Alexia Acuña is eager and excited to return to Maryvale prep as a TA for her second year! For the past four years, she has worked as a preschool teacher for two and three year old’s and is currently a bible school teacher on Sundays. Ms. Acuña volunteers every summer to care for and mentor students of all grades at youth camps. She is an Arizona native who grew up in Phoenix and Peoria. Her passions include reading, cooking, spending time with family, and teaching children. Teaching has always been her passion and she is excited to create a positive environment that will allow students to flourish this upcoming school year.
Samantha Adam is thrilled to return as a Kindergarten lead teacher at Maryvale Prep for her fifth year. Throughout her time at Maryvale she has grown so much as a person and an educator and with that, it has enabled her to endeavor into a lead position for the Kindergarten team and be a part of the network’s Core Curriculum project. These rewarding roles have built more on her foundation for elementary education. Her approach is simple: teach with passion and compassion. Samantha has seen many Kindergarteners walk in with curiosity and timidity and leave with fortitude and honor. She looks forward to seeing the same level of tenacity be delivered this year. For her, teaching is more than a career, it’s a dream. Having the privilege to work with kids everyday is reason enough to wake up in the morning.
Eden Alvarez is returning to Maryvale Preparatory Academy for her seventh school year as the Medical Assistant. She is from a small town in the Yuma County known as Somerton, AZ and attended Apollo College where she received her Diploma/Certification as a Medical Assistant. She worked in Mesa and Tempe as a Medical Assistant before relocating back to her hometown. For the next two years in Somerton, she served both internal and pediatric patients at the Sunset Community Health Center. She also helped the clinic in reaching out to people with no medical insurance by volunteering at community health fairs. During her spare time, Eden enjoys reading, writing, cooking, hiking, and motivating and inspiring people with their fitness goals. She is excited to continue helping the children of Maryvale Prep not only with their health needs but also by supporting their growth as individuals as they pursue their goals and life aspirations.
Katherine, who also goes by the name Katie is thrilled to be joining the Maryvale Prep team as a 3rdgrade teacher apprentice for her first year of teaching. Last year she worked at Arete Archway for their Athenaeum program as Assistant Campus Coordinator. Katherine grew up in Indiana and received her Bachelor of Science degree in Speech Pathology at Indiana University. Through her many years of working with children of all ages, she has discovered her passion for teaching and exploring with the elementary age. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, exercising, traveling and playing with her two dogs, Jeter (Samoyed) and Strudel (Dachshund). For only moving to the Phoenix area a year ago, she has come to love the diverse and beautiful state of Arizona and is so excited gain more family and friends through Great Hearts
Dr. Sean Barela, a bassoonist and educator native to Southern California, is happy to join the faculty at Maryvale Preparatory Academy as Instructor of Music for grades 1-5. Previously, he served as a Teaching Artist with the Symphonic Jazz Orchestra, an organization that offers Music Education curricula to defunded public schools throughout Los Angeles County. Dr. Barela holds a Bachelor of Music degree with a minor in Psychology from the University of Southern California, where he studied with Stephen Maxym (former solo bassoon, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra) and Rose Corrigan (principal bassoon, Pacific Symphony). He holds a Master of Music degree from the Cleveland Institute of Music, where he studied with John Clouser (principal bassoon, Cleveland Orchestra). And a Doctor of Musical Arts degree with a minor in Music Education from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, where he designed and implemented courses in Pedagogical Methodology for graduate and undergraduate students in Music Education and also taught primary bassoon lessons at the University of Rochester. Dr. Barela has received a fellowship from the Los Angeles Philharmonic and numerous scholarships from organizations throughout the United States, including the Trustee Scholarship (full tuition) from the University of Southern California. Dr. Barela has performed with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Opera Santa Barbara, Monterey Symphony (among others)—having appeared as a soloist with the Dana Point Symphony and Huntington Beach Symphony. He delights in seeing the people around him succeed, both students and faculty, and he revels in making meaningful, long-lasting connections. Dr. Barela’s greatest joy come from embedding a sense of self-discover in his students’ journey of self-expression. He loves a good salad, studying neuroscience and architecture, and watching documentaries. Dr. Barela considers himself fortunate to be a part of the vibrant community of teachers and learners at Maryvale Preparatory Academy.
Tom Barringer joins the Maryvale Prep team this year as an enthusiastic middle school science teacher in 7th grade physical science and 8th grade earth science. This is his first time residing in Arizona, as he was raised in Maryland on the outskirts of Washington D.C. and has since lived portions of his life in Missouri, Massachusetts, and Illinois. Mr. Barringer earned his bachelor’s degree (BA) in Biology and Philosophy from Assumption College. Coming from a background of animal behavior and animal care in a zoo setting, he is excited to have an impact on his students lives while teaching them about the natural world. Mr. Barringer delights in observing flora and fauna in nature, as well as passionately cheering on sports teams. He will also be acting as the head coach for the high school flag football team for the 2019 season.
Dulce is very excited to join the Maryvale Prep family for her first year as our Office Assistant. Dulce has a long history working in banking and customer service, so she is delighted to start a new journey working with children. Dulce understands the importance of our children’s growth and development. She is looking forward to providing a warm and welcoming environment for our current and future families. On her free time, Dulce likes to spend as much time as possible with her husband and two kids. Their favorite activities include biking at the canal, visiting new amusement parks, and spending a day by the pool. She is grateful for the opportunity she has been given to serve our families and is excited to see what the new school year brings.
Matty Cartee is excited to start his second year at Maryvale Preparatory Academy as the 2nd-3rd grade ESS Coordinator and school-wide 504 Coordinator. Matty worked in education in Colorado for five years prior to coming to Maryvale Prep. He received his Bachelor of Arts in History from Colorado College and gained his teaching license through the Pikes Peak BOCES Two Year Teacher in Residence program. This year he is starting his Masters in School Counseling through Adam State University. Matty believes that all children deserve a great education and teachers who care deeply for them and is happy to rejoin a team at Maryvale Prep that is fully committed to that belief.
Alexandra Castro is excited to be beginning her 5th year at Maryvale Prep. This year she is thrilled to take on her new role as Archway Dean of Students; where she will be able to assist in the guidance of students through moral formation and the development of leadership skills. In her time at Maryvale Prep, she has served the role as an Exceptional Student Services Coordinator supporting the academic growth of her students in various grades. Throughout her time teaching, she has taught children with exceptional needs ranging from Kindergarten to 8th grade; as well as being a 7th grade English Language Arts teacher. Ms. Castro earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education from Arizona State University. This is where she discovered her passion with helping students strengthen their abilities to succeed in the classroom. Ms. Castro was born and raised in the valley of the sun where her parents migrated to from Mexico and is a first-generation college graduate. Outside of school, Ms. Castro enjoys spending time with her son (a fellow Matador), her family, and traveling. She is delighted to continue to share her passion and dedication for educating children this coming school year.
