Rancho Solano Preparatory School

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Upper Campus: 480.646.8200

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Leadership, Faculty & Staff

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LEADERSHIP

Mr. Scott Salk

Chief Operating Officer
Mr. Salk joined Rancho Solano in 2015. He has 17 years of private school administrative experience specializing in operations, finance, facilities management, admissions, development, and marketing. Mr. Salk has a BS in Marketing from the University of Arizona and earned his MBA from the University of Phoenix.

Mr. Gordon Brown

Upper School Principal
Mr. Brown has been teaching for the last 26 years including public, private, and community college schools. Mr. Brown holds a BA in Biological Sciences as well as Physical Education and earned his Master’s Degree from Northern Arizona University in Exercise Physiology. Mr. Brown joined RS in the fall of 2010 from Glendale Community College. Prior to becoming the Upper School Principal, he taught IB Biology and Anatomy Physiology.

Mrs. Erika Goethe

Middle School Principal/School Director
Mrs. Goethe joined Rancho Solano in 2015 with 25 years of experience in Middle School education and holds a BA in Political Science and a MA in Education. It is her passion and absolute joy to work with middle school-aged children. Mrs. Goethe has successfully built schools based upon best practices in education, which are founded in adolescent development.

Dr. Theresa nabavi

Lower School Principal
Dr. Nabavi joined Rancho Solano in 2021 with over 15 years of experience in PK-12 private education. She is a three-time graduate of the University of Florida earning a Doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Prior to her role at Rancho Solano, Dr. Nabavi was an administrator at Windermere Preparatory School in Windermere, Florida. Dr. Nabavi began her career in education as a Kindergarten and First Grade Teacher.

Mr. Tim Hainsworth

Lower School Vice Principal
Mr. Hainsworth, a British-American dual citizen, brings over 25 years of international educational experience to Rancho, having served in the UK, Australia, China, Hong Kong, and the US. Previously the Deputy Principal at an American International School in Hong Kong, he has held roles such as Acting International Principal, Curriculum Coordinator, Professional Development Facilitator, Teaching Fellow, Director of Arts, and Head of Music. He holds a bachelor's in music composition from the London College of Music, a PGCE from Durham University, and a master's in educational leadership from the American College of Education, where he is also completing his doctoral degree. An associate of the London College of Music (ALCM) and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA), Mr. Hainsworth is excited to serve as Lower School Vice Principal at Rancho. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, playing the piano, painting, reading, cooking, and spending time with his wife, Tracey, and their daughters, Maddie and Maya.

Mr. Aaron Trigg

Director of Athletics
Coach Trigg joined Rancho Solano in 2013 as Athletic Director and Head Boys Basketball Coach. Since his arrival, the Athletic Department has grown into one of the top small school programs in Arizona. In the past seven years Trigg has led the addition of seven new sports and each year the program has set new records for participation. On the playing field, the Mustangs have seen incredible success in winning four State Championships, and 20+ team and individual State Tournament appearances. As the Boys Basketball coach, Trigg has led one of the largest program turnarounds in Arizona history, taking the program from a 2-20 record in his first season to winning two State Championships (2018, 2020), while assisting numerous athletes to play collegiately. Coach Trigg is passionate about the role athletics plays in the overall education of all students and his goal is for all athletes to become Scholar-Athletes of high character prepared for lifelong success. Trigg is a graduate and Hall of Honor member of Gordon College (B.A. Finance and Business Administration) and of the DeVos Sports Business Management Program at the University of Central Florida (MBA; MSBM). While at UCF Trigg was a member of The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sports and Co-Authored two “Racial and Gender Report Cards” with world renowned social justice pioneer Dr. Richard Lapchick.

Staff / ADMINISTRATION

Mrs. kaitlyn myzwinski

Director of Admissions

Ms. Kaitlyn Myzwinski

Ms. Myzwinski joined Rancho Solano the Rancho Solano admissions team during the 2016-17 school year. After spending a decade in the Chicago area in private school enrollment management, Ms. Myzwinski returned to her hometown of Scottsdale to continue her love of assisting families with finding the right school environment for their students. Ms. Myzwinski holds a BA from California Lutheran University and an MA in Statistics and Cross Cultural Education from the University of Chicago.

