Serving 765 students in grades 6-8, Desert Shadows Middle School ranks in the top 50% of all schools in Arizona for overall test scores (math proficiency is top 50%, and reading proficiency is top 50%).
The percentage of students achieving proficiency in math is 33% (which is lower than the Arizona state average of 34%). The percentage of students achieving proficiency in reading/language arts is 39% (which is lower than the Arizona state average of 40%).
The student-teacher ratio of 23:1 is higher than the Arizona state level of 17:1.
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- Grades: 6-8
- Enrollment: 765 students
- Student-Teacher Ratio: 23:1
- Overall Testing Rank: Top 50% in AZ
- Math Proficiency: 33% (Top 50%)
- Reading Proficiency: 39% (Top 50%)
- Science Proficiency: 17% (Btm 50%)
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), AZ Dept. of Education
School Overview
Desert Shadows Middle School's student population of 765 students has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
The teacher population of 34 teachers has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Grades Offered
Grades 6-8
(No virtual instruction)
(No virtual instruction)
Total Students
765 students
Gender %
Total Classroom Teachers
34 teachers
School Calendar
School Rankings
Desert Shadows Middle School ranks within the top 50% of all 1,921 schools in Arizona (based off of combined math and reading proficiency testing data).
The diversity score of Desert Shadows Middle School is 0.02, which is less than the diversity score at state average of 0.66. The school's diversity has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Overall Testing Rank
#775 out of 1921 schools
(Top 50%)
(Top 50%)
Math Test Scores (% Proficient)
33%
34%
Reading/Language Arts Test Scores (% Proficient)
39%
40%
Science Test Scores (% Proficient)
17%
24%
Student-Teacher Ratio
23:1
17:1
American Indian
n/a
5%
Asian
1%
3%
Hispanic
99%
48%
Black
n/a
6%
White
n/a
34%
Hawaiian
n/a
n/a
Two or more races
n/a
4%
All Ethnic Groups
Eligible for Free Lunch
63%
39%
Eligible for Reduced Lunch
91%
10%
School Statewide Testing
School District Name
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), AZ Dept. of Education
Profile last updated: 02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Desert Shadows Middle School's ranking?
Desert Shadows Middle School is ranked #775 out of 1,921 schools, which ranks it among the top 50% of public schools in Arizona.
What percent of students have achieved state testing proficiency in math and reading?
33% of students have achieved math proficiency (compared to the 34% AZ state average), while 39% of students have achieved reading proficiency (compared to the 40% AZ state average).
How many students attend Desert Shadows Middle School?
765 students attend Desert Shadows Middle School.
What is the racial composition of the student body?
99% of Desert Shadows Middle School students are Hispanic, and 1% of students are Asian.
What is the student-teacher ratio of Desert Shadows Middle School?
Desert Shadows Middle School has a student ration of 23:1, which is higher than the Arizona state average of 17:1.
What grades does Desert Shadows Middle School offer ?
Desert Shadows Middle School offers enrollment in grades 6-8 (No virtual instruction).
What school district is Desert Shadows Middle School part of?
Desert Shadows Middle School is part of Nogales Unified District (4457) School District.
School Reviews
Review Desert Shadows Middle School. Reviews should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
Recent Articles
School Choice vs. Neighborhood Schools: Key Factors
Explore school choice vs. neighborhood schools in 2025. Learn key factors parents should weigh when deciding the best fit for their child.
Best School Match 2025: Public vs Charter vs Magnet
Compare 2025 public, charter, and magnet school options with updated data, trends, and strategies to find the best fit.
Public School Boundaries and Equity in 2025
Explore how public school boundaries shape access, equity, and opportunity for students in 2025. Learn the impact on families and education policy.
