NBC Palm Springs Connects with Eagle Mountain Students in Desert Center

Just outside the Coachella Valley, the Desert Center Unified School District serves local students in a uniquely intimate setting—Eagle Mountain School.

The K-8 campus is the district’s only school, with fewer than 30 students enrolled. Nestled near the remnants of the abandoned Eagle Mountain mining town, the campus may be remote—but its impact runs deep.

Led by Superintendent Dr. Greg Sackos, staff at Eagle Mountain School are committed to ensuring every student receives personalized attention and the tools they need to succeed.

That dedication was on full display during a recent visit from NBC Palm Springs, where students had the chance to learn about careers in journalism. Olivia Sandusky was invited to speak with students about her work as a news anchor and long-form reporter, alongside videographer Heath Cunningham and producer Daniela Mateus Palma.

The visit turned into an engaging conversation, introducing students to storytelling, broadcasting, and the wide range of opportunities within the field. Students—including members of the student council—shared their own experiences attending Eagle Mountain School, highlighting the close-knit environment that defines the campus.

While the school’s location may feel isolated, it remains a vital resource for families in the Desert Center area—offering stability, education, and a strong sense of community.

Eagle Mountain School, along with the rich history of the nearby mining town and its lasting impact on former residents, will soon be featured in an upcoming special report on NBC Palm Springs.

That story is expected to air in the near future.