Mr. Cristian Castro excitedly joins the team at Maryvale Prep this year as a 3rd Grade Teacher Apprentice. Mr. Castro is currently on track to someday becoming a librarian. He has grown up all over Arizona-from Phoenix, to Laveen, to Tempe, and Chandler. Mr. Castro has volunteered as a teacher’s assistant and a librarian assistant and has volunteered doing other community service around Tempe. He is currently enrolled in Mesa Community College, but will soon transfer to ASU to complete a degree in teaching, and will continue to strive for a master’s. Education has always been a top priority in his family, and he has been waiting for his opportunity to help in the classroom, paving the way for future generations. Mr. Castro’s goals include helping children socially understand themselves and others, and helping children understand the many ways learning can take place. His hobbies include exercise, reading, watching movies, learning and studying different cultures, and is a board game enthusiast. Mr.Castro joins the faculty at Maryvale Prep as a part of his interest in learning the first steps to become a future teacher, and because of the exceptional and loving staff.
Jessica Cherry is thrilled to be returning for her second year at Maryvale Prep as a lead Kindergarten teacher. In April 2018, she graduated from Grand Canyon University with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. While spending several years in the education program, she gained lots of experience in different classroom settings and age ranges, which has helped shape her into the enthusiastic, hardworking and loving teacher she is. She is passionate about working with children and is looking forward to helping shape the minds and hearts of her students.
Christina Coley is very excited to begin her eighth year at Maryvale Prep. This year Mrs. Coley is enthusiastically taking on a new role as the Archway Assistant Headmaster. Throughout her time at Maryvale Prep she has served in many different roles. She served as Archway Dean, Dean of Lower School, Curriculum Specialist, First-grade teacher, Third-grade teacher, and Structured English Immersion teacher. Mrs. Coley graduated from Biola University with her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Liberal Studies and a Teaching Credential. In addition, she also received two minors in Intercultural Studies and Biblical Studies. In 2012, she moved to Phoenix to begin a career working at Maryvale Prep and it is since become much more than a job, but truly a home. A few years later, Mrs. Coley continued her education at Concordia University and received her Master of Arts Degree in Educational Administration and her received her Principal Certificate. Mrs. Coley is a lifelong learner and is always looking for ways to continue developing as an educator and leader. She is passionate about guiding and equipping teachers to effectively lead their students in intellect and virtue. Mrs. Coley is eager to work alongside such a passionate group of teachers and leaders as they serve the students of Maryvale Prep. Outside of school, Mrs. Coley enjoys spending time with her husband, Andy, as well as hiking, cooking, reading, and exploring new places.
Kiley Cronin is excited to start her first full school year at Maryvale prep as a second-grade teacher! She joined our staff mid-school year in December of 2018 as a third grade TA. Ms. Cronin originally hails from Boston, Massachusetts, but now proudly calls the Valley home. She graduated from ASU in 2018 with two bachelor degrees in psychology and communication and is now working towards earning her Masters in elementary education from ASU. Though this will be Ms. Cronin’s first year in the classroom, she has over 5 years of experience in coaching competitive gymnastics, which is what ultimately sparked her interest in a teaching career. Her passion for helping children and making a difference in their lives, whether it be through gymnastics or in school, is what drives her motivation to teach. She hopes to continue to positively impact the lives of others as part of the Maryvale Prep community!
Dr. Cruz is thrilled to continue her journey with her Maryvale Prep family as the Archway Headmaster. Originally from New Mexico, Dr. Cruz went on to pursue her undergraduate degree in Economics and International Political Science at Colorado College in Colorado Springs, CO. She moved to Phoenix in 2005 and served in the Teach For America corps where she taught second and third grades for a few years and also served as a K-8 Instructional Coach for her school district. While teaching she attended Arizona State University and obtained a Masters in Educational Administration and Supervision and her principal certification. In 2010 she began working at the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University as the Director of Recruitment and also taught several college courses. In 2013, Dr. Cruz earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Innovation and superintendent certification. She has a strong belief in the impact that a teacher has on his or her students and looks forward to serving our teachers as they selflessly serve our children and our parents as they partner with us in the moral and academic growth of their children. Outside of school, Dr. Cruz enjoys spending time with her husband, Henri, and her two daughters, Chloe and Abigail.
Johanni Cruz has been a teacher for six years. She was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York and moved to Arizona eight years ago. Johanni attended the City University of New York College and received a Bachelor’s of Arts in Sociology. She enjoys shopping, traveling, cooking and spending time with her family. Ms. Cruz is very excited to get to know your families and children! She feels that First Grade is wonderful so, she is anticipating an awesome school year!
Tony Cruz is returning to the Maryvale Preparatory Academy family as the Prep Assistant Headmaster. As he heads into this next year, he is excited to continue to help build out the Prep program at Maryvale. After moving to Phoenix from Texas, Mr. Cruz went on to complete his undergraduate degree at Arizona State University in Theatre Performance while developing curriculum for elementary age children in churches. After graduating from ASU, Mr. Cruz moved to San Jose, CA, earned his Master of Arts (Biblical and Theological Studies), and continued his instructional work on developing the minds and hearts of students at the college and young adult level. After earning his Masters, he worked on connecting people to one another and creating systems to ensure organizational and financial sustainability in the companies he served. However, his heart continued to pull towards his place in the world of education. Following this passion, he realized the beauty of that work in serving the Maryvale community by equipping and then empowering students to become the future leaders of this community, this city, and this country.
Allison Cumberworth is ecstatic to be returning to Maryvale Prep as a 4th grade teacher. She has a passion for impacting children with truth and empowering them to be who they were made to be. Previously, she worked for 3 years in a classroom for students with emotional disorders, where she enjoyed helping children gain confidence with her classroom motto, “There is always hope, because you are loved.” This inspired both Allison and the students to pursue goals, which others did not think they could reach, and learn that the impossible can be done through them. Before making her home in Arizona, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Communication for Film, Television, and Radio at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (Go Badgers). She then worked overseas in Asia and Eastern Europe with a college Christian ministry, studying the cultures and leading Bible Studies. In her spare time, she enjoys drinking loads of coffee with friends, cheering on her dear Chicago Cubs, and telling stories. She is truly grateful for another year with the Maryvale Prep family.
Jessica DeVries is excited to be returning to Maryvale Prep for her fifth year and will be teaching second grade. She grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan and graduated from Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. While attending there, she taught classes for a local ESL program and also volunteered with an after-school program that provided tutoring and fun activities for children from the community. Ms. DeVries has a passion for learning the Spanish language and would like to continue developing this skill. During her free time, Ms. DeVries enjoys reading, traveling to new places, and camping. She is looking forward to working with the students in 2nd grade and growing alongside of them in knowledge and character this year.
