| Date | Who | Comments |
| 10/12/2012 | parent | I have to agree with so many of the previous comments. Administration is very closed to feedback, listens but doesn't hear and rarely communicates. The teaching staff is a big clique. At the E2 level, there is very little follow-through and my son was not prepared for the stark increase in workload at the middle school level. When I brought this up, I was told: "We hear that all the time." To me that's a sign something isn't working. At the middle school level, the work is crammed around trips and the "community" is micro-managed to be certain no feelings are hurt. Which essentially means the adults are managing relationships for/between the kids. I moved my son to public middle school this year and is so much happier and doing a much better job at managing himself. |
| 10/9/2012 | parent | I would agree with the last parent who said, "constructive criticism is politely listened to but rarely embraced." The administration makes all its own decisions without any parent input and when parents do try to input ideas, we get a polite not and the door held open for us. We are in fact looking now and will be definitely be moving after this year. We want to be part of a school where we have input...where it is a collaborative effort of parents, teachers and administrators. (We are also looking for a school with a foreign language program. Several friends have their children learning dual language Chinese and we feel left behind at a school with zero foreign language as part of the curriculum.) |
| 9/28/2012 | parent | E-1 teachers are great. E-2 feels like a "clique"- staff is all related. Students are great though. Administration needs to be better equipped to handle new ideas. Constructive criticism is politely listened to but rarely embraced. Not sure about Middle school -no experience here. |
| 8/28/2012 | parent | My oldest daughter graduated from Villa a few years ago and we loved it. I wouldn't have done it any differently. The middle school was the best part of our Villa experience. The teachers were amazing and it is all because of them that the middle school is what it is. My younger daughter is still at the school, in 6th grade. While I see the school trying to advance, they are doing it very slowly and I think at the expense of the students happiness. Teacher turnover is horrendous! Its very disruptive to the students needs to seriously be evaluated on how its handled. It makes me wonder what is going on that they can't keep their good teachers. Through the years i've seen things that i truly dislike and I think they could handle better. While I'm still a big supporter of Villa and I wouldn't put my child anywhere else, mostly because of the Middle School, I am starting to have my doubts as to whether I would recommend the school in the future. Really depends on the future, they seem to be making a lot of changes that are extremely disruptive and a lot of families don't agree with. All in all though, I'm very happy with our Villa experience up to this point. |
| 8/27/2012 | parent | Like the montessori style, but the school is lacking in basics. They have no foreign language as part of the daily class-time curriculum, which in today's day and age puts my kid at an extreme disadvantage. Plus, studies show the best time to learn a foreign language is when you are youngest. Was also disappointed with a lack of a real arts program (other than clay sculpting.) We ended up going with a preschool nearby, Little Big Minds, which teaches Spanish and feeds into a FREE public school, Biltmore Prep Academy that offers dual language education. We are very excited to have the opportunity for early language learning. Plus the traditional school also has a real art program. |
| 11/2/2011 | parent | My daughter attended Villa since 3rd grade and the best part or their curriculum is the Middle school. They go beyond academics, which are excelent since my child was accepted to every school she applied into the Honors, AP and IB programs, but the way the teachers and staff approach the personal growth of each child is what makes this school so unique & special. They integrate education as a whole and care for each student individually. The Land Laps and The Heroic Journey are simply fabulous experience for each child to learn about themselves as well as their classmates and community. Communication is open and if you really want to be listen there is always a door open for parents and students to express their minds. They prepared the students to go into "the real world", after being part of the small Villa community, and wherever they go they excel thanks for all the effort and time offered during those two years. Thanks Villa for the wonderful experience!!! |
| 7/17/2011 | parent | We have been with Villa Montessori for 9 years now and LOVE it! The teachers are incredibly caring and communication has always been easy between myself and teachers as well as administration. My soon to be 9th grader has been very well prepared for HS more than academically. The middle school pays an enormous amount of attention to the student and all the changes they are going through and they have wonderful programs to acknowledge those changes and celebrate them. I have also had kids who have had teacher changes mid year and it is always handled as best as possible. And while choices are not always perfect, this school goes above and beyond to help the kids be successful. |
| 5/22/2011 | parent | Our daughter just graduated 8th grade and has been attending Villa since she was 3. I am sad and excited for her as she leaves this wonderful community to move into high school. For her, Villa has given her the opportunity to excel academically and socially. One of the best things about Villa is the adherence to the Montessori teaching style which places the children in control of their day. It's their decision what to do when much of the time and the teachers are there for guidance. There is also a big reliance on natural consequences which my husband and I stress at home. If our daughter doesn't do the work, she may get poor grades. I'm not one to do projects for her. The sooner she learns to stand on her own and accept responsibility and consequences for her choices, the better off she'll be. I admit that the lack of sports and foreign language offerings is an opportunity for improvement at Villa. There were also times when teacher turnover affected the classroom environment, but let's be honest, no one stays forever at any job, and to expect teachers to do so is unreasonable. We'll miss Villa immensely and are absolutely certain our daughter is prepared for what lies ahead. |
