Desert Mosaic School opened in 2000 to provide families with an alternative to public education for students in kindergarten through 12th grades. The school offers a very unique environment in which students from various walks of life can achieve their goals. The school prides itself on being bicultural and bilingual offering multidimensional literacy in art, literature, technology, history, math, and science.

Not only does the school provide a quality curriculum offering basic courses but also extracurricular activities and student clubs including computer arts, theater, painting, ceramics, dance, chorus, newspaper, yearbook, and science & technology. The only sports offered at this time are physical education classes.

A few years ago the school received excellent reviews; however, over the last couple of years, parents have noted changes that are in the best interest of the students. You will find a few parents that are still very happy with the curriculum and the teachers, while others are not happy with the teachers their children have in different grade levels. Most parents express the teachers are caring and dedicated to helping students achieve their goals. Only a few parents expressed disappointment. The major complaint is the teachers are rotating which means the students can have a different teacher at different times which makes it difficult for students especially with learning disabilities. The top compliment is that the school does not show favoritism, does not condone bullying, and the small class size making the learning environment more personal.

Students overall enjoy the school and the teachers. Most are involved in the classroom and work independently but state when help is needed their teacher is always available.

Students at Desert Mosaic School participated in the AIMS exam which measures the mastering ability of students in core subjects. The percentages of students that passed or exceeded the exam along with percentages of students in other schools in the state are listed below

In reading, 60% of 3rd graders passed or exceeded the exam with the state average at 76%, in writing 82% with the state at 79%, and in math 38%. No state percentage was available for math.

In reading, 53% of 4th graders passed or exceeded the exam with the state average at 75%, in science 47% with the state at 60%, in writing 93% with the state at 83%, and in math 35% with the state at 65%.

In reading, 100% of 5th graders passed or exceeded the exam with the state average at 79%, in writing 50% with the state at 55%, and in math 42% with the state at 63%.

In reading, 83% of 6th graders passed or exceeded the exam with the state average at 81%, in writing 50% with the state at 56%, and in math 6% with the state at 59%.

In reading, 83% of 7th graders passed or exceeded the exam with the state average at 82%, in writing 61% with the state at 53%, and in math 57% with the state at 61%.

In reading 75% of 8th graders passed or exceeded the exam with the state average at 71%, in science 55% with the state at 63%, in writing 84% with the state at 86%, and in math 5% with the state at 54%.

Results for 10th grade students were not available.

Desert Mosaic School
5757 W. Ajo Way
Tucson, AZ 85735
520-578-2022
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