Katie Dodge enthusiastically joins the team at Maryvale Prep this year as our College Counselor. She grew up in Minnesota and has worked domestically and internationally, at the college level, helping students navigate the college admission process from both university and high school perspectives. Mrs. Dodge has been working exclusively with high school students for the past six years as a College Counselor and is excited to inspire and support our Maryvale students as they find their best fit for post-secondary education. Mrs. Dodge earned her bachelor’s degree (BUS) in Psychology and Communication at North Dakota State University, and her master’s (MA) in Educational Leadership from The University of Northern Colorado. Her passions include cultivating inquiry within the college admission process, and helping students, parents, and family members navigate a complex process. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and studying the ever changing landscape of higher education.
Kate Eagen looks forward to returning to Maryvale Prep Academy this year as the 9th Grade Biology Teacher and 10th Grade Chemistry Teacher. She graduated from the University of Virginia where she received her bachelor’s degrees in Biology and Spanish Literature. She is currently pursuing her Masters in Secondary Science Education with Arizona State University in conjunction with Teach for America. Kate was born in Boulder, Colorado and moved to Philomont, Virginia at a young age, but has continually returned to the Southwest to visit with extended family, fueling her love for Arizona. The state of public education in Arizona inspired Kate to join a team of educators actively fighting the status quo, as the faculty/staff at Maryvale Prep have so proven themselves. Additionally, Great Hearts’ liberal arts education model attracted Kate, as her mother teaches at a liberal arts High School and she has directly benefited from such an education. She enjoys reading, hiking, construction, and crafting in her free time as they allow her to experience the beauty of the world in its various forms. She looks forward to fostering students’ inquiry through scientific discovery and developing their leadership. She is continually inspired by the community love that she has felt for Maryvale Prep and is eager to contribute to student growth and development as human beings and scientists.
Mac Esau is returning as the Prep Headmaster of Maryvale Preparatory Academy. Prior to Maryvale Prep’s opening, he spent the previous ten years teaching physical education, fourth grade core classes, and middle and high school mathematics and serving in various school leadership positions. After his third year in the fourth grade classroom, he became the Director of Personnel & Education at West Valley Christian School in Los Angeles, CA. After moving his family to Phoenix, he served as the founding Assistant Headmaster of Glendale Preparatory Academy and then the Interim Headmaster of Teleos Preparatory Academy, leading these schools effectively in all areas including hiring, financial planning, school operation, and teacher mentorship. He received his Bachelor of Arts in both Psychology and Communication Studies from UCLA and his Master of Arts in Education and Teaching Credential from Biola University. In addition to his great love for the Maryvale community, Mr. Esau plays basketball weekly and cherishes spending time with his lovely wife, Pearl, and his three young children, Kaiya, Zeke, and Niko.
Lucy Everett is thrilled to be returning for another year in 5th Grade! This will be her 4th year at Maryvale Prep, teaching 4th grade for two years and 5th last year. Her passions are Reading and History and she cannot wait to spend another year focusing on these two subjects. She graduated from Grove City College in 2016 with her bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in Classical Education. When she is not teaching, she enjoys being outside, curling up with a good book, going out for coffee, and hanging by the pool with friends and family!
Jack Franicevich is grateful for the opportunity to lead his students in a pursuit of wisdom through the American tradition. Mr. Franicevich graduated from Biola University’s Torrey Honors Institute, which emphasized the cultivation of heart, mind, and soul through the study of great books in friendship and community. During the 2019-2020 school year, he will receive his Masters of Divinity from Denver Seminary and a second honors graduate certificate from the Theopolis Institute. On evenings and weekends, he works at developing non-profits, recording his music, and publishing his poetry. He also happens to make the best chicken tacos in the world. If you want to make him the happiest teacher in the word, ask him to come over to your home and prove it.
We are happy to announce a new addition to our Matador family, Mr. Richard Galewski, who will serve as the Athletic Director of Maryvale Prep. Mr. Richard Galewski hails from Milwaukee Wisconsin. Prior to his arrival, Rich taught in Mineral Point, Wisconsin and was an assistant baseball coach at the University of Wisconsin Platteville. While at Platteville, Rich perused to earn his Master’s degree in Adult Education. As a former college athlete, his competitiveness of sports allowed him to play professionally in Shanghai, China upon receiving his Liberal Arts degree from Cardinal Stritch University (2009). As a Physical Education teacher, Rich has been influenced throughout the sports world and likes helping kids of all ages extend their comfort zone and to guide students to reflect gratitude in their attitude. He has taught for 9 years at the high school and elementary level and has been a coach for nearly 12 years where he has worked with young inspiring competitors and college student athletes. His style and charismatic delivery engages his students to help strengthen their character.
Monse Garcia will be entering her fourth year at Maryvale Prep. This year she will be fulfilling the role of TA. She has grown up in Goodyear, AZ. She is fluent in both English and Spanish languages. She has served in a TA role and led our 6th grade last year. Monse has taken courses in Psychology and early childhood development. She is an active member of her church where she has worked in the youth department and in her church’s basketball league. She is eagerly awaiting to greet your students with care and helping establish a culture of order and joy.
Lindsay Gensichen is excited to return to the team at Maryvale Prep this year as a kindergarten lead teacher. She grew up in Orange County, California, but moved out to Arizona to attend college. Ms. Gensichen earned her bachelor’s degree in Communications at Grand Canyon University. One of her greatest passions includes empowering her students to become strong leaders and great thinkers. She enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with her family. Ms. Gensichen is thrilled to be part of the Maryvale Prep family and is excited for this upcoming school year.
Nikki Georgia is excited to be part of the team at Maryvale Preparatory Academy for a sixth year. During her senior year of high school, Ms. Georgia volunteered at an integrated private school. She quickly developed a passion for working with students with exceptional needs. Ms. Georgia became a Special Education Teacher, and was employed where she originally volunteered for 14 years. Ms. Georgia received her BA in Sociology from CSUSB and Special Education Certification and Master’s degree in Special Education from National University. Upon moving to Phoenix in 2012, Ms. Georgia worked as a Program Director for a K-12 private school for students with exceptional needs. She conducted a monthly parent support group meeting, developed the curriculum, including tools and techniques to modify it for individual needs, and helped implement positive character building and social success for students, community service projects, and teacher training in positive behavior interventions and interpreting and analyzing assessment data. Ms. Georgia is looking forward to another year with the Maryvale Prep Team and helping students achieve their goals and conduct evaluations. Ms. Georgia’s own daughter will also return to Maryvale Prep as a fifth grader and her son as a second grader.
