Yes, students are required to wear uniforms 3 days per week.  The colors are burgundy, baby blue, white and gray.

Is there recess?

Yes.  Students take what is called a vitamin D break.
 

Do you accept students with IEPs?

Absolutely.  We support students with IEPs and 504 plans.

Is there a physical education class?

Yes.  All students take PE.

What if I don't have enough ESA funds to cover the cost of tuition?

If parents do not have enough funds to cover tuition, and they are unable to pay the difference, they may have the difference waived.  Therefore, students may attend with no out-of-pocket costs.

Do you provide free lunch?

No. Students bring their own lunch.  We have refridgerators and microwaves available.  

Is there transportation?

No.  Hopefully we will soon offer transportation.

How many classrooms are there?

Currently we  are expanding to offer four classrooms.  

What is the teacher student ratio:

1:10

Are you accredited?

Yes, we are accredited. While microschools are not required to hold accreditation, we are dedicated to maintaining high academic standards. Since 2025, we have been proudly accredited by Meridian Learning.

Do you accept students who have suspended or removed from another school due to behavior problems?

No. We cannot accommodate students whose behavior may disrupt the classroom, show disrespect toward teachers or others, or negatively impact the school environment. We are committed to fostering a culture of kindness and strive to maintain that positive atmosphere.

Are the teachers certified?

Although our teachers have always been highly qualified and certified, current standards now require teachers to hold at least a Bachelor’s degree and participate in ongoing professional development. However, in Arizona, microschool teachers are not required to hold state certification to provide an outstanding education to children.

Have the teachers had background checks?

Yes. All teachers are fingerprinted and cleared through the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

Is there a before and afterschool program?

Yes.  Students can be dropped off by 7:30am and picked up by 7:00pm.  Desert Edge is a mentoring service that provides an afterschool program until 7:00pm.  Students will receive a meal and homework assistance.  

Is there a driveline so parents don't have to go in the building before and after school? 

Absolutely. Driveline is open for morning drop-off from 7:30 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. After that time, parents may allow students to walk in alone or accompany them to class. In the afternoon, driveline is open for pick-up from 3:00 p.m. to 3:10 p.m. After 3:10 p.m., parents are required to enter the building to pick up their child or call the office to request that their child be released independently. If you need after-school care, please contact Desert Edge Mentoring Services.

Is Desert Edge Mentoring Services a part of New Gains Academy?

No.  Desert Edge Mentoring Services is a separate entity.