We would be like any other school without our incredible faculty and staff. We have 1:16 class ratios and 66% of our staff hold either Masters or PhD/DMA degrees. Small class sizes allow our faculty of academic scholars and of performing artists to provide personalized attention to all students. We use a grade-level approach to support students holistically, integrating studies and reinforcing cultural norms to bring out their best. We appreciate our faculty and staff’s everyday efforts, their commitment to excellence and passion for teaching.
Director of Lower School & Academic Programs
Why ASA?
I enjoy teaching these students who value both rigorous academics and an arts education. The fact that ASA is located right in the heart of the city is a plus, too!
Andrew Doumakes earned a B.A. in Mathematics and a B.S. in Economics from Arizona State University. After his undergraduate studies, Andrew returned to his home state of Texas to earn his M.A. in Economics from Texas Tech University, after which he returned to Phoenix and worked with BASIS Peoria, where he taught many levels of math and economics. Mr. Doumakes joined ASA in 2022 as a 9th and 10th grade math teacher. He is a passionate traveler, and has visited Portugal, Spain, Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Czechia, Greece, the Netherlands, the UK, Croatia, and our neighbor Mexico!
Total Years at ASA: 3
Total Years of Teaching Experience: 13
Teaching Experience: ASA, BASIS Peoria
Other Years of Teaching Experience: 11
Education/Degrees:
B.A. Mathematics | Arizona State University, 2011
B.A. Economics | Arizona State University, 2011
M.A. Economics | Texas Tech University, 2013
Math 5/6/7
Why ASA?
As a student and fan of musical theater and dance for most of my life, I am passionate about the integration of both arts and academics that ASA offers. I would have loved the opportunity to attend a school like this as a child.
Nicole Cardoso earned a B.A. in Psychology at California State University Stanislaus. Interested in giving back to her community in central California, she became a substitute teacher for Kindergarten through 6th grade classes. She quickly realized her passion for helping students and returned to California State University Stanislaus for a Multiple Subjects Credential Program for grades Kindergarten through 6th. She spent the next two years teaching 5th-grade English, math, social studies, and science – one year in California and one year in Rhode Island. Nicole moved to Phoenix in 2023 and found her dream community at ASA. This is her third year teaching 6th grade mathematics at ASA and is excited to have 5th grade back in the mix.
Total Years at ASA: 3
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 4
Teaching Experience: ASA, Freedom Elementary, Webster Avenue Elementary School
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.A. Psychology | California State University Stanislaus, 2019
Multiple Subjects Credential Program | California State University Stanislaus, 2021
ELA 5/6
Why ASA?:
After conducting extensive research, I feel there is no better place to launch my teaching career than at ASA, which flawlessly thrives on community, arts, and academics.
Eliza Lynch received a B.A. in Science-Teaching from Winona State University in Minnesota in the spring of 2023. She is determined to improve student literacy and contribute to creating kind, resilient, lifelong learners. Ms. Lynch is excited to take this next step in the supportive and uplifting environment that ASA provides.
Total Years at ASA: 3
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 3
Teaching Experience: ASA
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.A. Science-Teaching | Winona State University, 2023
Social Studies 5/6
Why ASA?
ASA’s focus on the development of the whole child is compelling. As an educator, I am drawn to the work of empowering authentic student voice and agency as a means of helping learners grow into their best selves. I am delighted to be joining a community dedicated to fostering the growth and expression of both academic and artistic skills.
Todd Webster grew up and went to college in North Carolina. In 1991, he moved to Cleveland, OH, for a two-year graduate program – but ended up staying, marrying, raising a family, and building a career in education. Todd has worked in both public and private schools and has had the pleasure of working with elementary, middle, and high school grade levels. While primarily a science educator, Todd has also played a broad range of additional roles over his 25+ year career. Todd also enjoys live music, reading, travel, and hiking/camping.
Todd moved to Phoenix in 2021. At that time, he joined the administrative team at All Saints Episcopal Day School. While a wonderful school community, Todd has deeply missed the classroom and working directly with student learners. He is thrilled to be returning to the classroom and joining the ASA team!
Total Years at ASA: 4
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 29
Teaching Experience: ASA, All Saints Episcopal Day School, Hawken School, North Olmsted High School
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.A. Anthropology | University of North Carolina-Charlotte, 1991
M.A. Medical Anthropology | Case Western Reserve University, 1993
Science 5/6
Why ASA?
