Alice Found the Right Fit at Sierra School of Scottsdale

Alice’s Journey at Sierra School of Scottsdale

Alice joined Sierra School of Scottsdale for the 2025-2026 school year after completing seventh grade at Desert Canyon Middle School. Since enrolling, her parents, Daniel and Saralee, said they’ve seen a remarkable transformation in their daughter.

A Challenging Start Before Sierra School of Scottsdale

Before Sierra, Alice, who is autistic and also has schizophrenia, struggled in a mainstream school environment. Academic demands left her overwhelmed, stressed, and unmotivated. She often had emotional outbursts.

“Even with tutoring support, she couldn’t keep up because the workload was simply too heavy for her needs,” said Alice’s mother. “Our family time and happiness were consumed by stress, and we lost the opportunity to simply enjoy being together.”

Transformation Through Individualized Support and Compassion

Since joining Sierra, Alice has thrived thanks to the school’s attentive and compassionate staff. Teachers work closely with the family to address academic and behavioral needs, focusing on practical skills like counting change, managing time, and staying engaged in class activities.

Teachers and Staff Who Make a Difference

The parents highlight the pivotal role of Alice’s classroom teacher, Patience Peters, who has helped her build confidence, develop social awareness, and embrace a positive outlook.

“Watching Alice blossom into a confident, self-assured student has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my teaching career,” Peters said. “At Sierra, we celebrate each student’s progress at their own pace, and seeing Alice embrace learning again reminds us why we do what we do every day.”

Supportive Leadership at Sierra School of Scottsdale

The family also appreciates school director Jameril Johnson, who coordinates school activities and supports families with care.

“Alice’s journey reflects the heart of Sierra School’s mission of creating a safe, nurturing environment where every student feels valued, supported, and capable of success,” Johnson said. “We are proud of her growth and grateful to partner with a family who believes in the power of individualized education.”

A Family’s Perspective on Alice’s Growth at Sierra School of Scottsdale

According to her parents, the biggest benefit of the school is that Alice no longer feels compared to or pressured by others. She feels accepted, valued, and happy with who she is. At home, Alice is more expressive, confident, and aware of what she enjoys. She has learned that being different does not mean being less capable.

“Don’t hesitate to bring your child here,” the parents said. “We wish we had made the decision sooner. Every moment you wait is valuable time your child could be growing and thriving in the right environment.”