Shepherd Junior High School

I withdrew my child from this school because of ongoing bullying by students and the staff's failure to intervene. I tried discussing my concerns face-to-face, but my child continued to come home upset and reluctant to attend. I do not recommend this school; consider exploring charter or online schools instead.

Got bullied, teachers hated it people left me out mental issues left with anxiety and ADHD I got bullied until I was bleeding. Unacceptable for a school. I recommend Gilbert public district

My son is autistic and can have trouble regulating his emotions and outbursts. We moved him from a charter school (that couldn’t meet his needs) to Barbara Bush and his kindergarten teacher is Mrs. Wells. On my son’s first day Mrs. Wells put me at ease and told me “Don’t worry, We got this Mom!”. The principal, Mr. Olson, as well as the school psychologist Mrs. Lynch gave my son and I a tour of the school as well. They were very friendly and informative, and supportive. My son’s first week was a bit rocky. However, we are now at the end of week two and his behaviors are getting better everyday! Today he had an amazing day! And he is soooo proud to tell me at pick up! This school is supportive with my son’s needs. They take the time to understand him and work positively with him. They know how to engage him, motivate him and praise him. As the saying goes, “Kids do well if they can”. My son seems to be thriving here so far and this was the best choice my husband and I could have made.

Mendoza has been such a blessing for our family. As a parent, you always worry about those first few years of school, but the environment here is so warm and supportive. The teachers are incredible—they’ve managed to make learning fun while really challenging the kids to grow. I’ve already seen such a big change in my son’s vocabulary and his excitement for solving problems.I love that the "Mendoza Pup" spirit is more than just a slogan; the staff truly cares about raising kind, respectful kids. It’s a great community where my son feels safe to be himself and excited to go to school every morning. We are so grateful to be part of the Mendoza family!

Administrators and teachers are terrible with perhaps a couple exceptions. Mendoza or other schools in the area are better options.