Emma Giles is excited to join Maryvale Preparatory Academy this year as a Math and Science Teacher for the 5thgrade. Originally from Southern California, Emma moved to Arizona to attend Arizona State University and earn degrees in Management and Spanish. She enjoyed learning about team dynamics and how to manage and develop individuals. Her studies led to many involvements in student enrichment programs to encourage higher educational achievement, including a leadership development program at Maryvale High school through the Spirit of Service Scholars of the ASU Watts College. In her final year at university, she completed an Honors Thesis in which she developed a self-care and mental health awareness program for an elementary school in Queen Creek, Arizona. This experience gave her insight to the elementary school environment and how important communities are in the development of young minds Emma knew she wanted a career in education ever since she was a 3rdgrade teacher’s assistant in a bilingual school in California. She continues her involvement in youth development today as a big sister in Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Arizona and looks forward to working with the students at Maryvale Prep to promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.
Sophia Grado is extremely excited to return for her seventh year at Maryvale Preparatory Academy. She spent her first four years serving as a Teacher Apprentice as well as co-teaching in first grade. This will be Ms. Grado’s third year as a First Grade Lead Teacher. Her time with the Maryvale Prep Family has been remarkable and she desires to continue serving and loving our children. Prior to her employment at Maryvale Prep, she was employed with Litchfield School District. There she worked as an instructional aide for special education, specifically trained to work with autistic students. Ms. Grado earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Phoenix. Her goal at Maryvale Prep is to help students reach their full potential academically and to become compassionate and virtuous individuals. She is a mother of two children and devotes all her time to them when she is not working. Ms. Grado is from El Paso, Texas where she was taught the importance of family values and gained a strong moral foundation.
Christian Hall is excited to begin his third full year as a member of the Maryvale Prep family. It is a very special year because it is his first year as a lead teacher! He has been a TA for two and a half years prior to this, so he has gained lots of pertinent experience. Being a TA, Christian had the opportunity to get to know most of his incoming first graders during lunch and recess last year, making for a comfortable and confident start of the year for everyone. Christian is a Phoenix native and loves the state of Arizona, even in the summer. Since graduating from Manhattan Christian College in Manhattan, KS with a B.S. in Bible and Leadership, Christian has worked in various churches as a worship leader. His passion is music and people. Christian got married to his dream girl since middle school, Haley, in April 2017. She birthed their beautiful daughter, Georgia, in April 2018, on his birthday. It has been an eventful, beautiful, dynamic past few years. Christian enjoys creating music, laughing, talking, listening and spending time with friends and family. The Maryvale Prep community and its supportive leadership has shown Christian who he can be and that he can make a difference in the lives of students, which has been immensely impactful for his development as a person. He presses on eagerly into this 2019-2020 school year with hopes to make his first–grade class feel seen, heard and loved. Here’s to our best school year yet!
Ines Hayouna is so excited to return to the Maryvale Prep team as a kindergarten teacher. She is extremely excited to work as a kindergarten in her home state of Arizona. She grew up in Phoenix and graduated from DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana with a double major in Music and French and a minor in Philosophy. Her passions include cultivating a culture of care within her classroom and educational equity for all. She enjoys hiking, reading, playing the piano and learning new things each and every day. She joins the faculty at Maryvale Prep ready to learn and work hard to ensure that every child has a good and beautiful education.
Ilse Hernandez-Allen is looking forward to beginning her 3rd year at Maryvale Prep. Over the last two years she has worked as a first grade TA and recently moved into her current position as an ESS coordinator. Ilse grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada, but has travelled and lived in most of the Southwest states. Mrs. Allen earned her bachelor’s degree (B.A.) in Exercise Science from the University of Utah, Master’s in Oriental Medical Theory (M.S.O.M.) from Southwest Acupuncture College and her Speech Language Pathology Assistant Certification from Northern Arizona University. In addition, Mrs. Allen is completing her teaching certification in Special Education from Rio Salado College. In addition, she is the mother of two amazing children, loves to travel, swim and learn. She is looking forward to this new year to help enrich and motivate our young learners and in helping them be their best.
David Hopkins is excited and eager to join the Maryvale Prep Academy team this year and the Great Hearts network, joining as the 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th grade Music teacher. Starting at a very young age, Mr. Hopkins was deeply involved in music, both vocal and instrumental, that eventually flourished into a passion throughout his academic career. He holds two degrees in Music, a Bachelor’s degree from Georgia Southern University, and a Master’s degree from Arizona State University. Mr. Hopkins values all aspects of music in a scholar’s education, from performance to theory, and is excited to share his knowledge and passion with the students of Maryvale Prep. At night or on the weekends, Mr. Hopkins enjoys performing on the stage in shows and musicals, as well as composing music, making music with friends and family, and the occasional extreme sport like skydiving.
Katie Janeczek is eager to return to Maryvale Preparatory Academy for the second year, and excited to start a new year with the newest 2nd Graders! She is an Arizona native that grew up in Goodyear and is now currently living in Glendale with her husband Dawid and three children Keira, Kian, and Demitria. In her free time, Katie enjoys spending time and building lasting memories with her children and family, such as going to the Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium. She also enjoys time in with her children to be able to relax, watch movies, and interact with music, as Katie is a self-taught guitar and piano player. Katie’s dream of being a teacher took root when she was just twelve years old and it is a dream that is soon to be achieved as she plans to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from University of Phoenix. Katie has always believed in the importance of instilling both morals and core values in children, and that it is the duty of a child’s educator to help shape them into the men and women that they will become. That is why she looks forward to the opportunity to be a role model for children and have a positive impact on their lives in the same way that her teachers did for her.
Keymia Jones eagerly joins the team at Maryvale Prep this year as a 1st-grade teacher. Ms. Jones is committed to student success inside the classroom and in life. In 2013 she graduated from Grand Canyon University with her BS in Psychology; she is currently receiving her MA in Educational Leadership Administration. She grew up in Southern Illinois and moved to Arizona with her parents while in high school. Ms. Jones graduated from Alhambra High School in Phoenix, Arizona. She has worked in the education field for various districts for many years as a teacher’s assistant, a site coordinator for a before and after school care, and as a substitute teacher. In her classroom, Ms. Jones learning environment promotes moral and academic support, love, and sense of family. She was inspired by her teacher in high school to pursue teaching and implements the same welcoming atmosphere in her classroom. Her students know they are important. She tells them daily. During Ms. Jones spare time, she enjoys bowling, shopping, traveling, spending time with her family and friends and being a mother to her children Kamarion and Kearra. She is an active member at her church and serves as a treasurer and is a member of the usher board. Ms. Jones is honored to be returning to the classroom to do what she considers her passion. She looks forward to helping her 1st-grade students grow to be virtuous leaders.