| 4/16/2011 | parent | I have been a Villa parent for several years and now have my son attending the middle school. Despite my initial concern about staff changes and the intense workload, I have been very pleased to see the growth in my son. The program is rigorous, but well worth the effort. The overall growth I have seen in my child is remarkable. Thank you Villa Montessori. |
| 4/15/2011 | parent | The middle school is awful. The teachers are overwhelmed and so are the students. There is no direction or communication between the teachers themselves or the teachers and the parents. They try too hard to cram the academics into tiny spaces of time inbetween, expensive land labs, adventrue trips, projects and other events. The trips are great! You get what you pay for. But my child has so much homework that, I might as well be home-schooling. |
| 3/23/2011 | parent | The middle school is a mess. The teachers have been quiting all year. No direction, no leadership and frustrated parents. Students are cramming at the last minute, given very little direction. My daughter attended a private junior high and comparing the two is night and day. The only advantage to this middle school is the great land labs, small class size and good kids. Although the teachers are all working hard, they work alone and are trying to keep their heads above water. Two week cycle classes are all about cramming at the last minute. Day planners are given out but no one follows up to make sure these kids know what to do with it. Prep for IB courses? What a joke. Looking back on elementary school, the kids were not properly prepared to flounder in this disorganized agenda. Because these kids are achievers they will get back but what a waster for two years. |
| 3/3/2011 | parent | uugh this kindergarten year stinks...why is it most other school still offer full day kindergarten at no charge, but not here. Here, you only get 2 hours (NOT even a half day!) and part of that is eaten up with lunch and pickup. To stay all day costs over $700 a month. That's ridiculous. My child is missing a ton of learning time. I wish we'd gone to one of the other dozens of schools in the immediate area with full day kindergarten. |
| 2/27/2011 | parent | I wish I could rate the school in different categories. While I liked the Montessori approach and gentle/respectful teaching style, and I liked the community with the other parents, I was very disappointed the school has no sports teams (at least not at my child's grade), absolutely no foreign language (they have only a fee-based, after-school program that is weak) and no real music or arts program (they do have a ceramics class, but that's it.) We moved to another school this year that has the arts and sports and especially offers foreign language so our daughter can learn at a young age when it is easier. |
| 1/1/2011 | other | Villa abandoned it's Montessori like customs. Great school for k-3 and 7-8 but 4th 5th and 6th grade fails. The teachers seem stressed and cranky (except for some) and the classrooms are not a fun environment. I would say go to villa for K-8 only because of the wonderful 7-8th grade teachers and campuses. k-3 is awesome also, but it is the 4th through 6th that needs improvement. |
| 8/4/2010 | parent | What a wonderful school! After having our children attend another Montessori School in the area and then moving to Villa we are so happy!!! This is such a great school with such a great community!!! |
| 8/2/2010 | teacher | I was both a parent and an educator at Villa. There were so many great things about the Montessori environment, but the school does not provide support for parents or teachers who do not do exactly what the administration wants. There is no room for us to suggest improvements and have them received. It is unfortunate because the middle school program at the school is wonderful for children and the school has the potential to be truly great if it would really listen to its teachers (and parents.) I have since moved to another school and found it to be much more open to discussions with teachers. An administration that listens to its teachers is one that will constantly improve the quality of its programs and education for the students. I recommend looking for a school that incorporates this attitude not just as lip service, but real action. |
| 7/2/2010 | parent | My son attended Villa from 4th grade through middle school and it was an excellent experience and provided him with a quality education. He entered an IB program in high school, graduated with 17 college credits as a National Merit Scholar, and is now attending college via an academic scholarship, majoring in microbiology and computer science. Villa gave him the foundation for this success! |
| 5/28/2010 | parent | My daughter, now 13, attended Villa from Kindergarten through 3rd grade. Transitioning to Public School was tough; however, now- well, my daughter just won the 7th Grade Math Award for her school!!!! Her social skills, academic capabilities and creativity learned at Villa during those crucial years has enabled my girl to excel in later grades. In fact, she already knows what profession she will enter on college graduation: she wants to be a writer and a K-12 teacher!!!!!! Wow. Thank you Villa, Jennifer, Patty, et al! WONDERFUL FOR EARLY YEARS! |
| 5/18/2010 | parent | My daughter attended Villa from 2 years all the way through 8th grade. She is now at a large 1700 student public school in all AP classes with all A's the entire year - including Spanish. Most importantly though, is that she has developed seemingly the entire school as friends and is very, very happy and a strong individual. We can't thank Villa enough for preparing her - in all areas of academics and socially! We highly recommend Villa. Valerie Richardson |
| 5/18/2010 | other | that school is awsome you could play and do the chekerboard ssbbbd dbdbbbedbd dhhdhhdhhdhd g,,,,, g,,,,,,,,,,, |
| 5/17/2010 | parent | New rules for kinder stink. It's only 2 hours long in the afternoon (way to break up my day) from 12:30 - 2:30. After having my child in preschool there for 2 years (and paying dearly for it) we weren't grandfathered. We weren't even included in the decision process. Ya, I get the funding has been cut, but the way it was handled stinks. We parents should be included in the process and at a minimum personally addressed when the school decided to pull a switch-a-roo after all these years. |
