Welcome to Desert Dragons Kenpo Karate

Desert Dragons, founded in 2005 by owner and chief instructor, Scott Gonzalez, along with his wife, Julie Gonzalez and his family. Based northwest of Phoenix in the city of Peoria where  Mr. Gonzalez resides and teaches the practitioners American  Kenpo Karate, as developed by Edmund K Parker. Mr. and Mrs. Gonzalez conceptualized a  school that would be part of his community, wanting to provide a positive,  nurturing influence for the residents of their home and his family.  Mrs. Gonzalez wanted to add adaptive martial arts for special needs students as well so they too could enjoy the benefit of the martial arts.

Desert Dragons offers programs and training for Special Needs children that build skills on many different levels.  We are pleased to announce the Arizona Department of Education has approved our school to accept ESA (Empowerment Scholarship Account) funding.  Please call to schedule an appoinment with Mrs. Julie Gonzalez or for further information.

Kenpo instills qualities of confidence, respect,  discipline, and camaraderie as you develop personal abilities through  interaction with fellow students. By training with others, you develop a greater  understanding of your own unique qualities and talents, envision advancement  potential in them, and then implement a structured practice that leads you to  those goals through an environment that promotes growth. With the continued  increase of his school, Mr. Gonzalez is blessed to see the emergence of his  dream and the warm impact it is having on his community.

Each year, Desert Dragons’ students find success outside of the studio utilizing  the leadership and coping skills taught in class to become successful in school  and at work.  From 2009-2012, 79 young Desert Dragons’ participants have  been recognized at their elementary schools as “Student of the Month” or  “REACH”, enacting the challenge in class to be strong young leaders in the  community.

***Summer Programs are starting June 3rd.  We are accepting enrollment and offer specials for families.  Classes are held during the days and develop childrens’ skills, focus, flexibility, and confidence all in a fun engaging environment that is conducive to learning.

Attending BASIS Peoria as a 5th grader next year?  Desert Dragons contracts with BASIS Peoria to instruct the 5th grade PE program. Get a head start on your training in one of Ms Jessi’s summer classes, a primary instructor for our Outreach program there.

Experience Kenpo Workshop:
Participate in two workshops designed to enhance the kenpo training you already have.  Take your knowledge and understanding to a new level.