Mrs. Permoda
Mrs. Permoda is the lead teacher in KA and the team lead for kindergarten. She has been with Archway Scottsdale for 13 years, with almost 20 years in education. Mrs. Permoda found her home in kindergarten 12 years ago and cannot imagine not hanging out with 5yr old’s every day.
Mrs. Permoda has been married to her wonderful husband for 27 years and have four children ranging in age from 14-23. She loves being active and enjoys Pilates, weightlifting, and hiking when the weather is nice. In her spare time, Mrs. Permoda loves to read, build Legos, and hang out with her friends and family.
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Jodi Razickas
Mrs. Razickas is the kindergarten assistant teacher for Archway Scottsdale for 8 years. Her dedication to the kindergarten team reflects her loyalty and work ethic.
Mrs. Razickas was born and raised in New York and has dedicated 27 years to education, including 13 years as an Internationally Certified Montessori Teacher.
After her husband retired from the New York City Fire Department, she moved to Arizona with her family, where she continued her passion for teaching. Mrs. Razickas is a proud mother of two beautiful daughters, and grandmother.
Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Razickas enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, drawing, and listening to audiobooks. With a background as an art director in advertising, creativity has always been an important part of her life. She considers teaching not just a career, but a true calling.
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Betsy Rowland
Ms. Rowland has been a beloved member of the Archway Scottsdale community since 2014, serving as a dedicated parent volunteer and front office staff member before becoming a lead Kindergarten teacher in 2021. She holds a B.A. in Mathematics from East Carolina University with a minor in Spanish. A self-proclaimed “grammar nerd” with a passion for uncovering math patterns, Ms. Rowland creates an energetic, joyful classroom where learning is dynamic and fun. She deeply values Great Hearts’ mission, endeavoring to know each student individually to bring out their best.
Originally from Washington, Ms. Rowland has lived across the country but considers Arizona home, loving its stunning mountain sunrises and desert sunsets. Outside the classroom, she treasures when former students return to share their victories and life journeys.
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Cheryl Osgood
Mrs. Osgood is thrilled to be part of the wonderful Archway Scottsdale community as an Assistant Teacher! Raised in the Chicago suburbs, Mrs. Osgood attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she earned bachelor’s degrees in both English and Communication. She began her career in sales and marketing with McGraw-Hill Education, traveling to colleges and universities across the country. After moving to Arizona in 2016, she spent seven years as a stay-at-home mom raising her daughter and son while frequently volunteering at her children’s preschool and Archway Scottsdale.
Outside the classroom, you’ll usually find her cheering on her daughter at the dance studio or her son at the baseball diamond. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, listening to audiobooks, cheering on the Diamondbacks, building LEGO sets, supporting Breakthrough T1D, and traveling – she is just two states away from visiting all 50!
Shannon Dunne
Bio Forthcoming
B.A. Elementary Education, Arizona State University
Arizona K-8 Teacher Certification with Early Childhood Endorsement
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Mrs. Hall
Mrs Hall values and enjoys her Assistant Teacher position at Archway Scottsdale. She has been dedicated for 5 years to offering every student the foundation of loving learning through a strong, supportive classroom community. She has taught in both Kindergarten and First Grade and has 9 years of experience in Montessori Pre-K & Kindergarten classrooms as well.
Originally raised in Fairfield County Connecticut, she received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and Language Arts from The University of South Carolina. She held positions in marketing and communications in her early career.
Mrs Hall raised her son and daughter in Bucks County Pennsylvania. She was a stay- at-home mother active in the PTO and community volunteering.
In her leisure time she enjoys visiting her adult children in California at the beach and here in Arizona hiking and horseback riding. Her extended family is in Maine and Massachusetts, where she visits during the summer break.
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Katilyn Wood
Ms. Wood is originally from California, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Pre-Law from California State University, Monterey Bay. She then attended California Lutheran University, where she earned her teaching credential and Master’s degree in Teacher Leadership.
Ms. Wood is passionate about creating a classroom where students feel supported, encouraged, and excited to learn. She believes the early years of education are an important foundation for developing a lifelong love of learning and enjoys watching her students gain confidence, develop independence, and discover new interests throughout the school year.
Outside of the classroom, Ms. Wood enjoys running, wake surfing, and traveling. She loves staying active, spending time outdoors, and exploring new places.
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Amber Owen
Amber Owen is excited to begin her fourth year as an Assistant Teacher at Archway Scottsdale. She also spent an additional year substitute teaching grades K–3, where she discovered her passion for education and helping young learners grow.
