Madison Camelview Elementary

We’d like to recognize Leslie Mundo, Preschool Aide, at Madison Camelview Elementary School for receiving the Shining Star award! 🌟

Leslie not only displays grace and maturity when receiving constructive feedback - she actively seeks it out from both department mentors and from our SMART support advisors. In these ways she truly exemplifies a ‘growth mindset’ - one of Madison’s guiding principles. Ms. Mundo possesses a rare, intuitive heart for children, often noticing a student’s unspoken need or a quiet moment of struggle before anyone else does. Her presence creates a safe space where our students feel seen, cherished, and ready to learn. The way she handles even the most challenging mornings with patience and a gentle smile is a testament to her genuine love for every child in our program. She doesn’t just complete the tasks assigned to her, she anticipates the needs of the classroom every day. Her dedication to professional development is matched only by her passion for the children themselves. Mundo has built strong, positive rapport with students, families, and colleagues alike. She approaches her responsibilities with care and integrity, and her positive energy makes her a valued member of the morning team. We are fortunate to have her and she absolutely shines in her role!

Congratulations, Leslie! 🎉

Madison Camelview Elementary School kindergartners had a fantastic time celebrating Farm Day with support from Madison’s Food & Nutrition Services! 🌾🐄

This engaging event was a hands-on STEAM learning experience. Students explored how fruits and vegetables grow, discovered the science behind planting seeds with Keep Phoenix Beautiful, and even took home their own plants to continue learning. They also dove into environmental science by observing earthworms and learning about composting, experienced imaginative play with foam horse rides, and strengthened their understanding of agriculture and nutrition by enjoying fresh strawberries from local farmers. 🍓🍉 Meeting and petting farm animals added an exciting, real-world connection to their learning!

As a proud STEAM school, Madison Camelview gives students opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math through engaging, hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity and creativity.

Ready to see STEAM in action? Schedule a tour to see how your child can thrive at Madison Camelview: bit.ly/m/steamatmadison 🌟

We’d like to recognize Carrie Smiley, Reading Intervention Assistant at Madison Camelview Elementary School, for receiving the Shining Star Award! 🌟

Carrie is one of those essential people who seems to be everywhere at once, acting as a constant, steadying force for both our students and our staff. Whether she is managing the flow of morning duty or staying late to ensure a school event goes off without a hitch, she approaches every task with a sincerity and a calm that makes the most hectic days feel manageable. As a Reading Intervention Assistant, Carrie does far more than teach literacy; she builds a foundation of confidence. She has a gift for connecting with her students, creating a space where they feel safe enough to take risks and push through challenges. Behind the scenes, Carrie is the teammate everyone hopes to have. She is remarkably intuitive, often stepping in to prep materials or assist the first-grade teachers before they even realize they need the extra hand. Outside the classroom, Carrie’s commitment to the Camelview community is unmatched. Parents frequently reach out to express their gratitude for the welcoming environment she fosters, noting that her kindness makes the school feel like a second home for their children.

Congratulations, Carrie! 🎉

We’d like to recognize Jake Thomas, 4th grade teacher at Madison Camelview Elementary School, for receiving the You Make the Difference award! 🏆

Jake is one of those rare people who can turn a school’s entire atmosphere around just by showing up. Even on the most hectic mornings, he greets everyone with a genuine smile that makes the day feel manageable. His classroom is a place of warmth and laughter where students feel safe and excited to learn, and that positive energy naturally spills out into the hallways, lifting the spirits of every teacher he passes. He balances high standards with a truly student-centered approach, always staying flexible to meet his kids where they are. He’s a master at sparking curiosity and teaching his students how to keep trying when things get tough. He dives into student data with a focus on how we can all improve, and he’s the first person to offer a hand before you even have to ask. He listens without rushing you and never makes anyone feel like a burden. Working alongside Jake makes the job feel lighter. The hard days don’t seem quite as heavy, and even the longest meetings feel a bit more hopeful when he’s in the room. His positivity is the real deal, and it creates a supportive environment where both students and staff feel appreciated.

Congratulations, Mr. Thomas! 🎉