About Us

​​​​​​Located in the Village of Ashcroft, Desert Sands Community School (DSCS) is a K to 12 school, that also offers Early Learning Programs, a Strong Start Program as well as before and after school care. Serving families from various communities, the school lies on the traditional territories of the Secwépemc and Nlaka'pamux nations. DSCS emphasizes holistic development through a blend of academics and extracurricular activities, guided by the First Peoples Principles of Learning, and upholds core values of Responsibility, Respect, Order, and Excellence. The student body is diverse, with over 50% identifying as Indigenous and a significant number commuting via district school bus. Community engagement is vital, with family members actively participating in school initiatives.

 

At DSCS, both educators and students prioritize respect and excellence, focusing on numeracy and literacy skills. The school integrates Indigenous perspectives throughout the K-12 curriculum, promoting storytelling, literature circles with Indigenous authors, and land-based learning experiences. Project-based learning and the celebration of significant Indigenous days enhance cultural understanding. Social-emotional development is prioritized through supportive activities, and collaboration with Elders enriches the overall educational experience.