Desert Sun Ranch Academy
Desert Sun Ranch Academy
Personalized 1st-5th grade special education on a 5 acre ranch! We UNCONDITIONALLY believe in your child!
Services
In person learning center for 1st-5th grade special education in Queen Creek, Arizona, with small class sizes, individualized curriculum, and emphasis on nature-based learning.
Why I started the Business
Julie Philips, a mother of five, four of whom have special needs, co-founded DSR Academy with Jaclyn Wahlberg, an occupational therapist. Julie’s extensive experience navigating various educational settings to find the right fit for her children drove her to create an educational environment that meets the unique needs of children like hers. Julie is also determined to ensure that parents and families are treated as they should be – integral, vital aspects of their child’s development and education. This means eliminating frustrating bureaucracy, effective communication, and transparency.
Jaclyn Wahlberg brings her expertise and passion for nature-based, experiential learning to the academy. She believes that such an approach, in a low-stress environment, is essential for holistic brain development. Jaclyn has observed that many educational settings fail to fully support children with learning differences and disabilities. She is committed to the belief that education should push all children to reach their full potential, viewing this as a fundamental human right. Together, Julie and Jaclyn aim to provide an educational option at DSR Academy that aligns with their vision of inclusivity and holistic development for all students.
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About Me
Jaclyn Johnson, Operations Manager. Jaclyn is an occupational therapist, ready to get going with being the onsite OT, as well as overseeing the day to day operations of Desert Sun Ranch Academy. She also possesses a bachelor’s degree in developmental psychology, and has years of experience working with children of all ages and abilities in various capacities, including intensive occupational therapy for kids with complex physical disabilities. Her “why”: She believes that every child has limitless potential, and every child deserves communities that unconditionally believe in that potential.
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Kaylee Philips, Teacher. Kaylee is a dedicated, certified K-8 teacher with years of experience teaching first graders at a Title I charter school. Kaylee is also certified in Structured English Immersion (SEI), and utilizes her many years of taking Spanish classes to communicate more effectively with her students of diverse backgrounds. Kaylee’s “why”: Kaylee believes that children learn best when given individualized attention, which is something she feels is lacking in many traditional schools.
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Linda Abbot: Administrative Assistant. Linda is a devoted mother of three adult children and proud grandmother of six. Retiring from the community college system in LA, California, she left an indelible mark through her tireless efforts in launching programs aimed at supporting educationally and socially disadvantaged students. Linda’s passion for ensuring every student’s success led her to provide comprehensive support, from securing resources like books, tutoring, and financial aid to advocating for their needs and fostering connections within the academic community. Her dedication extended beyond the classroom, as she assisted students with job placements, driving classes, childcare, and various other necessities. Her commitment to uplifting others also led her to volunteer with the literacy council, where she helped adults improve their reading and writing skills. Linda’s optimistic and caring nature shines through in her unwavering dedication to empowering individuals to achieve their fullest potential.
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Julie Philips, Executive Director. Desert Sun Ranch Academy is Julie’s brain child, stemming from years of raising 5 children, 4 of which have special needs. Julie believes strongly in the power of nature-based learning, with a bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation and a 5-acre ranch with a menagerie of animals. Julie has worn many hats throughout her career, including park ranger and realtor, but has found the most meaning in ventures such as being a foster parent, adoptive parent, and Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for vulnerable children and youth. Julie’s “why:” Julie has seen firsthand, through her children, how traditional schools don’t always fully meet the needs of students with special needs. Julie aims to start a revolution of family-first, customized, safe education for all!