Ms. Emily Brinson

Admissions Coordinator

Ms. Emily Brinson

Ms. Brinson joined Rancho in August 2024. Before joining Rancho, she gained valuable experience working in recruitment and events at a private university. She is a proud summa cum laude graduate of Arizona State University with a bachelor's degree in Tourism Development and Management. In her free time, Ms. Brinson enjoys traveling and exploring new places.

Mrs. Katie Wyrowski

Dean of Students

Mrs. Katie Wyrowski

Mrs. Wyrowski has been at Rancho since 2016. She has a BS and MA in Education from the University of Kansas. She taught English, IB Psychology and served as an 8th Grade advisor, and today is the Dean of Students for Middle & Upper School.

Mrs. Priscilla ferry

Dean of Curriculum and Instruction

Mrs. Priscilla Ferry

Mrs. Ferry joined Rancho in 2020 and fulfilled the roles of substitute teacher, Social Studies teacher for Grades 4-5, and  5th-grade teacher. She taught in the Chicagoland area for 10 years, helped build a charter school, and did data consulting for various charter schools in Chicago. She has a BA in Community Health Education from Southern Illinois University where she was also in the swim division 1. She also has an M.eD. in Curriculum and Instruction from University of Illinois, as well as an Administrative Certification from DePaul University. Mrs. Ferry loves to travel, lead an active lifestyle, and spend time with her husband and daughters.

Mrs. lindsay fitzpatrick

Director of College Counseling

Mrs. Lindsay Fitzpatrick

Biography Coming Soon

Ms. Elizabeth Strimbu

Middle & Upper School Counselor

Ms. Elizabeth Strimbu

Ms. Strimbu joined Rancho Solano in 2022 with over 13 years of experience in K-12 education as a school counselor, prevention specialist, and behavior interventionist. Ms. Strimbu earned a BS in Family and Human Development from Arizona State University an M.Ed. from Bowling Green State University. Ms. Strimbu is trained in crisis counseling, motivational interviewing, and prevention education.

Ms. Jill Babcock

Lower School Counselor

Ms. Jill Babcock

Ms. Babcock is an elementary school counselor with over fifteen years of educational experience. She loves being part of the Rancho community. Ms. Babcock earned a BS in Elementary Education with endorsements in math, science, and French from Western Michigan University. In May 2006, she earned an MA in School and Clinical Counseling from Oakland University. Before working at Rancho Solano, she was an award-winning elementary school teacher and also worked as a family and child clinician in the mental health field.

Mr. chris brown

Director of Educational Technology

Mr. Chris Brown

Mr. Brown began teaching in 2006 and joined Rancho Solano as an educator in 2017. As a member of the Media Arts Department, he taught courses in computer science, podcasting, web design, information technology, and yearbook. He holds a BA in Education with an emphasis in History from Arizona State University and an MA in Educational Technology from Northern Arizona University. Mr. Brown now proudly serves as the Director of Technology and Chair of the Media Arts Department.  

Mr. Ted strickland

Instructional Technology Specialist

Mr. Ted Strickland

Mr. Strickland joined Rancho Solano in 2015 and has been teaching middle school for more than 20 years. He has an M.Ed. in Educational Technology from Northern Arizona University and a BA in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. He has taught various subjects in the past including Math and English, and History.

Mrs. Ilse Chaigneau

Communications Manager

Mrs. Ilse Chaigneau

Mrs. Chaigneau has a BA in Mass Communication from Emerson College and a Certificate in Business Administration from Harvard Extension School. She has over 20 years of professional experience working in marketing, communications, and education in Switzerland, France and the United States.