Originally from New York City, Amber moved to Arizona 12 years ago and has enjoyed calling the desert home ever since. Before finding her passion for teaching, she began her professional career in the legal field.
Outside the classroom, Amber is a proud mother to a daughter who attends Scottsdale Preparatory Academy. She is also involved with a local nonprofit organization and owns a small jewelry business. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, family, and friends.
Amber feels fortunate to be part of the Archway Scottsdale community and finds great joy in helping students build a strong foundation and a lifelong love of learning.
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Hannah Seward
B.A. Early Childhood Education, Grand Canyon University
bio Forthcoming
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I’m an assistant kindergarten teacher with a passion for helping young children learn, grow, and discover the world around them. I love creating a positive, welcoming, and nurturing environment where every child feels supported and encouraged to be themselves.
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy painting and expressing my creativity through art. I’m originally from Michigan, and when I’m not working or creating, you can usually find me spending time with my two cats, and my boyfriend. I love bringing creativity, kindness, and a little fun into everything I do!
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Whitney Whitby
Bio Forthcoming
Degree in Progress B.A. in Psychology, Grand Canyon University, 2026
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Christina Mayfield
Christina Mayfield was born and raised in Avondale, Arizona, and has spent much of her adult life in Cave Creek and Phoenix. She earned both her Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Elementary Education from Paradise Valley Community College.
Christina began her career in education as a paraprofessional in a Structured Autism classroom at Campo Bello Elementary. She later joined the Archway Scottsdale Athenaeum program, where she has been a member of the team for three years. Christina began working as an Assistant Teacher in First Grade in December and is now excited to continue her work with our Kindergarten team in KF alongside Ms. Whitby.
Outside of school, Christina enjoys spending time with her boyfriend, playing with her cat, playing video games, watching anime and Harry Potter, and attending church with her Mother. She is passionate about working with students and looks forward to continuing to grow as an educator and member of the Archway Scottsdale community
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Kennedy Hill
I am a First grade lead teacher. I was born and raised in Arizona before attending California Baptist University, where I continued my cheerleading career and earned my bachelor’s degree in early childhood studies. After graduating, I returned to Arizona to begin my teaching career. This is my second year at Archway Scottsdale.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors and making memories with my family. I am passionate about teaching and creating a positive, engaging classroom where every child can learn and grow.B.A. Early Childhood Studies, California Baptist University
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Ms. Celine Beverly is excited to be joining Archway Scottsdale this year in 1A as a Assistant Teacher. She received an undergraduate degree in early childhood/ elementary education along with a reading endorsement as a licensed reading specialist from the University of Portland. She also received my master’s degree in early childhood/ elementary education along with my ESL endorsement from the University of Portland. She has taught kindergarten for 10 years most recently in the Glendale and Washington school districts.
She is originally from Fairbanks Alaska and just spent this past summer up there fishing and camping with her family. She is an avid sports fan and have played soccer throughout her life. Most of all she loves spending time with family and friends. She is a mom of two, a 5th grader this year and has been attending Archway Scottsdale since kindergarten and her daughter will also be in kindergarten this year here at Archway
Scottsdale.
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Michaela Orem
Bio Forthcoming
Degree in Progress B.A. in Elementary Education from Western Governors University
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Jade Leenhouts
Ms. Leenhouts is beginning her 8th year here at Archway Scottsdale! Starting in 2019, Ms. Leenhouts began her journey as an AT in 3rd grade. She then explored 1st grade as an Assistant Teacher before moving to the ESS department. Here she found her love for creating ways for differentiation for all students to access the rich Great Hearts curriculum. Ms. Leenhouts decided she wanted to continue her teaching journey and went back to school. She graduated summa cum laude with her Bachelors in Elementary and Special Education in 2026.
Ms. Leenhouts has always had a love for learning. Throughout her college career, Ms. Leenhouts was blessed to have an opportunity to work alongside her Astronomy professors as their Teaching Assistant for the Maricopa Community College system. Despite not becoming an astronaut for NASA, Ms. Leenhouts still indulges in learning about astrophysics. Outside of school, Ms. Leenhouts spends her time with her fiancé and two cats. She takes figure skating lessons, loves to read many books, and play video games. She is so excited to see her students grow and learn!
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Ms. Maxwell
My name is Cheryl Maxwell, and I’m a dedicated educator with a background in healthcare and more than a decade of experience working with children. As an Assistant Teacher in first grade, I’m passionate about supporting students, encouraging their growth, and helping them build confidence.
