About Us

Our Story

Nick and Jane Couvdos established Desert Dawn Private School in 1987 in order to provide a safe, loving, educational environment where families could feel good leaving their children.

For almost 10 years the preschool was an extension of the Couvdos family home. However, in 1996 the school took on a huge expansion, and the home was converted into the school we have today.

Now, almost 40 years after first opening its doors, Desert Dawn has been able to combine the hominess of those first 10 years with the leading educational strategies of today.

Desert Dawn school garden and outdoor space

Our Philosophy

To provide a safe, loving environment which fosters individual initiative while encouraging each child to become a productive member of the school community.
To develop the "whole" child, intellectually, physically, emotionally, socially, and creatively.
To promote self-discipline by allowing children daily choices that promote self-control.
To give children a love for learning and the joy of peacefully working and playing together.

Children on the playground at Desert Dawn

Our Program

Desert Dawn offers an integrated, child-centered program. Our goal is to develop the "whole" child in a balanced manner. Our educational approach includes discovery learning through challenging "hands-on" learning centers, a whole language program, fine arts, science and math.

Desert Dawn's large playground offers ample room for physical development, creative expression, and social interaction. By becoming active members of the school, the children develop positive self-esteem and a real sense of their own worth which transfers into all areas of their young lives.