropes and inspired classrooms. Your child will enjoy endless opportunities to play, explore and learn!

Public School Districts APACHE JUNCTION UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 1575 W. Southern Ave., Apache Junction • 480-982-1110 • ajusd.org • Grades: PreK-high school Enrollment: Ongoing throughout the year. Each school has an open house. Call 480-982-1110 for dates and times.

AJUSD has the best of both worlds – nearby metropolitan amenities in a friendly, small-town setting. Elementary school children can earn free horseback riding lessons. Junior high school kids can participate in an award-winning journalism program. Students who are college bound have challenging courses and advanced placement choices. A variety of vocational opportunities are also available through EVIT. Not to mention music, drama, varsity and junior varsity sports and a nationally renowned Navy JROTC program. Students are embraced by a supportive community that donates generously for college and vocational school scholarships.

DEER VALLEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 20402 N. 15th Ave., Phoenix • 623-445-5000 • dvusd.org • Grades: K-12 • Enrollment: Nov. 1 for kindergarten and open enrollment for the following year. Kindergarten Preview Night is 5:30-7 p.m. Jan. 31 at all DVUSD K-6/K-8 schools DVUSD has more schools (95 percent) with an “A” or “B” rating for achievement by the Arizona Department of Education than most Valley districts.

Our 38 campuses serve students from Phoenix, Glendale, Peoria, Anthem, New River, Cave Creek and Maricopa County. Opportunities for students include: instruction by 100 percent Highly Qualified teachers, free full-day kindergarten with specials every day (art, music, P.E.), Mandarin Chinese language curriculum, International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement and dual-enrollment classes, nearly one-to-one computer-to-student ratio and award-winning fine arts programs. Student-to-teacher ratio is 18 to 1.

GILBERT PUBLIC SCHOOLS 140 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert • 480-497-3300 • gilbertschools.net • Grades: PreK-12 • Enrollment: Year round. Visit website to learn about open house dates for individual schools or contact schools directly to schedule a tour any time.

With over 100 years of academic excellence, Gilbert Public Schools continues to deliver exceptional education opportunities for learners from preK through 12th grade. As a district of choice, families can select the right fit for their child, including A-rated local neighborhood schools, traditional options, Performance Academy and Blue Ribbon Gilbert Classical Academy. All our comprehensive high schools offer high-quality academic opportunities including Advanced Placement, high-performing athletics and performing arts programs, and extensive Career and Technical Education programs. Highly Qualified teachers in every classroom are dedicated to the academic, social and emotional learning of your child.

HIGLEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 2935 S. Recker Road, Gilbert • 480-279-7000 • husd.org/ourschools • Grades: Preschool-high school Enrollment: Year-round; visit website for tour information With 13 campuses in Gilbert and Queen Creek, Higley Unified School District is the No. 1 choice of neighborhood families. Higley educates more than 12,500 preschool through 12th-grade students, growing the learners of today into the leaders of tomorrow. Higley Unified offers a well-rounded education with robust academic opportunities, competitive secondary athletics, music and art instruction at all grade levels, career and technical education, and world language instruction beginning in preschool. Higley Unified’s students enjoy a multitude of highly successful performing arts programs and campuses encourage service to community through numerous projects year-round.

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KYRENE SCHOOL DISTRICT 8700 S. Kyrene Road, Tempe • 480-541-1000 • kyrene.org • Grades: K-8 Enrollment: Kindergarten Orientations are Nov. 26-30 (check website for times and locations); open enrollment begins in January Kyrene School District is one of Arizona’s leading public school districts, providing excellence in education for more than a century. Kyrene is known for high academic achievement and a strong community. The district’s 25 schools include 17,000 students in 18 elementary schools, 6 middle schools and one K-8 school. District boundaries include Ahwatukee and parts of Chandler, Guadalupe and Tempe. K-8 program offerings include world languages (Spanish and Mandarin), STEM, college prep, fine arts, performing arts and computer science. Kyrene offers a Traditional Academy and an International Baccalaureate Candidate school. Preschool is offered on every elementary school campus.

MADISON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT 5601 N. 16th St., Phoenix • 602-664-7900 • madisonaz.org • Grades: Elementary, junior high • Enrollment: Begins Dec. 1. Visit website to learn about open house dates.

For more than 125 years, Madison Elementary School District (Madison Schools) has been one of the top elementary school districts in the state, with eight schools consistently earning high honors. Madison Schools serves approximately 5,800 students in the heart of Phoenix from 32nd Street to Seventh Avenue and between Indian School and Northern Avenue. Its outstanding “signature” educational programs are locally and nationally recognized, including the International Baccalaureate program, Spanish immersion, REACH program, visual and performing arts, traditional curriculum and Spanish fluency. For information about Madison Schools, visit madisonaz.org.

PARADISE VALLEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 15002 N. 32nd St., Phoenix • 602-449-2000 • pvschools.net • Grades: Preschool-high school • Enrollment: Typically Sept. 1-Jan. 21 Serves 31,126 students in 29 elementary schools, one K-8 school, seven middle schools and five high schools. Also offers preschool (including traditional, gifted, Montessori and special education), free full-day kindergarten and an evening high school. Advanced Placement, AVID, Career and Technical Education, comprehensive fine arts programming (K-12), dual enrollment, gifted programs (all grades) and an International Baccalaureate pathway. Specialty schools include The Digital Learning Center, Honors Academies and The Center for Research in Engineering, Science and Technology (CREST), Mandarin immersion, Spanish immersion and the accredited PVOnline program.

