Desert Skies is a growth it is a church committed to growth in spirit, mission outreach, membership nurturing, and enabling active compassion.
Attendance, activities, involvement, innovative worship, outreach programming all characterize Desert Skies' identity.
Starting with seven couples, including the founding pastor, Dr. Jerry Elrod and his wife Sharon, these pioneers began their first services in homes.
As their numbers grew the people of Desert Skies erected a modular building, then a classroom, office, and fellowship complex and finally a sanctuary that celebrated its first worship service in June, 2001.
Desert Skies developed an outstanding music program including an adult Choir of over 65 members; active UMM and UMW groups, an unparalleled Youth and Children's ministry, Disciples' Bible study and other in-depth studies that include nearly 20% of the active membership and a Flea Market that must be seen to be believed.
Quick Stats (2025)
- School Type: Early Childhood / Day Care
- Grades: Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
- Enrollment: 20 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
20 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
50%
State avg.: 38%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
1 teacher
Student : Teacher Ratio
20:1
National avg.:
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
School Notes
- Desert Skies is a growth it is a church committed to growth in spirit, mission outreach, membership nurturing, and enabling active compassion. Attendance, activities, involvement, innovative worship, outreach programming all characterize Desert Skies' identity. Starting with seven couples, including the founding pastor, Dr. Jerry Elrod and his wife Sharon, these pioneers began their first services in homes. As their numbers grew the people of Desert Skies erected a modular building, then a classroom, office, and fellowship complex and finally a sanctuary that celebrated its first worship service in June, 2001. Desert Skies developed an outstanding music program including an adult Choir of over 65 members; active UMM and UMW groups, an unparalleled Youth and Children's ministry, Disciples' Bible study and other in-depth studies that include nearly 20% of the active membership and a Flea Market that must be seen to be believed.
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the application deadline for Desert Skies?
The application deadline for Desert Skies is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Desert Skies located?
Desert Skies is located in the Suffolk Hills neighborhood of Tucson, AZ.
School Reviews
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