| 4/16/2010 | other | These ladies are wonderful!! I have never attended a place with such a positive environment. You can literally feel the positive energy once you step onto the campus and it is only confirmed when you are greeted with a friendly conversation from any staff member on campus. The staff is not only soft spoken but unique and hilarious in their own way. After meeting Mary and Margo, I see why. Mary and Margo are the perfect model of a peaceful yet diplomatic souls. I not only feel confident and safe to leaving my children at Villa. Though these staff member don t have time for global language issues, etc. (as someone has previously commented), they certainly have time for the things that count, my children. |
| 4/13/2010 | parent | To Whom it May Concern: This is a letter of appreciation to the Villa Montessori Staff; of note: Lura Amparan(Elementary I Teacher), Mary Orlando(Vice Principal), Margo O Neial(Principal), Christy Cantu(Elementary II Teacher) and Becky Barmore and Thia Lutich(Luras Assistants). The following all happened in the 2009-2010 academic year: We have 4 children in our family--2 of which currently attend Villa Montessori in Phoenix, Arizona. Our eldest son is in 4th Grade--the first year at the Elementary II Campus. No matter how you prepare, it is a BIG, BIG change from Elementary I to Elementary II and does not always go as smoothly as one would want. Our son was having trouble sleeping, did not want to go to school, was isolating himself and having a difficult time finding a group of friends with the same values as he. Christy, his teacher, was open to communicating with him directly in person, via e-mail or via notes. My son did not feel comfortable approaching his last teacher until he had been in her class for 2 years--very conservative with his confidants. Christy helped him learn to communicate in a form he was comfortable with and allowed us, his parents, to gently encourage him while he is embarking on learning self-reliance. She also set up situations in the classroom for him to work with kids at his level academically with similar values. He now has strong friendships, feels safe at school, still having some trouble sleeping but much better than things were at the beginning of the year. I credit much of this to Christy and her experience of helping kids transition to Elementary II from Elementary I. She also had the insight to ask for assistance from Mary, the Vice Principal, who has a wonderful way of approaching children, engaging them and motivating them to reach higher than they thought they could. Mary, also, was open to suggestions from parents. My son I mentioned above, has a friend who had a head injury this year. His friend was lucky and only has minor long-term deficits. I am in the health care profession and suggested a program from one of the local hospitals. This program addresses risk-taking behavior, the physical and psychological consequences and prevention of serious injuries to children from elementary school to high school ages. I am happy to say this program was presented to the Elementary II Students at Villa Montessori within months. Our eldest daughter is in Elementary I with Lura. This is her second year with Lura and she is thriving academically. Socially, she has had a very difficult time this year. She has a group of girls she plays with, some are very good friends of hers. There is a child prone to bullying in the group and this accelerated second semester. We chose Villa in part due to their anti-bullying policy (you may find this in the school handbook). Bullying comes in many forms: exclusion, gossiping, putting someone down repeatedly, telling them they are not doing things right. . . .when it happens consistently enough for a child to come home in tears, it needs to be addressed. Lura was open to my phone calls and e-mails re: this. Lura, Becky and Thia responded by monitoring the groups activities on the playground. They had many meetings at the Peace Pole to help them work it out. Children are very smart, know when they are being watched and adapt to the situation. Lura was very resourceful and able to identify the continuing problem. My daughter knew what the right thing to do was, had been warned there would be retaliation from the bully and was therefore scared to do the right thing . Lura set up a mentor-friend for my daughter--an older girl to help my daughter learn to stand up for herself with supervision by the staff. Even with this, the bullying continued. Once again, Mary assisted the wonderful teachers of Villa. Mary and Lura met with the girls and continue to do so to encourage healthy friendships and to learn how to treat a friend. Marys approach was to encourage the girls to sort out their differences this year as they will be the oldest in the class next year and the younger girls will look up to them. My daughter said, Miss Mary has a way of helping us know what to do in a kind way. Well said, my dear! I am very thankful our children have a safe place to get an education --not just academically, but to learn to be part of community. I highly recommend Villa Montessori to anyone looking for a Montessori education in a charter school setting--it doesn t get better than this! H.M. Newton April 2010 |
| 3/31/2010 | student | You are referring to languages for young students. I had Spanish 3 times a week starting in 1st grade. By freshmen year in High School I spoke Spanish well enough to spend 7 weeks in Panama with a non-English speaking family. It is funny that you say Villa lacks in 'moving forward in the global world' because I feel that one of the school's major focuses is making global citizens. We learn about children all over the world, have guest speakers from foreign countries, celebrate global holidays and learn to map the world starting at age 3. Villa has such a different way of teaching that some may not 'get it,' but there is definitely a major global focus of the school and ample opportunities for students to learn about many foreign cultures and languages. |
| 3/23/2010 | parent | We are moving my son to another school that offers foreign language. VM only offers it one day a week, after school and it costs a lot of money. The new school includes it as part of the daily curriculum so he will be exposed to it regularly and at no additional charge. |
| 3/7/2010 | parent | Regarding the previous review, it may be that the foreign language program disappears in later years, but I can vouch for the fact that immersion Spanish is offered once or twice a week in Kindergarten. It is extra-curricular, however. |
