Finding the Right Fit at Sierra School of Scottsdale

When Jodi Mesnick enrolled her son Ryder at Sierra School of Scottsdale three years ago, she was looking for an environment where her son could grow not only academically but socially and emotionally, too.

A Search for the Right Learning Environment

Before joining Sierra, Ryder attended a traditional school where the curriculum focused primarily on academic benchmarks.

“Opportunities like community outings, movie days, and outdoor play were limited or removed in order to meet district-wide academic goals,” Mesnick said. “This restricted the experiential learning and social development Ryder truly needed in order to expand his life skills.”

A Supportive Team at Sierra School of Scottsdale

Early on in his time at Sierra, team members worked to understand Ryder’s needs and create a learning environment where he could succeed.

“From our first year with Mr. Bernard, through Mr. Murray, and now with Ms. Patience and Ms. Johnson, the team has worked tirelessly to bring out the best in Ryder,” Mesnick said.

She credits much of Ryder’s progress to the school’s leadership and individualized approach.

“Ms. Johnson made it a priority to hire staff who could directly support Ryder’s individual needs, allowing his teacher to focus more effectively on the entire class while giving Ryder the space to mature and be celebrated rather than just managed,” she said. “I truly believe Ms. Johnson’s leadership has been a tremendous win for the school, the students, and the parents.”

How Sierra School of Scottsdale Builds Student Success

“At Sierra Scottsdale, we celebrate every student’s progress, big or small. Watching our students grow in confidence and independence each day is the most rewarding part of what we do,” said Jameril Johnson, director of Sierra School of Scottsdale.

Thriving with Confidence and Independence

Today, Ryder is thriving. “The individualized support, structured routine, and patient, caring staff have helped him build confidence, independence, and a genuine love for school,” Mesnick said.

“Sierra Scottsdale is more than a school; it’s a family. We work together to help each student discover their strengths and feel proud of who they are, both inside and outside the classroom,” said Ryder’s teacher, Patience Peters.

Those changes are evident at home, too. “He’s more independent and engaged in daily routines, more patient, and a better listener,” she said. “We’ve noticed a real sense of calm, confidence, and maturity emerging in his everyday life.”

Advice for Parents Seeking the Right Fit

To other parents considering Sierra School of Scottsdale, Mesnick offers heartfelt advice:

“You’re in the right place. This program truly meets each child where they are with patience, structure, and genuine care. The staff takes the time to understand each student’s unique needs and strengths, and they celebrate progress in ways that make a real difference. You’ll see your child gain confidence, independence, and joy in learning again. It’s a community that not only helps your child grow but helps families feel hopeful about the future.”