This school is ranked #1 in the state for testing right now!…read more After moving to Mesa and looking at the public school reviews, I was bound and determined to find a better school for my kids to attend, even if it meant I had to drive! Luckily, I found East Valley Academy not too far from my new home. That was four years ago and I have to say that I couldn't imagine my kids attending another school. This school offers what we all want for our children that public schools don't offer. It's small, yes, and that is a huge bonus. Kid to teacher ratio is outstanding! The two classes for all grades is another advantage over other schools. These kids learn together and help each other! They also devote more time to learning the basics. They do plays and take field trips often and they have holiday parties that you can even bake for! My son was reading after only two months in kindergarten and now is reading at a 6th grade level in 3rd grade. My daughter ranked top 3% in the nation for her math skills on the state test in 3rd grade and she just recently tested into Algebra 1 for 7th grade that she will obtain high school credit for! If you are looking for a great education that does not teach the Common Core, then look no further! Check out their stats and I'll see you there next year!

I can't say enough good things about East Valley Academy. I'll start with a little background…read moreinformation to show the difference in quality. My daughter went to K and 1st grade at a public school in the Paradise Valley school district. We had problem after problem, such as bullying, and her 1st grade teacher lying to me and brushing off inconsistencies I noticed in my daughter's learning. She got A's, but I could tell she wasn't really learning much. My daughter is very smart but defiant. I was spending an extraordinary amount of time supplementing her education. I talked to other parents who had to do the same but seemed resigned to their fate. She didn't have a love of learning. However, during her last two years with East Valley Academy (EVA) everything has turned around. She learned more in the first two months than she did in the previous two years at her public school. EVA focuses on phonics based reading and Saxon math, not Common Core. They took her down to the building blocks of phonics she'd never learned and built her reading up from there. She went from a Kindergarten reading level to a 3rd grade reading level in her first year there (2nd grade). Her math became much more proficient as well, and she was doing well in every subject. Ms. Stoeppelmann also identified her ADD before I could. Both teachers were very responsive and thorough when giving feedback about her attention span, moods, organization, etc., while trying to find the right medication. This showed me how well they know each of their students. Most importantly for me, though, is that she now has a love of learning. I truly can't see her having this level of success at any other school. She has even scored high on more difficult tests than most high school students take. EVA has even positively affected our home life. I've always been an involved parent, but am no longer spending hours after school patching all the holes in learning that her last school was leaving, which led to many disagreements and friction between my daughter and myself. This school is small. Very small. Don't let that deter you. It operates similarly to a little red schoolhouse. It's not fancy, but the size allows for individual attention for each student in a way that the teachers can really get to know their learning styles and be able to work with them. Ms. Stoeppelmann and Mr. Ryan are excellent teachers, with years of experience, who have such finesse with conveying the information that the kids thoroughly learn it. That is crucial to me. The perks of this school are many. There is a sense of community among parents and kids, which also eliminates bullying. If something does arise it's easily resolved with the parents and teachers. This sense of community also opens the door for celebration of the different cultures of the students. The lunch break is longer so the kids have some real free time to recharge and focus better while in class. EVA also takes many field trips as well with plenty of parent chaperones. This school isn't the easy way out. My daughter works hard to get her good grades, and I've worked with her and the school to keep her success going. But for every bit of effort I put in, the teachers put in at least twice as much. Unlike the public school the dialogue between families and teachers is open. To me these are what make the difference between every other school and this one. EVA is there solely to teach kids and help them reach their potential. They care about these kids.

I personally went to Heritage Academy for a couple years as a student at this location in Mesa. I…read morethink that this truly was the best school I ever went to as a kid. I learned a lot from this school that no public school would be willing to teach. They offer all different types of languages, I learned Latin in 7th grade. Also, they offer amazing electives as well as spontaneous field trips. I probably never would have seen the Grand Canyon if I did not go to this school.. I'm very grateful to have gotten the opportunity to go to this school and I'm definitely hoping my kids can do the same thing!

