Our Staff
At Sun Canyon Elementary school, you’ll find teachers dedicated to meeting the individual learning needs of their students. Together with a team of office and support staff members, we create a positive environment that nurtures creativity and inspires learning.
Administration & Office
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Ramirez Castillo JeronimoJeronimo Ramirez Castillo Lead Custodian
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Ramirez Castillo JeronimoJeronimo Ramirez Castillo Lead Custodian
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Krenkel AngelaAngela Krenkel Principal Send message »
Education
Bachelors in Education from ASU
Masters of Education: Administration and Supervision from University of Phoenix
Masters of Education: Curriculum and Instruction from University of PhoenixExperience
I started in this district 25+ years ago. I was a substitute for two years. I taught for eight years at Fowler and Tuscano. I was an assistant principal for for five years at both Tuscano and Western Valley Elementary. I am now starting my tenth year as principal here at Sun Canyon Elementary.
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Stevens TobieTobie Stevens Assistant Principal Send message »
Education
I graduated with a bachelors degree in elementary education and reading. I also focused on early childhood development. I have since gone back to receive a masters in educational leadership. I also have endorsements in gifted and English language learners.Experience
I have taught kinder, 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th grades over the last 28 years. I have now starting my fourth year as the assistant principal.Why I Teach
I am in education to support not only the students we serve, but also their families and the community around them in reaching their fullest potential. I believe every child can learn and be successful. It is incredibly rewarding to watch students realize they've learned something new and to see the pride and confidence that follows. Helping students understand that they can become anything they aspire to be—and showing them the many paths available—means the world to me.
Preschool
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Tarin WendyWendy Tarin Send message »
Education
High School DiplomaExperience
I started off as an instructional assistant (IA) in the preschool program here at Sun Canyon. I have been an IA for four years and became a lead teacher for preschool this year.Why I Teach
I teach because working with children has always been a passion of mine.
Kindergarten
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Beltran ClaudiaClaudia Beltran Send message »
Education
Bachelor in Elementary Education K–8-CRENExperience
Before teaching kindergarten, I worked for 11 years as a teacher assistant in special education, and have been teaching kindergarten for three yearsWhy I Teach
I teach because I love to grow, learn, and care with my students all together. I enjoy watching them grow and develop throughout the school year. My goal is for my students to have a safe, loving environment where they can each grow as their own individual persons. I believe that all kids are capable of being successful with the necessary sources that they need. I love to work with kids, not only to teach them academics, but to also teach them about the importance of having values.
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Joe AndreaAndrea Joe Send message »
Education
BA Elementary EducationExperience
I have been teaching for over 16 years, and ten of those years have been here at Sun Canyon. I have taught kindergarten, second, and third grade.Why I Teach
I teach because every day is different and a challenge and because teaching has purpose. I love teaching because it's an awesome feeling when you see the light bulb go off and they are understanding what is being taught. I learn something new everyday along with my students. As their teacher, I hope to influence my students in their learning but also in their ability to solve problems. I want my students to learn to have confidence in themselves.
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Medina RocioRocio Medina Send message »
Education
Associates in Arts Elementary EducationExperience
15 years of experienceWhy I Teach
I teach because I love working with children and enjoy their excitement of learning! Working with little ones take energy and enthusiasm. Each day you see the world through their eyes, all that possibility, positivity, and excitement for life. Working with children is fun! I love that no single day at work is the same. Helping children is the most rewarding job I can think of!
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Ulloa MayleneMaylene Ulloa Send message »
Education
Master of Education in Educational Administration (in progress) Grand Canyon University – Expected 2026
Bachelor of Science in Education, Elementary Education Northern Arizona University – May 2020
K–12 Structured English Immersion (SEI) Endorsement Northern Arizona University – May 2020Experience
I earned my bachelor of science in elementary education from Northern Arizona University in May 2020. During my field experience, I worked with first grade students on the Navajo Nation and later at a bilingual magnet school in Flagstaff where I supported kindergarten and third grade students in a Spanish-track dual-language program.I completed my student teaching at Sun Canyon Elementary, where I’ve proudly taught for the past five years - two years in first grade and now entering my fourth year in kindergarten as the kindergarten lead teacher. I hold a K–12 Structured English Immersion (SEI) Endorsement and currently teach in a mixed-language ELD classroom.
