Desert Christian School

Since Desert Christian Schools (DCS) beginning in 1986, DCS has been committed to providing a solid spiritual and educational foundation for every student.
Desert Christian Schools has two beautiful campuses. Our High School Campus (85710) is located at 7525 E. Speedway Blvd. 85710. Our Wrightstown Campus (P.S. - 8th Grade) is located at 9415 E. Wrightstown Rd. 85715.
At DCS, it is our mission to 1. Pursue excellence in Christian education. 2.Foster Christ-Centered relationships. 3. Endeavor to meet the unique learning needs of every student Desert Christian Schools admits students of any race, color, national, or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally made available to students at the school.
Please be sure to complete the Desert Christian Schools Inquiry Form, as well. The completion of the DCS Inquiry Form will allow our Admissions Office to contact you regarding our upcoming admissions events, campus tours, online application, and admissions process, as well as answer any additional questions that you may have.

Quick Stats (2024)

  • Top Ranked AZ School
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-12
  • Enrollment: 395 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $11,675
  • Acceptance rate: 98%
  • Average class size: 18 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

Desert Christian School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Arizona for:

Category
Attribute
Sports offered

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Special Ed Services
Year Founded
1986

Student Body

Total Students
395 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
16%
State avg.: 40%
Students by Grade
Desert Christian School Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
24 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
16:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
18 students
Number of AP Courses
6 courses
List of Courses Offered
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
K-8 Uniform

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Varies depending on grade. Please visit our Tuition Webpage: www.desertchristian.org
% on Financial Aid
75%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$3,000
Acceptance Rate
98%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Andrew Riebe

Sports

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
3 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
High School Scuba Club

Arts and Music Programs:
Drama, Music

School Notes

  • DCS is an internationally recognized accredited, independent, inter-denominational, Christian covenant school that provides a rigorous traditional liberal arts education taught from a biblical worldview.
  • In partnership with Christian families, DCS is committed to providing an educational experience, centered on the foundation of a Biblical Christian Worldview. At DCS, it is our mission to Pursue excellence in Christian education foster Christ-Centered relationships Endeavor to meet the unique learning needs of every student
  • Students are considered for admission to Desert Christian Schools once they have completed the entire DCS Admissions process. Prospective students must complete the(1)DCS Inquiry Form, (2) Application, and (3) Interviewprocess, prior to their application being reviewed by the Admissions Committee.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Desert Christian School cost?
Desert Christian School's tuition is approximately $11,675 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Desert Christian School?
The acceptance rate of Desert Christian School is 98%, which is higher than the national average of 88%.
What sports does Desert Christian School offer?
Desert Christian School offers 12 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Flag Football, Golf, Intramural Sports Only, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball and Weightlifting. Desert Christian School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Arizona for most sports offered.
What is Desert Christian School's ranking?
Desert Christian School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Arizona for: Largest student body and Most sports offered.
When is the application deadline for Desert Christian School?
The application deadline for Desert Christian School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
What neighborhood is Desert Christian School located?
Desert Christian School is located in the Pio Decimo neighborhood of Tucson, AZ.

