Our School

We at Calabasas School, a public school in Rio Rico, Arizona, are focused on the success of our students. Our Pre-K through eighth grade students thrive in a close-knit atmosphere of learning that is successful in preparing them for high school and beyond.

Our technology-based academics programs, our athletics and clubs, our ESL program for students and English classes for adults, and our emphasis on individual success for every student every day is what makes Calabasas a great place to learn.

The Key to Success

Over the past four years, our students have shown improvement in their Stanford 10 test scores in every subject, every year. Our AIMS scores have also improved every single year, and we have set all-time highs in reading scores the last two years consecutively. The key to such success is, first of all, parents who strive to help their kids understand the importance of attending school regularly and gaining a good education. And secondly, we have highly qualified teachers and amazing staff members who work diligently to create a positive learning environment in which our students excel both socially and academically.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to educate students to become active, lifelong learners and responsible citizens in a culturally diverse global environment.

Our Principal

Bethany Patterson, PrincipalAs one of the newest members of the Calabasas PreK-8 family, let me begin by saying I am excited to be part of this new journey with you. My goal is to continue building upon the solid foundation and successes of those who have walked in these “principal” shoes before me with our Calabasas teachers, staff, and most importantly, our students.

Though I am new to this school, I am not new to Santa Cruz Valley Unified #35. I served as assistant principal at Rio Rico High School for seven years before coming to Calabasas. There, I experienced first-hand what it takes to bring a school from “needs improvement” status to becoming an A+ School of Excellence. It takes teamwork - a focused and dedicated team that is committed to excellence for all students. I recognize that same determination here at Calabasas, and I am honored to be part of your team.

Let me assure you that I am ready to work together as we prepare all of our students, even our youngest, to set their sights on becoming college and career ready.

I grew up in Wheatfield, New York, a small town of roughly 18,000 people near the Canadian border. Rio Rico feels very much like my hometown. This is a kind and humble community of hard-working families who want only the best for their children, including the best possible education. I promise to help achieve this for you.

My husband, Jonathan, and I, along with our two young daughters, enjoy being part of this southern Arizona community. We look forward to getting to know each of you in the coming years. Together we will strive for excellence for all students.

Bethany Patterson

Bethany Patterson, Principal

Important Information

Daily Schedule

Our school day begins at 7:30 a.m., with a warning bell at 7:25 a.m. We ask that you please do not drop off your children at school before 7:10 a.m. due to the lack of adult supervision at that time.

Start/Dismissal Schedule:

    Dismissal Time
Grade Level Start Time Regular Early (Wed.)
K - 5th Grade 7:30a.m. 2:10p.m. 11:45p.m.
6th, 7th, & 8th 7:35a.m. 2:50p.m. 12:35p.m.

Pre-K (M, T, Th, F):

  • 7:45 am to 2:30 p.m.

Important Information