In addition to my work in the classroom, I’ve taken on several leadership roles that reflect my commitment to supporting students, families, and fellow educators. At Sun Canyon, I serve as the kindergarten lead, site technology lead, and one of two kinder ELD teachers. I previously served as a Student Intervention Team (SIT) Coordinator, partnering with our vice principal to develop individualized academic and behavioral support plans for students in collaboration with their families and teachers.
At the district level, I contribute as the district kindergarten articulation lead and serve on the Fowler AI Team. Beyond school, I also bring experience in childcare and private tutoring for K–5 students, which has deepened my understanding of how to support children in both academic and social- emotional growth.
In May 2024, I was honored to receive the Teacher of the Year Award. Currently, I am pursuing a master of education in educational administration at Grand Canyon University to continue developing as an instructional leader and advocate for equitable, high-quality education for all learners!
Why I Teach
I teach because I am passionate about learning and being able to share that knowledge with others. Everyone deserves to have a safe space to explore their curiosity in and feel like their voice, identities, and contributions are valued and appreciated. I strive for creating a community of learners that are not afraid of making mistakes along the way as long as they find the determination to do better and be better. Everyone is capable of great things, and my job is to provide the specific tools and resources each individual student needs to achieve their goals and dreams. It would be an honor to have contributed to the change and impact my students will make in this world today and in the future!
First Grade
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Allen ReneeRenee Allen
Education
Bachelor’s in Early Childhood
Master’s of Arts in Communication with an Emphasis in EducationExperience
7 yearsWhy I Teach
To inspire young learners to achieve all of their goals.
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Bonnano ChristineChristine Bonnano Send message »
Education
I received an English degree from Scripps College and my master's from Claremont Graduate University.Experience
This will be my 30th year in FESD. I have taught 34 years altogether.Why I Teach
I love seeing when kids make connections and the progress from the first day to the last day is amazing. Showing them how much they grow makes me so happy!
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Castillo DesireeDesiree Castillo
Education
I attended Arizona State University for my bachelors degree, Northern Arizona University for my masters degree in school administration and supervision, and received my doctorate degree in curriculum and instruction from Arizona State UniversityExperience
My first seven years of teaching were in second, sixth, seventh, and eighth grade at Creighton Elementary School, and I loved it! The next two years of my career, I became the school principal at Academia del Pueblo - Friendly House. For about 17 years, I was the proud principal of Santa Maria Middle School in the Fowler School District.Why I Teach
I teach because I enjoy to see my students make positive progress in their lives and academics.
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Mazon ZeldaZelda Mazon Send message »
Education
Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education - Ottawa UniversityExperience
I have been at Sun Canyon for 20 years where I have held many positions.Why I Teach
Watching my students grow and learn new skills is an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s especially inspiring to witness those who struggle suddenly have their “aha” moments. The pride they feel in themselves when they raise their hands and participate in class is truly gratifying.More than anything, the bonds I’ve formed over the years are something I will never forget. It’s all about the connections, the growth, and the daily visits from former students who just want a hug. It is a privilege to be part of their stories. That’s why I teach!
Second Grade
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Balderrama ClaudiaClaudia Balderrama Send message »
Education
MastersExperience
25 yearsWhy I Teach
I love teaching because I am passionate about helping others grow and learn. Teaching allows me to inspire curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and make a positive impact on students’ lives. I believe education is the foundation for a better future, and I want to be a part of shaping that future by supporting and guiding young minds every day.
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Eastman MontanaMontana Eastman Send message »
Education
BA in Elementary Education - Central Washington UniversityExperience
I started my teaching career in Washington state where I taught 3rd grade ELD for one year. After that, I moved to Arizona to teach. I have been teaching a total of ten years. I have taught 3rd, 1st, 2nd, and PE.Why I Teach
I have always wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. I loved going to my aunt's classroom to help her set it up every summer. Whenever I got the chance to go help in her class, I did. I have a passion for teaching because I love knowing I make a difference in our students' lives. I wake up with a purpose every day and that purpose is to put a smile on our students' faces and build those relationships with them.
