Desert Canyon Elementary School

Desert Canyon Elementary School

Public Pre-K, Elementary School | Grade Pre-K-5
10203 E McDowell Mountain Ranch Rd,  Scottsdale, AZ
Scottsdale Unified School District
5.0
4.2
477 Students
A
Niche Grade

School Details

Student Teacher Ratio
12:1
Math Proficiency
73%
Reading Proficiency
77%

Niche Grade

A
Academics
A
Teachers
Source: Niche
Niche Grades

Niche grades and rankings are calculated using dozens of public data sets and millions of reviews. Niche data scientists and user researchers rigorously analyze data and user opinions to assess the key aspects of K-12 Schools, Colleges, and Places to Live. Every month, millions of students and families use the Niche grades and report cards to find the right school or neighborhood.

Niche Grade Details

Academics
Reading Proficiency
77%
Math Proficiency
73%
Teachers
Student Teacher Ratio
12:1
Teachers
38
Full Time Teachers
38
Teachers in First or Second Year
3.4%

GreatSchools Rating

Source: GreatSchools
GreatSchools Rating
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

GreatSchools Rating Details

Test Scores

Math
10%
State Average
44%
Science
52%
State Average
31%
GreatSchools Test Scores Rating
GreatSchools
The Test Score Rating reflects annual state test results for this school compared with scores statewide.

Student Diversity

Male
50%
Female
50%
White
75.8%
Hispanic
11.7%
Two or more races
5%
Asian or Pacific Islander
4.4%
Black
2.6%
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander
<1%
Native American
<1%

Specialty School Programs

Free/Reduced Lunch Offered

This School’s Reviews

Niche Reviews
5.0 4 Reviews
5.0 Parent
11/26/2019
I have a daughter in kindergarten and we love our teachers, the curriculum, the Mandarin program, the music, art and PE specials and the community.
GreatSchools Reviews
4.2 42 Reviews
2.0 other
8/11/2025
In recent years, there has been a noticeable decline in overall staff retention and morale. While the teaching staff remains strong and dedicated, there is a consistent pattern of experienced teachers leaving the school each year. Reports indicate that administrative support for teachers is limited,...
5.0 parent
6/27/2025
We had such a horrible experience at our last school for the last 3 years, so coming from there over to Desert Canyon has been a breath of fresh air! From our initial tour of the school to our first interaction with Mary, in the enrollment department, and our discussions with the principal, Mrs. Mil...
5.0 parent
5/22/2025
My kids and I have had such a positive experience at DCES. The teachers are incredibly supportive. One of my children has an IEP, and the other has a 504 plan, and the support we’ve received has been outstanding. The staff consistently uplifts my kids and helps them thrive by focusing on their stren...
5.0 parent
5/21/2025
This is the most wonderful, supportive school community. The teachers and administration have always been responsive whenever I’ve had a concern. My kids are genuinely excited to go to school each day, and it’s been incredible to watch them grow, both intellectually and socially.I’ve seen some negat...

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Desert Canyon Elementary School is a public school for students in grades Pre-K-5 in Scottsdale, AZ and is served by the Scottsdale Unified School District in Arizona. The school has a total enrollment of 477 and maintains a student-teacher ratio of 12:1. Academic records show that 73% of students achieve proficiency in math, and 77% are proficient in reading. Desert Canyon Elementary School has received feedback and ratings, with a Niche grade of A and a GreatSchools Rating of 8 out of 10. The average home value in this area is $1,315,494. Discover additional schools in the area, like Notre Dame Preparatory High School, Scottsdale Preparatory Academy, Gateway Academy, and more. Learn more about what Scottsdale has to offer, and browse homes for sale and for rent near Desert Canyon Elementary School.

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