| 3/6/2010 | parent | We loved the atmosphere and philosophy of Montessori, but have been very disappointed that the school seems unwilling to move forward in this global world by implementing any foreign language program. What little the school offers starts too little, too late. And, when we inquired about the possibility of adding a language program, we were told NO, that was not what the school was interested in. Many schools around the Valley now have extensive foreign language or actual immersion programs that will give kids a better future in the new global economy. We have since left for a school that took our concerns about foreign language more seriously. This school met with us, listened to us and we have felt listened to and valued. I wish we could have had this kind of communication at Villa Montessori. |
| 4/19/2009 | student | I am a student of Villa Montessori and have been in this school since the third grade. Not only have I soared academically, but I have transformed from a scared, insecure child, to a social, fun-loving young teen. I am currently in seventh grade, and loving it. We are not only encouraged to do the best that we can, middle school students actually take part in multiple fundraisers, like Salad Bar, the student-run company that orders food from restaraunts, and distributes that food to fellow kids. I am a part of that mini-company, and in the position of secretary, I order food from other companies. In that experience I have learned how to deal with strangers in a professional manner. In the curriculum there are three 'worlds', or classes that teach particular things, like 'Natural World' is basically science class. I love this school, just beware some teachers for the 4-6th |
| 12/3/2008 | parent | My child has been at Villa since the 4th grade. What seems chaos in the class is actually 'structured freedom'. The children know the assignments and are given the freedom to work on the assignments in the way that it is confortable to them whether it is on the floor or at a table. If any parent spent time in the classroom they would see the creativity that comes from this environment. It's the way Montessori schools were meant to be and I for one love it. The teachers are incredible at handling the various personalities of all the children. My child is not only learning more than she did in the traditional public schools but is no longer bored. |
| 12/3/2008 | parent | Villa Montessori is a wonderful school. My daughter was moved from a 'gifted' school where she was bored to death and hated school. Now she is challenged and really enjoys going to school. She is happy, feels safe, and adores her teacher. She has been at Villa for two years and each year has been better than the last. Management and discipline are handled better at Villa than the previous school, too. Villa and other charter schools get less money than traditional public schools so there is more fund raising. However, the fund raising is optional and I have never been pressured to contribute but I do because I love the school and want to see it thrive. Villa is truly a wonderful educational experience. |
| 11/30/2008 | parent | My child transferred in from a school that was 'performing' or worse. It was ranked well below the bottom 1/3 of all schools in the state and it showed. The teacher was a wonderful person but overwhelmed, underpaid, and overworked, especially with the class being a 28:1 ratio. When my child arrived at Villa she was obviously way behind her peers but I was assured that she would make her own progress and never feel pressured to 'catch up'; thanks to the montessori philosophy she has truly begun to thrive. I love the single digit ratios and the relaxed environment. We are thrilled and priviledged to have our child in a top 25 school like Villa and it is worth every penny they might try to squeeze out of us in the near future. |
| 10/28/2008 | parent | I have two children at Villa. One in preprimary and one in elementary. Villa has and still is providing an incredible education both inside and outside the classroom. Their teachers are amazing. Both teachers understand my children as individuals and teach them based on their academic advances and academic needs. This is the beauty if Villa Montessori! Your child does not try to fit into the school (like most schools need you to do). The school fits around the needs of your child. That is why Villa Montessori is a 'superior' and 'excelling' school. That is why we choose Villa to educate our children! |
| 9/29/2008 | parent | I have had an incredible experience with the teachers at Villa. I am always made to feel welcome and enjoy my opportunities to volunteer for ceramics, help out with class parties and attend the great variety of field trips that the teachers have set up for the students. If there is a concern, teachers are always available after school or via e-mail. I find Villa to be an enriching environment that allows for opportunities for parents to be involoved. |
| 8/15/2008 | parent | I've been a great school supporter in the past and consistently given them the benefit of the doubt. Enough is enough with their continued sales pitch and lack of follow-through. The Villa mantra of we love our parents and want them involved in their classroom stops at the classroom door and the car line. My student's upper and lower elementary teachers all talked the talk but do not walk the walk. I've had a student at this school for many years. Parents are not made to fell welcome in the classroom unless you are a big money donator or have free resources they want. They consistently avoid returning phone calls or emails about important issues regarding students, problems or academics. This is common knowledge among the non-teaching staff and other parents I have spoke to about the school. Too much click -i-ness and not enough love of students. |
| 8/5/2008 | parent | I agree with the previous posting saying the meanness and cruelty would not be tolerated at public school and also those who say the administration is difficult to deal with. Some of the teachers also model unkind behavior. We will not be returning. I recommend anyone considering the school really listen to their gut and observe whether the children look happy. I also recommend that if you do choose this school you 'drop in' to visit your child in class, PE and at recess. Don't just listen to the teachers and pep talks, listen with your own ears to what is going on at Villa. |
| 7/1/2008 | parent | The previous reviewer referenced 'over the top fundraising'. That is nonsense. Of course there are fundraisers (the main one being the auction)--such is the reality of trying to run a charter school with poor funding from the state--but there are no 'high pressure' calls to your home asking for money or anything like that. On the other topic, I'd like the Head of School to be a bit more visible around campus, but she is certianly a million times more capable than leaders that you will find at a typical district school... |