School Reviews

  5.00 out of 5  (43 reviews)
5  
I can honestly say Desert Christian Schools did an OUTSTANDING job in elementary school preparing 6th graders for middle school. The teachers are equipping the students to become GOOD DECISION MAKERS even at a young age. The small class sizes & SAFE/HOME COMMUNITY FEEL allowed my son to build close friendships not only with his classmates but with students from other classes as well. I experienced building FRIENDSHIPS with other families too! I saw GRANDPARENTS enjoying being involved at the school & admiring the INTENTIONAL LOVE & CARE that teachers & staff gave the students. ACADEMICALLY, DCS always pushed my son to STRIVE FOR HIS BEST- not to compete with other classmates` grades but to be happy for someone`s achievements & to learn from mistakes. Most importantly was the CHRIST-CENTERED ENVIRONMENT. DCS DISCIPLINES every student with GRACE & ENCOURAGEMENT treating them with DIGNITY & RESPECT for every family`s CULTURE like mine. DCS brings up the students` COMPETENCE and INTELLECTUAL CURIOSITY, enhancing their PHYSICAL FITNESS and training them for DISCIPLESHIP -LEADERSHIP. My son still has more years to complete middle & high school, but I`m already excited about the kind of person he is BECOMING. Everything that I`ve mentioned above will shape his CHARACTER preparing him to be SUCCESSFUL in life. I am happy to PARTNER WITH DCS! I can truly say it is an extension of my home! Thank you, DCS!
- Posted by
5  
I love the mentor-style teaching and the focus on personal and spiritual growth. The teachers here seem interested in each student's success and well-being. This school has a great sense of community, which supports the students and families. My oldest child was well prepared for work and college. It has made a meaningful impact on her personal and professional relationships too. After being at another school, we are returning to Desert Christian. They set the standard high and we are so glad to be back.
- Posted by
5  
Let's face it...middle school can be rough! I cannot say enough good about Desert Christian Schools - an oasis in the desert! I'm only remiss that our last child (middle school) is here and the older 's (high school and college graduates) missed out on being a part of the DCS Family. This school challenges students academically and meets them where they are at...encouraging growth and personal responsibility along the way. It strikes an incredible balance between love/care and discipline/teaching. We all desire well-rounded, well-behaved children/students. DCS goes the "extra mile" to partner with parents in helping achieve this goal! They get my vote for certain!
- Posted by
5  
We are entering our second year at DCS, with four of our five kids attending. We have attended private Christian schools in Colorado and Yuma, AZ, before, but DCS is our favorite. DCS is amazing at finding a balance between academic rigor and character building, and loving and understanding children; just they are : ) We love DCS' ability to see students as individuals, and we have watched them pursue our kids according to their diverse needs. We have two kids with learning disabilities, and this is the only private school that has not been intimidated to find accommodations for them in their unique challenges. We have felt welcomed and endlessly supported as parents, and we love the way the teachers engage with our kids. We are blessed to send our kids to DCS.
- Posted by
5  
We found Desert Christian School after moving to Tucson from California last year. We were immediately welcomed and encouraged to get plugged in. Our children had always attended a private Christian school in California and we were fearful that we would never find the same community as we had. At DCS we were overwhelmed by the teachers and families that rallied around us to help our kids adjust and feel included. We wanted our kids in an environment that not only provided an amazing education but would use the word of God to teach them how to navigate this world. Our children have loved continuing to learn about the Bible as well as their core education. We are so thankful for the loving, Christ-centered staff, teachers, and families! We truly feel like we have found our home away from home at DCS!
- Posted by
5  
Desert Christian Schools have partnered with us as parents for the last 11 years to help instill in our children most importantly character and then a love for learning. Desert Christian teachers and staff empower, encourage, and enrich those they come into contact with by loving them with Christ-like love, challenging them to live out what they believe, and walking with them in life's challenges. They are not just a school, they are a community and truly family.
- Posted by
5  
My two grandsons have lived with me for four years. The younger one is in 2nd Grade at Desert Christian on the Elementary Campus, while the older one is now 15 and just starting at Desert Christian High School. The teachers and administrative staff are head-and-shoulders above other schools that I/we have encountered in Tucson. Scholarship, deportment, conduct, and parent involvement/support are areas in which Desert surpasses all others. It's not just a feeling of "community", per se, it's a feeling of true Family! The only area in which these schools have, thus far, been on par with public schools is the focus on less-than-healthy food options for lunch. Nevertheless, from-home lunches are Welcome and encouraged!
- Posted by
5  
I switched my son to Desert Christian School 4 years ago. It was the best decision I made for both of us, especially my son. He had been bullied at his previous school. It took Mrs. Kruis, his first teacher at DCS a full year to get my son to trust teachers. It was her love of Christ that allowed my son to open up and receive Christ into his own heart. The staff is exceptional in meeting the needs of all the kids. I love the exceptional student program that continues to help my son with accommodations. My son continues to grow as a young man and as a Christian thanks to the wonderful staff at Desert Christian. The entire staff exemplifies the community and love of Christ. I have never regretted my decision. Thank you Desert Christian for all you do.
- Posted by
5  
The teachers and staff are very attentive to the needs of the students academically and socially. Our daughter was new last year and all the teachers made a real effort to introduce her to other students and helped her to get involved. The curriculum is challenging but fun with enthusiastic teachers. We have enjoyed the staff and meeting other volunteers.
- Posted by
5  