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Rivera SandraSandra Rivera Send message »
Education
MA Special Education - Grand Canyon University
BA Elementary Education with endorsement in ESL - Arizona State University.Experience
I've taught resource K–3rd for two years. I've taught 1st grade for 16 years, and this will be my second year in 2nd grade for a total of 20 years.Why I Teach
I teach because I feel every child deserves to have a safe learning environment, to be motivated to learn, to feel they are valued, and to be unafraid to make mistakes. I want them to feel excited about coming to school every day. I want them to feel loved and like family. I want them to learn new things in a nurturing environment. I teach because I love kids and want them to know that they are important and are capable of anything.
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Sumayang DanielDaniel Sumayang Send message »
Education
BA in Elementary Education and MA in Educational Management - Davao Del Norte State CollegeExperience
12 yearsWhy I Teach
I am passionate about teaching children and consider myself a resourceful and inventive educator. I aim to foster an inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive by applying effective teaching methods and integrating technology to meet the needs of modern learners. My ultimate goal as an elementary teacher is to help learners become ready and excel in the future.
Third Grade
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Davy AmandaAmanda Davy Send message »
Education
I earned both my bachelor's in early childhood education and my master's in reading with an emphasis in elementary education from Grand Canyon University.Experience
This is my 10th year teaching, and I’ve been lucky to spend all of those years at Sun Canyon. I’ve taught kindergarten, second grade, and now third grade. Each grade has brought its own joys and challenges, but what’s stayed the same is my love for building connections with students and watching them grow throughout the year.Why I Teach
I teach because I believe in the power of relationships and the difference one person can make in a child’s life. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a student light up when they understand something for the first time or feel proud of their growth. I want every student who walks into my classroom to feel safe, supported, and capable of more than they thought possible.
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Martinez MichelleMichelle Martinez Send message »
Education
Glendale Community College & Ottawa UniversityExperience
10 yearsWhy I Teach
I teach because I have an opportunity to make a difference and contribute to the future. The desire to make a positive impact on my students lives is why I teach. Building relationships and connections with students to support them in their learning. It's an honor and a privilege to be a teacher here at Sun Canyon.
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Obeso LizbethLizbeth Obeso Send message »
Education
I have a bachelor’s degree in elementary education.Experience
I’ve been teaching in the classroom for 11 years.Why I Teach
I teach because I love helping children learn and grow. I want every student to feel safe, happy, and proud of themselves. I also love helping families and being part of my community. Teaching is more than just a job. It’s something I truly enjoy doing every day.
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Sangster MakaylaMakayla Sangster Send message »
Education
I am currently a student at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, taking online courses to soon graduate. I will be getting a degree in elementary education with a TESOL endorsement in Navajo.Experience
I had the opportunity to work as a music teacher for two years. This position allowed me to combine my passion for music with my dedication to teaching. I developed creative and engaging lesson plans, nurturing students' musical talents and fostering an appreciation for the arts.I was welcomed to join the Fowler Family, which was an instrumental step in my teaching career. They provided me with the tools to improve my teaching craft and supported me as an educator.
Last year marked a new chapter in my career as I transitioned to teaching third grade. This experience has been incredibly rewarding as I have had the opportunity to work with students at a pivotal stage in their development. I have focused on creating a supportive and engaging classroom environment where students can thrive academically and socially.
Why I Teach
My journey towards becoming an educator began in kindergarten, where my teacher recognized my natural ability to guide and assist my peers. Encouraged by this early recognition, I embraced opportunities to help my classmates with their daily work, finding immense satisfaction in fostering their understanding and progress. It was during this time that I realized my calling was to become a teacher.I believe that every student is unique and possesses their own individual strengths and learning styles. As an educator, my role is to create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment where all students feel valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. I strive to cultivate a love of learning by making lessons engaging, relevant, and tailored to the diverse needs of my students.
I am committed to continuous professional development, always seeking new and innovative ways to enhance my teaching practices. By staying abreast of the latest research and pedagogical strategies, I can ensure that my students receive the highest quality education possible. I am eager to embrace another amazing school year, where I can continue to inspire and empower young minds to become lifelong learners.