Originally from Chicago, I now call Arizona home. I’m also a proud mother of two grown children and a devoted cat mom. My family and cats bring me great joy and are an important part of my life. University
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Mrs. Famoso
Mrs. Leah Famoso was born and raised in West Virginia. She attended West Virginia University where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry and her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education.
After teaching in West Virginia for a couple years, Leah and her husband relocated to Tucson, Arizona, for her husband’s medical residency. She taught for 4 years there, in both a regular public school as well as a charter school, before they moved to Scottsdale.
Since moving to Scottsdale in 2019, Leah has taught first grade at Archway Scottsdale. Leah and her husband have two daughters- one is a current Archway student, and one will be in the future! In her free time, Leah enjoys reading, traveling, and playing soccer.
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Mrs. Benham
A.A. Paralegal Studies, American Institute College for Legal Studies
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Alicia Young
Bio Forthcoming
B.A. Early Childhood Education; Endorsement Special Education, Ottawa University
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Mr. Peplinski
Bio forthcoming
In Progress: B.A. Elementary Education, Paradise Valley Community College
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I am returning to the classroom after an 8-year hiatus spent in New Home Sales – real estate. Prior to that, I taught for 7 years – 5 of those years teaching 1st grade—my true sweet spot and passion. I also have several years of experience teaching reading intervention and my collective teaching experience includes both private and public school education. We moved from Houston to Arizona two years ago, and I am so grateful to be back doing what I love most: making meaningful imprints on young hearts and helping students pursue truth, goodness, and beauty in every area of their lives. I hold a Masters of Art in Teaching from Biola University and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Development with specializations in psychology and childhood development, plus a minor in education from the University of California, Davis. I competed as a Division I NCAA gymnast at UC Davis on a full scholarship after 16 years as a competitive gymnast. Fun Fact! I also worked as a parade performer and acrobat at the “happiest place on Earth.”
When I’m not in the classroom, I cherish time with my family—loving and raising my sweet kiddos and spending time with the love of my life and future husband, Ricardo. You’ll often find me enjoying a strong French press coffee, cooking in the kitchen, trying new restaurants, singing, finding ways to stay active, attending flag football games or dance recitals, or simply finding joy in the little things and making room for laughter and fun. We are actively involved at Scottsdale Bible Church – Northridge, and my faith is central to who I am.
I am a single mom to two wonderful children—Zachary (2nd grade) and Tessa (Kindergarten). Being their mom is one of the greatest joys of my life and gives me a deep appreciation for the trust you place in me with your own children each day. I look forward to a wonderful year of partnership with you. Together, we will watch your child soar to new heights both academically and personally.
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Miss Manning-Romero
I am the assistant teacher in 1F, I was born in Mexico but raised in Buffalo, NY. I moved when I was 12 to AZ, and have been here since!
I graduated from NAU with my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, and spent one of my years studying in Spain. One of my greatest passions is travel, and some of my favorite places include India, Peru, Costa Rica, Spain , and Mexico. My last trip I spent my summer at an ashram in India where I completed a total of 500 hours of yoga teacher training! I also enjoy writing, reading, and spending time in nature.
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Mrs. Constable
B.S. Marketing, Arizona State University
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Mrs. Hunt
My name is Kristin Hunt and I am the lead teacher in 2B. While this is just my third year at Archway Scottsdale, I bring over twenty-five years of experience in teaching and guiding children in grades K-5 in the private, public and charter school systems. My education includes a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater Performance and Production from Arizona State University, a Post-Baccalaureate teaching certificate with an emphasis in Early Childhood and Structured English Emersion also from ASU, a Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from The University of Phoenix as well as extensive training in Gifted Education from Ottowa University. When I am not at school, I enjoy golfing and traveling with my husband. We have a blended family of five children ranging in age from 20-33, and three very spoiled dogs.
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Miss Sanowski
B.S. Sustainability, Arizona State University
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Mrs. Grant
I am elated to be back at Archway Scottsdale for my 2nd year with Miss Sanowski in 2C! My previous work life experience started in consumer brand advertising, eventually transitioning into parenthood with a foray into yoga instruction (in studio and on water, atop stand-up paddle boards). Over the years, I’ve lived in Detroit, Park City, Chicago, San Francisco, Sausalito and Denver. Although my journey to become an educator was not direct, the process only increased my confidence in my commitment to this truly fulfilling career! Presently, I live with my husband, our two boys, and our small dog. We’re happy to call Scottsdale home, yet still manage to spend our free time on the water. We enjoy swimming, wake surfing and eFoiling whenever we get the chance. When the weather cools enough, you may even spot us on dry land mountain biking at the Pima Dynamite Trailhead
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Miss Whitted
M.S. Organizational Leadership, Arizona State University
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Mrs. Lynette Collins
I was born and raised in Southern California before moving to Hutchinson, Kansas, just before high school. I attended Kansas State University in Manhattan, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. I went on to complete two years of graduate study in Clinical Psychology in Hays, Kansas, before being deployed to Iraq with the U.S. Army.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, and our two dogs and kitten, taking on the occasional DIY project, and researching whatever random topic sparks my curiosity. I also love traveling and finding time to slow down and recharge.