| 6/27/2008 | parent | Our experience matches those who previously expressed disappointment with the Head of the School (inattentive and unprofessional), unmet academic expectations, and over the top fundraising. Certainly there are problems at any school...some schools self evaluate and correct them, it's called accountability. |
| 4/10/2008 | parent | Villa is only great if your child does not have special needs. I have fought with them for so long to provide the proper education for him. Unfortunately their only solution was for him to be taken to a different school. |
| 3/20/2008 | parent | I was fortunate to find Villa Montessori 13 years ago when I was looking for childcare for my then infant son. In our time at Villa, my son has become a self assured young man ready to take on the challenges of high school next year. I believe he has received a superb education from the well trained teachers he has had. He has also learned about a multitude of topics that he might not have learned until high school had he attended any other school. I count myself lucky that Villa has been there to educate my son and I would highly recommend it to any parent seeking a high quality school that has a great family like atmosphere. |
| 2/12/2008 | parent | Villa Montessori has been the best experience for 2 of my children. Both my children excelled and thrived afer changing from other schools. For a child, the environment and influence at Villa elementary and middle schools provide a strong foundation for compassionate leaders and lifelong learners. |
| 2/6/2008 | parent | Villa was great in the younger grades but my kids lost ground after 3rd grade. When they hated school, I knew it was time to look elsewhere. Their classes were wildly out of control in terms of discipline and order. My eldest child just reminded me that for his entire 6th grade he 'got away with doing nothing.' We have found a school that is far more organized and challenging and my kids finally love school and learning. |
| 1/22/2008 | parent | I have put trust in the teachers and administrators at Villa Montessori for 10 years and found that they are helpful and honest. It is this honesty along with knowledge about the Montessori philosophy that makes the administration effective and good for the community. I know that Montessori isn't the perfect place for all children with it's need for self-direction, but it has been great for both of my children. |
| 1/17/2008 | parent | I think this is a wonderful school and have been nothing but happy. My child has attended for many years and he is excelling in all areas, but more importantly, he loves school. The teachers are wonderful, caring, supportive and well trained. The parent community is like a family and full of support. Bravo Villa Montessori! |
| 1/11/2008 | parent | The common line at Villa is trust us. Okay, I will trust you when you respond to parents concerns begin providing consistent education and provide a classroom of learning that stimulates my child. I say this to perspective parents. Margo (principle/owner) has a long history of being inattentive to parents concerns and is unable to offer or provide any substance beyond philosophical Montessori practices. Her conflict resolution skills are horrendous and she would rather you leave the school then question how she runs the school. Our problem is that we have expectations that a school has experienced consistent teaching practices, administrators that are responsive and a curriculum that can be taught consistently. |
| 10/15/2007 | parent | Villa has been and continues to be a second home for my 3 girls. My oldest daughter attended Villa from the age of 2 thru the 8th grade. She nows attends a public high school and has thrived in all Advanced placement classes. She was extremely well prepared for the jump to 'public' school and cherishes her years at Villa. My two youngest daughters are currently enrolled in Villa's Toddler and Elementary programs. They are also thriving and I am confident that they are having their individual academic and emotional needs met. The teachers are outstanding and go the extra mile for the children. My experience with the administration has been nothing but positive, they are always looking at ways to have the school be the best there is and what is right for all children is at the top of the list. Schedule a tour, it's the best there is. |
| 9/25/2007 | parent | I had researched many schools before choosing Villa Montessori for my children. I couldn't be happier with my decision. My children are challenged daily while receiving nuturing support from their teachers and peers. The classrooms are clean, organized, peaceful and stimulating. As far as extra-cirricular activities, all charte schools struggle with this due to finances and space availability. With this in mind, my second grader has managed to be involved in Karate, Boy Scouts, Running Club and soccer. All on campus! I am exhausted, but he is having a blast! I absolutely love this school, this faculty and staff, and my fellow parents who all work tirelessly to keep improvements happening! I highly recommend that you schedule a tour of this school and learn what we are all about! |
| 9/25/2007 | parent | I have two children here at Villa in the toddler and preprimary program. I feel that my children are getting the best care possible. The teachers are fantastic and really make each child feel special. I feel blessed to be a part of such a great community. |
| 9/25/2007 | parent | We've had two children at Villa for five years. We researched every Montessori School in the Phoenix area before moving to Phoenix. We were amazed at the extracurricular activities offered! We have had experience with the Pre-Primary, Elem.I, Elem.II and Middle School levels. Our children have different needs and challenges. We have been very happy at every level. Each stage has been appropriate for its Montessori and developmental level. Our children have been treated with respect to their individual needs and personalities. Their teachers have been wonderful, kind and have prepared them for the next step. We also experienced Special Education. They helped walk us through the process and provided the support that our child needed to achieve personal best. The Middle School experience has been amazing! Watching our anxious child blossom and excel academically and socially has been a joy! Villa has been worth the daily 90 minute drive! |