PEORIA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 6330 W. Thunderbird Road, Glendale •623-486-6000 • peoriaunified.org • Grades: K-12 Peoria Unified serves more than 37,000 students in 34 elementary schools, seven high schools and one non-traditional high school. Peoria Unified caters to the unique learning style of every student. We are proud to boast a 94 percent high school graduation rate and pride ourselves on our awardwinning teachers, specialized choice programs and championship sports programs. #PeoriaUnifiedPride

PHOENIX UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 4502 N. Central Ave., Phoenix • 602 764-1100 • phoenixunion.org • Enrollment: Begins Nov. 3 with the Experience Phoenix Union High School Expo Phoenix Union is the largest high school district in Arizona, serving 28,000 students within a portfolio of 20 schools. Within the 220-square miles of central Phoenix, there are 10 comprehensive high schools, one college and career magnet school (Metro Tech), four small specialty schools (including nationally acclaimed Bioscience, Franklin Police & Fire and Phoenix Coding Academy), two micro schools (Gifted and Talented Academy at Maryvale and the only public Montessori high school in Arizona) and three support schools. The district features 11 magnet programs and over 30 Career and Technical Education programs.

SCOTTSDALE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 8500 E. Jackrabbit Road, Scottsdale • 480-484-6100 • susd.org • Grades: PreK-12 • Enrollment: Priority open enrollment begins Oct. 1; continuously enrolling Everything we do across our 29 campuses creates a culture of learning that supports our 23,000-plus students. We’re developing the leaders of tomorrow so they can contribute to a smarter, safer and more sustainable world. We offer: rigorous academics, career and technical education, preK, full-day kindergarten, distance learning, dual-language immersion, traditional schools, STEAM/STEM, gifted learning, International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement courses, performing and fine arts, championship high school athletics, middle school sports, special education services, a variety of special interest clubs for students and even before- and after-school care on site. Visit susd.org/open for more information.

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TEMPE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 500 W. Guadalupe Road, Tempe • 480-839-0292 • tempeunion.org • Grades: 9-12 • Enrollment: Typically Sept. 1-Jan. 21 The Tempe Union High School District is located in Tempe and Phoenix and serves approximately 14,000 students. Our schools include Tempe High, McClintock, Marcos de Niza, Corona del Sol, Mountain Pointe and Desert Vista. Compadre Academy offers personalized learning for students. We offer The Peggy Payne Gifted Academy, an International Baccalaureate Program, dual-enrollment programs that allow students to gain college credit while still in high school and Advanced Placement (AP) studies on every campus. Outside the classroom, we offer award-winning fine arts, extracurricular activities and athletic programs.

WASHINGTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT 4650 W. Sweetwater Ave., Glendale • 602-347-2600 • wesdschools.org • Grades: PreK-8 • Enrollment: Ongoing Washington Elementary School District is the largest elementary school district in Arizona, and is proud to serve a diverse population of more than 23,700 pre-kindergarten through eighth grade students in north central Phoenix and east Glendale. Recognized by The New York Times as one of the Top 20 School Districts in the country for student growth. Learning opportunities include free full-day kindergarten, gifted, STEM labs, art, music, PE, early childhood enrichment for 4-year-olds, Head Start preschool, as well as before- and after-school academic and enrichment classes and child care.

Charter Schools AMERISCHOOLS ACADEMY 1333 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix • 602-532-0100 • amerischools.org • Grades: K-8 AmeriSchools Academy staff are committed to fostering and enhancing student growth by providing effective instructional support dedicated to superior achievements. We share this goal to maintain high academic and social standards, to motivate, inspire and model for our students as we work together to learn and become active participants in our community. We are dedicated to fostering academic excellence through individualized, tuitionfree instruction of core curriculum supported by enrichment and acceleration opportunities. To accomplish this mission, our goal is to teach integrated curriculum by utilizing multi-age ability groups for instruction.

ARIZONA LANGUAGE PREPARATORY 4645 E. Marilyn Road, Phoenix • 602-996-1595 • azlanguageprep.org • Grades: K-6 • Enrollment: Continuous; please call to schedule an appointment!

Arizona Language Preparatory is a free public charter school in Phoenix. ALP is Arizona’s only tri-lingual elementary school offering a full immersion education in Spanish, Mandarin Chinese and English. ALP has small class sizes and native speaking instructors. Our goal is for students to become fluent in all three languages simultaneously while gaining cultural awareness. There are also international learning opportunities in Mexico and China!

We also offer early K enrollment for students that turn 5 by Dec 31 of the kindergarten year. Please contact us to learn more!

ARIZONA SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS 1410 N. Third St., Phoenix • 602-257-1444 • goasa.org • Grades: 5-12 • Enrollment: Oct. 1-Feb. 20; open house scheduled Nov. 13 A non-profit public charter school serving the entire metro Phoenix area (100 ZIP codes). Offers a focused, innovative college-preparatory environment with 135-plus classes: music, theater and dance.

BASIS CHARTER SCHOOLS 480-289-2088 • enrollBASIS.com • Grades: K-12 • Locations: Ahwatukee, Chandler, Goodyear, Mesa, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale Enrollment: Nov. 13-Dec. 13; network-wide open houses will be held Wednesday, Nov. 14 (times vary by location) The top five public high schools in the nation, as ranked by U.S. News & World Report, are BASIS Charter Schools! The mission of BASIS Charter Schools is to empower students to achieve at globally competitive levels with a transformative K-12 academic program. Our program provides a revolutionary, comprehensive liberal arts curriculum. To ensure superior instruction in each of these areas, we have two teachers in each classroom in grades K-4. In kindergarten we have a Lead Teacher and a Teaching Fellow, and in grades 1-4, we have a Subject Expert Teacher and a Learning Expert Teacher. Our teachers focus equally on the social, emotional, physical, and academic development of their students.

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BENJAMIN FRANKLIN CHARTER SCHOOL Crismon Campus (K-6): 22120 E. Queen Creek Road, Queen Creek, 480-987-0722 • Gilbert Campus (K-6): 1475 S. Val Vista Dr., Gilbert, 480-6320722 • Power Campus (K-6): 22951 S. Power Road, Queen Creek, 480-677-8400 • Benjamin Franklin High School (7-12): 18864 E. Germann Road, Queen Creek, 480-558-1197 • bfcsaz.com • Enrollment: Begins Jan. 8; see website for open house dates Benjamin Franklin Charter School was one of Arizona’s first charter schools and has been “Educating Arizona…One Student at a Time”™ for more than 22 years. We currently have three K-6 campuses that follow a Traditional/Classical Education Model and one 7-12 Classical/College Preparatory secondary school, all of which are tuition free. We offer a well-rounded education with proven superior academics, exceptional programs, time-honored values and a high level of parental participation. Please visit our website to learn more or schedule a tour of one of our campuses.