Mrs. Kristin Liley

Office Administrator / Registrar

Ms. Kristin Liley

Mrs. Liley has a BA in political science from UCSB. Mrs. Liley has been working at the Ventura campus for 3+ years and prior to that was located at the Greenway campus. She has three children all of whom attended Rancho Solano. In her free time, Mrs. Liley enjoys spending time with family, travel, cooking, photography and is learning to appreciate Yoga!

Mrs. Judith Crane

Middle & Upper School Office Administrator

Mrs. Judith Crane

Mrs. Crane has a BBA in Marketing from Texas A&M University. After raising two boys and being active in PTO groups, she enjoys working at Rancho! She and her husband relocated to Arizona in 2021.

Ms. Pam Zeeb

Lower School Office Administrator

Ms. Pam Zeeb

Ms. Zeeb joins us from Paychex, where she led the onboarding team in the Time and Attendance Department. With a degree in Paralegal Studies and extensive customer service experience, she brings valuable skills to her role as Front Office Administrator. Ms. Zeeb enjoys spending time with her two puggles, Ben and Bear, and traveling to different beaches each summer.

MS. Gabriella Canavan

Lower School Office Administrator

Ms. Gabriella Canavan

Ms. Canavan graduated from Grand Canyon University in 2021 with a BA in Educational studies. She has over 10 years of experience in child care. She enjoys working out, cooking and spending time with her family.

Ms. Amber Delaney

Upper School Nurse

Ms. Amber Delaney

Biography coming soon.

Ms. Kim Kaplan

Lower School Nurse

Ms. Kim Kaplan

Biography Coming Soon

FACULTY - LOWER SCHOOL

Ms. Genesis Gordon

Pre-K 2

Ms. Genesis Gordon

Mrs. Gordon joined Rancho in 2020 with over fifteen years of experience in Early Childhood Education. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Arizona State University. Mrs. Gordon is passionate about teaching preschool and partnering with families. When not at school, she enjoys spending time with her children, traveling, and volunteering in her community.

Ms. myeisha johnson

Pre-K 2

Ms. Myeisha Johnson

Ms. Johnson joined the Rancho Team in 2021 with 5+ years of experience in Early Child Development and specializes in Play therapy. She started her career in Early Child Development in 2007 as an elementary volunteer tutor. Her journey truly began when she volunteered for a 2-year service as an AmeriCorps VISTA where she built long-lasting partnerships between schools, organizations, and communities through the development of sustainable projects and programs. Ms. Johnson has an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis on Childhood and Adolescence Disorders from Grand Canyon University and a BA in Psychology from Arizona State University.

Ms. Julia Christian

Pre-K 3

Ms. Julia Christian

Ms. Christian joins us from Paradise For Tots Christian Preschool where she most recently taught pre-k 3 and 4’s. She earned her degree in Fine Art at Missouri Southern State University, Joplin, Missouri and is currently a student at Grand Canyon University working on her MA in Early Childhood and Early Childhood Special Education. Ms. Christian comes to us with 24 years of teaching experience. She loves to spend time outdoors hiking with her dog, attending her grandson’s basketball games, and doing arts and crafts. 

Mrs. Eva Erskine

Pre-K 3

Mrs. Eva Erskine

Mrs. Erskine was born in Glendale, Arizona and raised in Brussels, Belgium. She earned her master’s degree in philosophy from the Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgium. She is fluent in both English and French and aspires to improve her Spanish. She joins us from the International School of Arizona where she taught from 2006 to 2009, then moved back to Belgium before returning to Arizona and the International School of Arizona from 2016 to 2023. She has taught 2-, 3-, and 4-year old's. Mrs. Erskine loves teaching because she can help shape beautiful little minds and see the kids growing into amazing people. In her free time, she loves to cook, make Sourdough bread, and find the best restaurants in town. She is a foodie at heart! Ms. Erskine also loves to travel and spend time with friends and family.

