Desert Spring is a small, non-profit agency, serving roughly 60 children, ranging in age from 2-5 years. Located near the University of Arizona, we have been providing a high-quality, accessible early education option for middle-income families since 1987.
We are inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, meaning our curriculum primarily emerges from the interests of and questions posed by the children. The environment is child-friendly. Teachers are considered partners in learning; providing thought-provoking and open-ended questions in order to help children learn how to learn. Interests are further fostered through projects and activities that allow for exploration using a multitude of materials and media.
Our educators actively study the Reggio approach as well as participate in ongoing professional development and education by attending local and national workshops and conferences, taking college courses, and participating in professional affiliations and mentoring cohorts. We are Five Star rated school through Quality First.