I am amazed by how ASA balances academics and arts in crafting their curriculum. I also love the idea of building an inclusive community while students are expressing their individual creativity and confidence.
Reyjane Valiente earned a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education with a focus on Physical Sciences at Cebu Normal University, Philippines. She also completed her academic requirements for a Master’s in Science Teaching at the University of Cebu, Philippines. She spent the last 10 years teaching Science to Grades 7-10 students and the last 2 years serving as an Assisting School Principal in one of the public schools in the Philippines before moving to Arizona.
Total Years at ASA: 3
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 13
Teaching Experience: ASA, Sotero B. Cabahug FORUM for Literacy, Bulacao National High School
Education and Degrees Earned:
BSEd Physical Sciences | Cebu Normal University, 2010
M.S. Science Teaching | University of Cebu, 2018
Student Success Seminar 5/6
Total Years at ASA: First year!
ELA 7; Student Success Seminar 7
Why ASA?
I am a proud Arizona School for the Arts alumnus, having graduated in 2013. This school has made an amazing impact on my life, and I love the close-knit community, artistic expression, and academic excellence that this campus provides for its students.
In 2017, Jalyn McKee earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona with a major in Creative Writing and a minor in Film & Television. From there, she immediately began her teaching career at Desert Mirage Elementary School as a Reading Interventionist and Instructional Aide. In the midst of that school year, she had the opportunity to act as a long-term substitute teacher for a first grade class. This experience inspired her to work full-time in the classroom as the second grade teacher the following year. Outside of the classroom, Jalyn loves to read, write, and travel as much as she can, although her path always leads back to teaching. In the Spring of 2024, Jalyn had the opportunity to substitute for 7th grade English at ASA. Having thoroughly enjoyed this experience, she then moved on to begin teaching full-time as the 5th Grade English teacher for 2 years. As of 2026, she has returned to the 7th grade English classroom.
Total Years at ASA: 3
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 5
Teaching Experience: ASA, Desert Mirage Elementary School, and substitute teaching/various locations
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.A. Major Creative Writing/Minor Film & Television | University of Arizona, 2017
Science 7; Student Success Seminar 7
Why ASA?
I am amazed by the school’s unique curriculum which doesn’t only help students excel academically but also nurtures their creativity and critical thinking skills. I am excited about the opportunity to work in a setting that values both intellectual and artistic growth and allows me to bring my passion for teaching science and my appreciation for the arts into the classroom.
Rona Aguila completed a Bachelor of Secondary Education in Physics and Technology at the Philippine Normal University in March 2006. She furthered her education by earning her master’s in Science Education at Sorsogon State University in June 2023. She has taught science and research to students in grades 7-12 at middle school (10 years) and high school (7 years). She is an active advocate for mangrove education back home in the Philippines.
Total Years at ASA: 2
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 19
Teaching Experience: ASA, Bulusan National High School, Gubat National High School
Education and Degrees Earned:
BSEd Physics and Technology | Philippine Normal University, 2006
M.A. Education (Science) | Sorsogon State University, 2023
Social Studies 7; Student Success Seminar 7
Why ASA?
I’ve always heard great things about ASA, and wanted to make myself a part of an awesome team!
Total Years at ASA: 2
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 2
Teaching Experience: Herrera Elementary School, Geneva Epps Mosley Middle School, Camelback High School
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.A. History | Arizona State University, 2024
Math 7; Pre Algebra; Student Success Seminar 7
Total Years at ASA: First Year
Director of Upper School & Student Services
Director of Upper School & Student Services
College Counselor
Why ASA?
ASA is my family, my community. I love to empower students to discover their strengths and vision for their lives.
Having joined ASA in 2002, Liz Wakeford is a lifelong educator and college counselor with a passion for helping young people discover their college/career pathway by understanding their values, interests, and skills. The process for college and career exploration begins in 8th grade, where students learn about their strengths and how to discover the types of careers and colleges in which they would thrive. Mrs. Wakeford regularly meets with college admission officers from around the country and offers informational seminars for parents and students. She is continually expanding the college program and is currently developing a robust College Compass program that will focus on college preparation for students in grades 5-12. A graduate of Meredith College in Raleigh, NC, Mrs. Wakeford received a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education K-12. She is a professional member of Rocky Mountain Association of College Admissions Counselors and the National Association of College Admissions Counselors.