| 9/24/2007 | parent | I now have two children at this school... soon to be three, as we are on the waiting list. We are so impressed with the supportive administration, compassionate and knowledgeable teachers, and respectful students at this school. We wonder what took us so long to find this gem! The teachers and staff have an impeccable way with supporting each child s needs and developing the whole child . Extra curricular activities are age appropriate for each grade level, with a wide variety of options. Volunteering opportunities are endless and enjoyable. We love getting the chance to participate in our children s education. We feel we are getting a private education for free. We have found the Villa Montessori community to be one of the most supportive and positive influences in our family s lives. I feel I can t do this school justice in just a few words. |
| 9/24/2007 | parent | My experience with Villa gets better and better each year. My children love school! Focus is placed on the whole child and both my son and daughter are excelling both academically and socially. This last year, with the new discipline policy many positive changes occured. The administration really stepped up and got involved in a consistent plan and behavior in classrooms and on the playground is better. They really took a stance against bullying. I see the teachers as organized, committed, and helpful. They have a genuine love for the students. I love the community at Villa Montessori and I plan to keep my children there through middle school. |
| 9/24/2007 | parent | I think Villa Montessori is a wonderful school. I recently moved my son from a 'gifted' school to Villa to join my daughter in Elementary II. My daughter is happy and thriving and I couldn't be happier with her teacher. My son, now in another Elementary II class, is also feeling challenged and loving school. His brightness and talents are better met with the Montessori philosophy and I feel the level of commitment from the teachers is much higher. Management and discipline are handled better, too. I love the level at which I can be involved and the unique experiences both children get to have. I appreciate everyone at Villa Montessori and the personalized attention our family has received. |
| 9/18/2007 | parent | Villa is decent in preprimary but not in later grades. Teaching quality is inconsistent. You never know what your child is learning, if anything. Most teachers are too busy to listen to parents. There are some really good teachers, however, many are defensive, disorganized and can't seem to manage the students. The principal is never around. She didn't return phone calls for weeks. Once she did, we were met with denials, excuses, promises but no results. Nothing is perfect but there are better schools around. Our new school has weekly progress reports, great extracurriculars, a brilliant principal, a PTA, fewer demands on parents and happy families who stay! I waited some time to write this in case I changed my mind, but I can now say without regret that our decision to leave Villa was a wise one for our family. |
| 6/12/2007 | parent | We've been very disappointed in Villa after only a couple years. Our local public school was better organized, equipped and managed. The school is demanding of parents' time & money, but parents are turned down when they want improved discipline or better communication. A few teachers seem to be pretty good, but others can't manage the kids or they're gone all the time. Many of the kids are wildly out of control and no one seems to notice. Our kids' AIMS scores actually declined in the years we were there. We've hired tutors for the summer and we're playing catchup for the new |
| 6/4/2007 | parent | chaos in classrooms, poor communication at administrative levels, discipline problems and underachievement of kids. My kids are at a new school and their scores have soared along with motivation and self-confidence. Villa was great in the younger grades, but once most kids get beyond grade 3, they lose ground. We miss the great families and some of the talented teachers, but we've never been happier since the move. Villa was once the finest in the Valley. They need to catch up to neighboring public schools with basics such as a developed music program, computer lab, library, lunch program, weekly progress reports emailed to parents, discipline policy they stand behind, etc. If they listened to parents, they may be able to turn it around! |
| 5/24/2007 | parent | Our children have enjoyed their preprimary and elementary years at Villa. Teachers have been kind, compassionate and thoughtful in their teaching methods and interaction with children and parents. Extracuriculars are available and quite varied. Our kids are growing academically (above grade level) and personally. It is a community in which they feel safe and we feel comfortable. |
| 5/8/2007 | parent | My experience was nightmarish as I watched my child go from a motivated to non-motivated learner in Elem I. Villa's assessments validated a downhill trend; I was treated dismissively by teacher and admin. as I sought solutions to the problem; 'let's wait and see' was a put off because there is not enough admin. to address parent concerns, or supervise teachers/classrooms. An independent reading comprehension eval revealed 'holes in learning.' My advice to parents: use open enrollment and find a good school quickly if you see problems. The new school contacted me the first week to address deficits. This child now reads voraciously and made the Principal's list. Some Villa parents fear public schools; when I read the new school Code of Conduct, I knew there were peer behaviors (harassment, meanness) tolerated at Villa that would NEVER be tolerated in the new setting. My child is now more secure and flourishing. |
| 4/25/2007 | parent | We're pulling our kids out of Villa. The classrooms are disorganized, the teachers don't have a good handle on classroom management. The administration lacks leadership. They won't return phone calls and evade parent concerns. Compared to other schools, Villa is weak in music, art, extracurriculars. I am worried that my children have fallen behind. |
| 2/6/2007 | parent | Villa Montessori has been a great choice for our three children since preschool. The best asset that Villa has, are the teachers. The teachers provide very individualized attention with academics and with each child personally. Our experience has been exceptional and it has impacted the independence and self confidence of our children, each in their own way. The staff is approachable, willing and caring. |
