Desert Ridge Academy's (DRA) mission is to foster high expectations in social, emotional, and academic
development, by providing a safe and rigorous 21st century learning environment and by leading the way
with Accountability, Integrity, and Respect.
We are accomplishing our mission by creating a robust
Multi-tiered System of Support (MTSS) that focuses on three areas in order to meet the needs of the whole
child: academics, social emotional and behavior. We are a community where all means all- All adults
(faculty, staff, families, and community members) working together in a supportive and collaborative manner
in order to meet the needs of all students.
DRA provides a warm, stimulating environment where students are actively involved in learning academics
as well as positive values. Our faculty, and support staff are highly trained professionals that have
continuous Professional Development in Common Core standards, English Language Development (ELD),
Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) services, Special Education services, and technology development.
DRA is an Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) Site of Distinction, an honor awarded to fewer
than five percent of schools nationwide. The recognition takes note of schools that create systems of
support and a college going atmosphere.
DRA offers AVID Excel, specifically designed for English language
learners. Every student receives coding instruction in math class, as well as a variety of technology courses.
Our video production program produces quality work not usually seen at the middle school level. The crew
has assisted the district in the coverage of several major events.
DRA also holds a strong fine arts program, which resulted in 25 of our students winning the City of Indio
Miles Avenue Bridge Art Contest and notable recognition in the Dia de lo Muertos Block Party by Raices
Cultura in Coachella. Our music department offers traditional programs such as beginning and advanced
band as well as non- traditional classes such as guitar and percussion.
We develop leaders by offering a
variety of leadership programs such as: Where Everyone Belongs (WEB) program, Associated Student
Body (ASB), Renaissance, yearbook, Speech and Debate, and Cadet Corp.
In addition to offering a rigorous curriculum and integrating Common Core strategies, we provide students
with opportunities to grow beyond the classroom: tutoring during and after school, after school sports, over
20 different clubs, journalism, and After School Education and Safety (ASES).
DRA has a strong counseling program which supports the healthy development of our students. We
have partnered with multiple community programs such as the Ophelia Project, Above the Influence, Big
Brothers Big Sisters of the Desert, Ronnie's House for Hope, Stress Busters and Insight.
DRA's faculty,
staff, students, families, and community members are united in creating a safe and rigorous learning
environment...
Without a doubt, DRA leads the way with Accountability, Integrity and Respect.