About Us
SEEING A NEED
At Cave Creek Unified School District, we recognized an extreme need for programs that supported students with unique learning and emotional needs in ways that were modern, compassionate, and truly best for kids. Too many families were forced to look outside of their community for help, or students were placed in settings that didn’t reflect today’s best practices. We knew our students and families deserved more.
THE STUDENT WHO SPARKED CHANGE
At Cave Creek Unified School District, we recognized an extreme need for programs that supported students with unique learning and emotional needs in ways that were modern, compassionate, and truly best for kids. Too many families were forced to look outside of their community for help, or students were placed in settings that didn’t reflect today’s best practices. We knew our students and families deserved more.
Families and staff came together, determined to find a solution that would allow this student to succeed while staying connected to their peers and community. That determination became the driving force behind the creation of these new programs.
BUILDING PROGRAMS WITH PURPOSE
From that first student’s story grew the foundation of what is now Desert Sun Alternative Academy. We built programs around the belief that students with special needs should not be sent away or left behind. Instead, they deserve environments designed to help them thrive, academically, socially, and emotionally, while remaining a part of their own community.
The Alternative High School Program was launched for students who experience anxiety, depression, or difficulty succeeding in a traditional high school setting. Soon after, the Achieve Private Day Program was created to support students with autism, emotional disabilities, and other developmental needs. Both programs reflect our deep commitment to providing individualized support in small, nurturing environments.
OUR PROMISE
We remain committed to providing modern, student-centered programs that keep kids in their community, surrounded by the
people, resources, and opportunities that matter most.
Every success inspires the future of our programs.
At Desert Sun, every student’s story matters.