| 2/1/2007 | parent | It became another job for my husband and me. Poor quality teaching. Too many kids in ea. class. Kids are out of control. Parents always fundraising. They nickle and dime you to death. Lots of nice parents and some good teachers, but too inconsistent for us. |
| 11/12/2006 | parent | Villa has been home to my family since 1994. My son attended school here at Villa, from the time he was 4 years old. He is now a Junior at Brophy. He was well prepared for his classes in high school, and has had the confidence to tackle all of the new challenges that come his way, both academically and socially. I always felt welcome by the teachers to discuss issues that related to my son, academically and personally and found them a great resource, as a parent. I volunteered often and made many close friends over the years doing so. We have another child at Villa, now in kindergarten, and I see him thriving, as well, and as before, the teachers and assistants have been there at each step to give 100% and more for his individual needs as well as mine. |
| 8/15/2006 | parent | Love the idea of villa, but gave up on unmet promises. Great parents. Teachers are hit or miss. Some are excellent. One of my kids lost 2years in an out-of-control room. Assistants and subs belittled the kids, creating a culture of 'bad kids.' The promise of one teacher for 3 years was a mirage. Coordination between campuses is frustrating. The bus - sometimes the only option - is costly and unreliable. Despite numerous attempts by parents to creat one, there is no organized parent organization. Infighting and competition among grades 4-6 teachers made fundraising difficult for costly overnight field trips. Parents have no voice with administration. The middle school, which is what drew us to villa in the first place, went downhill. My kids begged to switch schools. Villa gave them a great beginning, and I hope the school can recapture the founding strengths that contribute to its great reputation. |
| 8/3/2006 | student | I have been going to Villa since third grade, and i have loved every minute of it. I went to a traditional school before this, and it struggled to keep nme interested. At villa, however, I am kept very busy=).Another thing I feel I must add is that I have clinical anxiety, and while I have faced many challenges life has thrown at me, my teachers and peers have been by my side. The middle school is amazing...I advise you to look into it. I am now about to enter eigth grade (my last year at villa), and I can honestly say that I would not be the person I am today without this school. I have done more in my thirteen years of living than many people do in their entire lives because of this school. I really will miss this school...because of them, I know I can succeed in life. |
| 5/5/2006 | parent | Villa is wonderful for the preprimary education, but after that, it's hit or miss depending on the teacher you get. Some are incredibly qualified and exceptional, some are, shall I say, Not! When my children moved on to other programs because we were not satisfied with Villa, we found they were unacceptably behind (i.e. not reading after the third grade) although we had been led to believe otherwise by their teachers. It is a great community, but unfortunately, that isn't much consolation. |
| 3/29/2006 | parent | Just an outsiders view of my initial impressions. The school definitely offers the wide range of activities that any average school would have. There was a calm atmosphere in the rooms, lots of things going on without disruption. Definitely a place for self starters, the kids were so interested in their work--very refreshing to see. |
| 1/24/2006 | parent | Have been a Villa for years and years since toddler age. It is wonderful for infants/toddler, preprimary and lower elementary. A bit less satisfied with upper elementary and middle school...but this could be due in part to this being a more difficult age for kids. |
| 11/21/2005 | parent | There are tons of great extra curricular activities like a chess club, drama, hip-hop, and cooking. The only sport available through the school is soccer. The teacher turnover for my son's classroom has been ridiculous. One teacher just left in the middle of the year without saying anything to her students or thier parents. If you child is not a self-starter or very self disciplined, this school does not do much to help them. I find that I tell the teachers when my son's homework has not been turned in. They don't seem to notice on thier own. The sense of community between parents is nice. We're leaving the school this year. They just don't seem to be trying to better themselves anymore, thier test scores are unimpressive, and I'm tired of feeing like I'm the only one taking a special interest in my son's individual sucess. |
| 10/10/2005 | parent | Villa Montessori is a wonderful school. My child was not successful in a traditional school setting. She has been very successful at Villa. With their hands-on Montessori Math, she has made a great deal of progress. The school offers Music, PE, Art Masterpiece, and many fieldtrip experiences. |
| 8/29/2005 | parent | I have two children at Villa - both under 4-years old. They love it and they are thriving so I am very pleased with the programs. The teacher to student ratio is good. The programs keep children interested and involved. I like the parental involvement required - 10-hours/year. I researched many options before placing my kids at Villa. I have never regretted my decision. |
| 8/20/2005 | parent | Excellent program. Kids work at their own pace. Student responsible for making sure tasks are completed on schedule. Values stressed. Non-violent, peaceful resolution to problems practiced. Bullying is not tolerated. They teach to the whole child, working with the student's strengths and weaknesses. Teachers are very caring and involved with the students. Small groups, hands-on teaching. Low student-to-teacher ratio. Parental involvement required, 10 hours per family per school year. Many parents actively involved in all aspects of school life. Several teachers are former Villa students. |
| 8/19/2005 | parent | What a great year! Villa has got their act together!! Staff working fabulously together, campuses just seem so peaceful! Definitely upward and onward! So organized and ready for a great year! |