Renee Kanuri is excited to join this year’s Maryvale Prep team as a fourth-grade teacher’s assistant. This is her second year at Maryvale Prep and is ecstatic to come and work with all the amazing students. She is an Arizona native, growing up in both San Luis and Peoria, Arizona, where she has been actively involved in helping her community in areas such as health education and community outreach. Ms. Kanuri received her education from Grand Canyon University where she earned a bachelor’s degree (BS) in Biology with an Emphasis in Pre-Medicine. During her time at Grand Canyon University, she discovered the importance of education and health care and made it her mission to showcase the beauty of learning in all areas. Working in education became a noble calling, understanding the significance a good education has had on her life, and hopes to not only enrich the lives of her students with the beautiful curriculum, but also learn and grow from them. She enjoys reading, baking, exercising, and learning about great leaders and historical events. She joins Maryvale Prep because of how its wonderful staff and community are dedicated to show students how a classical education can foster creative and curious minds for lifelong learning.
Excited to join the Maryvale team, Shealee Kelly has just transitioned from intern to Teacher Assistant for the sixth grade. Currently in her senior year at Grand Canyon University, Shealee is looking forward to graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication in the Spring of 2020. She hopes to continue in the field of education after graduation. Hailing from Thousand Oaks, California, Ms. Kelly has come to love the Phoenix area and has made it home. Shealee enjoys time with family, friends and dog Jack. You can often find her on walks or bike rides, crocheting or doing puzzles. Also, at home in the kitchen, where she likes cooking and baking. She feels honored to be joining the outstanding staff and serving the students who are the heart of Maryvale Elementary.
Kendra Kullby is thrilled to join the Maryvale team this year as a 3rd grade teacher. Her background is in outdoor education, adventure education, and human development. She received her bachelor’s degree in adventure education at Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO. The philosophies in her degree and background work well together with the philosophies of Great Hearts as they both focus on teaching the whole child. Throughout college, she worked as a teacher for kayaking, backpacking, rock climbing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. After college, she pursued her passion for teaching and worked in special education classes and general education classes. She is now currently part of a program called Teach for America and is earning her master’s degree in elementary education at ASU. She is excited to become part of a career that works to grow and influence the hearts and minds of our future generations. Ms. Kullby enjoys going kayaking, hiking with her dog, singing, and baking. She is excited to join a strong, united team at Maryvale to take part in the work that she is passionate about.
Mr. Levy is looking forward to his fifth year at Maryvale Prep! He is from a small town outside of New York City called Rockaway Beach. He has Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and a Master’s Degree in Physical Education from Adelphi University. He has taught tennis for 15 years and coached varsity boys’ tennis at Packer Collegiate Institute in Brooklyn, NY. He has also coached middle school soccer and football. In his fifth year at Maryvale Prep, Mr. Levy looks forward to offer students skills and experiences to help them succeed and have fun in PE now and in life after school regardless of the sport or activity. During his free time, he enjoys playing tennis, golf, exploring the outdoors and doing DIY projects. Also, Mr. Levy is also the Facilities Manager. He will be fixing and building things around campus for everyone to use and enjoy.
Giselle Limas-Herschell is entering her second year at Maryvale Prep and will be continuing in her role as the School Counselor. Mrs. Limas-Herschell is a native of Mexico City allowing her to be both bi-cultural as well as bi-lingual. Mrs. Limas-Herschell has been practicing family and child therapy for approximately twelve years. Her areas of therapeutic expertise include Play Therapy as well as building healthy relationships within families. Mrs. Limas-Herschell has truly enjoyed building relationships over the past year with our Maryvale Prep families and students as well as staff. She is looking forward to growing these relationships as well as building new relationships with existing students as well as our new students who will be attending Maryvale Prep this coming school year. Mrs. Limas-Herschell holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Arizona as well as a Masters of Social Work from Arizona State University. Mrs. Limas-Herschell is passionate about creating a safe, accepting environment not only in her counseling office but on the campus as a whole. When Mrs. Limas-Herschell is not at school she enjoys practicing yoga, reading educational books as well as having fun with her husband and two step sons.
Shannon Long eagerly joins the team at Maryvale Prep this year as the lead teacher for homeroom 2C. This is her first year in Arizona, as she originally comes from Missouri, where she earned her bachelor’s degree (BA) in History with a minor in Sociology at Maryville University of St. Louis. Following graduation, Ms. Long spent fulfilling time as a legal assistant, before focusing on her passion for child care. She has seen first-hand the impact of quality education, specifically as it relates to younger children, in her own family. Ms. Long has been a very involved figure in the development of her nephew and nieces, including their education. She was often a multi-sport athlete in school, and continued her lacrosse career into college. She enjoys exercise, live music, camping, and most of all reading. She is most drawn to the Maryvale Prep mission as it is designed to cater to the souls and hearts of children, not their minds alone. She is excited to bring her energy to her students, and create a safe, welcome environment for young scholars.
Kathie Lopez is delighted to return to Maryvale Prep as an Exceptional Student Services Coordinator for grades 4-6. This is her fourth year as a part of the Matador community and is honored to continue to cultivate the minds and hearts of students with exceptional needs. She is a graduate of Arizona State University’s ITeach program with a dual degree in Elementary and Special Education, and this is her 21st year in education serving students from grades K-12. She has seen the transformation a classical liberal arts education has made with her own children and is honored to be a part of this growing community. She enjoys all sports, the fine arts, traveling, reading, and writing. She is a lifelong learner and is grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve the families of Maryvale Preparatory Academy.
Kathie Lopez is delighted to return to Maryvale Prep as an Exceptional Student Services Coordinator for grades 4-6. This is her fourth year as a part of the Matador community and is honored to continue to cultivate the minds and hearts of students with exceptional needs. She is a graduate of Arizona State University’s ITeach program with a dual degree in Elementary and Special Education, and this is her 21st year in education serving students from grades K-12. She has seen the transformation a classical liberal arts education has made with her own children and is honored to be a part of this growing community. She enjoys all sports, the fine arts, traveling, reading, and writing. She is a lifelong learner and is grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve the families of Maryvale Preparatory Academy.
Mary Martin is thrilled to serve at Maryvale Prep this year as a Lead Teacher in 3rd Grade. She grew up in Maryland as part of a large family, babysitting and working as a nanny, until she graduated college at St. Francis University in Pennsylvania. There, very interested in development and different behaviors demonstrated as people grow, she received a bachelor’s degree (BS) in Social Work, while also studying Psychology. Ms. Martin moved to Arizona in 2015 and began working at Maryvale in the 2017-2018 school year as a TA. She has been greatly impacted by learning about the integrity, dignity, and worth of a person, and is eager to continue applying that knowledge to her passion for working with children and teaching them those same fundamentals. In her free time the things she enjoys most are hiking, exploring Phoenix, country dancing, and encountering people to learn about their story. Ms. Martin is excited to start her third year here getting to know her new students, work with families, and to be a part of the mission and community here at Maryvale Prep.