MS. Debbie Petras

Pre-K 3

Ms. Debbie Petras

Ms. Petras joined Rancho Solano in 2010. This is her second career as she is also a Registered Nurse with 25 years of experience. She has a BS in Nursing from the University of Phoenix and a BA in Management from Eckerd College in Florida. She graduated from the Cardiovascular Nurse Specialist program at the Arizona Heart Institute. She has been teaching preschool for 12 years and loves her students. She is an author and she loves photography.

Mrs. Meaghan Brewster

Pre-K 4

Mrs. Meaghan Brewster

Mrs. Brewster holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Western Michigan University, and a Master of Arts in Teaching in Reading and Language Arts from Oakland University.  Her classroom teaching experience includes kindergarten, first grade, and special education. Mrs. Brewster cultivates a love of learning by fostering a sense of wonder and joy with her students. She believes in creating a heart-centered classroom, focused on building relationships and a strong community.  

Ms. Stephany McMahon

Pre-K 4

Ms. Stephany McMahon

Mrs. McMahon started teaching at Rancho Solano in 2021. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State University in 2001. She enjoys teaching PreK-4 and strives to give her students the best academic foundation possible while being creative and having fun with her students!

MS. Margaret ramsey

Pre-K 4

Ms. Margaret Ramsey

Ms. Ramsey has been teaching for two years and joined Rancho Solano in 2022. She is a former Rancho Solano student from 2003-2018 and graduated from the Ventura Campus. Ms. Ramsey holds a BS in Anthropology from Arizona State University and plans to earn her master’s degree in Elementary Education.

MS. Mia Canavan

Pre-K Teacher Assistant

Ms. Mia Canavan

Ms. Canavan is an Arizona native and in her second year as a Pre-K assistant. A graduate of North Pointe Preparatory, she brings a decade of experience working with children, including as a full-time nanny. Ms. Canavan's true passion is helping young learners progress in all areas of development. Her dedication and extensive background create a nurturing environment in the classroom.

Ms. Arianna Garcia

Pre-K Teacher Assistant

Ms. Arianna Garcia

Biography coming soon.

Mrs. Patricia Grant

Pre-K Teacher Assistant

Mrs. Patricia Grant

Mrs. Grant joined Rancho Solano in 2010. She was introduced to Rancho when her grandchildren attended the school. She is originally from South Africa, where she owned her own business. She loves working with children of all ages. She worked summer camp at Rancho for seven years where she received the special teacher recognition award and was featured on the local news Channel 12. Mrs. Grant has been married for over 50 years and enjoys being with her family. During the summers, she spends time with her grandchildren who live in California.

MS. KAitlyn Hauser

Pre-K Teacher Assistant

Ms. Kaitlyn Hauser

Biography Coming Soon

MS. Mary Johnson

Pre-K Teacher Assistant

Ms. Mary Johnson

Biography Coming Soon

MS. quinn madow

Pre-K Teacher Assistant

Ms. Quinn Madow

Ms. Madow is from Pepper Pike, OH, and has lived in Arizona for 21 years after finishing her education at Arizona State where she majored in Art. She has been teaching for 17 years and joined Rancho Solano in 2021. She has a Pomeranian Tory and in her free time, she likes to make chocolate for holidays and special occasions and loves to travel and spend quality time with friends and family. 

Ms. Jeannette Suarez

Pre-K Teacher Assistant

Ms. Jeannette Suarez

With 7 years of experience in childcare, Mrs. Suarez began her career in Montessori education, focusing on toddlers and babies before she joined Rancho Solano. She is a Certified Nursing Assistant, driven by a goal to become a Nurse with a background in healthcare. Mrs. Suarez is a dedicated mother of two daughters: one in high school and one in 4th grade. She enjoys summer travel, loves animals, and finds fulfillment working with pre-K 2 children. Her story reflects a journey of commitment to childcare and a passion for healthcare.

MS. Theresa Wilson

Pre-K Teacher Assistant

Ms. Theresa Wilson

Ms. Wilson has worked with children for over 25 years. She joined Rancho in 2022, after retiring as a Child Specialist. Ms. Wilson is also a foster parent who has adopted 5 siblings. She holds an AA and BA in Behavioral Health. Ms. Wilson loves working with children to ensure growth and development.