CANDEO SCHOOLS 9965 W. Calle Lejos, Peoria • 623-979-6500 • candeoschools.com • Grades: K-8 • Enrollment: Applications accepted year-round College-preparatory school emphasizing a core classical curriculum. Accredited by AdvancED. Uniforms required.

CHALLENGE CHARTER SCHOOL 5801 W. Greenbriar Drive, Glendale • 602-938-5411 • challengecharterschool.net • Grades: K-6 • Enrollment: Accepting pre-registrations year round! Visit website for a list of available tours Founded in 1996, Challenge Charter School is a tuition-free National Blue Ribbon School and Arizona’s first TechSmart Kids coding school. CCS is a unique, supportive and safe learning community where kids come first in all decision making! The CCS Team is passionate about fostering a love for lifelong learning. With frequent hands-on activities and our Core Knowledge curriculum, learning is fun at CCS! With this passion and curriculum we create the perfect environment to engage learners and create outstanding student achievement.

DOBSON MONTESSORI K-12 SCHOOL 745 S. Extension, Mesa • 480-962-1432 • dobsonmontessori.com • Grades: K-12; also offers Dobson Montessori Preschool at 1130 S. San Jose in Mesa • Enrollment: Spring and summer; open house Saturday, March 2; individual tours available by appointment Emphasizes individualized, challenging curriculum and low teacher-student ratios. Animal care, art, camping, computers, field trips, gardening, music, Spanish. Top Valley test scores. High school students can participate in concurrent enrollment courses to earn college credits, engage in mentoredlearning coursework, compete in a national Shakespeare competition, exhibit art in local galleries, complete self-designed community service projects, work with professionals in field study lab experiences, develop economic expertise through entrepreneur projects, host leadership workshops for junior high students and more. Teachers are Montessori and state-certified. Owned/operated by the same family since 1980.

FOOTHILLS ACADEMY Cave Creek: Foothills Academy Elementary Preparatory (K-6): 4720 E. Lone Mountain Road, 480-292-9819 • Scottsdale: Foothills Academy College Preparatory (7-12): 7191 E. Ashler Hills Drive, 480-488-5583 • foothillsacademy.com • Grades: K-12 • Enrollment: Open enrollment; open house dates TBA K-12 schools emphasize academic excellence, personal and social development, leadership and a sense of community both on and off campus. Offers honors courses, substantial opportunities to earn college credit, STEAM, project-based learning, community engagement. Accredited by AdvancED. Uniforms required. Also offers Foothills Academy Connected online learning for grades 7-12 (faconnected.com).

HORIZON HONORS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 16233 S. 48th St., Phoenix • 480-659-3100 • horizonhonorselementary.org • Grades: K-6 • Enrollment: Open house at 6 p.m. Nov. 14; lottery forms accepted through Jan. 21; lottery held Jan. 31 Horizon Honors Elementary offers a rigorous and individualized education, with hands-on and minds-on learning opportunities. Critical and creative problem-solving is practiced, and a commitment to teamwork and cooperation is taught, encouraged and expected. An integrated, “gifted education for all” approach involves students solving real-life problems through cooperative, thematic experiences, so students understand how their classes, like life, are linked together. The goal is to maintain students’ joy and enthusiasm for learning so academic achievement and setting high standards become a lifestyle.

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HORIZON HONORS SECONDARY SCHOOL 16233 S. 48th St., Phoenix • 480-659-3000 • horizonhonorssecondary.org • Grades: 7-12 • Enrollment: Open house at 6 p.m. Nov. 14; lottery forms accepted through Jan. 21; lottery held Jan. 31 Horizon Honors Secondary School provides a rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum in a nurturing, small-school environment. The curriculum incorporates standards adopted by the Arizona Department of Education. Students are expected to achieve beyond these standards in all content areas including the development of skills in critical thinking, creative thinking and character building. The honors curriculum is designed to be robust and relevant to the real world, is evidence based, is aligned with college and career expectations and includes rigorous content and skills reflecting the knowledge that young people need for success.

IMAGINE SCHOOLS imagineschools.org Imagine Schools-affiliated campuses operate in nine states and Washington, D.C. In Arizona, there are 12 campuses. College-preparatory elementary, middle and high schools emphasize individualized learning, character education, accelerated curriculum, high expectations and a values-based culture.

All schools are accredited by AdvanceED. Uniforms are required. Pre-K is offered at some K-8 campuses. Proprietary Imagine Schools Curriculum is aligned to Arizona state standards and is designed to help students develop deeper learning competencies required for success in college, career and civic life. Additional programs vary by campus and grade level but include Advanced Placement, Character Counts, National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society, athletics and many more opportunities.

KHALSA MONTESSORI SCHOOL Primary: 346 E. Coronado Road, Phoenix, 602-252-3759 • Elementary: 2536 N. Third St., Phoenix, 602-252-2275 • khalsamontessori.org Grades: Private primary school (toddlers-preschoolers) and tuition-free public charter school (grades K-6) Khalsa Montessori School is a diverse community of families, teachers and administrators working together to create a positive environment that lays the foundation for habits of mind that support happiness and success both in school and life. The partnership of teachers and parents encourages the exchange of information and ideas for successful child rearing and education, and offers support for the challenges of today’s parents. First opened as a private school in 1971.

KEYSTONE MONTESSORI 1025 E. Liberty Lane, Phoenix • 480-460-7312 • keystonemontessori.com • Ages/grades: 15 months to 9th grade (private toddler and primary programs are year-round) • Enrollment: Contact school for a tour Keystone Montessori has been serving the community with authentic Montessori education for over 20 years. Our mission is to inspire in children a passion for a lifelong love of learning in an environment which nurtures independence, creativity, confidence and tolerance while developing a sense of responsibility for self and community based on the principles and philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori.