Morgan McKinney is excited to join the team at Maryvale Prep this year as a 6thgrade Math and Life Science teacher. She just completed her service term with AmeriCorps, teaching 6th through 10th graders about college and career readiness. She is originally from Santa Cruz, California but began her first two years of her bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science (BS) at Seattle University. She then completed her bachelor’s degree (BS) in Exercise Science at Northern Arizona University. She is now in the process of getting her master’s degree (MED) in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. While getting her undergraduate degree, Miss McKinney worked as an adjunct instructor at NAU, teaching college students about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. She discovered a love of education and teaching through this job at NAU, which lead her to pursue teaching as a career. Through experiences with students at NAU, her time with AmeriCorps, and her own time as a student, Miss McKinney has learned how important a great education is and vows that she will do all she can to make a positive impact on student’s education. In her free time, she enjoys exercise, painting, spending time with family, and learning new things. She eagerly joins the faculty at Maryvale Prep and is looking forward to getting to know and teach the students and families within the community.
Irma Mendoza is thrilled to begin her second year as part of the Maryvale Prep family in her role as Kindergarten Teacher Apprentice. She looks forward to cultivating deeper roots from the seeds of community and fellowship planted in her first year. While in high school, Miss Mendoza volunteered in a four-year old preschool classroom, and found her calling. She knew she wanted to continue working with children in some form. She grew up in Maryvale. As an adult she moved to Surprise where she began her professional career as a Child Care Aide in a state licensed before and after school facility; eventually moving onto roles of site director and mentoring four other sites for thirteen years. Miss Mendoza decided to return to Maryvale as part of the Maryvale Prep team as a testament to the teachers who had a part in instilling and supporting the passion for education and learning that she discovered in her early childhood. She looks forward to putting forth her experience and talents towards guiding her own students on their paths to becoming life -long learners. She enjoys spending time with her nieces and nephew, reading, crafting and documentaries.
Miss Rachel Mercado is a native of Phoenix, Arizona. She has over 15 years experience teaching in private schools in the greater Los Angeles area. Miss Mercado will be teaching middle school math and brings years of math and science teaching experience into the classroom at Maryvale Prep. Miss Mercado has a Masters of Educational Leadership from Liberty University and plans on pursuing a doctorate in the near future. She is excited to share her knowledge and love of math with her students. In her spare time, Miss Mercado enjoys spending time with her family, hiking and traveling abroad.
Maria Mitchell enthusiastically joins the team at Maryvale Prep this year as a 5th grade teacher’s assistant in Ms. Giles classroom. This is her first year as a teacher’s assistant. She grew up in Cave Creek and has worked in several fields including resorts, yoga and was recently a pre-school gym coach but has spent most of her working career as a full-time nanny. Maria will earn an Associates degree in Liberal Arts at Paradise Valley Community College after completing her Spring 2020 semester. She then will continue her education at Arizona State University to receive her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education (BAE). Throughout her years of school, Maria has seen first-hand the importance of a great education, and is excited to put her passion to use every day in the classroom. In her free time, Maria enjoys practicing hot yoga, hiking with her dogs, and cooking vegan food. Maria has always been passionate about health and the wellbeing of others which only makes her a more compassionate educator. She is eager to join the Maryvale Prep faculty, team and families this December, 2019.
Daniel Monsalve Ruiz joins the team at Maryvale Prep this year. He will be teaching 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 9th and 10th grade Spanish. He was born and raised in Bogota Colombia, where he graduated magna cum laude from Colegio de Estudios Superiores en Administración with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He also earned a degree in fashion design from Lasalle College International. Daniel later spent three years in Buenos Aires, Argentina where he graduated from Universidad de Palermo with an Associate of Art Degree in fashion production.
After working in business and finance in New York City, Mr. Monsalve moved to Arizona in 2018. He fell in love with education when working as a Spanish and math teacher at Brightmont Academy in Scottsdale. Daniel is inspired by identifying improved approaches and enhanced solutions to learning. He believes that exploration, pursuit of education, and motivation are the framework for educational success. Like Maryvale Preparatory Academy, his goal is to promote a positive spirit and values onto his students. Outside of school, his hobbies include fitness, hiking, watching musicals and exploring art galleries and new art exhibitions.
Katie Mraz joins the Maryvale Prep team this year as the tenth grade Humane Letters teacher. She was born and raised in the Glendale public school system, but received her undergraduate degree in English Literature and Humanities at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. After having the pleasure of participating in seminars on great books twice a week throughout her four years in APU’s Honors College, she cannot wait to discuss more great works with her students. As a first-generation student, she firmly believes in the benefits a liberal education provides and is excited to share that belief with her students and coworkers. She also believes in the power of a well written book, especially when paired with some tea.
Ashley Munoz is excited to join the team at Maryvale Prep this year as a first–grade teacher’s apprentice. She is a recent graduate from Grand Canyon University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology. She worked in Maryvale Prep’s after school program last year and was intrigued by the difference in education this school has compared to the public schools she went to as a child. She enjoys reading, writing poetry, and learning more about psychology. She is excited to pursue excellence for education and to work with the exceptional staff and community.
Raquel Munoz proudly joins the Maryvale Prep team this year as the Reading Instructional Coach and Interventionist. She is an Arizona native, and earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. Her endorsements include Early Childhood birth-8 years, and ESL K-12. This is her 19th year in education with experience as a lead teacher, reading interventionist, and supporting teachers in professional development. She is honored to serve the students, parents and staff in the area of reading and ESL—a true passion she holds very close to her heart. She enjoys being active with her two children: Giovanna and Maximus, cooking, reading, and helping families create healthy, happy homes.
Chris Myers joins the team at Maryvale Prep with great expectations to offer his gifts and abilities to help scholars love and enjoy the beauty of the classical languages. He received his bachelor’s degree in the Geology from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. He received his Master’s degree in Divinity from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia that included instruction in Greek and Hebrew. After completing 8 years of service to the Army as a Logistics Officer that brought his family to places across the Southeast of the United States, he taught Latin for a year through Classical Conversations. Today, he continues to further growing in his Greek and Latin skills sets through working through Athenaze, Lingua Latina, Koine, and Latin Patristic texts with Classical Study Communities in the Valley. Chris is married to his lovely wife, Misty, and they have four children: Trinity (15), Houston (13), Elissa (12), and Anastasia (10).