I came to Heritage Academy Mesa for 1 year and absolutely despised it with my entire heart. Sure…read morethere's fridays off and "hot lunches" that your parents may order for you, but I want to tell you about my and other "scholars*" experiences. Scholars is the name that the teachers call the students at Heritage Academy by. I will give you all the reasons why this year was terrible and will not use their writing style (CRED's)* Creds stands for Claim, Reason, Evidence, Discussion, and teachers will use Harvard Keyword Outlines alongside it because this is a review and I'm lazy. Remember that this is completely biased and won't be everyone's experience at this school. And also take into account that this is for the Mesa campus, as it is very tiny and squished. Also, I will not be using my real name for my own safety (this is not my direct account). I would like to talk about the staff and "scholars", both the good and the bad, and the beliefs pushed onto "scholars" by sending your child here. I would like to start with the fact that many of the staff and "scholars" are Mormon (LDS) and your child will have this influence if you send your child here. (I'm not trying to say it's bad or anything I'm just an Ex and I prefer not to hear about it) staff will not hesitate to say where they were married in one of their temples, but often doesn't go beyond it. But some do mention church on other occasions. Also, "scholars" tend to be homophobic/ transphobic and that may affect your child. Although some staff will go easy on you when in class, some are hardcore (I will not name anyone for their privacy). Overall the staff also will push patriotic beliefs on "scholars" and is a highly christian based school. For your information and child safety, teachers also can use "scholar" bathrooms. Although there have been no incidents that I have heard of, once there was a teacher watching corn (adults know what I mean) and accidently broadcasted it to that class by accident. The teacher was fired luckly, but thought I'd mention that. Also, that was not my experience for some context and happened in the previous school year. That concludes the staff/ "scholar background paragraph. There have been incidents of sexual harassment by some of the more tiresome "scholars", and then continue to say that what you said wasn't scholarly, (the experience of sexual harassment was not mine and the students that harrassed the other one were thankfully suspended). The principal*, when I said I would like this (person they were interviewing) should replace my teacher because the person being interviewed was better at teaching the subject, slapped me (gently) on the arm, which made me EXTREMELY uncomfortable (she likely did because she thought I was joking) *This Person will no longer be principal for the 2026-2027 school year* A similar experience happened when I made a dark poem and wrote it on my assignment to get myself to stop laughing during class when she wanted us to shut up. About a week later, she talked to me publicly about it (before class when everyone was talking) and touched my arm out of concern- which made me very uncomfortable, even if she was concerned about me. In general, most of the staff make me uncomfortable just by sitting in a room with them. Now, about the rules and standards of this school. That dress code is one of the most strict I have seen.(I haven't been to many schools, but I have heard of similar schools having less strict dress codes that I will not be naming). As I have almost been dress coded on a "Dollars 4 Duds"* day Dollars for Duds is a day scheduled by Heritage where you can bring cash in exchange for wearing normal clothes- with a strict dress code 'but at least its something' now continuing what I was attempting to say for a semi- cropped top that you could see some of my stomach when lifting up my arms, and it wasn't noticed towards late in the day. I also couldn't wear anything over 4 inches above the knee, which was a huge challenge for me, even if my clothes are pretty modest (other than the crop top). Which is why I kind of think its a scam to look normal at this school. Also on the "no profanity" rule, teachers either don't blink an eye (except for some) or have terrible hearing because I have never seen someone get a Log Entry for swearing. PDA is also challenging to deal with, as you can't hug, kiss, or really do anything.Now to the English program, that is tedious. The English program at this school is extremely advanced and will constantly have you on your toes with CRED's and Harvard Keyword Outlines, SO's Sentence Openers, SV's Strong Verbs, which are all DU's Dress Ups which are only stressful once it's implemented. Now these Rules and standards are incredibly challenging to deal with. Except for swearing because of reason stated - which is incredibly hilarious. Now for the random things I have complaints about. "Hot Lunches" are kind of a scam. Especially because of

