We recently caught up with Bookmans School Challenge 2013 finalist and $3000 winner, Desert Marigold School (DMS). As a public charter school inspired by Waldorf education, DMS focuses on giving students a world-class education, complete with arts, crafts, music, movement and experiential learning. Their popular DMS Winter Faire is a perfect example of how this school blends creativity with interactive education. This annual event took place on Saturday December 6 and is a chance to enjoy a magical and anachronistic winter wonderland complete with Medieval knights, craftmaking, feasting and holiday shopping. Please visit the Desert Marigold School website to find out more about their incredible model for learning.

School Challenge Winner DMS

Nestled in the foothills of South Mountain, Desert Marigold feels like a rural retreat from its urban surroundings. While touring the grounds, it’s immediately obvious how the school offers students a well-rounded educational community. From the centrally located, student-tended organic garden that provides fresh veggies for school lunch to the cozy classrooms converted from the original farmhouse, Desert Marigold is one of a kind. Although the campus is located in South Phoenix, students and teachers of DMS hail from all over the Valley of the Sun. DMS is always accepting new students. Take an enrollment tour at 8:45 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14.

Bookmans and DMS have collaborated on projects from book donations to school library development. We’re looking forward to partnering on more ideas that are in line with the missions of both DMS and Bookmans. Desert Marigold stands out as one of our local treasures in Phoenix. The 2013 School Challenge was a catalyst for building new community relationships and strengthening current connections between Bookmans and the wonderful schools in Arizona. As the next generation of students grows, it’s inspiring to know that we have exceptional teachers, parents and schools to launch them into greatness. We’re excited to see what the future brings.