Camelback Desert School

Reviews

• KR

  Katie R

  Mar 10, 2026
  5.0
  CDS is such a special place. When we were touring schools for our son, it immediately stood out. Many places felt more like daycare, but CDS truly felt like a preschool with an intentional, thoughtful curriculum and includes specials (Spanish, PE, Art, Music) Our son started when he was one, and from day one it felt like family. Every teacher and administrator knows the kids by name, which speaks volumes. Ms. Nicole, his first teacher, made such a lasting impact on our son and our family. We also loved Ms. Haley, Ms. Kyndal, Ms. Danelle, Coach Zee, Mr. Nathan, Senora Bertha, Ms.Meghan — each one wonderful in their own way. Our son genuinely loved going to school there. We’ve since moved out of state, but we think about CDS often and miss it so much. Thank you, CDS fam, for giving our son such a beautiful start. We miss you!
• KL

  Kelleigh Lang

  Feb 12, 2026
  5.0
  Three years ago, joining Camelback Desert School was one of the best decisions we’ve made for our family. From the very beginning, we felt welcomed, supported, and genuinely cared for - not just as parents, but as people. What stands out most is the true sense of community. CDS isn’t just a school; it’s a place where families, teachers, and leadership partner together. There is an intentional focus on nurturing each child’s growth - intellectually, socially, and emotionally. We’ve watched our son thrive here. He is encouraged, supported, and truly known. CDS doesn’t just focus on building strong learning foundations - they are deeply committed to developing thoughtful, confident, and compassionate kids who will make a positive impact in the world. We are incredibly grateful to be part of this community!
• KS

  Kevin Simons

  Dec 19, 2025
  5.0
  Both of our children have attended CDS and have truly thrived thanks to the incredible teachers and staff. We are deeply grateful for the care, education, and environment they provide, and we have never regretted the investment in such an exceptional learning experience. When we first moved her we had to put our oldest in a different school based upon openings available at that time of year. Not for one second would we consider another option having seen what else is out there.
• KS

  Kristy Schafer

  Aug 25, 2018
  5.0
  I've had at least one student at this school for the last 4 years. Pros: - the administration is extremely accommodating. If you're running late, you need extra care, you need to drop something off, etc. - there is a great sense of community at the school. They have several family events throughout the year so you do get a chance to meet other parents. Your child will perform twice a year as part of the music curriculum. - It is very educational. In the 2s, they focus on sensory play as well as an intro to letters and numbers. In the 3s they move to more academic focus that is still very play based. Your child will know all numbers, alphabet and majority of associated letter sounds. Great precursor to reading. In PreK they are learning so much! Early math, reading and intro to history, money, etc. My daughter was so well prepared for Kindergarten. - they have an app so that teachers can send updates and pictures of your child. We typically receive 3 pictures per day. This is very helpful and allows parents to trigger dialogue with their child so you get more information about their day. - they have a lot of great teachers and really wonderful supportive staff. Miss Larkman in Pre-K has such a wonderful way of engaging children and creating a real love of school. They learn so much in one year in her class it really is incredible. Mrs. McCarter is a seasoned expert that knows how to manage each child during a really difficult growth period (the Threes!). They both communicate wonderfully with parents. - their specials are above and beyond what you see at a traditional preschool. Great art studio, engaging Spanish teacher and wonderful music room. - I've noticed they are constantly improving the school. The infrastructure is often updated (playground received new turf, updated play equipment, classrooms remodeled). They are sharing best practices among grades and implementing new ideas. Cons: - they don't follow the SUSD calendar so your younger student at CDS will not have the same breaks as your grade school children. For a preschool there are a lot of teacher development days as well. They then ask you to pay for camp so you are covered. Great way for them to make money, very inconvenient for parents.
• LK

  Lisa Kosta

  Aug 18, 2018
  5.0
  This school is everything you want for your child: educated and caring staff, welcoming and friendly environment, well rounded curriculum that includes foreign language, art, music, pe, computers, worldly awareness and basic subjects, clean and organized school with phenomenal chef created food that is healthy! They build your child's self confidence with their inclusiveness and exceptional customer service. I am thankful my son attended here.

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