LEADING EDGE ACADEMY East Mesa: 10115 E. University Drive, 480-984-5645 • Gilbert: 717 W. Ray Road, 480-545-8011 (Gilbert Early College), 480-545-664 (Gilbert Elementary) • Maricopa: 18700 N. Porter Road, 520-568-7800 • Queen Creek: 4815 W. Hunt Highway, 480-655-6787 • Online Academy: 480-257-5362 • leadingedgeacademy.com • Grades: K-12 • Enrollment: Open enrollment for 2019-20 begins March 1.

The Leading Edge Academy is a six-campus K-12 charter school with locations in Gilbert, East Mesa, Queen Creek, Maricopa and Online. We promote an emphasis on advanced academics and character development, utilizing a best practices/data-driven instruction model and current, research-based curriculum. Leading Edge Academy has a history of academic excellence and student achievement. Additionally, we use a values-based program to challenge our students to improve their character and enhance their relationships. These values are trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. Our schools have small class sizes and a safe, family feel.

LEGACY TRADITIONAL SCHOOLS legacytraditional.org This A-rated, public charter K-8 district was founded in 2007 in Maricopa and now includes 14 Arizona campuses: Avondale, Casa Grande, Chandler, East Mesa, Gilbert, Glendale, Laveen, Maricopa, North Chandler, Northwest Tucson, Peoria, Phoenix, Queen Creek and Surprise. Legacy Traditional Schools offers students a well-rounded and accelerated education. Character development, patriotism and citizenship underpin Legacy’s educational approach, while Saxon math and Spalding reading/writing as well as rigorous social studies, history, geography, and science programs form the basis of the curriculum. Highlights include PE (K-2), music (K-2), computers (K-6), art (K-6), Spanish (K-6), Mozart Musical Track (3-8), Momentum Fitness Track (3-8) and a choice of numerous junior high electives. Eligible students may take part in the Recognizing Individual Student Excellence (RISE) gifted program (1-8). All students may join after-school clubs and extracurricular activities and/or try out for sports teams. Fee-based Legacy Kids Care offers before- and after-school activities. Legacy teachers are all certified. Schools are accredited by AdvancED. Uniforms are required.

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METROPOLITAN ARTS INSTITUTE 1700 N. Seventh Ave., Phoenix • 602-258-9500 • metro-arts.org • Grades: 7-12 • Enrollment: School tours for the upcoming school year begin in September; applications are accepted from mid-September through the end of July.

Metropolitan Arts Institute is a college-preparatory charter school emphasizing arts (dance, film, music, theater and visual arts), excellence, authenticity, integrity and tolerance. Our mission is to help students set goals, master techniques and develop skills and self discipline. Metro prepares students for college and instills a life-long love of the creative process. We focus on developing academic and artistic excellence along with the socialemotional maturity and authenticity of each student. Honors coursework is available in conjunction with all standard core and elective courses.

MONTESSORI ACADEMY 6050 N. Invergordon Road, Paradise Valley • 480-945-1121 • montessoriacademyaz.org • Grades: K-8 • Enrollment: Year round, subject to available openings; open house is scheduled for Feb. 27 Public Charter Montessori Education for grades K-8. Also offers private Toddler and Early Education program. School has two pools, outdoor environments, art studio, and much more! Call for a tour.

OMBUDSMAN CHARTER HIGH SCHOOLS Locations in Phoenix, Peoria, Glendale and Tempe • 602-317-0837 • az.ombudsman.com • Grades: 9-12 • Enrollment: Year-round; parents and students are welcome to schedule a tour anytime by calling the number above Ombudsman Charter Schools are perfect for students who want an alternative to traditional high school. If you need to earn additional credits, are at risk of dropping out or have dropped out of school and want to return and earn your high school diploma, we can help. As a student at Ombudsman Charter School, you CAN do it all! A four-hour school day allows time for family, friends, work and school. We prepare you for college, career – for life – after high school. You can enroll in an Ombudsman Charter School at any time during the year and earn your diploma in a professional, alternative school setting. We have seven locations around the Valley, give us a call to find the location nearest you!

REID TRADITIONAL SCHOOLS Valley Academy: 1520 W. Rose Garden Lane, Phoenix • 623-516-7747 • valleyacademy.com Painted Rock Academy: 14800 N. 25th Drive, Phoenix • 623-466-8855 • paintedrockacademy.com • Grades: K-8 and private preschool Reid Traditional Schools prides itself on giving students a superior academic foundation for lifelong success in high school, college and beyond. RTS Valley Academy is a 2014 National Blue Ribbon School, and RTS Painted Rock Academy is the current Arizona Charter School of the Year. Along with an outstanding language, math and science curriculum, student life is balanced with art and music instruction and after-school sports and clubs such as robotics. Students develop a love of knowledge in warm, caring atmosphere. “A” ratings each and every year for a quarter of a century.

SCOTTSDALE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL 10460 N. 56th St., Scottsdale • 480-452-5777 • scdsaz.com • Grades: K-8 • Enrollment: Open enrollment Dec. 1-31 and while spaces are available; tour dates are listed online or call 480-452-5777 Scottsdale Country Day School is a K-8 charter school located at 56th Street and Shea in Scottsdale. The maximum class size of 22 allows our students to flourish, while being enriched with STEM, art, music, P.E. and Spanish lessons. Manners, etiquette and entrepreneurship are also important pieces of our curriculum, which helps shape our students and your children. SCDS achieves excellent state test scores and is an “A” rated school with the Arizona Department of Education. Students who are at or above grade level, and who are completing all of their work throughout the day, do not have homework. Safety is important and we employ a full-time, uniformed police officer who is on campus throughout the school day.

VAL VISTA ACADEMY 4120 S. Val Vista Drive, Gilbert • 480-656-5555 • valvistaacademy.org • Grades: PK-8 • Enrollment: Year-round; open house scheduled Jan. 24 Val Vista Academy is a tuition-free public charter school. Our small class sizes and hands-on learning environment make us a great home for all students, from kindergarten through 8th grade. Students are provided with STEM infusion throughout the entire curriculum. Special classes include P.E., music, technology and Spanish. We truly believe in growing every child’s potential. Schedule a tour today. Limited space available.

VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL 2802 E. Meadowbrook Ave., Phoenix • 602-955-2210 • villamontessori.com • Grades: K-8; also offers private preschool Growing greatness in mind, body and spirit. Villa is an American Montessori Society associate member school. As the first Montessori school in Phoenix (opened in 1964) and one of the first charter schools in Arizona (1995), Villa remains committed to finding innovative and effective ways of meeting the needs of children.

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Private Schools BAYER PRIVATE SCHOOL 23555 N. 67th Ave., Glendale • 623-362-3700 • bayerschool.com • Grades: PreK (age 3)-8th • Enrollment: Rolling enrollment process begins in February of each calendar year. We offer individualized, personal tours in lieu of open house events.

Bayer Private School provides quality education, rich in diversity of programs, using accelerated curriculum in a rewarding and caring environment. All students are taught advanced core subjects augmented with Spanish, lab science, technology, music, PE, writing, two math programs, Latin, electives and educational student travel. The focus of our program is to combine academic rigor with high expectations in behavior, character and learning, and our commitment is not only to prepare students for academic success in higher education, but to mold them into inspiring, committed and successful members of society. Need-based financial aid and tuition discounts for siblings available.

CHRIST CHURCH SCHOOL 4015 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley • 602-381-9906 • ccsaz.org • Grades: Preschool (toddlers) through grade 5 • Tuition: Varies by class; flexible payment plans and scholarships available Emphasis is educating the whole child — mind, heart, and spirit — with small class sizes and low teacher-student ratios. Interactive, integrated and accelerated curriculum incorporates age-appropriate educational enhancements including Spanish, PE, music, chapel, art, religion, theater, library and outreach activities. Accredited by the Southwestern Association of Episcopal Schools and affiliated with the Episcopal parish of Christ Church of the Ascension.

CHRIST LUTHERAN SCHOOL 3901 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix • 602-957-7010 • clsphx.org • Grades: Preschool (2 and up) through grade 8 • Enrollment: Applications available Nov. 5. Open houses 9 a.m. to noon and 5-7 p.m. Nov. 5; Kindergarten Informational Meeting 9-11 a.m. Jan. 10. • Tuition: Varies by age (check website); accepts STO payments and CLSTO (based on financial need) We are thrilled to be in the business of high academic standards, service in the community and extracurricular activities, but ultimately sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with you and your children. We opened in 1955 and are an NLSA-accredited school. Offerings at CLS Include: religious instruction, strong and challenging academics, STEM program, art program, PE and interscholastic sports, instrumental and vocal music programs, service learning, leadership programs, school nurse and bus transportation. Affiliated with Lutheran Church Missouri Synod.

GARY K. HERBERGER YOUNG SCHOLARS ACADEMY 4701 W. Thunderbird Road, Glendale • 602-543-8274 • herbergeracademy.asu.edu • Grades: 7-12, with intellectual ability significantly higher than age peers • Enrollment: Applications will be accepted through Dec. 1 for spring 2019 enrollment and on an ongoing basis for the 2019-20 school year.

The Gary K. Herberger Young Scholars Academy embodies a highly challenging and hands-on learning environment. Here, in non-traditional fashion, exceptional adolescents integrate technology and advanced methods into their learning culture to achieve substantial growth. HYSA’s access to resources and scholarly professionals from Arizona State University prepares our students for tomorrow by learning how to collaborate today.

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF ARIZONA 9522 E. San Salvador Drive, Scottsdale • 480-874-2326 • isaz.org • Grades: PK1 (18 months)-8th grade • Tuition: $8,592-$16,999, with flexible payment plans, sibling discounts, scholarships and Bourse (French scholarships) available The International School of Arizona offers a full-day immersion education in either French or Spanish, while delivering a well-rounded, rigorous, academic program in Early Childhood (from 18 months old to kindergarten), Lower School (Grades 1 to 5) and Middle School (Grades 6 to 8).

Students follow a challenging accredited global curriculum based on the best American, French and Spanish standards, formulated to provide a strong educational foundation. There is a window of opportunity -- children who learn a second language now will benefit for a lifetime!

THE JONES-GORDON SCHOOL 4800 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Paradise Valley • 480-563-5588 • jonesgordon.org • Grades: 1-12 • Tuition: $25,000, with flexible payment plans and scholarships available An innovative, accredited private school, JGS delivers a truly individualized education that is strengths-based and student-centered. Small class sizes, low student/teacher ratios. Robust, technology-infused and experiential college-prep curriculum. A structured, “whole child” approach integrating executive function and social/emotional learning. Daily FLEX hour further supports students with learning differences. Community service/service learning opportunities. A positive, supportive environment and a “culture of kindness.” Experienced, nurturing faculty and staff including reading specialists, occupational and speech-language therapists, school social worker and psychologist.

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OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL CATHOLIC SCHOOL 2117 S. Rural Road, Tempe • 480-967-5567 • olmcschool.info • Grades: Preschool-8 • Enrollment: Ongoing; Kindergarten open house Nov. 9 Tuition: $6,750, with flexible payment plans, need-based financial aid, religious/parish discounts, sibling discounts and scholarships available The role of OLMC Catholic School is to provide a holistic Catholic Christian environment that serves the soul, mind and body of each child. Within this environment, religious traditions are celebrated, intellectual skills are developed, critical thinking is encouraged and students are prepared to live in and make a vital contribution to a changing society. Through our quality curriculum and high academic standards, students engage in dynamic learning environments that utilize state-of-the-art technology in conjunction with solid teaching methods to deliver content and assess academic growth.