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Ms. Fleming
I am thrilled to be your child’s second grade teacher. This will be the start of my eighth year at Archway Scottsdale and my seventh year as a second grade teacher. I graduated from Binghamton University with a BA degree in English Literature and Rhetoric and completed my MBA degree at Adelphi University. In 2019, I became a certified teacher in Arizona.
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Ms. French
Bio Forthcoming
M.A. Psychology with an Emphasis in Life Coaching, Grand Canyon University
B.A. Elementary Education, Northern Arizona University
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Ms. Hill
I earned my bachelor’s degree in International Business from Oklahoma State University.
After getting married, I spent 12 wonderful years at home raising our daughter, Isabella. I
later returned to education, teaching 4th and 5th grade at Archway Cicero for two years,
and most recently served as an assistant teacher in 3rd grade at Archway Scottsdale.
I am currently a lead teacher in 2F. My husband and I have been married for 15 years and are the proud parents of Isabella, who
will be an 8th grader at Scottsdale Prep this year. As a family, we love hiking with our dog
Spark, traveling, and playing golf.
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Ms. Denton is a third-grade lead teacher at Archway Scottsdale. She began her teaching career at Archway Scottsdale in 2022 and has since taught third, fourth, and fifth grade. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science and a Master of Public Administration from Arizona State University. Ms. Denton is passionate about creating a joyful, structured classroom where students feel supported, challenged, and excited to learn. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys photography, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
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Judy Lande
This will be my third year teaching third grade at Archway Scottsdale. I was born and raised in New York. I attended Long Island University-CW Post Campus where I received my bachelor’s degree in Elementary and early Childhood Education and my master’s degree from Adelphi University in Reading education with Course Emphasis in Learning Disabilities. I also hold professional certification in Students with Disabilities Birth-6th grade.
In 2023, I moved to Arizona with my husband. We wanted to be closer to our daughter and loved the weather and what Scottsdale had to offer us. Shortly after we came to Arizona, our son decided to make Arizona his home as well.
In my free time, I enjoy swimming, crocheting, reading books and most of all getting snuggles from my 1 year old grandson.
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As a Teaching Assistant for 3rd grade at Archway Scottsdale, I support students and teachers throughout the school day and help create a positive, caring, and productive learning environment. I enjoy encouraging curiosity, celebrating student growth, and helping students feel confident and supported in their learning
I am originally from Andhra Pradesh, India, and moved to the United States to pursue my Master’s degree in Business Analytics and Supply Chain Management at Arizona State University. My background in analytics has strengthened my problem-solving and organizational skills, while my experience tutoring and mentoring students has deepened my passion for education. I have worked with students in individual and small-group settings, supporting them in subjects such as mathematics, science, and computer skills.
I especially enjoy getting to know my students and being part of their everyday learning experiences. I look forward to supporting their academic and personal growth while helping create an engaging environment that encourages them to explore, learn, and develop a lifelong love of learning.
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Miss Wei
Ms. Wei is a third-grade lead teacher at Archway Scottsdale. Having grown up in Arizona, Ms. Wei graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science degree. In 2025, she earned her Master’s degree in Elementary Education and hopes to continue her educational journey by pursuing a Ph.D. in the future. Ms. Wei is passionate about creating a positive, structured, and welcoming classroom environment where all students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to flourish and grow.
Outside of the classroom, Ms. Wei loves a good outdoor adventure, whether it’s a road trip, camping, or simply taking a day trip up north to Payson. Traveling is one of her greatest passions, and she enjoys exploring new places, both near and far. Born in China and raised in Arizona, Ms. Wei is also fluent in Mandarin Chinese and enjoys sharing her appreciation for different cultures and experiences. Lastly, Ms. Wei always cherishes any time she has with her family and takes pride in her sister serving as a U.S Marine.
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Marisa Esquer
Mrs. Esquer is an Arizona native and is excited to continue her journey in education as part of the Archway Scottsdale community. With nearly a decade of experience in K–5 education, she holds a Master’s degree in Education from Arizona State University. Throughout her career, Mrs. Esquer has served as a classroom teacher, curriculum leader, and Vice Principal, and has also had the opportunity to teach internationally.