| 7/24/2005 | parent | My son starts 3rd grade at Villa Montessori this year, and has gone since Kindergarten. He loves it there. He has needed some extra attention, and he's gotten it. Their philosophy of teaching each child at their own level works out great. We have really been impressed with the level of parent involvement at its many functions. They offer P.E. twice a week, music, Spanish and pottery once a week and many extra-curricular activities. Even among other Montessori schools, we think this one is special. Worth driving 30 minutes each way for! |
| 7/13/2005 | parent | My daughter has attended Villa from kindergarden through 5th grade. On the surface the Montessori method, their teaching philosphy, seems like a great way to approach elementary education. Unfortunately, lack of structure, academic discipline lead to under permormance and weak motivation. The teachers expectations of the students performance is too flexible, allowing them to turn in homework assignments and projects 'whenever they get them done' doesn't teach real world consequences. I'm dissapointed in the education my child has received and will be transferring her to another school next year. |
| 6/1/2005 | parent | My child hs been at Villa since he was 2. He just completed second grade. His teacher's at Villa have all been diligent at seeing to his academic development. But equally importantly, they have all been equally attentive to his emotional and social development. I am also very happy that the school hads a peace curriculum and works hard at helping the children to resolve conflict. I love the warm encouraging atmosphere of the school as well. I do wish that the school had more of an emphasis on the arts. There is not a music program(i.e no band or orchestra), not is there theater. There is some art, but not as frequently as I would like to see. My other greatest concern is the amount of staff turnover of the assistants, though the lead teachers have many years seniority. We are very happy with the education our son receives. |
| 4/1/2005 | parent | This school has great community/parent involvement. My children love the school and the teachers. |
| 2/25/2005 | parent | We just love this school. It has a great foundation of teachers and after school support staff that makes it great. Parent Involvement is a must at the school which makes it more like a family atmosphere and the kids stick around for several years - our son has known the same bunch of kids since he was 2 years old. We love the activities they have for the kids; gymnastics, soccer, cooking classes, ceramics and the retile man. Our son has turned out to be very compassionate, a quick learner and very social person and we believe that is thanks to the team work between school and parents. |
| 2/23/2005 | parent | This school has a fantastic middle school program. It has allowed my daughter to feel as though she has been part of a family of fellow students and teachers. The academics are challenging and are complemented by a curriculum that focuses on the whole. A very well rounded, balanced education in store if you are lucky enough to get into this program. |
| 2/15/2005 | staff | The school grounds are pretty big and the kids seem to love it. Parent involvement is mandatory, and the group can be somewhat cliquish. It is very different from a public school and not pure montessori. |
| 1/5/2005 | parent | The teachers and administration are very compassionate to the needs of their students and parents. |
| 12/1/2004 | parent | My god daughter goes here and it is a great school full of caring people. |
| 11/4/2004 | parent | Teachers are great, learning is made fun. Great student to teacher ratio. The outdoor environment is supposed to be an extension of the class room but is not overseen directly by the teachers. In some areas it has become and afterthought and neglected. The after school activities are expensive and there is not a sports program available. Art classes during school are run by parent volunteers and not funded. There is not alot of school unity because of the scattered campuses. Although we loved the teachers and beautiful campus we knew our kids would benefit from a sports program, library, computer lab, science lab, school auditorium, and lunch program. There is a heavy financial burden placed on the parents to fund the growing needs of the school. Highly recommend for preschool and early education not strong enough for most 4-8th grade students. |
| 10/2/2004 | parent | The teacher at this middle school are dedicated and very organized. The curriculum is strong and interesting. My child loves her school and her teachers. |
| 7/3/2004 | former student | Our child attended this school from prekindergarten through sixth grade.He received good to excellent academic attention and this was objectively seen through great Stanford 9 scores. However, accountability for student's behavior is poor.There was no attention given to playground bullying or general disrespect students showed each other. Also, they were continually asking for more money and parents were beginning to question appropriate use of funds. |
| 10/6/2003 | parent | What a great school! My two children are thriving and I couldn't be happier. The classrooms are enticing to a curious child, so much to do and see. Parents are encouraged to be involved and contribute to an overall sense of community. The school is clearly operating with the children's best interests at heart. There is a waiting list, but definitely worth the wait. |
| 4/4/2003 | | Villa is an exceptional school. Most if not all of the children are above their grade level on all of the subjects. Villa teaches excellent values and morals. All the children respect one another as well as their superiors and just get along wonderfully. We're very happy with our choice. |
| 4/4/2003 | | Great pre-school and kindergarten program. Does not have provisions for a gifted child or any child with learning disabilities. There has been a lot of teacher turn over in the past few years. School is responsive to problems and trys to correct situations as they occur, not proactive. A lot of fund raisers and letters asking for money to help update sites for various classrooms. Excellent for first grade and under but does not seem to keep up with the academic requirements that other elementary schools in the area require. Parent involvement is the backbone of the school. |
| 3/31/2003 | | Because of extensice growth, Villa has not been able to keep its quality. |
| 10/15/2002 | | Villa (primary and elementary) is a great school! It's not pure Montessori, but still offers a great education! |
| 10/15/2002 | | My child is in 2nd grade and reads and spells at 4th grade level. Villa is a top notch school that allows the child to grow to THEIR optimum, not the class. It also provides community, values, and promotes peace. The children are very self directed. |
