36634 W Santa Monica Ave
Maricopa, AZ 85138

I only went to MHS as a freshman, but I would still like to share my experience. This school is a tough school. There are fights at this school pretty much every day. Many of the rules aren't enforced, so it's really easy to get away with breaking the rules. There are a lot of students that will say the N-Word all the time. There are gun and bomb threats at least once per semester. There is a dress code in the student handbook, but it's not enforced, so you'll see kids at school wearing very skimpy clothes and then complain that the dress code is too strict because one security guard actually enforces the rules. This is also a school where students are "tolerant", but only if you agree with their values. Vaping is a huge issue at MHS, so avoid using the restroom before school and during lunch. This school is really spread out, so you might have to run to class, or you will get locked out of your classroom and have to get a pass from security. This school also has trouble finding teachers and some teachers expect you to teach yourself everything from a packet. The classes are also really short. 50 minutes (40 minutes on Wednesdays), is not enough time for a teacher to give their lecture. Participate in Honors/AP/Dual Enrollment classes as much as possible because they are smaller and less tedious. School guidance counselors take forever to respond to your emails. When they do, they make up their own excuses and rules for why you can't be in a class you wanted. If you are looking to graduate early, don't attend MUSD. It is extremely rare for MHS students to graduate early. You are not allowed to enroll in AP classes as a freshman, but you can enroll in dual enrollment classes. Be prepared to have to do a research project for a class and realize that the school Chromebooks are extremely locked down and most websites are blocked. Don't ride the school bus. The school buses are crowded and I have been bullied on the bus. Dismissal is a mess. Everyone I know who has driven on Honeycutt Ave during MHS dismissal can agree with that. This school does have some good things. It has a wonderful, award-winning music program. The CTE classes offer college credit and/or certification. The sports programs and spirit line are also very popular. If you don't participate in a particular program and are just looking for a good school, don't choose MHS. I wish you the best in making a good educational decision.

The communication at the school from the principal Stephanie Rhinehart is horrible. I contacted her after some concerns that I was having with my child's learning and grades from his teacher, she got so offended, and defensive, rushed me off the phone and we never even had a chance to speak about my child's progress or future plans. She then tried to label my child in a written letter as having some cognition and learning concerns. It's a shame that because she was upset with me, she is now trying to take it out on my 7 year old. This is not how educators should react. If you care do not bring your child to this school. They don't have substitutes to cover classes, they don't have enough bus drivers and the educational level that they are teaching at is very low. Her response from my concerns is very disappointing and disheartening.

This school is very decent and stuff.