MS. Alexis Wolf

Pre-K Teacher Assistant

Ms. Alexis Wolf

Ms. Wolf has been in education for five years teaching theatre to children from Pre-K to high school at Village Theatre in Seattle, Washington, and specializing in STEAM integrated education. She holds a degree in Education from Washington State University and earned a TEFL certificate to teach English as a Foreign Language. Outside of the classroom, her passion is art and literature, and she can be found spending her time reading, writing, and drawing.

Mrs. Trysten Baird

Kindergarten

Mrs. Trysten Baird

Mrs. Baird joined Rancho Solano in 2022 and is in her fourth year of teaching. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood and Family Studies from The University of Washington and a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from City University of Seattle. Mrs. Baird is passionate about creating a loving and welcoming environment where her students feel safe to grow socially and academically. She also enjoys cultivating strong relationships with families as they experience a memorable year of Kindergarten.

Ms. Ari Moffitt

Kindergarten

Ms. Ari Moffitt

Ms. Moffitt holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Arizona and a Master's Degree in Administrative Leadership from Northern Arizona University. During her 20 plus year career she has had the opportunity to teach 2nd grade, be the Director of a Preschool, work within Scottsdale School District as an Interventionist, and most recently a Kindergarten teacher at BASIS Primary. She is excited to continue with Kindergarten here at Rancho Solano. At home she is the Mom to an ASU graduate and an NAU graduate whom she is very proud of.

Ms. Sarah Schultz

Kindergarten

Ms. Sarah Schultz

Biography coming soon.

Mrs. sydney wahl

Kindergarten

Mrs. Sydney Wahl

Mrs. Wahl joined Rancho Solano in 2015. She has ten years of experience in early childhood education. She holds a BA in Early Childhood and Special Needs Education from Arizona State University and a minor in Communications. She is passionate about teaching Kindergarten and feels it’s a privilege to be a part of her student’s learning journey.

Mrs. Jessica Dang

1st Grade

Mrs. Jessica Dang

Mrs. Dang holds a BA in Early Childhood Education from Ottawa University. This is her 6th year with Rancho & 14th year being involved in the Early Childhood Education setting. Mrs. Dang is incredibly passionate about early childhood education and making sure her students have the best foundation for their academic journey. In her free time, she enjoys nature photography, hiking, camping, off-roading, crafting, and spending time with her family.

Mrs. Heidi Kennard

1st Grade

Mrs. Heidi Kennard

Mrs. Kennard comes to us from BASIS Goodyear Primary, where she recently taught First Grade as a Learning Expert Teacher. She holds a degree in Early Childhood Development and Education from The Ohio State University and obtained her teaching licensure from Indiana Wesleyan University. With 7 years of teaching experience, Mrs. Kennard enjoys outdoor activities, spending time with her family, and reading.

Mrs. Ciara Martinez

1st Grade

Mrs. Ciara Martinez

Mrs. Martinez holds bachelor's degrees in French and Elementary Education, specializing in Early Childhood Education for preschool through second grade. She has taught in French-immersion and English-immersion schools in Missouri and California, as well as in a general education setting in Arizona. Outside of school, Mrs. Martinez enjoys volunteering with a third to sixth-grade class at her church, spending time with her husband, niece, and nephews, swimming, singing, traveling, watching movies, and cheering on her favorite football teams.

Mrs. Justine Padilla

1st Grade

Mrs. Justine Padilla

Mrs. Padilla has over fifteen years of experience in childcare. Mrs. Padilla graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Elementary Education and a Structured English Immersion endorsement.

Mrs. Nicole Liebentritt

2nd Grade

Mrs. Nicole Liebentritt

Mrs. Liebentritt joins the Rancho team with years of experience teaching second grade at an A+ school and also a National Blue Ribbon school. Mrs. Liebentritt grew up in the Midwest and attended Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio where she received her BA in Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Liebentritt moved to Scottsdale in 2007 and began teaching second grade. She continued her education and has an Elementary Education degree along with a reading endorsement and a Structured English Immersion endorsement.

