Hawthorne Middle School

I have 3 children who graduated from this school. They went on to high school where they found that they were better prepared to know how to learn, listen, focus and follow directions than a lot of the kids who had gone through the public school. They all had a bit of a culture shock going into the public school with the bullying, bad language, and student disrespect that wasn't tolerated at the charter school. The two that graduated from high school with honors discovered that a very high percentage of the kids they had gone to school with at the academy also graduated with honors.I work in special services with children in the public school and have been impressed with the level of classroom support that the children are taught to give those with disabilities. This school does their best to teach to the high rather than the low. The high expectations have pros and cons for children with disabilities. They do not have a special classroom for disabled learners but as a past employee I can say they do have a good resource room team. The main con I see is a lack of certified occupational and physical therapy services for those children who need it. I don't know about speech therapy.

The leadership at the school is a joke. The principal isn’t even qualified for the position. Many, many, many teachers have left since the new principal arrived in the fall of 2020. The teachers, the ones that are still there, are pretty good. Class sizes are decent. If you want diversity, this is NOT the school to choose.

I would rate my experience as indifferent. It is unfortunate that this school only accepts students they feel will do well or test highly.

We’ve had two children enrolled at Pocatello Valley Montessori School for nearly four years now, and I truly can’t imagine a better place for them to grow, learn, and thrive. From day one, the staff has been warm, attentive, and deeply committed to each child’s individual development. The teachers are not only knowledgeable and patient, but they also genuinely see and support each child, meeting them where they are and helping them reach their full potential.The Montessori approach has given our kids the freedom to explore their interests while building a strong foundation in academics, critical thinking, and problem-solving. We’ve seen tremendous growth in both of them, not just intellectually, but socially and emotionally as well. Their confidence, curiosity, and independence have blossomed, and we credit so much of that to the environment at Pocatello Valley Montessori School.Pocatello Valley Montessori School is a gem. We’re so grateful to be part of this community and so thankful for the lasting impact it’s had on our children.