PHOENIX CHRISTIAN PREPARATORY SCHOOL 1751 W. Indian School Road, Phoenix • 602-265-4707 • phoenixchristian.org • Grades: PreK-12 • Enrollment: Applications available in January; open houses on Nov. 15 and Jan. 26 • Tuition: $7,576-$10,834, with flexible payment plans, sibling discounts and School Tuition Organization taxcredit support Founded in 1949, this preK-12 college preparatory non-denominational Christian school offers concentrations in fine arts, STEM, humanities and spiritual and leadership formation. A missional model welcomes students of all backgrounds to study and grow in a Christ-centered atmosphere.

Phoenix Christian is accredited by AdvancED and the Association for Christian Schools International. It offers: a history of athletic excellence with over 15 middle school and high school sports teams; fine arts performances; weekly student-led chapels; an annual high school retreat, 8th grade and 5th grade camp traditions; an international program and dual-enrollment partnerships with Arizona Christian University and Colorado Christian University.

Notable: 2018 MESA State Champions at both the middle and high school levels; back-to-back 2A Baseball State Champions; Class of 2018 (60 students) earned over $3 million in scholarships.

PHOENIX COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL 3901 E. Stanford Drive, Paradise Valley • 602-955-8200 • pcds.org • Grades: PreK-12 • Enrollment: Applications due Feb. 1. Learn more at an open house 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 4. • Tuition: $20,000-$26,000 need-based financial aid Since 1961, PCDS is the Valley’s only private, independent PK-12 school. In small classes guided by expert teachers, PCDS students are uniquely prepared to be leaders in college and life.

SCOTTSDALE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 14400 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix • 602-992-5100 • scottsdalechristian.org • Grades: Preschool-high school • Enrollment: Applications for 201920 accepted beginning Feb. 1. Open houses are held monthly; see website for details.

SCA offers a variety of programs serving the needs of students through a strong college prep academic program, including Advanced Placement, honors and dual-enrollment courses. We offer championship athletics, award-winning fine arts and an array of foreign language classes. Small class sizes and flexible seating allow for academic success. A state-of-the-art STEAM lab for all students. SCA offers full-time and part-time preschool classes. SCA is dedicated to maximizing the God-given potential of each student. Tuition support includes flexible payment plans, religious/parish discounts, sibling discounts and School Tuition Organization tax credits.

SAINTS SIMON & JUDE CATHEDRAL SCHOOL 6351 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix • 602-242-1299 • simonjudeschool.org • Grades: PreK-8 • Enrollment: Rolling admissions. Open house 3 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 27. • Tuition: $6,055; flexible payment plans, need-based financial aid, religious/parish discounts, sibling discounts and scholarships We are a Catholic elementary school in the heart of Phoenix that opened in 1954 under the guidance of five brave nuns from Navan, Ireland. We are more than just a school – we’re truly a community! Our Loreto Sisters are still here with us, and their loving direction along with a dedicated and highly educated lay staff, coupled with our new/remodeled state-of-the-art facilities have continued our tradition as a vibrant, thriving school. We are fully accredited by the Western Catholic Educational Association and we breathe the teachings of Jesus Christ into every subject and extracurricular activity. We offer a rigorous curriculum, enhanced by using the latest technology, and we offer a wide array of spiritual, academic and fine arts enrichment opportunities for our students.

ST. FRANCIS XAVIER JESUIT CATHOLIC SCHOOL 4715 N. Central Ave., Phoenix • 602-266-5364 • school.sfxphx.org • Grades: Preschool (age 3 and up) to 8th grade • Enrollment: Applications accepted beginning Nov. 1 for 2019-20 school year • Tuition: $7,624-$10,890, with flexible payment plans, need-based financial aid, religious/ parish discounts, sibling discounts and scholarships available St. Francis Xavier School fosters a learning environment whose community members appreciate God’s presence in the world and respond generously in action to God’s love. In the Ignatian tradition, St. Francis Xavier School sees spiritual formation as integrally connected to the academic, social, emotional and physical development of the whole child. The excellent educational traditions of St. Francis Xavier School are strongly supported by the families in the community, many of whose roots at the school go back three generations. St. Francis Xavier School challenges students to embark on a lifelong journey of discovery of their God-given gifts and to share these gifts in service to God. ​

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SUMMIT SCHOOL OF AHWATUKEE 4515 E. Muirwood Dr., Phoenix • 480-403-9500 • summitschoolaz.org • Grades: Preschool-8th grade • Enrollment: Learn more at an open house 8:30-10:15 a.m. Nov. 8 • Tuition: $8,280-$14,345, with flexible payment plans, need-based financial aid and sibling discounts available.

Summit School is an NAEYC-accredited preschool (ages 2½-5) and AdvancED-accredited elementary and middle school (K-8). Summit School is a safe and joyful learning community where students are challenged, passionate and enjoy discovering their potential. Beyond the basics: athletics (4th grade and up), character education, community service, leadership, library, PE, Spanish, student council, technology, music, visual arts; middle school electives include band, culinary arts, debate, game design, robotics, theater, visual arts and yearbook

VALLEY CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS High school: 6900 W. Galveston St., Chandler, 480-900-7100 • Junior high: 1005 E. Guadalupe Road, Tempe, 480-705-8888 valleychristianaz.org • Grades: 6-12 • Tuition: $8,950 (grades 6-8); $11,400 (high school); offers flexible payment plans, need-based financial aid, sibling discounts and scholarships • Enrollment: Begins Nov. 5. Open houses will be held on Nov. 8 and 29, Jan. 24, Feb. 26 and 28, March 30 and April 24 Valley Christian Schools offers students in grades 6-12 big school opportunities in a small school environment on our campuses in Chandler and Tempe. VCS is ranked a Top 50 Christian School in the US by The Best Schools and is ranked the #1 Christian School in Phoenix by Niche.com.

Online Schools PRIMAVERA ONLINE HIGH SCHOOL AND MIDDLE SCHOOL 2471 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler • 480-456-6678 • primavera-online-high-school.com • Enrollment dates: Every two weeks!

Open house dates: Every other Wednesday Primavera is a public charter school offering Arizona students in grades 6-12 a 100 percent online education. We are accredited, tuition free and offer a truly unique alternative to the traditional model. We provide the flexibility, individualized support and innovative coursework students can’t find anywhere else.