Total Years at ASA: 23
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 23
Teaching Experience: ASA, Kent Island Elementary School
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.M. Music Education (K-12) | Meredith College, 1990
College & Career Readiness
Why ASA?
I chose to teach at Arizona School for the Arts because I love how this community blends creativity and learning. I have always believed that being prepared for life is one of the most powerful tools we have, it helps us create our stories, understand others, and learn how to interact with the world in new ways. Teaching College and Career Readiness gives me the chance to guide students as they find their paths, plan and make challenging choices, and to discover the joy of what the future might hold.
With her background in Interdisciplinary Studies, experience while traveling to 35 countries, and her journey as an artist it has given Ms. Miller a deep appreciation for learning, creativity, and different perspectives. She is passionate about helping students discover their strengths, build confidence, and prepare for their future. She believes every student has unique potential, and she strives to make College and Career Readiness engaging, meaningful, and inspiring.
Total Years at ASA: 2
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 8
Teaching Experience: Mesa Public Schools, BASIS Phoenix South, BASIS Prague International, BASIS Phoenix Central
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.A. Interdisciplinary Studies: Global Studies – Human Rights and Ethics | Arizona State University, 2009
Pre-AP Algebra I; Pre-AP Geometry
Why ASA?
I deeply admire the passion and determination that runs ASA. It is a great privilege to work each day alongside every one of my colleagues and every one of our students in this rigorous, inclusive, supportive, and engaging environment.
Total Years at ASA: 8
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 8
Teaching Experience: ASA
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.S. Astrobiology/Biogeosciences | Arizona State University, 2018
B.A. French | Arizona State University, 2018
Pre-AP Algebra 2; AP Precalculus
Why ASA?
The outstanding reputation and the opportunity to work with the brilliant and talented students who make this school so special drew me to ASA. As a long-time resident of downtown Phoenix, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the immense talent in this community. I’ve often wished to be a part of it, and now, I’m thrilled to have the chance to do so at ASA.
Patrick Hershey is a two-time Sun Devil and earned his bachelor’s degree in 2001 and his master’s degree in 2011. His bachelor’s degree is in orchestral performance on double bass with a minor in art history. For the ten years between degrees, he earned his living as a private music instructor and freelance musician in the metro Phoenix area, playing a variety of styles, including blues, classical, and jazz. His master’s degree is in secondary education with an emphasis on mathematics instruction. He has been a full-time teacher in the Phoenix area since 2011. Music continues to be a rewarding avocation for Patrick, and he enjoys continuing to work on the craft in his free time.
Total Years at ASA: 2
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 15
Teaching Experience: ASA, Andalucia Middle School, Arizona Conservatory for Arts and Academics
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.M. Orchestral Performance | Arizona State University, 2001
M.Ed. Secondary Mathematics | Arizona State University, 2011
AP Calculus AB; Statistics; Pre-AP Algebra 1
Why ASA?
I chose ASA because of its exceptional program offerings. ASA is also known for its high academic standards, providing students with a rigorous and well-rounded curriculum that prepares them for college and future careers. As a teacher, I am proud and grateful to be part of the ASA family.
Total Years at ASA: 2
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 15
Teaching Experience: ASA, La Carlota City College, La Granja National High School, Doña Hortencia Salas Bebedicto National High School-Senior High School
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.S. Secondary Education-Mathematics | LaCarlota City College, 2009
M.A.Ed. Mathematics | LaCarlota City College, 2017
PhD Educational Management | 45 units
Pre-Algebra; Pre-AP Algebra 1
Why ASA?
I chose ASA because I want to be part of a school that inspires academic excellence while supporting every student’s growth. As a mathematics teacher with over 12 years of experience, I am passionate about making math engaging, meaningful, and accessible to all learners. I look forward to contributing to a collaborative school community where I can help students build confidence, think critically, and achieve their full potential.
Total Years at ASA: First year!
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 12
Teaching Experience: La Castellana National High School, Doña Hortencia Salas Benedicto National High School – Senior High School
Education and Degrees Earned:
Bachelor in Secondary Education major in Mathematics – La Carlota City College | 2009
Science 8
Why ASA?
ASA is a terrific place to work because it doesn’t feel like work. ASA has a culture of acceptance and belonging, and it is a joy to come to my class every day. Interacting with students and faculty increases my enthusiasm for learning, science, and being an educator.
