District. Adolfson and Peterson Construction sought to install solar panels during the construction of the second phase, but a lack of funding delayed the contractor's plans. In addition, Desert Edge's campus engages in outdoor sustainable practices, such as drip irrigation and xeriscaping. Indoors, motion and daylight sensors are used that automatically turn off lights, depending on if people are present in the room and what the time of day is. These practices further increase the energy efficiency of Desert Edge, especially in comparison to other, more conventional schools. Additionally, carbon dioxide sensors signal a shut off signal to the fan coil when the rooms are unoccupied. Academics Enrollment As of the 2020-2021 school year, Desert Edge High School had an enrollment of 1,786 students and 83.80 classroom teachers (on FTE basis), for a student–teacher ratio of 21.31. As of 2019, 45% of students are on free or reduced lunch. A majority minority is present in the student body at Desert Edge. The National Center for Education Statistics reported that in 2020 and 2021, the ethnic demographics of students was 22.2% Caucasian, 57.1% Hispanic and Latino American, 12.7% African American, 2.6% Asian American, and 5.2% other including American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander American, and multiple raced backgrounds. Awards In 2022, U.S. News & World Report ranked Desert Edge High School 6,197th nationally and 112nd among schools in Arizona. The Washington Post placed Desert Edge 1,796th on its "America's Most Challenging High Schools" list for 2015. Curriculum Consistent with curriculum at other high schools in the district, curriculum at Desert Edge High School typically includes four years of English, mathematics, and three years of laboratory-based sciences and history. Students also take one year of a foreign language, two years of a fine arts class, and four years of an elective class. Desert Edge offers a range of Advanced Placement (AP) classes, focusing on English, mathematics, science, history, art, and foreign languages. These classes allow students to earn college credit. As of 2022, there are 17 AP classes offered, with about a third of students taking at least one AP class. About 45% of students pass their AP tests. In 2006, Desert Edge began a cooperative relationship with Estrella Mountain Community College, allowing students to earn college credits in the Maricopa Community College District after school at Desert Edge. That same year, Desert Edge partnered with the Academy of Finance