Special Needs Schools AUTISM ACADEMY FOR EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT 7541 S. Willow Drive, Tempe • 480-240-9255 • aaed.org • Grades: K-12 • Tuition: $27,000-$28,500, with flexible payment plans and scholarships available Autism Academy for Education and Development specializes in education for K-12 students with autism. Our highly qualified teachers, therapists and support staff cultivate an atmosphere of acceptance, compassion and encouragement. Students receive differentiated instruction in academics, the arts, PE, daily skills, vocational and work-based learning. Instruction is delivered through a variety of modalities and according to the needs of the student. Campuses are conveniently located in Tempe, Chandler and Phoenix. In 2019 we are expanding to Tucson. Schedule a tour at one of our campuses today!

AZ ASPIRE ACADEMY Tempe, Scottsdale, Goodyear, Queen Creek and Tucson • 480-420-6630 • azaspireacademy.com • Grades: K-12 • Enrollment: Year round Tuition: $24,500, with flexible payment plans and scholarships available We provide one-to-one academic instruction in a comfortable and engaging learning environment. We partner with parents to customize each students’ education plan, while carefully matching your child with the most caring teachers and instructors. Students also benefit from small group instruction in “social thinking,” executive function, art, yoga, STEAM and PE. In addition, we are able to create rigorous academic settings, both on-campus and off-campus.

BREAKTHROUGH ACADEMY 16641 N. 91st St., Scottsdale • 866-620-9380 • azbreakthroughacademy.org Breakthrough Academy is a small, private day school for students with various disabilities. We specialize in the application of theory, principles and technology of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) using PEAK, ACT, TAGteaching, Precision Teaching, intervention and social training.

We use the student’s natural curiosity along with natural motivation strategies to foster learning.

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FLEX IT ACADEMY Glendale and Mesa (also Show Low, Tucson and Yuma) • 480-737-8108 • flexitacademy.com • Grades: K-12 • Enrollment: Year round Tuition: $30,000, with flexible payment plans, sibling discounts, scholarships and Institute For Better Education (IBE) support Flex IT Academy focuses on education and behavioral skills. We take pride in assisting our students in achieving their goals and aspirations. At Flex IT Academy, we provide a unique learning environment and an exciting curriculum. We believe that all children are inquisitive and enjoy learning. It is our job to give them the right tools to achieve their goals. Creating a learning plan that is flexible to their needs enables them to feel confident, enjoy learning and succeed.

LEXIS PREPARATORY SCHOOL 11130 E. Cholla St., Suite H-100, Scottsdale • 480-391-3901 • lexisprep.com • Grades: K-12 • Enrollment: Year round Tuition: $23,800-$25,500, with flexible payment plans, need-based financial aid, sibling discounts and scholarships available Lexis Preparatory School is a K-12 private day school for students of average to above-average cognitive ability who learn differently. Children who succeed at Lexis often have ADHD, dyslexia, a learning disability, anxiety, social and executive function deficits or other related difficulties. Our goal is to help your student love learning by building on their strengths.

NEW WAY ACADEMY 5048 E Oak St., Phoenix • 602-629-6850 • newwayacademy.org • Grades: K-12 • Enrollment: Rolling admission • Tuition: $23,750, with flexible payment plans, need-based financial aid and scholarships available New Way is a K-12 school that specializes in education for students with learning differences. New Way combines research-based teaching, personalized instruction and small class sizes that turn academic frustration into enlightenment. Each student’s curriculum is planned around educational needs based on academic, psychoeducational, speech/language and motor skills assessments. Students have access to onsite speech, reading, and occupational therapy conducted by accredited specialists during the school day. The campus provides an environment where students build connections and friendships outside the classroom, plus a full athletics program and a variety of clubs and extracurricular opportunities!

PATHWAYS SCHOOL 737 W. Guadalupe Road, Mesa • 480-259-7788 • pathwaysschool.org • Grades: K-12 • Enrollment: Open enrollment begins March 1 State-approved private day school for children with learning differences, attention deficits or developmental delays. We strive to instill confidence and empower students to succeed by developing an intrinsic desire to learn.

PRESTIGE DAY SCHOOL 20395 E. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek • 480-987-5891 • theprestigeschool.com • Grades: K-12 • Enrollment: Open year round; call for a tour.

Prestige was originally founded to provide Emotional Disability-Private (ED-P) Special Education Services for public school districts at our campus in Queen Creek. Prestige now also offers a new “Satellite Campus” model -- a school within a school -- that allows us to offer our ED-P classrooms directly within public school sites. This continuum of care helps reduce costs associated with tuition, related service and transportation by educating students as close to their home as possible, which helps with quicker transitioning. We maintain low student-to-staff ratios in all classrooms and provide students with inclusion opportunities not available when using a traditional ED-P off-site program.

SIERRA ACADEMY OF SCOTTSDALE 17800 N. Perimeter Drive, Suite 110, Scottsdale • 480-767-8659 • sierraacademyaz.com • Grades: K-12 • Enrollment: Year round A provider of nonpublic specialized education for students in grades K-12 with special needs. Featuring sensory-based education with hands-on multisensory teaching, interactive rotational tutorials and small class sizes. Other academic accents include a post high school transition program including workplace experience, the Broad-base Education Service and Therapies (BEST) model and the Unique Learning System specifically designed for children with special needs, a school-wide behavior management program, social skills programs, learning-based interactive technologies and music, art, equine and pet therapies.

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Education Resources ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE OF GREATER PHOENIX 14415 N. 73rd St., Suite 107A, Scottsdale • 480-948-0728 • afphx.org The Alliance Française is a non-profit organization that is a part of the Alliance Française global network, which has chapters in 138 countries across the globe. We all share a common mission of promoting the French language and Francophone cultures, in order to foster positive relations between Francophones and Francophiles of all ethnicities and nationalities. We promote and encourage the study of the French language by offering both group and private French classes for all ages and all levels.

