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Our School

About our School

Mountainside Middle School proudly empowers visionaries and encourages students, grades 6th through 8th, to think beyond conventional paths and nurtures risk-takers, instilling the courage to challenge norms.

The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) at Mountainside fosters a mindset that thinks beyond ordinary and prepares students to accomplish the extraordinary.  Mountainside's commitment to IB is underscored by its status as one of only three wall-to-wall comprehensive public IB schools in Arizona.

IB eliminates the traditional elective system, weighting every class equally. Students benefit from a unique curriculum, including three years of required PE, making physical well-being integral to education. Foreign language isn't an elective; it's a requirement.  IB students have the opportunity to learn Mandarin, Spanish, and more, setting a foundation for global communication.  "My Digital Future" is a hybrid class that blends STEM, engineering, robotics, and career exploration. It empowers students to chart their future path, making informed decisions about high school and college.

Attending Mountainside paves the way for accelerated learning.  Students can earn high school credits by excelling in subjects like Mandarin, Spanish, math, and science.  The program and close proximity to Desert Mountain High School ensures that students have ample opportunities to excel, giving them a head start in their academic journey.  The IB platform at Mountainside offers a unique educational journey.  The curriculum prioritizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and global awareness.  Students engage in interdisciplinary units, emphasizing sustainability and community projects that enhance both local and global perspectives.

The IB framework encourages a holistic approach to learning, emphasizing the process and journey rather than conventional grading. 

Eighth graders embark on community projects, fostering a sense of responsibility and community betterment. Additionally, events like "Future Cougar Day" generate excitement and pride among incoming students.

Mountainside emphasizes the safe and welcoming environment developed by Dr. John Kriekard's vision, initiated 33 years ago, centered on creating a school that feels like home.  The sentiment still rings true today with buildings referred to as houses and the culture driven by student involvement.

Mountainside Middle School not only educates academically but also prioritizes personal growth, making it a destination for families seeking a world-class education. Our commitment to holistic student development extends to the realm of middle school sports.  Our tiered sports programs are designed to provide a comprehensive athletic experience, fostering physical fitness, teamwork, and character development.

Mountainside Middle School's IB program goes beyond academics, shaping students into globally minded individuals who embrace challenges and contribute meaningfully to their communities.  The school's commitment to student well-being and holistic growth solidifies its status as a distinguished educational institution.
 

About our Campus

Volunteers & Visitors

Parents are encouraged to visit the schools and volunteer. Here is where you can apply to volunteer. Visitors are required to sign in at the front office, provide ID, and wear a visitor sticker any time they are on campus. Student visitors are not permitted.

11256 N. 128th Street
Scottsdale, AZ  85259

Principal: Amy Hardy
Principal: Joseph Giovino

Phone: 480-484-5500
Fax: 480-484-5501

Office Hours: 7:00 am - 3:30 pm
School Hours: 8:15 am - 2:50 pm
Class Schedule: 8:15 am – 2:50 pm
Early Release: 12:50 pm

Grades: 6th - 8th Grade
Colors: Black and Red
Mascot: Cougar
Year Opened: 1991