Pat Tillman Middle School

4309 East Belleview Street

School District

Balsz Elementary District
Grade

6-8
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:21
Type

public

School Map for Balsz Elementary District

GreatSchools Rating

The school rating calculation is based on four ratings: the Student Progress Rating or Academic Progress Rating, College Readiness Rating, Equity Rating, and Test Score Rating each designed to show different facets of school success. Learn more about GreatSchools Ratings

Reviews

Submitted by student on December 31, 2024

First OFF I do not recommend this school the teaching styles are bad teachers are not engaged to teach. They only care about one thing and one thing only and that making money they start putting in effort when it time for the state testing. There is no support at the school no one to confide in and talk to about your emotional well-being or about school. I don't feel safe there are always fights and just don't trust the teachers one time during a lock down our art teacher told us to run out the classroom and we all ran in different direction she just did not lead and did not know what she was doing I advise you not to attend Pat Tillman middle school .
Submitted by parent on June 20, 2024

If your Muslim don't come to this school as they don't let you pray at ALL. They refused my child to pray even during Ramadan sometimes. Many teachers only care about talking to popular students than actually teaching the class. Especially elective teachers. This school limits the amount of time a student can go to the bathroom which also includes girls with heavy periods. Hearing about Tillman from my child made me realize that a fancy school isn't always a good place for your child to go.
Submitted by student on May 28, 2024

Recomendada casi todos hablan español los niños caen bien la niñas que hablan inglés son creídas casi todas pero las que hablan español son mucho mejores puedes encontrar mexicanos cubanos venezolanos colombianos y más
Submitted by parent on June 02, 2015

Balsz is an excellent school with highly dedicated staff and administration. As a parent I appreciate the concern the staff has for my students and know that they have the best interests of students and families in mind. We love the extended year because my children can have a safe secure learning environment for an additional 4 weeks which is a blessing for hard working parents.
Submitted by other on April 11, 2014

On the surface, Balsz appears to be doing what's best for students. However, in the classroom this is not the case. The administration doesn't tolerate differentiating instruction. They want every teacher to do the same thing. There is no support or consistency with staff members. Administration has changed frequently with teachers. Class sizes are in the higher 30's. The new administration is pushing quality teachers who stand by for their students. They are only going for high test scores.
Submitted by teacher on May 29, 2013

Ever since the Dr. Smith has taken the district over, Balsz has gone down hill. He pushed out the previous principal and the new leadership has changed the dynamics of the entire school negatively. The moral of the staff is down, experienced, effective teachers are leaving in droves. The superintendent has taken SEVERAL raises when teachers have not in 6 years. The district office has multiple staff who make decisions without knowing what is happening in the classrooms. The professional development is a one fit wonder, meaning no matter your needs, you have to go to the same training as everyone else. Teachers get written up for trying to have a voice within the district. Most of the class sizes are over 30, including 5th grade which is over 35. Behavior is not dealt with at all. Teachers are responsible for handling most problems. We are told "find a buddy to help you". Students who cuss, hit and bully students and teachers are usually right back in the classroom within the same day. For teachers and students working 200 days is not worth it. The district is doing nothing to keep highly effective staff. The majority of the school's teachers are now first year teachers.
Submitted by other on December 30, 2010

Mrs.Bengochea is the best principal for the job as a former student there is nobody who can hold a candle to how amazing of a principal she truly is she cares about the students more than just the paycheck i advise all parents to send their kids to balsz school
Submitted by teacher on November 11, 2010

While Balsz school may not reflect the best test scores, the work they do for the student population is superior. High expectations, effective leadership and teacher effectiveness is evident on the campus. Working in an inner city school with a diverse ELL population presents many challenges that are being overcome each year with dedication from staff and support from parents. Go BALSZ TIGERS
Submitted by parent on September 03, 2010

Balsz has some of the best teachers I have ever seen. They teach using standards and high expectations. They give an appropriate amount of homework. The principal is always around campus and knows all of the kids. This is one of the best schools in the area!
Submitted by parent on March 26, 2010

I rating this school with five stars because is the best school here in phoenix......I really want to said thank you for the good staff that works in this school!!!! they are friendly and nice with all the parents.......