Emily Olivier is excited to return to Maryvale Prep this year as an art teacher for K-3. This is her second year as an art teacher at Maryvale. She was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia. Ms. Olivier earned her bachelor’s degree in Media Arts and Design from James Madison University. She was honored to create beautiful work with so many incredible students last year, and is eager to dive back into the world of art with them again this year! Ms. Olivier is passionate about using a variety of materials, styles, and techniques to make art education accessible, enriching (and fun!) for all students. When she is not teaching, she enjoys making art of her own, being active, and trying new restaurants around Phoenix.
Jackeline Perpuly is excited to be returning to Maryvale Prep for her second year as a Teacher Apprentice in Kindergarten. She was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, where she has been lucky enough to have been taught by some truly inspirational teachers. Her own passion for working with young children extends from her desire to emulate these role models and perform the same inspirational function in the lives of her students. She is thrilled to continue the journey of enriching the lives of her students through her dedication and hard work. In her time away from Maryvale, she enjoys spending time with her 4-year-old son traveling and being outdoors.
Mrs. Melinda Pridgen is grateful for the opportunity to return to the Maryvale Prep family as the Office Assistant. She has over 20 years of School Administration Experience and is excited to share what she has learned with our community. Mrs. Pridgen looks forward to serving our Staff, Scholars and Families with the attention and warmth they have come to expect. In her spare time Mrs. Pridgen enjoys spending time with her family, cheering on her children on from the sidelines of the many sports they participate in, crafting and serving at her church.
Gabriel Proano will lead our students in Physical Education for the Eighth straight year. Additionally, he will take the reigns as the Head Football Coach! Gabriel joined Maryvale Prep as part of the founding team of teachers in 2012. This will be his twelfth year teaching since he received a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Arizona Christian University. During his time as a counselor to foster children at Royal Family Kids Camp, Coach Proano became convinced that he wanted to teach young people. He previously coached sports for five years at The Little Gym and has enthusiastically used that experience in building a Physical Education department at Maryvale Prep that centers on character, healthy habits, sportsmanship, fitness and sports skills/strategies.
Morrise Queirolo traveled all the way from Virginia to join the team at Maryvale Prep this year as a 7th grade Ancient history and 8th grade Medieval history teacher. Mr. Queirolo earned his Bachelor’s degree in Government and Finance from the College of William and Mary, the second oldest University in the nation. He is also currently pursuing a Masters degree in Secondary Education from Arizona State University. His undergrad experience engendered a love for history and the liberal arts tradition. He hopes to bring his passion for education, inquiry, and civic responsibility into the classroom. In his free time Mr. Queirolo likes to stay physical, read, spend time with family, and cultivate meaningful relationships.
Viridiana Ramirez is very excited to be returning as the School Registrar for the 2019-20 school year at Maryvale Preparatory Academy. Her kids have been scholars at Maryvale Prep since 2014 and now she joins them each day on campus. Prior to Maryvale Prep, Ms. Ramirez worked several years in office management. Ms. Ramirez began 2017 mid-year as a teacher apprentice for Ms. DeVries before moving into this role and she fell in love with our families and the work we do here. She then knew this was just the right fit for her and her family. Some people search all their lives for what makes their lives complete for what makes their lives full and happy and this is it for her. Growing with her kids and being so close to them, not missing their important moments in life is what counts most for her. This year, she will be working closely with Mrs. Welintukonis to provide excellent service to our parents and students.
Emerson Daniel Lopez Romero is very happy to be back at Maryvale Prep this year as a teacher’s assistant for 2nd grade with Ms. Devries. This is his 2nd year being a teacher’s assistant and will also be his second year running the soccer program for high school soccer. He previously worked for the Alhambra district at a school called Montebello Elementary. He was born in Bogota, Colombia located in South America. Mr. Romero graduated from Central High School and went straight into college to pursue his education and at the same time he played 4 years of College soccer at GWCC, USW and GCU. Mr. Romero loves to play soccer as well as travelling and finding water falls throughout the beautiful state of Arizona. Mr. Romero has an Associate Degree in general studies and another degree as a certified bilingual translator in medical terminology. Mr. Romero is bilingual; he can speak both Spanish and English and its currently attending Grand Canyon University. He will be starting his student teaching in 2020 and will be graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. He Is looking forward to working with students and making them succeed at all cost with a great attitude and making Maryvale Preparatory the best school to attend.
Zoё Shaw joyfully looks forward to joining the Maryvale Prep team for a second school year. She will be assisting Mr. Walters in the 6th grade literature and history classroom, as well as teaching 6th grade poetry. She has traveled from Wisconsin where she attended Carthage College to obtain her B.A. in Great Ideas. Great Ideas is a field of study very similar to Great Books programs which have the same values and philosophical beliefs as the Great Hearts Network. Ms. Shaw was originally an education major but felt that the system in place was insufficient for shaping children’s lives. Since her classical liberal arts studies at Carthage, she has been passionate about comprehensive education and the Socratic method. She has experience with kids through her church and developed a love for them there. A born and raised Wisconsinite, Ms. Shaw enjoys fine cheese, outdoor activities, live music, and reading. She is excited to share her love of poetry with the 6th grade students and she anticipates another wonderful year supported by an exceptional staff seeking truth, goodness, and beauty.
Ms. Sidoti is excited to return to Maryvale Preparatory Academy for a 5th year of service, this time in the role of Math Instructional Coach and Interventionist. For the last 4 years, Ms. Sidoti has taught 5th grade at Maryvale Prep, having had the opportunity to focus exclusively on mathematics and science last school year. Before coming to Maryvale, Ms. Sidoti graduated summa cum laude from Arizona State University with concurrent degrees in Women & Gender Studies and Communication. She began her career in education as a Teach For America corps member and has been committed to the mission of educational equity and excellence ever since. For the last two summers, Ms. Sidoti has also worked with Teach For America as a coach to new teachers, helping them develop the skills necessary to be strong educational leaders. These experiences have led Ms. Sidoti to her current role where she is excited to partner with teachers and families in bolstering our students’ confidence and achievement in math. Outside of school, Ms. Sidoti loves to cook, travel, go to the theater, and spend time with her friends and family.
Patty Slider is excited to begin a new role as the Academy’s Director of Operations. As a longtime resident of Arizona, she has enjoyed a wide range of experiences in education, insurance, property management and ministry. Before joining us in 2014, Patty was the Operations Director at a local church for over a decade. Since coming to Maryvale, Patty has worked with our 1st& 4th Grade classes and supervised and coached our Teacher Apprentices. Her association with Great Hearts Academies began in 2002 when her two children enrolled in our first academy, Veritas. Patty and her husband, Tim have seen firsthand the beauty of this classical liberal arts education and especially the loving, supportive leadership from both administration and faculty that is truly unique with our schools. Besides traveling, Patty loves going thrifting with friends, watching movies and always has three books going at one time.
