Mesquite Jr High School

Our son transferred to Gilbert Elementary after spring break, and we were honestly very nervous about the change—especially considering his IEP for ADHD needs. From the very beginning, Gilbert Elementary has been nothing short of amazing.This is our home school, and Mrs. Lauren Granillo in the office has been incredible. She answered all of my questions with grace and calmness. No matter how many times I called—whether during registration or with random questions—she never made me feel rushed or like I was bothering her. Mrs. Victoria has also been kind and helpful, always with a big smile. The entire office staff is welcoming and truly sets a positive tone for the school.Our first meeting was with Principal Mr. Justin Sremba, School Psychologist Mrs. Sarah Devena, Special Education Resource Teacher Mrs. Regina Mayes, and his teachers, Mrs. LaFontsee and Mr. Armenta. It meant so much to meet the full team supporting our son. They took the time to understand who he is, his needs, and how best to support him. Things have only continued to improve. Communication between us as parents and Mrs. Mayes, Mrs. LaFontsee, and Mr. Armenta has been phenomenal. It’s a relief knowing our son is surrounded by people who genuinely care and want him to succeed. They truly make us feel like part of a team.I also want to give a special shoutout to Mr. Chris Marcrum. On our son’s first day, he personally walked us to the classroom. As we walked through the halls during a busy morning, he greeted students by name, made eye contact, gave high fives and fist bumps, and checked in with them about their lives—asking about weekends, games, and even how one child was healing after an injury. It was incredible to witness. I’ve also seen Principal Mr. Sremba interact with students in the same genuine way. It’s clear the kids here are truly seen. It’s one thing to recognize a name, but it takes real intention to truly know each child—and that’s exactly what this staff does.Our son LOVES this school. He comes home excited to talk about his day, what he’s learned, and he especially loves the “Dino Dollars.” Seeing him so happy and engaged means everything to us. Our son needed a fresh start, and with the support of Gilbert Elementary, he is absolutely thriving. We feel so lucky to be part of this school community and highly recommend it to any family considering a change or just starting out.

Mesquite is the best school! We moved to Gilbert 12 years ago and tried it out since it was our local school and then never left because we loved it so much! The community is so welcoming, supportive and involved. The teachers and staff are amazing, and all of my children have had an amazing experience at this school! There are so many opportunities for students to try new and different things! We are so grateful to be a part of this school!

My son was at Playa 3-6 grade. My daughter is in 4th and has been there since kindergarten. Since the beginning of our time at Playa we have seen the school grow tremendously. The current school principal has been there for about three or four years now (as of 2025) and has brought such wonderful, positive change. The pool of teachers are caring, thoughtful, well educated, and bring innovative ways to teaching in the classroom. The school has amazing PE, music, and art teachers. These three really bring a wealth of knowledge with them. The art teacher has come up with really fun and challenging projects for the kids to learn and create. Their music/choir club teachers has really opened the doors for kids to want to try new things: play instruments, sing, etc. The PE teacher also provides a fun curriculum for the kids. Between the principal, support staff, teachers, and the PTSO, Playa does such a wonderful job at building a strong community. Plenty of fundraising efforts to provide updated equipment on the play ground and classrooms, and great opportunities for both in house and out of the classroom field trips. The school has been recently updated with safety Technology and measures. There hasn’t been safety concerns in the past, but with how the world is these days, they decided it be best to ensure student and teacher safety and take the precautionary measures. They make great efforts to ensure kids are promoting excellent behavior and positive characteristics: Pride, Respect, Integrity, Dependability, Empathy. We loved our time at Playa and can’t to see what the next several years bring!

My children have been attending Islands since kindergarten, and we couldn’t be happier with our experience. The teachers are deeply involved, attentive to each child’s unique learning style, and truly caring—you can see how much they love what they do. It really does take a village to raise children, and the staff here create a warm, family-like environment rather than just a school building.Mr. Davis, the new principal, has been an incredibly positive addition to Islands. His energy brightens every room, and he is always present—offering guidance, instilling important life skills, and supporting both staff and students. We have continued at Islands because of the genuine love and support we feel here. Highly recommend!

My son and I recently moved to the Gilbert area and looked around for a new school. Mrs. Holly and the rest of the staff got us onboard so quickly and smoothly. They have welcomed us to the bobcat family and it has been such an amazing experience! Burk elementary is such a special school with an outstanding staff!

We are leaving Family night & wow it was amazing. Thank you to the staff for all your hard work to make this event happen. Great job to all the students too!