Beth Wootten is a native of Arizona, graduating from McClintock High School and Arizona State University. She began her career in Tampa, Florida teaching physical science. She then spent three years as the 7th grade earth science teacher in England and visiting much of Europe. Since returning to Arizona, she has taught in the Chandler school district and for an online school. Ms. Wootten enjoys traveling, reads mysteries, and loves meeting people. She has two cats and a Basset Hound, Molly, and is looking forward to an exciting year of science at ASA.
Total Years at ASA: 12
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 25
Teaching Experience: ASA, Webb Junior High, American Community School, Hamilton High School, Basha High School
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.S. Interior Design | Arizona State University, 1988
M.Ed. Curriculum and Instruction | Northern Arizona University, 2005
Chemistry; Physics
Why ASA:
I love ASA because it is a true community. Everyone here is dedicated to building relationships, strengthening minds, and sharing creativity.
Kaitlyn Rose loves science, and no one can deny that! Chemistry and physics are such a huge part of existing in the world and she truly believes that a strong grounding in those studies can make every day life easier. She is also an artist, focusing on ceramics (it’s chemistry after all) and music.
Total Years at ASA: 6
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 10
Teaching Experience: ASA, BASIS Scottsdale, BASIS Chandler
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.S. Chemistry | Arizona State University, 2016
Environmental Science; Biology
Why ASA?
ASA is a found home full of wonderful humans.
Annmarie Barton earned a B.S. in Biochemistry and Anthropology from Barrett the Honors College at Arizona State University in 2020, joining the first cohort of graduates affected by COVID-19. Their graduating Honors Project included a published children’s book focusing on the diversity of science and the need of representation of science diversity in media. Prior to graduation, they spend summers in their hometown, Page, Arizona, enjoying the plethora of National Parks and Recreational Areas that northern Arizona and southern Utah have to offer. When not on a trail, Barton could be found working for the local Glen Canyon Conservancy, communicating with world travelers, and reading as much literature on the Colorado River as possible. After graduation, Barton joined the 2020 cohort of Teach for America to bring science equity to Central Phoenix. They spent the next two years balancing learning online with COVID teaching, joyfully earning a Master of Education in Secondary Education in 2022, also from ASU. Their love for all things Science and History had Barton looking for summer opportunities at museums, which led to them joining the Arizona Science Center as a Camp Innovation team member, where they have been helping manage camps and writing curriculum for camps. Barton is currently working on their second Masters, this time in Environmental Science, from Louisiana State University. They are set to graduate in spring of 2027 and are looking forward to bringing their expertise to the classroom!
Total Years at ASA: 3
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 6
Teaching Experience: ASA, Empower College Prep
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.S. Biochemistry | Arizona State University, 2020
B.S. Anthropology | Arizona State University, 2020
M.Ed. Secondary Education | Arizona State University, 2022
MS Environmental Science | LSU, Ongoing
Western Literary Traditions; AP Literature & Composition; Literary Forms & Media
Why ASA?
ASA draws in special people and shapes incredible people – teachers and students alike.
Collin Clark grew up in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, and earned his Bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing and Secondary Education from Susquehanna University in Pennsylvania in 2011. Even though he moved to Pennsylvania to “get away from the South,” he often now finds himself longing for fried okra, catfish, and some good old-fashioned Tennessee barbeque. Mr. Clark comes to ASA with experience as a private SAT tutor and 9th grade English teacher at Gilbert Classical Academy. He brings a strong will to immerse students in an English curriculum that emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and communication. Mr. Clark is a passionate swing dancer, an aspiring banjo-picker, a proud nerd, and is incredibly happy to have been teaching students at ASA since the 2014-2015 school year.
Total Years at ASA: 12
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 14
Teaching Experience: ASA, Gilbert Classical Academy
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.A. Creative Writing and Secondary Education | Susquehanna University, 2011
World Literature & Folklore; AP Language and Composition
Why ASA?
Drawn to ASA initially because it felt like a school that would have been perfect for me as an adolescent, I continue to teach here because it is a place where creativity flourishes, risk taking is encouraged, and problems are met with collaborative solutions. ASA is a place where we all grow together.