Fourth Grade
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Coe TaylorTaylor Coe
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Coe TaylorTaylor Coe
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Amavsica SonjaSonja Amavsica Send message »
Education
MA Education, BA Business ManagementExperience
This is my 15th year at San Canyon and my 22nd year teaching. I have taught kindergarten through 3rd grade, mainstream and ELD.Why I Teach
I changed my profession from business to education after I got married and started my family. I always wanted to be a teacher but initially chose a different path. Many family members were teachers. When I was ready to start my family, I decided to become a teacher. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Teaching is the profession that creates all other professions. I love when my students greet me in the morning and are ready to learn. I love when the light bulb goes off and they realize how to do something. I love being there for them when they need someone. I love that I can make a difference. That is why I teach!
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Lowery SheilaSheila Lowery Send message »
Education
BA from Luther College, Decorah IowaExperience
This is my sixth and a half year teaching with the Fowler school district. In that time I have taught sixth grade science, fifth grade, ELD, and fourth grade classes.Why I Teach
I differ slightly from other teachers as I never considered teaching when I was younger. I did know growing up that I wanted to work in a place that I could make a positive impact/help others but wasn't sure what that was. It wasn't until a year with Americorps working as a reading interventionist, that I really considered teaching as an occupation. During that year I found myself inspired by the students that I was working with. I was inspired by their creativity, their talents, and their resilience to overcome their obstacles no matter how big or small. I teach because these kids are incredible and the future of our world, and I want to be there as someone in their corner. Someone who will be their cheerleader for whatever goal(s) they set for themselves.
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Valdez TiffaniTiffani Valdez Send message »
Education
B.S. in Elementary Education from NAUExperience
3 years teaching, 13 years of working within the school systemWhy I Teach
When I was 19, my nana helped me get my first real job at an elementary school in Phoenix. It didn't take long for me to realize that this was the career path I wanted to go down. Before then I didn't really have a clue what I wanted to go to school for. Working at an elementary school was the best decision I could have made for myself. Without it I may have never found where I truly feel happy and fulfilled. It's an honor for me to serve my community and help the future leaders of the world flourish!
Fifth Grade
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Hussey DecodaDecoda Hussey Send message »
Education
Bachelors in Education - International University of the CaribbeanExperience
I have 16 years of teaching experience with students ranging from ages seven to 12 years old. Fourteen of these years were spent teaching in Jamaica, and the remainder at Sun Canyon Elementary School.Why I Teach
Teaching has always been my passion, therefore once I completed high school I enrolled in teacher’s college. I believe that the teaching profession is the most noble and invaluable profession as we pave the way for all other professions. The main reason I teach is because I love to see the joy on students' faces when they are able to accomplish a task, and I know that I played a role in that achievement. Children are the future and teaching them will help to foster a better future for this generation.
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Rodriguez JessicaJessica Rodriguez Send message »
Education
Masters in EducationExperience
21 years in elementary school, all gradesWhy I Teach
I have always been passionate about helping children reach their full potential.
Special Area Teachers
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Afowowe TemitopeTemitope Afowowe Art Send message »
Education
Bachelor of Arts in EducationExperience
I have taught art across elementary, middle, and high schools in Nigeria for 23 years. Moving to Sun Canyon Elementary School in September 2024 opens another exciting chapter of my teaching experience.Why I Teach
I teach because I believe in the transformative power of art. Throughout my career, I’ve seen how creativity fosters emotional development, critical thinking, and self-expression. Art allows students to explore their unique perspectives, connect with the world around them, and find their voice. It’s not just about technique or skill, it's about inspiring confidence, imagination, and a lifelong appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the world. Teaching art is my way of empowering the next generation to see the world through a different lens and to realize their full potential.