Mrs. Esquer is passionate about creating a warm, engaging classroom where scholars are challenged to grow academically and develop strong virtues. In her free time, she loves to travel, go to basketball games, and spend time with family and friends
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Katie Barnhart
For the past 18 years, I have worked with a leading early education company, building a strong foundation in child development and creating engaging learning environments. As an educator, Great Hearts parent, PSO leader, classroom volunteer, and on-campus mom, I have developed a deep appreciation for the partnership between families and educators. My goal is to create a classroom where every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired to grow academically, socially, and personally.
I am an Arizona native, born and raised in Scottsdale, and a graduate of Laguna College of Art & Design, where I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communication Design. I am also the proud mother of two daughters who have both benefited from the exceptional education and community at Great Hearts.
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Amy Hesse
Graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resources and Family Science. I also studied Elementary Education at Saint Louis University.
My greatest accomplishment is being a mom to my three kids; Conner (21), Campbell (20), and Asher (16). My family and I have happily been a part of the Archway/Scottsdale Prep community for over ten years.
I enjoy cooking, hiking and spending time with my family.
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Miss Feagins
Sierra Feagins serves as a Third-Grade Lead Teacher at Archway Scottsdale. In this role, she mentors and supports her colleagues while fostering a love of learning within her own classroom. She is passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences that encourage students to grow through thoughtful discussion, curiosity, and discovery.
Originally from California, Sierra’s educational journey began with a rigorous homeschool education thoughtfully designed by her mother. That foundation inspired her commitment to providing the same level of care and dedication to her own students. In 2017, she moved to Arizona to pursue professional ballet training, and in 2022, she shifted her focus to education and attended Arizona State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education in Educational Studies with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education. She has also earned her Arizona Teaching Certificate for grades K–3.
Outside the classroom, Sierra enjoys expressing her creativity through drawing and painting, experimenting with new recipes, and exploring local coffee shops throughout the valley. She looks forward to helping her students develop a lifelong love of learning while building a joyful and engaging classroom community.
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Mr. Schweikert joined Archway Scottsdale in July 2026 and currently works as an Assistant Teacher in the third-grade classroom alongside Miss Feagins. He is also working toward his degree in Education. He enjoys creating a positive, welcoming classroom environment. His goal is to become an educator who makes a lasting impact on his students and someone they can look back on as an important part of their educational journey.
Mr. Schweikert was born in Scottsdale, Arizona, and grew up attending Scottsdale schools. He has always enjoyed working with children and has spent the past five years gaining experience in education and childcare, working with students in elementary school settings and supporting them in the classroom.
Mr. Schweikert lives in Scottsdale with his dog, Cooper, who he considers the best Golden Retriever. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, spending time in the White Mountains around Show Low and Pinetop, visiting the beaches in Florida, and going off-roading on his motorcycle and ATV. He also enjoys spending time with family and friends and exploring new places.
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Hannah Nichter
Bio forthcoming
M.B.A., Grand Canyon University
B.A. Elementary Education, Northpark University
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Ms. Thavara
M.S. Business Analytics, Grand Canyon University
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This is Lily Dunley-Williamson’s first year at Archway Scottsdale, and second year teaching. She started as a 6th grade Social Studies and Science teacher in Iowa City, Iowa.
She was born in Iowa and just moved to Arizona in July 2025. She graduated from The University of Iowa with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and an endorsement in Reading. She holds a K-6 Iowa teaching certificate.
When not at school, she enjoys traveling, music, running, and spending time with her friends, family, and two cats.
Mrs. Moore
M.A. Early Childhood Education, Moreland University
B.A. English Philology, Volgograd State University (Russia)
Certificate of Christian Studies, Dallas Theological Seminary
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Mr. Pascente
Bio Forthcoming
B.A. Exercise Science, Concordia
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Sophie Drake
Bio Forthcoming
B.S. Geography, Arizona State University
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I was born and raised in Arizona. I am a proud mom of twin 25-year-olds, who bring so much joy to my life.
I have worked as an assistant teacher since 2021, primarily in first grade. I love watching children learn, grow, and gain confidence while getting to know their unique personalities and interests. My goal is to create a welcoming, supportive environment where every child feels valued and excited to learn.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, shopping, traveling, and making memories with the people I love.
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Teagan Tunstall
As a third-generation educator, Miss Tunstall has always had a passion for working with children and creating a classroom where students feel supported, challenged, and excited to learn.