As a military family, we received last-minute orders to Tucson in the summer of 2021. Our child was already enrolled and tuition was partially paid at a school in another state. I scrambled to find a smaller Christian school in Tucson that would provide our kiddo with an environment similar to the one she was leaving. The principal, admissions director, and teachers were incredibly accommodating and made the entire process a smooth one, relieving one of my biggest stressors about this unanticipated move. We had some minor adjustment issues the first semester of the year, but our student's teachers and administrators were supportive, encouraging, and open to communicating with me about our concerns. Thank you, Desert Christian!
- Posted by
5  
My first experience with Desert Christian was when I attended the high school back in 2006-2010. There were so many programs and activities to be involved in, and I enjoyed my time. Now my daughter attends preschool, and she is loving it. The teachers prepare Reggio-Emilia-inspired activities and sensory bins for interactive play, and the kids get quite a bit of outdoor play. It`s an awesome school that also places Christ at the center. Check it out!
- Posted by
5  
Desert Christian is a great school that I'm excited to have my son join. I've known people who have gone to this school and have had nothing but good things to say. The thing they said stood out most to them is the interaction with the staff and the school trips they would go on. The woman I knew who graduated gained a ton of character and tools for the future from this school and I'm excited to see my son do the same.
- Posted by
5  
No ivory towers here! Desert Christian Schools are caring, loving, and down-to-earth. Even today the Head Master met our child with a hug and made us feel welcome. The academics are award-winning and sports are top for their size school. I taught there decades ago and now I see some of my past students as teachers and principals while other past students are bringing their kids here. Above all first and foremost are a God First attitude and a Christian worldview. May Christ receive the honor here!
- Posted by
5  
My husband and I were first introduced to Desert Christian because he would schedule the referees for school athletics. We both refereed and scheduled for many schools during this time. Desert Christian students, staff, and parents always stood out to us as the kindest, considerate, and well-behaved people. At the time, we were not yet Christians but because of our experience with the people, Desert Christian became our dream school for our future children. Many years later, God called our son to this school and we have been beyond impressed. We feel this school has excelled in every area and around every turn. We are so grateful to be a part of the Desert Christian Community!!!
- Posted by
5  
My son is starting school here this year and we are so excited. We have gone to several "play dates" already to meet the teachers as well as the other kids and parents. Everyone is so welcoming. Ms. Pam is so so wonderful and easy to communicate with. We are looking forward to the school year.
- Posted by
5  
Our son is entering his 9th year at DCS and we have been blessed to be on this journey. DCS partners with us in his growth academically and spiritually. He has made incredibly good friends and bonds with his teachers and the staff. It feels like family.
- Posted by
5  
Desert Christian Schools provides exceptional and quality education while pouring in the love and teachings of Jesus. The culture and community at this school make you feel like it's a second family. I am blessed to be able to send my children to this school for a second year. Every aspect of this school is centered around the Bible and my children are thriving and always excited to go to school.
- Posted by
5  
We really like DCS.
- Posted by
5  
We switched schools mid-year and have been very happy with our decision! Desert Christian has a very strong sense of community. As a parent, I always know what is going on. The communication has been amazing! They also truly care about my student`s education first and foremost but also about his mental and spiritual health as well. We couldn`t be happier with the school and the teachers there!
- Posted by
5  
Our boys have been going to Desert Christian since pre-school. We specifically picked this school after touting most of the Tucson private schools. It's safe, it's new, and most importantly, our children have the best chance at a great education in a safe environment. I love that the school is small enough to be close to a lot of other families, yet big enough that the kids have lots of opportunities.
- Posted by
5  
Our daughter is starting Kindergarten in the fall. So far we have been very impressed with the school and the admissions process has been seamless. The tour was enlightening and was so impressed with the campus, classrooms, and teachers we met. We could not wait to get our little one enrolled!
- Posted by
5  
Desert Christian provides excellent education, with loving and talented teachers who care well for their students. The smaller class sizes allow for more personal instruction, helps students build relationships across grades are let the student has lots of opportunities to be involved in sports, electives, and clubs- We love how Jesus is central to the school and how intentional the teachers and staff focus on growing each student`s relationship with God, wherever they`re at. My kids love that you can get food from different restaurants in town for lunch and the availability of microwaves to heat food.
- Posted by
5  
So thankful for Desert Christian School!! Desert it`s not only a school but a community of parents and teachers who care deeply about the children and growing as a strong community in Christ. Our children love the school and feel safe and happy to go back every day! Thank you to the faculty that is always so giving and so kind to our family.
- Posted by
5  
My grandson started kindergarten at Desert Christian Elementary last Year. He had not spent much time in pre-school because of covid. He started to thrive the day school began and that continued throughout the entire year. He finished Kindergarten reading very well. As well as making friends and loving his teachers, he and our entire family built a stronger relationship with God and Jesus. He loves school and we are all looking forward to first grade!! I would recommend this school to any family who wishes to give their child a Christ-centered education.
- Posted by
5  
DC has been a safe and life-enriching learning experience for my daughters. I am thankful for all of the hard work the staff has put forth over the years providing a Christ-centered school that helps provide a solid academic foundation.
- Posted by
5  
Excellent learning environment. Exceptionally clean. Wonderful teachers. Pre-school has been excellent for our son.
- Posted by
5  
