Gila Ridge High School

My son just finished up 5th grade and his teacher was terrible. I had to find out an hour before grades were submitted that he had 24 missing assignments. Who let's an 11yr old who's been on honor roll his whole life to get behind that far without notifying the parents. I understand that the year was tough due to the pandemic and all but absolutely terrible communication. My son had multiple issues with the remote learning. Non of which was addressed to us. When I finally had a conference call with her she had an attitude with me. I told her that I feel like this year was a wash for him she laughed and said it's ok he's still going to 6th grade. Some if the assignments he turned in were blank due to confusion on the process of submitting it. She said I still gave him a 100%. Obviously there is an issue! I'm beside myself at how the teacher could care less about these kids.

My son struggles in reading which is nothing we hadn't experienced before with another child with the same challenge. Although this time it was different. I found that he was not "himself" at school. The child that was being described to me was not the child I knew. Afterschool he would often seem withdrawn and it was always a struggle to get him to up for school...I thought it was because he wasn't a morning person. Something was wrong. I know the classroom is not for every child so I considered homeschooling to help him thrive, but a full-time job made that a difficult option. Then there was the light. The one that came from Desert Mesa School. We transferred him and over night he became to confident child. Eager to go to school and be on time. Fearless to put himself in front of crowds and showcase his abilities. I love Mrs. Baumgartner and her recognizing what my son needed, Mrs. Webb and her expertise in identifying his reading problems as well as putting this mom at ease, and Mrs. Garner for opening her classroom and bringing out the best in my son. I understand that every year may be different and reading may always be a challenge, but at Desert Mesa, my son felt wanted and there is no rating greater than that.

I was disturbed that there are leaders in the position like the principal who do not have any leadership skills, people skills, and are afraid to change to adapting skills. The principal shows favoritism towards new teachers who want to succeed, and especially if you are not the same race. Issues that dealt with racism were brought to her attention and no action was taken other than retribution toward the person who brought the issues to light.