Dianna Bellian earned her Bachelor’s degree from the honors program at Barry University in Miami, Florida in 2014. She continued her education and received a Master’s degree in Literature from Eastern Illinois University, where she also worked as a graduate assistant in the school’s Writing Center and taught freshman-level English. Before joining ASA, Ms. Bellian taught composition and rhetoric at Mesa and Paradise Valley community colleges.
Ms. Bellian has a passion for curriculum development with a particular focus on inter-disciplinary project based learning. Since joining the ASA community, she has not only brought this passion into her classroom, but also sought to share it with the rest of the ASA English team through cross-grade level and subject partnerships. Ms. Bellian has always considered herself a reader more than a writer, but has worked on several indie-publishing projects as a consultant, cowriter, and editor. A former violin student and ballerina, Ms. Bellian now keeps the arts alive in her life primarily through painting, drawing, scrapbooking, and interior design.
Total Years at ASA: 8
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 10
Teaching Experience: ASA, Mesa Community College, Paradise Valley Community College, and Eastern Illinois University
Education and Degrees Earned:
B. A. English (Magna Cum Laude) | Barry University, 2014
M. A. English | Eastern Illinois University, 2016
Professional Affiliations:
National Council of Teachers of English
Arizona English Teachers Association
Literary Foundations
Total Years at ASA: First year!
Social Studies 8; AP World History: Modern
Why ASA?
As a proud ASA alumna, I value ASA’s unique mix of arts education and strong academics. Teaching at ASA lets me give back to a community that shaped me.
Mary Kate Snider received a B.A. in History and English Literature from Oberlin College in 2018. After Oberlin, she spent four years teaching 8th grade history at BASIS Peoria. She moved to London, UK, where she earned an M.A. in Early Modern History from King’s College London. Ms. Snider is glad to be able to share her love of history with her students.
Total Years at ASA: 4
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 7
Teaching Experience: ASA, BASIS Peoria
Education and Degrees Earned:
BA History and English Literature | Oberlin College 2018
MA Early Modern History | King’s College London, 2024
World History: Ancient; Social Studies 8
Why ASA?
I love the combination of academics and performing arts education that ASA provides to its students. I believe this allows students a chance to become well-rounded individuals with a more developed sense of self, as they are encouraged to explore their passions during their high school careers.
Alisson Haywood earned her BS at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina, studying ancient and medieval history. The Reich College of Education at Appalachian State is rated among the best in the country, and she is excited to bring her own brand of exciting and interesting Ancient History education to ASA. Originally from New York, Alisson has taught high school students in New Hampshire, North Carolina, and now in Arizona at ASA!
Total Years at ASA: 2
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 5
Teaching Experience: ASA, Learning Foundation & Performing Arts 7-12
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.S. History, Secondary Education | Appalachian State University, 2022
AP US History; AP Government & Economics
Why ASA?
The synergy between academics and the arts makes for a great environment for students and educators.
Patrick Drahman grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he earned his B.S. in Social Studies Education at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis in 2021. After graduation, he moved to Phoenix to escape the Indiana winters and start his career in education. During the spring 2022 semester, he held a long-term substitute position at Tempe High School. He feels incredibly fortunate to have begun his educational career at ASA.
Total Years at ASA: 4
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 4
Teaching Experience: ASA, Tempe High School (long-term substitute)
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.S. Social Studies Education | Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis, 2021
Spanish 1; Spanish 4
Why ASA?
Because ASA is home and I enjoy helping students learn and grow.
Ramon Miranda began his teaching career in 1990 at UNIVERSAL: Centro de Lengua y Comunicación Social in his hometown, Cuernavaca, México. He has been teaching at ASA since 2002. He has served as the Foreign Language Department Chair, and the Student Government Advisor. He has also coordinated trips abroad. Señor Miranda enjoys teaching, reading, listening to music, playing and watching sports, and traveling.
Total Years at ASA: 25
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 35
Teaching Experience: ASA, Arizona State University, Maricopa Community College, UNIVERSAL: Centro de Lengua y Comunicación Social
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.A. Spanish | Arizona State University, 1997
M.A. Latin American Literature | Arizona State University, 2005
Spanish I; Spanish II; Spanish 3
Why ASA?
I choose to teach at ASA because I believe the performing arts reveal the beauty our world needs, while education gives students the tools to build a more just and compassionate society. At ASA, I am inspired by a community where creativity, learning, and self-expression come together to help young people imagine—and create—a more beautiful future.