4 of my 5 kids go to Self Development Academy (1 is currently in Preschool and 3 in higher grade…read morelevels). We've had positive experiences since our kids started here in the 2's and 3's on the preschool side. My 6 other nieces and nephews also attend this school and we've all had a great experience with SDP and SDA. This school has high rankings in academics but also has a wonderful team who all have your children's best interest at heart. Dr. Majeed, Miss Vernetta, all the teachers Miss Mickey, Miss Amber, Miss Haschke, Miss Oliver, Miss Jenn C., even all the front desk staff (Lonnie, Deena, Brittni), and especially the principal Jenn Salvatori have all been wonderful and helpful with our kids! There was recently an issue with another child was being very rude/disrespectful a couple of times and I reported it right away since my child was upset and crying. I'm happy to report that the resolution was swift. I was also kept updated about how it was being addressed both with the students and internally among their staff/teachers. SDA stresses the importance of the 4 R's Respect, Responsibility, Readiness, and Resiliency as well as academics with opportunities to advance. SDA was also very accommodating when we had to go to online school during COVID and truly care about your child's well being. My kids feel safe here, trust their teachers and administration, and have honestly thrived at this school since being here. I feel blessed to have this school so close to home and to trust my kids with a school that provides such solid support.

I have chosen to not post a review about SDA to stay positive and let that horrible time in my…read morefamily's life go, but seeing this article in our local paper is too much. This school is focused so solely on high achievement that they will do everything possible to push out children who do not perform. My daughter went here with minimal issue, other than adjusting to the old school dictation-style teaching and an isolated situation where a stessed teacher used questionable methods to discipline the entire class for being disruptive. My son has ADHD and was put into detentions and in-school suspension over the allowable number of times per year by state law while he was in grades K-4. He was excluded from activities and field trips, put last in his kindergarten graduation despite it being alphabetical (his name should've been read 3rd - he was th only child not listed in order) and I was constantly told how I should consider medication (again - at 5 years old). They were oblivious to handling a 504 plan. My son was so deflated by his first 5 years of school that he dreaded every day. I have spoken with numerous parents who went through similar situations at this school. The goal is obviously to overwhelm the student and their parents into removal so they don't have to deal with the situation. My son is thriving now in the great public schools in NE Mesa, but still looks back on his time at SDA with trauma. On the positive side, telling his painful experience at SDA did help with legislation to prevent schools from issuing unnecessary suspension to elementary age children. This school may be wonderful for some children, but they do not "give unconditional love" for children with ADHD. If your child is trying to find their way through this complicated journey, this is NOT the school for you.

We love Faith Christian School! We have 4 children there now, and they are in elementary, middle,…read moreand high school. We have been with the school 5 years now. We were in their wonderful homeschool program before we started attending there full time. We have one child also in their special education program and he is thriving! They care not just about their education, but about discipleship, and helping build future Christian leaders. We have participated in several sports, and have been impressed with the Christ like attitudes that we have seen. We highly recommend this school. It is a wonderful size too, where the kids know the teachers and don't get lost in the crowd.

my high schooler loves this school! we are so happy that when we moved across country we found…read moreFaith. the school curriculum is good and challenging for my daughter. the school has girls volleyball and basketball and my daughter loves playing with her classmates in a very supportive environment. i cannot say enough about how great and dedicated the teachers are and how awesome the kids are at this school (I can only speak to the high school). my daughter was at the school a week and got invited to two different get togethers. the kids are supportive, encouraging and Christlike to each other. my daughters class has great kids, great parents, and very little drama. I am so thankful that we are so blessed to have her have a great high school environment where she's being educated in regular classes and also a great solid Christian education. the spring trips are so fun and educational.