Mrs. denise robinson

2nd Grade

Mrs. Denise Robinson

Mrs. Robinson holds a BA in Elementary Education as well as Psychology from Kean University in New Jersey. Mrs. Robinson has been teaching for over 20 years and joined Rancho Solano in 2005. She has taught kindergarten through fifth grade.

Mrs. DeAnn Santa Maria

2nd Grade

Mrs. DeAnn Santa Maria

Mrs. Santa Maria brings over a decade of experience in human resources, where she honed her skills in communication, leadership development, and training. For the past two years, she was at Cherokee Elementary. She recently earned her bachelor's degree in elementary education. Outside of school, Mrs. Santa Maria enjoys traveling, playing board games, and hiking with her family.

MS. Brittany Stannard

2nd Grade

Ms. Brittany Stannard

Ms. Stannard was born and raised in Arizona. She attended Arizona State University and got her BA in Elementary Education. This will be her seventh year as an educator and her first year at Rancho Solano. Miss Stannard loves teaching and being a part of her student's educational journey.

Mrs. Janie Goode

3rd Grade

Mrs. Janie Goode

Mrs. Goode received her BA in Elementary Education with an emphasis in English as a Second Language and a minor in French from the University of Arizona. Her passion has always been to not only help shape young minds but to also allow them to feel safe and loved every time they set foot in the classroom.

MS. tamy ramsey

3rd Grade

Ms. Tamy Ramsey

Ms. Ramsey has been teaching for over 25 years and joined Rancho Solano in 1996. She has taught the second through fifth grades throughout the years. Ms. Ramsey holds a BA in Elementary Education as well as Computer Sciences from Arizona State University and earned her Master’s Degree in Mathematics K-5 Curriculum Design from Walden University.

MS. rachel smith

3rd Grade

Ms. Rachel Smith

Ms. Smith joined Rancho Solano in 2021 with 14 years experience in the elementary classroom. She holds a BS in Early Childhood Education from Arizona State University. Ms. Smith’s goal for every school year is to create a safe and fun learning environment in which every student can succeed. A place where children are challenged to reach their full potential and think outside the box. She believes the only way to do this is to forge strong bonds within the classroom where every child feels safe and loved.

Mr. Mark Miller

4th Grade

Mr. Mark Miller

Mr. Mark Miller joins us from Legacy Traditional Schools, where he taught 3rd and 5th grades. He holds an Arizona Standard K-8 Teaching Certification with a Structured English Immersion endorsement. Mr. Miller earned a BSBA from Saint Louis University, focusing on Business Administration, and studied at the university's Madrid campus alongside his sister. His travels to cities like Rome, Paris, London, Barcelona, Venice, Bern, Munich, Salzburg, Lisbon, and the Canary Islands were highlights of his education. A particularly inspiring moment for Mr. Miller was attending midnight Mass on Christmas Eve at the Vatican, where he sat near Pope John Paul II. This experience inspired him to always be kind and inclusive.

Mrs. Becky O'Malia

4th Grade

Mrs. Becky O'Malia

Mrs. O’Malia has been teaching for 18+ years in a variety of positions ranging from English as a Second Language, bilingual and dual language immersion, and teaching the Talented and Gifted.  She holds a BS in Education from New Mexico State University and an MA in Elementary Education from the University of New Mexico.  She has endorsements in TESOL (NMSU), Dual Language (UNM), and Talented and Gifted (Central New Mexico). She enjoys teaching in the intermediate grades and is passionate about fostering her students’ natural curiosities. 