Ms. Snyder eagerly rejoins the Maryvale team as the 5th and 6th grade Latin specialist and TA for 6A. This is her first year working as a Latin teacher but second year with the Maryvale family. She has worked as a summer camp counselor for the past seven years at a camp in Mayer, Arizona. It was at this camp where Ms. Snyder became passionate about instructing and helping children. She is excited to jump back in and revamp the Latin program to make it both enjoyable as well as resourceful for the students. Having been a Great Hearts student herself (Veritas Prep), Ms. Snyder is well aware of the rigorous curriculum of Maryvale and the required tools students need to succeed in Latin and other studies. She graduated in May of 2018 from Benedictine University (IL) with her bachelor’s degree in Philosophy where she was a four-year NCAA collegiate athlete. Ms. Snyder was a three-sport athlete at Veritas, participated in many plays, and was a part of the VPA honors choir. She has always been a very active member in her community and fully believes in cultivating the minds and hearts of students through the pursuit of Truth, Goodness and Beauty. She joins Maryvale Archway as a part of her interest in giving students the same extraordinary education she had, and because of the exceptional staff and community
Mr. Suarez is thrilled to join Maryvale Prep as a teacher assistant in 2B! He serves as a preschool teacher on Sunday mornings and as a camp counselor for students of all ages during the summer. Mr. Suarez is an Arizona native and is currently attending Glendale Community College to earn his degree in psychology. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, spending time with family and exploring new places with his fiancé. As he rejoins the team at Maryvale Prep, he cannot wait to share beauty and truth to students everyday through his teachings.
Melissa Vaughn is excited to return to the Maryvale Prep team this year to teach 7th and 8th Grade Lit/Comp, as well as 8th Grade Drama. This is her 13th year of teaching. Ms. Vaughn earned her bachelor’s degree in Merchandising and Consumer Sciences at the University of Arizona and began a Master’s in Education at the University of Phoenix. Her goal for each day with her students is to inspire them to improve in daily life and be the best version of themselves. Her passions include reading, swimming, and spending time with her son. Ms. Vaughn joins the faculty at Maryvale Prep in the pursuit of the good and the beautiful with the amazing team and community here.
Andrew Vilcan ardently awaits his return to the team at Maryvale Prep this year as the 9th grade Euclidean Geometry and the 10th grade Algebra II teacher. He grew up in Lafayette, Louisiana and has worked in various fields from working at the college level in mathematics, facilities manager, a missionary, a campus minister, and retruning member of the Maryvale Prep team. Mr. Vilcan earned his bachelor’s degree (BSMath) in Applied Mathematics at the University of Louisiana. Mr. Vilcan sees the beauty and fulfillment that a Great Hearts education can provide and wants to give students every available opportunity to be a fully formed person. He enjoys playing rugby, hunting and fishing, brewing, reading, cooking and board games. He returns to the faculty at Maryvale Prep as a part of his interest in fostering a community of learning, and because of the exceptional staff, families, and students!
Thomas Walters will join the team at Maryvale Prep this 2019-2020 school as the 6thgrade American History and Literature teacher. This year will be Mr. Walters’ first year teaching. Mr. Walters is brand new to Phoenix and is getting acquainted with the Maryvale community, the surrounding mountains and hiking trails, and the summer heat. Mr. Walters was born and raised in Michigan where he graduated high school, fell in love with teaching, spent three years of undergraduate school pursuing a History and Education double major, before finishing his undergraduate work in History at Keene State College in New Hampshire. As a son of a single mother and a first-generation college student, Mr. Walters personally understands the immense significance of education. Mr. Walters’ life work is to dismantle the cycle of poverty and to ensure that one day all children have access to a rigorous and transformative education. Mr. Walters cannot wait to join the exceptional staff at Maryvale Prep, connect with the surrounding Maryvale community, and help every student at Maryvale discover their brilliance.
Mrs. Olyvia Welintukonis is very excited to return to Maryvale Preparatory Academy as the Office Manager. She has years of school administration experience, and is eager to continue pursuing her calling at Maryvale Prep. Olyvia grew up right here in Maryvale and has a first hand understanding of the area and vibrant culture that makes it great. She has a passion for serving families and their communities and to help them raise their expectations and goals for their children. The Welintukonis’ chose Maryvale Preparatory Academy for their own children because their family strongly aligns with Great Hearts in the importance of developing strong moral character and instilling virtues in all children. She enjoys spending time with her husband Aaron and their three daughters, Liliana, Analicia and Ariella, attending church, home renovations and watching sports.
Bridgette Wichterman is excited to begin her first year at Maryvale Prep as a 4th grade TA, working alongside Ms. Allison Cumberworth. Bridgette was born and raised in a small town in Central Washington, but moved to Arizona nearly five years ago to attend Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff. Ms. Wichterman graduated from NAU with an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science and a minor in Psychology. After a year of working in the healthcare field, she discovered that her real passion wasn’t medicine, but rather working with people and guiding them to become the best possible versions of themselves. Bridgette comes from a long line of teachers, and is the 6th generation educator in her family. As the daughter of an elementary school teacher, Bridgette fostered an appreciation for education at a very young age. In her free time Ms. Wichterman enjoys swimming, hiking, and reading books in her hammock. She is very excited to be living in Phoenix, and would love to hear about some of your favorite local activities!
Julie Wolfrum gladly joins the Maryvale Prep family this year as a first-grade teacher apprentice. This is her first year as a teacher apprentice. She grew up in Peoria and has worked in various fields such as health care, hospitality, and now education. Her hobbies include hiking, exercise, watching movies, and attending musical concerts. Miss Wolfrum earned her bachelor’s degree in Biology Emphasis in Physician Assistant. She understands the importance of a quality education and is honored to work in the classroom to expand the minds of the future generation. She joins Maryvale Prep faculty as an opportunity to broaden the minds of students. The outstanding staff and community are what engaged her interest to accept this opportunity.
Anaïs Wolpert is thrilled to return to Maryvale Prep for her fourth year teaching to and learning from such curious and virtuous scholars. This year she will again be teaching 4-7th grade art and 9th grade poetry, eagerly participating in both the Archway and Prep levels. As a young student, Ms. Wolpert had the fortune of attending a charter school in the Valley which valued art highly. Through this love of the fine arts and their history she graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History from Arizona State University. An avid enthusiast of Masaccio-Monet art and Homer-Heine poetry, Ms. Wolpert is excited to examine the interactions of art and poetry with her students this year.