Daniel Monsalve Ruiz was born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia, where his lifelong appreciation for creativity and the arts led him to earn an associate degree in Fashion Design. He later moved to Buenos Aires, Argentina, to continue his education and earn a degree in Fashion Production. Upon returning to Colombia, Daniel completed his third college degree: a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.
After working in business and finance in New York City, Daniel moved to Arizona in 2018 and quickly fell in love with the state’s natural beauty and relaxed pace of life. His professional path eventually brought him to education, where he discovered his true passion for helping students learn, grow, and express themselves.
Outside of school, Daniel enjoys working out, attending and watching musicals, traveling, spending time with his husband, Joseph, and playing with their three adorable dogs: Princess Isabella Sparkle, Kevin, and Gigi.
Total Years at ASA: 4
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 8
Teaching Experience: ASA, Brightmont Academy, Maryvale Preparatory Academy
Education and Degrees Earned:
A.A. Fashion Design | LaSalle College, 2008
A.A. Fashion Production | Universidad De Palermo, 2011
B.S. Business Administration | Colegio De Estudios Superiores De Administración, 2016
French 1-4
Total Years at ASA: First Year!
Exceptional Student Services Director
Why ASA?
I am honored to serve the ASA community and I am proud to be a life-long lover of the arts! This is a community that inspires creativity, broadens perspectives, fosters culture, and deepens our understanding of the world.
Veronica Neal, a former high school and college dancer, earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies at California State University Los Angeles in 2004. While in Los Angeles, Veronica interned in the Education Division at the Los Angeles County Music Center. She assisted in the coordination of programs such as the Spotlight Awards, a nationally recognized performing arts competition for Southern California high schoolers, and Very Special Arts Festival, a free inclusive arts celebration event for children of all abilities from the Los Angeles Unified School District. This experience inspired Veronica to continue working with children with exceptionalities, and she entered the field of special education in 2010. Veronica continued her education, obtaining a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education in 2010 and another master’s degree in Education Administration and Supervision in 2017. In between these years, Veronica worked as a Special Education Teacher, Exceptional Student Services Coordinator, 504 & ELL Coordinator and Administrator. Most recently, Veronica worked as a Regional Exceptional Student Services Coordinator with Vertex Education, the education management company for one of the largest charter networks in the state of Arizona, Legacy Traditional Schools. Veronica acted as a special education coach and operational liaison to multiple LTS campuses in the West Valley region.
Veronica married her college sweetheart, and they are parents to three fun-loving teenage souls nearly 20 years later. Parenting an exceptional child has shaped Veronica into a compassionate, resourceful, and solutions-centered educator who pursues an equitable education for all. She is a member of the Council for Administrators of Special Education and the Council for Exceptional Children. Veronica enjoys quality time with her family, exploring new places, and watching movies, musicals, and performances of her favorite dance troupes. Veronica equally enjoys being her family’s historian and amateur genealogist.
Total Years at ASA: 3
Total Years Administrative Experience: 9
Administration Experience: ASA, Great Hearts Academies, Vertex Education
Total Years Teaching Experience: 8
Teaching Experience: Fowler, Isaac, Tolleson and Avondale Elementary School Districts, Great Hearts Academies
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.A. Liberal Studies | California State University, 2004
M.A. Early Childhood Education | University of Phoenix, 2010
M.A. Education Administration & Supervision | University of Phoenix, 2017
Exceptional Student Services Teacher | Grades 5-7
Why ASA?
There is evidence of ASA’s core values in their leadership, classroom environment, staff interactions, and student relationships. ASA students work hard and are curious to learn. Teachers support teachers and students are thriving not only academically, but also artistically.
Diane Viktora earned her Bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University in 2010 specializing as a Learning and Behavior specialist. Before coming to ASA, Ms. Viktora taught at various high schools and middle schools in Paradise Valley and Scottsdale. She has also taught in the suburbs of Chicago and Australia! As a life learner, she is a certified yoga instructor and esthetician. Her curiosity to learn has taken her to 30 countries around the world.
Total Years at ASA: 2
Total Years of Teaching Experience as a Teacher of Record: 16
Teaching Experience: ASA, Cocopah Middle School, Chaparral High School, Pinnacle High School, Pierce Downers
Education and Degrees Earned:
B.S. Learning and Behavior Specialist | Illinois State University, 2010
Exceptional Student Services Teacher | Grades 8-12
Exceptional Student Services | Grades 8-12