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Black KimKim Black Math Coach/Interventionist Send message »
Education
I received my bachelors in education from ASU and then a masters in education in human relations and counseling from NAU.Experience
I started my teaching career with Fowler Elementary School District in 1997. I taught first grade for five years at Sunridge Elementary. I then opened Sun Canyon and taught second grade for twelve years. I then looped up with my class and taught third grade for ten years. Then in 2024–2025, I became Sun Canyon's math coach. I am starting year 29 in educationWhy I Teach
I believe teaching is not a job, it is a fulfilling life path. It is a privilege I have been blessed and honored to do. I teach because I believe every student who walks into my classroom/school carries potential, curiosity, and the need to be seen, understood, and heard. I teach to ignite the desire to be life-long learners and not fear the unknown. During the path of learning, I offer guidance, and build confidence in young minds who may have not yet seen their own worth. I teach not just content, but compassion, resilience, and critical thinking. I want my students to leave our school not just knowing more, but believing more in themselves, in their voice, and in their ability to contribute meaningfully to the world. I love the relationships I am able to build with each and every student along with their families. I absolutely love the community in which I serve.I know the path I have chosen is an important one, therefore every decision I make is thought out with the best interest of each student in the forefront.
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Herrera EdelEdel Herrera PE Send message »
Education
In Mexico, I studied two years of psychology at the Technological Institute of Sonora (ITSON). I am currently attending Ottawa University and finishing my bachelor's degree in education.Experience
My name is Edel Herrera, and I was born and raised in Mexico. I came to the United States in 2007, and lived for a while in California. In 2011, I moved to Arizona.
Initially, I started working at Sun Canyon Elementary School in the cleaning department as a custodian. After eight years as a custodian, I moved to Tuscano Elementary School as P.E. teacher. Last year, I came back to Sun Canyon where I am currently teaching P.E. I am excited to finally be back home!Why I Teach
I love to be surrounded by kids. I want to transmit my knowledge in physical education, but apply it in a fun way. For me, seeing the face of the kids when they enter my classroom makes me feel extremely happy.
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Mason StephanieStephanie Mason Reading Interventionist Send message »
Education
I received my bachelor of education from Northern Michigan University.Experience
I started teaching 4th grade at Western Valley Elementary in 2007. In 2013, I moved to Sun Canyon, where I have taught 3rd and 4th grade. I will be trying something new for the 25–26 school year, reading interventionist.Why I Teach
I teach because I love to help students learn something new, no matter how long it takes. I enjoy seeing a child’s excitement when something they struggled with, finally clicks.
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Solomon IsraelIsrael Solomon Music Send message »
Education
Community College (Phoenix College)Experience
12 years in education as a paraprofessional, behavioral tech/coach, independent music contractor with Phoenix Center of the arts summer camp.Why I Teach
I teach because I love seeing students reaction when learning something new about music and the connection music has with education.
Special Education
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Alvarez RocioRocio Alvarez Special Education Self-Contained Teacher Send message »
Education
AA in General Education
BA Early Childhood and Special Education
MA in Curriculum and InstructionExperience
I worked as an instructional assistant in a special education preschool for five years. I then taught in a self-contained special education classroom for grades K–2 for eight years. Additionally, I served as a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) for one year at Sunridge Elementary School and taught 3rd grade English Language Development (ELD) for one year at Sun Canyon Elementary School.Why I Teach
Teaching and working with students is my passion. I believe that every student is unique, with individual strengths and abilities, and it is our responsibility as educators to help them discover and develop their potential. I firmly believe that all students, without exception, are capable of success. Therefore, it is essential to provide them with the tools, support, and environment they need to thrive in all areas of life.
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Cromwell MeghannMeghann Cromwell Self-Contained Functional Skills Send message »
Education
Bachelors Degree in Business Administration
Masters Degree in Special EducationExperience
15 years in self containedWhy I Teach
I teach because I love seeing the kiddos make gains, whether big or small, academic, life, or social skills. Each and every day my students surprise me, make me laugh, and/or make me proud.
Instructional Assistants
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Cafeteria
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Barraza EmmaEmma Barraza
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Cota MinervaMinerva Cota
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Lopez RosaRosa Lopez Manager
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Loya YaninaYanina Loya
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Lozoya HildaHilda Lozoya Cashier
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Rojas AlmaAlma Rojas
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Sena ErlindaErlinda Sena
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Barraza EmmaEmma Barraza
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Cota MinervaMinerva Cota
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Lopez RosaRosa Lopez Manager
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Loya YaninaYanina Loya
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Lozoya HildaHilda Lozoya Cashier
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Rojas AlmaAlma Rojas
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Sena ErlindaErlinda Sena
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