Mrs. Madelaine Smith

4th Grade

Mrs. Madelaine Smith

Mrs. Smith joins us from Archway Scottsdale, a Great Hearts school, where she taught third grade for five years. She previously taught at another charter school and homeschooled her own children from K-12. One daughter is now a professor at UTSA, while the other homeschools her children and works as a linguist for several communities in Tanzania. Mrs. Smith and her husband, also an educator, moved from Olympia, WA, to the beautiful town of Fountain Hills in 2017. Outside of school, Mrs. Smith enjoys swimming, attending gym classes, reading novels, spending time with friends, and taking walks.

Mrs. Paige Ashcraft

5th Grade

Mrs. Paige Ashcraft

Mrs. Ashcraft joins us from Benchmark Elementary School, where she has enjoyed teaching fifth grade for the past six years. A graduate of Arizona State University and the University of Phoenix, she began her teaching career at Rancho Solano in 1999, teaching second grade. She left in 2007 to start her family and spent 12 years as a stay-at-home mom. Outside of teaching, Mrs. Ashcraft loves reading, watching her teenagers play volleyball and run track at Horizon High School, and traveling when possible. She is thrilled to be back where it all began!

MS. Alexis Bell

5th Grade

Ms. Alexis Bell

Ms. Bell is an Arizona native with a true passion for education. She earned her degree from Arizona State University in Elementary Education, holds a K-5 Reading endorsement, and is a proud Teach For America Alum. Going into her 6th year, Ms. Bell thrives on building connections with her students so that she can nurture a love for learning within them that sparks curiosity, excitement, empowerment and fosters growth.

Mrs. Margaret Wesner

5th Grade

Mrs. Margaret Wesner

Ms. Wesner joins us from Charlotte Patterson Elementary School, where she recently completed her student teaching in 6th grade. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education with an Endorsement in Structured English Immersion, PreK-12. Ms. Wesner brings experience teaching 3rd, 5th, and 6th grades. Outside of school, she enjoys being outdoors, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.

Ms. Abigail Carl

Permanent Substitute Teacher

Ms. Abigail Carl

Ms. Carl recently graduated from the University of Arizona with a bachelor’s degree in Retail and Consumer Sciences. With 9 years of experience working with consumers of all ages at Nordstrom and Veronica Beard, she is excited to transition from Retail Management to Education. Currently enrolled in the Teachers of Tomorrow program specializing in Elementary Education, Ms. Carl has always had a passion for working with children and looks forward to gaining valuable experience at Rancho Solano through substitute teaching. Outside work, she enjoys travel, cooking, and spending time with her family and friends.

Ms. Laura May

Permanent Substitute Teacher

Ms. Laura May

Ms. May comes to us from Wichita, Kansas. She graduated with honors from Grand Canyon University, earning a B.S. in Psychology, and recently completed her Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from the same institution. Ms. May brings three years of experience as a teaching assistant and early childhood aide at Wichita Collegiate School. Known for her creativity and passion for calligraphy, she has always enjoyed dance and musical theater since childhood. She is thrilled to return to Arizona and looks forward to becoming part of our school community as a permanent substitute.

SPECIALISTS - LOWER SCHOOL

Mrs. maria mayeux

Spanish PK 3-1st

Mrs. Maria Mayeux

Mrs. Mayeux has taught students from two years old to adults for 16 years and has worked at public and private schools. She earned her BA from Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora in Ciudad Obregon Sonora, Mexico in Accounting. Her classes are taught by optimizing immersion using storytelling through visuals, gestures, acting out the stories, reading, writing, songs, and games. This methodology of teaching a foreign language is called TPRS® and helps learners acquire a language through storytelling and repetition. She wants her classroom to be a fun and welcoming environment for all her students.

Mrs. lourdes armas frezza

Spanish 2nd-5th

Mrs. Lourdes Armas Frezza

Mrs. Armas has been teaching Spanish for 4 years. She was born and raised in Venezuela and graduated from Santa Maria University in Caracas, Venezuela. She is a journalist with an MA in audiovisual communication. Mrs. Armas values the importance of learning a second language at an early age and having fun with it. She strives to make a difference in her student's learning with multicultural traditions in a foreign language.