Outside of the classroom, Miss Tunstall enjoys spending time with her family, crafting, and exploring new coastal places.
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Mrs. Falca
I have a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona in Family Studies/Human Development and Psychology. In addition, I also have my Elementary Education Teaching Certificate from Scottsdale Community College.
My husband and I have 2 children that are in high school. Fun fact – I am a USA Olympic Gold Medalist in the sport of swimming from the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games. I love traveling (cruises are a family favorite), exercising, shopping, trying new restaurants and spending time with friends and family.
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Colton Brockett
Mr. Colton Brockett is a Fourth Grade Assistant Teacher at Archway Scottsdale. He enjoys working with students and getting to know their personalities. Colton is currently working toward his Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education at Grand Canyon University. Before joining the fourth grade team, he worked in Exceptional Student Services at Archway Scottsdale, which gave him experience working with students with different learning needs.
Outside of school, Colton coaches middle and high school football at Scottsdale Prep. He enjoys hunting, traveling, being outdoors, and staying active. He also enjoys being competitive and spending time around sports.
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Tyler Ash
My name is Tyler Ash, and I am thrilled to return to Archway Scottsdale for my third year as a lead teacher. I graduated from the University of Arizona with degrees in Philosophy and Classics, and I am honored to continue working alongside such a talented and dedicated team of educators.
One of my favorite philosophers, John Searle, described philosophy as encountering something in the world with wonder before investigating it with seriousness and care. That spirit of curiosity and thoughtful inquiry is something I strive to bring into our classroom each day, encouraging students to approach learning with both wonder and wisdom.
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy hiking, practicing yoga, reading, and watching films from the ” Criterion Collection.”
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Kathy Ducey
Kathy Ducey joins us this year as an assistant teacher in 5B, following a year spent in 4th grade. She brings 11 years of experience as an Assistant Teacher at the fifth grade level here at Archway Scottsdale. Kathy graduated from an Illinois university with a degree in Music Therapy, and after a brief career in that field, she returned to her home to raise her family. Mrs. Ducey is married and has a 31 year old son and triplet 27 year old sons. She is passionate about education, enjoys music, movies, travel, and spending time with her friends and family.
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Mireya Alfaro
Ms. Alfaro is excited to begin her sixth year of teaching and her first year at Archway Scottsdale! She previously spent five years teaching at Cicero and recently celebrated an exciting milestone by completing her master’s degree.
As the eldest of five siblings, Ms. Alfaro has always enjoyed being part of a community, and she looks forward to building meaningful relationships with her scholars and their families. She is also the proud owner of her beloved Velcro dog, “Bon Jovi”! An August 16th baby, Ms. Alfaro loves summer, warm weather, and the Arizona sunshine—although she admits there is nothing quite like counting down the days until the first snowfall in Flagstaff.
Ms. Alfaro is eager to begin the school year and looks forward to a wonderful year of learning, growth, and adventure with her scholars!
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I’m currently studying Psychology and Criminal Justice Studies at the University of Arizona. I’ve always loved working with kids and being part of their learning and growth. Before becoming an Assistant Teacher, I worked as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) with children with autism. I really enjoyed getting to know each of my students, helping them learn new skills, and seeing the progress they made. One of the things I loved most was how much I learned from them, too!
After my experience as an RBT, I knew I wanted to find another opportunity to work with children, which is what led me to become an Assistant Teacher. I’m really excited to be back in a classroom, get to know the students, and continue learning along the way!
Outside of work and school, I love spending time with my family, friends, and my two-year-old Corgi, Stella! I also love being creative, whether it’s bedazzling different things or working on diamond art for my Etsy shop. It’s something I really enjoy doing in my free time!
I’m so happy to be part of the school community!
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Elizabeth Broschat
Ms. Broschat has been working in fifth grade since the beginning of 2023. She loves how fun fifth grade can be and how much growth occurs in such a short amount of time. She was born and raised in Yuma, Arizona before moving to Phoenix after college. She has a bachelor’s degree from Northern Arizona University in English Linguistics with a minor in art.
Her childhood was filled with the chaos of musical theatre and the quiet of rainy day read-alouds. Naturally, when outside of the classroom, she enjoys reading, writing, and painting as well as being as musical as possible! She also loves couch time with her kitty, Cosette.
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Mr. Smith
My name is Derek Smith and I am looking forward to supporting your scholars in their learning, providing additional guidance during lessons and helping to create a positive classroom environment.
I currently hold a Masters of Early Education and a Masters of Social Work from Kutztown University. I have experience teaching in early education, teaching both 3rd and 5th grade.
