Winifred Harelson Elementary School

826 West Chapala Drive

School District

Amphitheater Unified District
Grade

PK, K-6
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:18
Type

public

School Map for Amphitheater Unified 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 parent on May 31, 2021

Harelson is a fantastic school choice, with just the right mix of oversight, rigor, extra-curricular activities, and absolute love for the kids as a whole. In my experience, my daughter had fantastic teachers the entire time she was there and was more than prepared to transition to middle school. Its really nice that the middle school is right next door, so as the kids grow they have opportunity to interact (at times) with the other campus and mentor students to see their progression. Harelson is great at encouraging character growth, kindness, and responsibility through positive reinforcement. However, they are well equipped to handle issues as they arise and they do a great job. The principal is very professional, highly involved, and easy to talk to, as he should be. He has a great rapport with the teachers and students.
Submitted by parent on August 08, 2019

Teachers are fabulous but sadly administration is awful.
Submitted by parent on February 09, 2019

The teachers have been wonderful to my son and have encouraged his growth in the classroom. They are the highlight of the school. The administration is the drawback at this school. The principal likes to pose for pictures instead of dealing with the problems that come across his desk.
Submitted by parent on April 26, 2018

This is a Great school with great staff!
Submitted by parent on February 27, 2018

This is the best school I as a parent could possibly want for my child. I am so greatful that I found this school. I drive across town to take my daughter to this school, we've been there four years and don't plan on leaving it. All the staff are friendly and build relationships with you and your child. They really work hard with you as the parent so you guys as a team can get your child prepared for the next grade level. This is truely an amazing school and I look forward to our future years there!!!!
Submitted by other on April 18, 2014

Harelson is a great school. My grandson is in kindergarten and he just loves going to school. His teacher makes each day fun and exciting. The school provides a real sense of community. We look forward to 6 more years at Harelson. Kudos to all the staff for their wonderful attitudes and willingness to provide a quality education.
Submitted by parent on October 14, 2013

Andy Heineman, the principal, is absolutely amazing. He is very dedicated and cares about the Harelson community. He sets the tone for the teacher's expectations of the students. We have been very pleased with our 2 years at Harelson. I would like to see a school garden and foreign language offered.
Submitted by parent on June 19, 2011

GREAT SCHOOL!!! Teachers go out of their way to make sure students understand what they are learning. Principal is always present & open to concerns & questions. Overall excellent school!
Submitted by parent on May 19, 2010

Harelson is not just a great school, but also a wonderful community of families who want the best for their children.
Submitted by parent on May 11, 2010

Harelson has a terrific parent, teacher, student community. There are a variety of activities and events that the kids can join and are suitable for all ages. The Parent Teacher Organization is committed and passionate about helping in anyway they can. I am proud to be a Harelson parent.
Submitted by parent on May 10, 2010

Harelson has teachers, students and parents that are dedicated to child development and education
Submitted by parent on May 05, 2010

We currently open enroll our son at Harelson and plan to enroll our daughter in the Fall due to the wonderful experience we have at Harelson! Harelson teachers and principal excel at knowing each child as individuals and not just a 'body of students'. From the teachers learning each child's strengths and weaknesses in the classroom, to the principal knowing each and every student's name, help each child feel special! The level of parent involvement and charm of the school campus make this school a true community for the children and their families! We are proud to attend Harelson!
Submitted by parent on May 05, 2010

It is a safe, clean school with caring & nurturing faculty and staff. The principal, Andy Heineman is amazing--he is always present at all events and moving throughout classrooms, even helping the parent pick-up line move smoothly in the afternoons. All 3 of my children have attended here and I would highly recommend it to anyone!
Submitted by parent on May 04, 2010

The principal, staff, and teachers really care about our kids and enjoy working with them. They work hard to give our kids the best education at each grade level. We love Harelson!!
Submitted by parent on May 03, 2010

We are so blessed to have so many great teachers and a great principal all in one great place!
Submitted by parent on May 03, 2010

High expectations, engaging curriculum (the three Rs as well as sports and the fine arts), and committed teachers comprise Harelson's warm, inviting climate. The long waiting list says lots about the school's committment to excellence and quality education!
Submitted by parent on May 03, 2010

Great things start at the top, and Prinicpal Heinemann makes great things happen at Harelson (of course, with the utmost support and help of an excellent staff and great PTO)! Every single teacher and faculty member that I have met in the past four years has been extremely committed and passionately involved in creating not just great students, but fine young individuals. The academic standard is excellent, but not at the expense of the arts. Harelson is one of the few schools that still maintains an art program, music, athletics, and an abundance of extra-curricular programs such as chess and track. We are an open enrolled family. For approximately three of our four years at Harelson, I drove my sons from our home in Sahuarita to Harelson (nearly an hour drive each way) and it was well worth it! The high standards and quality of education at Harelson gave us cause to rent out our home in Sahuarita and move closer to the school. If you have a chance to get your child into Harelson during open enrollment, don't hesitate! It is excellent school with outstanding people!
Submitted by parent on May 02, 2010

Fabulous school. in this day of budget crisis, it can use all the help it can get.
Submitted by parent on May 02, 2010

Harelson is the best elementary school anywhere. The teachers are amazing giving 200% day in and day out. The Kindergarten and First Grade programs are amazing and give our kids the base they need for further success. The extra curricular offerings are awesome with chess club, track, and science club being a few of the electives. Every child gets to perform on stage at least once a year with the end result being very poised, confident sixth graders. The Reading Room is a very unique but effective help with our struggling readers. Everyone, from the administration to the teachers to the monitors to the cafeteria staff truly love the kids at Harelson. My child feels uplifted and special on a daily basis. It is truly 'a village' that surrounds each and every student. Harelson is the best!
Submitted by other on May 02, 2010

Harelson is a great school. They give attention to each child, and make sure that everyone is successful. The teachers are always willing to do whatever they can to help the kids in any way.