The Cave Creek Unified School District (CCUSD) Governing Board meeting on December 3, 2024, focused on student enrollment trends and the impact of open enrollment policies. A significant discussion point was the district's student migration patterns, particularly the loss of students to Paradise Valley and the gain from Deer Valley.

Board members noted that the majority of students leaving CCUSD are opting for schools in Paradise Valley, while Deer Valley schools are the primary source of new enrollments. This trend is particularly evident in areas near Carefree Highway, where Black Mountain Elementary, Sonoran Trails Middle School, and Cactus Shadows High School serve as key educational institutions.

The board highlighted the importance of location in attracting families to the district. With new affordable housing developments anticipated near Sonoran Desert Parkway, the board discussed strategies to promote nearby schools, especially Horseshoe Trails Elementary and Sonoran Trails Middle School, to potential residents in those areas.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the impact of the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program on enrollment figures. Board members expressed concern that the ESA program may have a more pronounced effect on CCUSD compared to larger districts, attributing this to the district's more affluent demographic.

Overall, the discussions underscored the need for strategic planning and marketing to retain and attract students, particularly in light of changing housing developments and competitive enrollment options. The board plans to continue exploring these issues to enhance the district's appeal to families.