Outside of the classroom I enjoy spending quality time with my family, watching my niece and nephew participate in sports and camping. In my free time I enjoy traveling, especially to Greece to visit my relatives. I am an avid Penn State fan and love Philadelphia sports teams.
I believe that education is not only about acquiring knowledge, but about shaping the hearts and minds of students in the pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty. In a classical classroom, my goal is to cultivate both intellectual growth and strong character by encouraging curiosity, discipline, and a love of learning.
My goal for the remainder of the school year is to inspire your scholars to think critically, act with integrity, and grow into kind, thoughtful, well-rounded individuals.
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Trey Welch
I was born and raised in the Sunnyslope community of Phoenix, and moved to Colorado when I was twenty-four. I lived there for sixteen years before moving back here at the end of 2016. I began in education in 2005, first teaching STEAM based after school and summer programs before going through my university student teaching program. I graduated from the University of Colorado with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. There have been a couple of career detours along the way, such as my time working as a park ranger in Ken -Caryl Valley, located in the Rocky Mountain foothills outside of southwest Denver near Deer Creek Canyon and Chatfield Reservoir.
Shortly after moving back to Phoenix, I taught as the grade level Social Studies teacher, first in fifth and then in sixth grade at a school in the Maryvale community for four years.
In my free time, I enjoy traveling, especially hiking and exploring National Parks. I have been a certified SCUBA diver since I was 16, and I also enjoy oil painting landscapes and lifting weights almost every day. Sometimes I can be found working in my woodshop out in my garage on various woodworking and carpentry projects, such as the shelves I built for my classroom this past July. I live with my incredible fiancé, Stephanie, and spend far too much of my spare time obsessing over my house plants, a recently developed hobby
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Chloe McCormick is a first-year educator as well as an alumna of both Archway Classical
Academy Scottsdale and Scottsdale Preparatory Academy. She grew up in Arizona and
graduated with honors from Arizona State University, receiving a B.A. in Media Arts and Sciences. Miss McCormick’s time spent at Great Hearts greatly supported her lifelong love of learning, and she hopes to inspire that same sense of wonder in her teaching practices.
When she is not teaching, Miss McCormick enjoys writing, drawing, and reading from her evergrowing personal library. She also loves spending time with her family and her two spoiled cats.
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Maxime Steadman
Mr. Max Steadman teaches 5th grade at Archway Scottsdale Academy and is a proud alumnus of Tempe Preparatory Academy.
A lover of Homer, ancient history, and great books, he aims to help his scholars grow in wisdom, eloquence, and virtue.
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Alison Allmon
Bio Forthcoming
B.A. Philosophy, Arizona State University
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Sri Kalavakolanu
M.S. Computer Science, Perdue University Northwest
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Elizabeth Gonzalez has worked at Archway Scottsdale since its founding in 2010. She started as an assistant teacher and over the years has served as a first-grade lead teacher, the Team Lead of first grade, and an Academy Dean. She has been in the role of Assistant Headmaster since 2021.
Mr. Paul Flores is originally from Long Beach, CA but has spent all of his adult life moving around Arizona. He earned his BA in Political Science from Arizona State University and his Masters in Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University. Paul’s teaching career started at Archway Scottsdale in 2013 and while he left for a few years, he is extremely excited to be back home. He has spent many years teaching in the classroom at various grade levels and spent a few years on the admin team at a different school. 
B.S. Psychology, Vanguard University
Ms. Goodman was born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Special Education and Rehabilitation from University of Arizona and a Master of Education in Elementary and Special Education from Arizona State University. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her ten-year-old Maltipoo, Cooper, and training for her upcoming marathon.
Suzanne is grateful to be part of the Archway Scottsdale community, where she enjoys supporting students, families, faculty, and staff through her role in the school office. A proud resident of the surrounding community for over 30 years, she appreciates the opportunity to help create a welcoming, organized, and supportive environment each day.
Candace Johnson was born and raised in Long Beach, California. She attended Point Loma Nazarene University and although she went for the beach and to find a husband, she managed to graduate with a degree in Nutrition, Health and Psychology. After a successful outcome at the University, she moved to Scottsdale in 2011 with her husband Chad and landed a job as a Diet Tech and Nutrition Educator at Honor Health Hospital. After a few years of that her family decided to move to Rio Verde to homestead and homeschool her babies for a couple years. When her kids got tired of being home and wanted to return to school, they chose Great Hearts and Candace followed them being blessed by a job in the office and being able to be close to her kids. Overall, she is very honored to contribute to a community that aligns with her values and believes in truth, beauty, and goodness.
