Montessori Education Center 2834 East Southern Avenue, Mesa, AZ 85204

"My son went here for Kindergarten. He had to do a "bridge year" after that before he could start 1st grade because he hadn't been taught to read. So kindergarten and a bridge year, because since MEC hadn't moved him forward to 1st grade officially, no other would accept him in as a 1st grader. After those 2 years at MEC, I enrolled him into a different school and he started being seriously below 1st grade standards. After 1 semester that included tutoring (not cheap) my son was caught up. In fifth grade now, (he should be in 6th!!) he's in advanced math and reading, but having gone to MEC took a lot of time, a lot of money, and an emotional toll on a child to bounce bounce back. I just don't recommend this school. Years later and I still feel compelled to warn parent to steer clear of this facility."

"I went here from 1st grade all the way up to 8th many years ago! I LOVED it!! Tammy Whiting is the BEST! I had so much fun and lots of memories. My favorite teacher was Cassie Mackey."

"My step-daughter has been attending this school for many years now and I can confirm, its simply THE BEST. Teachers are kind, respectful, and you can tell that they truly care for the children. I know she will miss the school dearly. I recommend this school completely."

"BEST SCHOOL EVER I WISH I NEVER HAD TO LEAVE sadly this is my last year at this school so I have to go but if I could rewind time I’d go here again and again. The teachers here always take both you’re education and emotions/feelings into consideration , there’s slight pressure to complete your work but the teachers are patient and supportive with you and your pace. They also teach you to just be a good person in general, I really feel like I’ve grown here, so the students are nice too (besides the occasional playful comment). I wish I had more time here but I guess I can always come back and visit"

"This school has been amazing for my kids for the past 4 years. My oldest is graduating from 6th this year and we are very sad about her leaving here. Thankfully my youngest has two more years! The staff is and has always been incredible! The communication is great but I have experienced that complaints about the teachers we work with are because the parents don't do their part. Yes, you get fingerprints done to volunteer but I would rather have that and know the school cares who works with my child. Always ask the teachers where you can help. There is no shortage of things to do, maybe just schedule conflicts. They can't accommodate everyone but they ARE a small charter. If you want/ need more for your child then absolutely look around and find a better fit. Get all of this information BEFORE you go in. This has been a perfect fit for us. Whenever we have concerns, we communicate with teachers and/or staff and the concerns are addressed right away. I am EXTREMELY picky about schools and my kids, who are completely different with different needs, have grown and thrived here. It's all a partnership. And yes, they do very much utilize the Montessori philosophy but because they are not private, still have to adhere to state standards. I am very happy with MEC and the amazing job all of the teachers and staff we have worked with have done these past 4 years!"