ALL SCHOOLS CONSULTING Arizona and Oregon • 602-686-4480 • allschoolsconsulting.com Preschool to grade 12 educational consultants provide personalized, caring and professional guidance to families who are living in or relocating to Arizona or Oregon. Our trusted educational professionals will help you find the best school “fit” -- for general, special or gifted education -- through public district schools, public charter schools, private schools or home schooling. We are recognized as the leading experts for local school search services, ensuring children thrive -- discovering interests, passions, strengths and opportunities. ASC services are sought by families, often referred by former client families, schools, physicians, recruiters, human resources offices and relocation service providers. Choose a personal school search to find the best school fit.

ARIZONA PRIVATE EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP FUND 6909 E. Greenway Parkway, Suite 240, Scottsdale • 480-699-8911 • apesf.org APESF is a nonprofit School Tuition Organization that provides tuition scholarships to students in grades K-12 attending qualified private schools in Arizona. Scholarships are made possible by the support of individuals and corporations, and individuals and corporations receive a dollar-for-dollar credit on Arizona state income tax they owe, up to annual allowable limits. Ongoing partnerships with donors, schools and students are the foundation of APESF’s mission to serve Arizona families who desire to provide effective and sustainable solutions for their children’s education.

CODE NINJAS Scottsdale, Chandler, Ahwatukee, Peoria • 480-361-5260 • codeninjas.com Do your kids like computers? They’ll love Code Ninjas! Our center is a fun and welcoming place where girls and boys ages 7-14 learn to code by building their very own video games. They have a blast while learning coding, robotics, math, logic and teamwork. Kids have fun and parents see results!

COLLEGE SAVINGS BANK 800-888-2723 • 529.collegesavings.com College Savings Bank is the program manager for tax-advantaged section 529 bank plan programs administered in the states of Arizona and Indiana.

Offers solutions for late savers, conservative savers and savers looking to diversify an existing 529 portfolio. The CollegeSure Honors Savings Account is a 529 high-yield savings account where assets remain liquid and returns are offered at a competitive variable rate.

DYSLEXIA PROS 3334 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix • 1 W. Elliot Road, Suite 111, Tempe • 2160 E. Brown Road, Suite 3, Mesa • 602-920-4263 • dyslexiapros.com We offer diagnostic testing, academic therapy for reading, spelling, math and writing, and school support and advocacy services. We aim to educate and empower students with dyslexia and their families.

FAWZYA KHOSTI, EXECUTIVE FUNCTION COACH, LLC 2390 E. Camelback Road, Suite 130, Phoenix, AZ 85016 • 480-648-1122 • executivefunctioncoachaz.com We help students create successful habits! Our philosophy is that everyone is different, and we customize our program to meet every student’s unique and individual needs. Although Executive Function Coaching is our primary program, we also offer Behavior Management Coaching and Chess Coaching.

This year we have added a Keys to Success Coaching program to help prepare students for high school and college. All of our coaching focuses on improving skills such as working memory, focus, thinking speed, impulse control, flexibility, time management, planning, prioritization, problem solving, visual awareness, goal setting, follow through, task initiation and emotional awareness. Our program has proudly helped students with challenges such as ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia and anxiety improve their executive function skills to become more confident and successful.

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LINDAMOOD-BELL LEARNING PROCESSES 10617 N. Hayden Road, Building B, Suite 101, Scottsdale • 480-922-5675 • lindamoodbell.com Lindamood-Bell believes that all children and adults can learn to their potential. At our learning centers, we provide highly individualized instruction in reading, comprehension and math, utilizing programs developed by our founders. These research-validated programs are unique because they address the underlying sensory-cognitive skills necessary for an individual to process language. Our instruction has been proven successful for individuals with learning challenges including dyslexia, hyperlexia, ADHD and autism spectrum disorders. Lindamood-Bell and all of its learning centers are accredited by AdvancED.

LIVELY MINDS TUTORING Phoenix metro area • 480-406-8114 • livelymindstutoring.com Lively Minds Tutoring provides one-on-one, in-home services from professional educators. We offer academic tutoring for students who need support in specific content areas, academic coaching for students who need to learn study and executive functioning skills, and academic intervention for students who have differentiated learning needs. We listen to the specific needs of each student and develop a plan to reach the desired goals, and we are passionate about students developing a true love of learning.

MENG CHINESE ACADEMY 16674 N. 91st St., Suite D103, Scottsdale • 480-206-3469 • mengacademy.com Chinese classes for children and adults, math/abacus classes, private tutoring, summer camp. Meng Chinese Academy has been serving the Valley for over 10 years, providing Chinese language, mathematics, and abacus programs for children, as well as Chinese for adults. Since first opening its doors in 2007, Meng Academy has quickly gained a reputation for top-notch Chinese language and culture education. Our classes are offered after school and on Saturdays, and we also offer private tutoring and our popular Chinese Immersion Summer Camp. For more information, please visit mengacademy.com.

MTA

MORRIS TUTORING ASSOCIATES 532 E. Maryland Ave., Suite A, Phoenix • 602-570-9647 • morristutoring.com We offer academic tutoring for grades K-12 in most subjects plus individualized test prep for the PSAT/SAT/ACT and Catholic high school entrance exams.

Serving North Central Phoenix since 1985.

ON-TRACK TUTORING 4800 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Paradise Valley • 480-563-5588 • ontracktutoring.com Providing one-on-one tutoring at home or on site, tailored to individual needs, since 1999! OTT provides experienced educators who are passionate about learning; academic tutoring in a wide range of subjects and levels; special education and gifted expertise; specialized programs in multisensory reading, test prep, executive function (study skills and organization); strategies for independent learning incorporated into sessions; no long-term contracts, prepayments, or minimums required; flexible scheduling.

PLAY (PLAY AND LEARN THROUGH ART AND YOGA) 4552 E. Desert Cove Ave., Scottsdale • 480-510-6880 • playartyoga@gmail.com PLAY is a nonprofit organization designed to enhance mindfulness skills in youth through the practice of art and yoga. PLAY Mindfulness classes provide tools to develop an increased self-awareness and a mind-body connection. Classes range from infants through teens and adults.

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