Bio Forthcoming
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I am passionate about helping students flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. This is my 4th year at Archway Scottsdale and my 16th year teaching. Throughout my career, I have served as a special education teacher, instructional coach, district IEP coach, social-emotional learning specialist, behavior interventionist, and ESS coordinator, always with the goal of supporting both students and teachers.
Mr. Cohen was born and raised in Huntington Woods, Michigan, and graduated from Berkley High School in 2019. He attended Michigan State University, where he graduated in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Leadership of Organizations.
Mrs. Forbes has been a certified Speech-Language Pathologist for more than 25 years and has had the privilege of serving Great Hearts students for the past 12 years. Raised in a small town in Michigan, she moved to Arizona at age 14 and still enjoys returning for summer family reunions.
Before joining Archway Scottsdale, Renee spent 10 years working in Behavioral Health. Looking for a new opportunity to make a difference, she applied for a position in the ESS department at Archway Scottsdale. She has now been part of the Archway Scottsdale community for nearly eight years. Renee truly loves working with children and considers it a privilege to be a small part of their journey as they learn, grow, and discover who they are. She enjoys supporting students both in the classroom and individually, helping them navigate challenges and recognize their own strengths. For Renee, the most rewarding part of her work is seeing a student begin to believe in themselves—to recognize what they are capable of and feel confident in who they are. She feels fortunate to be able to encourage, support, and celebrate students along the way.
Ms.Martinez has lived in Phoenix, Arizona her whole life. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood education and Special Needs. She has a dog named Chloe who is her special companion. She loves to sing, play piano, and hike. It will be her first year at Great Hearts Archway Scottsdale. She is so excited to work with kids and get to see them learn and grow. That is her greatest privilege to get to be a part of a child’s growth.
Ms. Reifler is excited to begin her ninth year at Archway Classical Academy – Scottsdale, where she serves as the Exceptional Student Services Coordinator. She attended the University of Arizona, earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in special education.
Ms. Scarra was born in Ottawa, Canada, and spent most of her life growing up in San Jose, California. She attended Notre Dame High School San Jose, a Catholic all-girls school, where she was a three-sport athlete in track and field, basketball, and volleyball. She went on to attend Boston University on a Division I track and field scholarship, graduating in May of 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Education and Human Development, specializing in Child and Adolescent Mental Health.
Kara Scholl is an Assistant Teacher in Exceptional Student Services (ESS) who is dedicated to supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, Kara is passionate about creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student feels valued, encouraged, and empowered to succeed.
Tina Wibe
Ms. DeLucca earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and is entering her fifth year at Archway Classical Academy Scottsdale. Prior to joining Great Hearts, she taught in the Scottsdale Unified School District and in Virginia.
Melissa Kile received a B.S. in Geology from Arizona State University in 2018. She obtained an IDELT International Diploma in English Language Teaching from Bridge Education Group in 2021.
B.A. in Political Science, University of Illinois Chicago In Progress B.A. in Spanish, University of Illinois Chicago with Language and Cultural Studies Endorsement
Cate Carlino is an Arizona native and grew up in the Phoenix area. During her childhood and teen years, she spent her time performing and being a part of many musicals and earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City and Los Angeles. After moving back to Arizona after college, she quickly learned that she had a passion for mentoring young minds and wanted to share that with others. She began her teaching career with Archway Scottsdale as a Kindergarten Lead Teacher and very
Born in Scottsdale, I have been working in elementary education for over 15 years. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Northern Arizona University (NAU).
I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Arizona in 2D Studio Art and have taught children and adults how to draw and paint in various settings for years. My creative experience ranges from graphite drawing all the way up to blacksmithing and metalwork and I love to talk about all of it. I have spent a fair amount of time in the zine-making space, been a blacksmith assistant at the Renaissance Festival, have done graphic design work for various communities, and have run my own art business. 
B.A. in Law from Antenor Orrego University (Peru)
Karen Girón is the Spanish teacher for grades 3-5 at Archway Scottsdale. She is originally from Los Angeles, California. She grew up speaking Spanish and often traveled to Mexico during her childhood. Karen graduated from Arizona State University and received her Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, with a focus in linguistics. 
This is my first year teaching at Archway Scottsdale. I began my teaching career in 2001 and have taught third grade as well as Spanish to students in kindergarten through eighth grade. I hold bachelor’s degrees in Communication and Spanish from Rutgers University and am certified in K-12 education and Spanish. My goal is to provide students with a positive and engaging learning environment while helping them build confidence and develop useful technology skills.