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Academic Year: USD 26,895
Semester: USD 19,395
Discover Cactus Shadows High School: A Center of Excellence in the Desert
Cactus Shadows High School, located in the scenic desert town of Cave Creek, Arizona, stands as a beacon of academic achievement and community spirit. Serving grades 8-12, the school is part of the Cave Creek Unified School District and is renowned for its academic excellence, consistently ranking among the top 5% of Arizona high schools. The school’s rigorous curriculum includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Program, preparing students for both college and global challenges.
Highlights
Cactus Shadows boasts a strong academic reputation, with students excelling in standardized test scores, particularly in math and reading proficiency. Approximately 73% of students achieve math proficiency, compared to the state's average of 35%, while 71% meet reading proficiency, doubling the state's average. The school also ranks highly in state and national evaluations, further solidifying its status as a top-tier institution.
Facilities
The school's modern campus, located at 5802 E. Dove Valley Road, offers expansive facilities designed to support both academics and extracurricular activities. Recent expansions have included 38,000 square feet of new classroom space, a renovated cafeteria, and upgraded athletic fields. Students benefit from state-of-the-art science labs, a library media center, and specialized areas for arts and music.
Sports & Arts
Cactus Shadows High School has a rich tradition in athletics, competing in Arizona Interscholastic Association's Division II. The school offers a variety of sports programs, including football, basketball, soccer, and swimming. Notably, the school's cheerleading squad has won multiple national championships, and the football team claimed a state title in 2006.Beyond athletics, the school excels in the arts, with award-winning drama, music, and visual arts programs that showcase student talent on both local and national stages.
Special Programs
Cactus Shadows is proud to offer unique programs such as Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways, preparing students for careers in fields like healthcare, technology, and business. The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program is a standout feature, offering students a globally recognized curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and rigorous academic inquiry.
Awards & Accomplishments
The school’s many achievements include several state championships in athletics, most notably in football and tennis. Cactus Shadows students have consistently ranked in the top tier of Arizona high schools for academic performance, with high scores on state assessments. The school’s cheer team has won multiple national and state titles, underscoring its dominance in competitive spirit programs.
Community & Area Information
Nestled in Cave Creek, a town known for its rugged beauty and Western charm, Cactus Shadows High School is part of a community that thrives on outdoor adventure and cultural richness. Cave Creek has a population of approximately 5,500 and offers numerous outdoor activities, including hiking and horseback riding. The nearest major city is Phoenix, just 33 miles away, providing access to urban amenities and cultural experiences. The largest airport nearby is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), offering convenient global connectivity. Notable alumni from Cactus Shadows include Taylor Lewan, an NFL football player; Kiowa Gordon, an actor known for his role in The Twilight Saga; and Lauren Lazo, a professional soccer player.
Why Choose Cactus Shadows?
Cactus Shadows High School offers the perfect blend of academic rigor, athletic achievement, and community engagement. With its outstanding test scores, diverse extracurricular offerings, and commitment to student success, Cactus Shadows provides an educational experience that prepares students for both college and career success. The school’s location in the vibrant, scenic community of Cave Creek adds to its allure, offering students a unique educational environment surrounded by natural beauty and cultural experiences. Whether you’re seeking top-tier academics or competitive sports and arts programs, Cactus Shadows High School stands out as an exceptional choice for students and families alike.
