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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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!
First Grade
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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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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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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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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.
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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Fifth Grade
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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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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 Resource 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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Felix GualalupeGualalupe Felix
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Fontes GabrielaGabriela Fontes
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Lopez RosaRosa Lopez Manager
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Lozoya HildaHilda Lozoya Cashier
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Sanchez MarthaMartha Sanchez
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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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Felix GualalupeGualalupe Felix
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Fontes GabrielaGabriela Fontes
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Lopez RosaRosa Lopez Manager
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Lozoya HildaHilda Lozoya Cashier
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Sanchez MarthaMartha Sanchez
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Sena ErlindaErlinda Sena
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