My child struggled with the traditional classroom from K-3, and he tested into a self-contained…read moregifted program through the public school district. In 4th and 5th, he continued to struggle to fit into the box imposed by the traditional classroom. We discovered Lumos before he entered 6th grade and it's the best choice we ever made. He is like a different kid and has blossomed over the last few years, finally getting good grades, feeling empowered to be himself, and even confidently performing on stage! The environment is warm and welcoming, and the teachers care about each student's success and help them find where they'll shine.

"My children began attending Lumos a couple of years ago after being homeschooled during the…read moreCOVID-19 pandemic. Both of my kids are adopted out of foster care and have unique special needs--one with more emotional challenges and the other with academic ones. Lumos has created an environment where they can both thrive, emotionally and academically. While I supplement their education with additional math tutoring at Mathnasium, I am grateful for how Lumos supports my children in developing healthy self-esteem and becoming the best versions of themselves. Although the school has undergone changes over the years, we have remained committed to our vision for our kids' success and continue to be happy with our experience at Lumos."

This private Christian school has been a true blessing to my wife and I. We found this little…read moreschool when they first opened their doors. It was a small building with wonderful teachers and staff that have big hearts. Now it continues to grow and develop with a "family" feel where parents are encouraged to help and volunteer in order to provide the best education possible. The time spent helping each child is rewarding, but to see the children develop a love for Jesus, watch the school grow academically, and grow with FCA family is way better than anything I could have imagined or hoped for. God bless the staff, children, and families. Thank you for staying on the right path and not falling into the norm at other public and private schools. If you are looking for a great place to send your children to school that will excel their education, I "HIGHLY" recommend talking with the staff at Freedom Christian Academy.

As long as this school is hear, we will too. Want to be near family out of town but, we know that…read morewe'd never find a better school! kids are highly excelling & it's because the teachers & staff are the best that there is! We love it there & I love who my children have become.

Absolutely awful experience going to this school! I was going to this school, and one of my PE…read moreteachers got so angry, that the PE teacher threw a hockey stick, hit someone, and threw a hockey puck and almost hit me (we were supposed to be doing floor hockey and the PE teacher was not fired from this and the office decided to hide it and to deny all of it). Another thing is that there is still no leadership coming from the students and staff. Another example of this is if you are not white or Mormon, you are going to feel like you are not included and everyone is going to shun you out. Also, my friend got targeted by the staff all because of him being Christian, not Mormon. He kicked something in the hallway accidentally, and it hit a teacher's foot, and then he had to go to Ms. Huso's office, when the teacher said that the thing that he accidentally kicked hit the teacher's head. Ms. Huso even looked at the footage of the camera's in the school, and it clearly showed that it didn't hit the teacher in the head. Yet, Ms. Huso thought so, so she gave him detention anyway. Most of the safety and discrimination concerns was because of Ms. Huso too, which she doesn't care about your safety if you aren't Mormon or white. My parents tried talking to her, and she tried to avoid everything that I've mentioned, and she doesn't care about your safety either. Although, the elementary school for ALA Gilbert North is incredible at putting safety first. If you are on the waitlist or you are trying to get into the highschool for ALA Gilbert North, it's not worth it. ALA Gilbert North Highschool needs to improve on caring more about student's safety no matter what race, or religion their in, which also makes me mention that the school needs to work on to have absolutely no discrimination that any student or staff should be dealing with in the first place.

The school is great if your Mormon, rich, and straight. I am a student it was 600 hundred dollars…read morefor a dual enrollment class. I do not know if this the normal. It's a 100 dollars for any elective, not to mention the fact that it is 3 dollars for a cosmic brownie in the cafeteria. Most of the food there is in some way concerning. Rather than fixing it they have icecream. I falling behind in classes because I can't have more than à day to grasp à new concept. The interior of the building feels depressing. In all my years of being here I have not heard anyone wanting to be there. Everyone hates it there do not send your kid here.