We transferred our kids to Desert Christian Pre-K & K-8, from the Vail Unified School District 3 years ago, and we couldn't imagine going back. DCS is our family's 2nd home. Our youngest did 2 years in Desert's Pre-K and our older children are going into 3rd and 5th grade. The campus, staff, and administration are the best, true disciples of Christ. Our children have developed substantially: spiritually, socially, and academically. We are so blessed for our children to attend Desert Christian. Tax credit donations and scholarships make it possible! What was once a dream, is now a reality. Our children deserve the best possible education and that's exactly what Desert Christian delivers!
- Posted by
5  
Highly recommend. My wife pursued this school for our kids and I am glad she did. We like the teachers and the small campus. It is well protected and safe.
- Posted by
5  
We have been fortunate to have our son at Desert Christian Schools for 11 years now! Not only do the schools offer Christ-centered learning, but the Teachers are willing to adapt the curriculum to more student-led learning which keeps students involved and engaged in their learning.
- Posted by
5  
Desert Christian school has been an incredible blessing to our family the teachers and staff are friendly and helpful we love this school.
- Posted by
5  
Desert Christian Schools has been a wonderful place for our kids. Our children have thrived under the loving instruction of their teachers. They always look forward to coming to school and they come home full of excitement about the things they`ve learned. We love the partnership we`ve had on our journey with Desert Christian and knowing that everyone on staff is helping to raise our kids in the fear and admonition of God. If you`re looking for a God-honoring, safe, wonderful school, Desert Christian is for you.
- Posted by
5  
My daughter has attended Desert Christian for 8 years and she`s loved every moment! Her Teachers have been amazing and her academic development is evidence. Most importantly, it is Christ-centered. I`m so grateful she is surrounded by a community of staff, teachers, parents, and peers who love Jesus and share our values and beliefs.
- Posted by
5  
We were blessed to be able to transfer our daughter from public school to Desert Christian School (DCS). It`s one of the best decisions we`ve ever made. DCS provides a Christ-focused environment and the teachers are truly interested in the students well being. Our daughter speaks glowingly about DCS and doesn`t regret having transferred at all. We`ve met several students from DCS and are impressed with their confidence and intellect. Our only regret is that we didn`t move her to DCS sooner.
- Posted by
5  
DCS is the Christ-centered school community we have been looking for. No toxic subjects are being taught such as CRT or sexual topics that are inappropriate for children. Instead, they teach normal subjects with a Christian worldview and our daughter loves going to school and we have much more confidence in the relationships she is building there. We hope to stay at DCS as long as possible.
- Posted by
5  
Desert Christian Preschool has been more than just an education center for our two young boys, it has been a haven for our family during these unprecedented times. We have formed lifelong friendships and bonds over the past three years and our children have grown not only in their education but also in their love of God and developed in creativity and exploration. Every day we are extremely grateful for Desert Christian and how it has impacted our family`s life.
- Posted by
5  
We have had a child in DCS for two years and loved it so much that we knew we had to enroll our other child. The teachers are very qualified and go the extra mile. They care about the student's success both emotionally and academically!
- Posted by
5  
I could not be happier with the choice we made on having our 3 boys in this school. We have been part of this community for about 9 years and we love it. We are very grateful for the love and dedication the teachers have towards their students and the close-knit relationships my family has been able to form. I speak very highly of Desert Christian Schools and will continue to recommend them.
- Posted by
5  
We love Desert Christian and wouldn't have our kids go anywhere else! We have had kids at both the Jr High & High School and wished we would have found them earlier!! This school is so different, the teachers and administration partner with you as a parent to help your child to learn academically, emotionally, socially, and of course in their relationship with God. Every aspect of the school is centered around the Bible. They do a wonderful job of bringing the gospel into every aspect of the school & the children's lives.
- Posted by
5  
Our daughter attends preschool and she loves it! We love it because the teachers and staff are amazing! We also love that the preschool is play-based and bilingual! We plan to stay in Tucson just so she can attend DCS through her senior year!
- Posted by
5  
We were nervous to send our little one to preschool but we couldn`t have had a better experience in his first year! The teachers were so attentive and loving. You can tell they pour out the love of God over the kids every day. Felt like an extension from home rather than just a place he spent a few hours a day at. We`re so thankful for this school!!
- Posted by
5  
The Desert is a great environment for my kids. My wife and I wouldn`t send them anywhere else!
- Posted by
5  
All three of my kids attended and graduated from DCS. They excelled academically, participated in sports and theater arts, and were taught by godly staff throughout their years. Each went on to private universities with plenty of academic scholarships making these years financially bearable, especially since they were all in college at the same time (Fr, Jr. Sr). If I had to do it all over again, I'd make the same decision! #Godsgotthis.
- Posted by
5  
Desert Christian is an exceptional school. I am thankful that my children have such caring teachers who are godly role models. My older children have all received academic scholarships and were well-prepared for college and life beyond. Can't say enough about how great it is at DCS.
- Posted by

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Quick Stats (2024)

  • Top Ranked AZ School
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-12
  • Enrollment: 395 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $11,675
  • Acceptance rate: 98%
  • Average class size: 18 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Tucson, AZ is $9,069 for elementary schools and $13,013 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Tucson, AZ is 89% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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