FIRST CHARTER SCHOOL ON US AIR FORCE BASE

Sonoran Science Academy-Davis-Monthan (SSA-DM) is the very first charter school in American history to be opened on a United States Air Force Base. In 2009, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base (located in Tucson, Arizona), welcomed SSA-DM as an alternative to the public school system. This landmark development in American education history is the result of a collaboration between the U.S. Air Force (U.S. Government) and SSA-DM Corporation to benefit not only the Air Force-affiliated families but the families of the greater-Tucson area.

U.S. Air Force chose Sonoran Science Academy model among a highly-competitive pool of applications. The primary reason for selecting Sonoran Science Academy’s educational program was its unique, proven, research-based model (success of which has been evidenced over a period of 9-year implementation). Moreover, Sonoran Science Academy’s focus on Math, Science, and Technology (STEM education) coupled with strong college-prep/college-going culture were of significant importance and a priority for national security.

SSA-DM Corporation was established in 2009 and a replication application was submitted to the Arizona State Board for Charter Schools (ASBCS). Upon approval, SSA-DM has replicated Daisy Education Corporation (DEC) dba Sonoran Science Academy-Tucson’s unique and successful college-preparatory education model. Currently, the school is serving grades 6-8.