Ms. kimberly nyabela

IT/STEM PK3-1st

Ms. Kimberly Nyabela

Ms. Nyabela has been in education for over 25 years and joined Rancho Solano in 2020. She has been a teacher, administrator and instructional coach for preschool and kindergarten, and has experience teaching 1st through 3rd grades. Ms. Nyabela earned a BA in Philosophy from Ripon College.  She then completed post graduate studies at California State University where she specialized in Early Childhood Education.  She also holds a master’s degree in Educational Technology from University of Central Missouri.  She is thrilled to have the opportunity to expose young learners to STEM education.

Ms. Alyssa MacKenzie

IT/STEM 2nd-5th

Ms. Alyssa MacKenzie

Ms. MacKenzie joins us from Oregon State University's Honor's College where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, complemented by minors in Chemistry and Psychology. Ms. MacKenzie is excited to embark on a new journey as our STEM instructor. Ms. MacKenzie's passion lies in science and fostering a love for science among her students. She hopes to curate a welcoming learning environment where everyone can succeed. Her goal is to incite curiosity and provide students with the framework needed to become critical thinkers.

 

MRS. Cyra Behrana

Pre-K/1st Grade Art

Mrs. Cyra Behrana

Mrs. Behrana joined Rancho Solano in 2022 and has been teaching Elementary Art Education for 3+ years. She earned her Bachelor of Design from IVSAA with a major in print design and minor in apparel design. Prior to her role at Rancho Solano, Mrs. Behrana was an art teacher at Great Hearts -Archway Scottsdale and was also a lead teacher for Pre-school at La Petite academy. Mrs. Behrana loves inspiring young artists and is excited to be a part of the Rancho community.

Mrs. Tracey Hainsworth

Lower School Art

Mrs. Tracey Hainsworth

Mrs. Hainsworth is a visual arts education specialist and accomplished artist, her work has been showcased and purchased globally, most recently in Hong Kong. Originally from New York, she attended the School of Visual Arts in NYC, the Rhode Island School of Design, and holds a bachelor's degree in art from the State University of New York. She also earned an IPGCE and an MA in Education/Teaching & Learning from the University of Sheffield in the UK and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA).

Mrs. Hainsworth has extensive experience working with American, British, and Chinese Bilingual curricula in the US, Hong Kong, and China. Her roles have included Teacher of Art, Whole School Head of Art, IBDP Art Instructor, Teaching Fellow, Curriculum Coordinator, and Safeguarding and Wellbeing Lead. She was also Assistant Head of School for a new bilingual international school in Shenzhen, China. Passionate about art education, many of her students have won prestigious awards and attended top art schools like the School of Visual Arts and the Rhode Island School of Design.

An abstract expressionist painter, Mrs. Hainsworth enjoys traveling, painting, reading, and spending time with her husband and daughters.

MS. carrie caruso

Music and Orchestra

Ms. Carrie Caruso

Biography Coming Soon

Ms. Natalie Gallatin

Music & Band

Ms. Natalie Gallatin

Ms. Gallatin is excited to join the Rancho Solano team this year. She is a saxophonist, composer, bandleader, educator, and recording artist. For the past two years, she has been a jazz educator at The Nash and is eager to share her expertise in the classroom at Rancho.

Natalie holds bachelor’s degrees in Music Education and Music Performance, along with a Master’s in Jazz Music. Committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians, she teaches private lessons in flute, saxophone, clarinet, and piano. Outside of school, Natalie enjoys rock climbing and can often be found scaling mountains.

MS. Tina KHalil

EC Fine Arts/Creative Arts

Ms. Tina Khalil

Ms. Khalil is thrilled to have joined the Rancho Solano family in 2018. Ms. Khalil has over 18 years of educational experience and has taught theatre, English, and General Music/Musical Theatre to Pre-K, 3rd Grade, and High School. She graduated from Ottawa University with her Education degree and has a BM from Arizona State University.

Mr. Martin Garcia

Physical Education

Mr. Martin Garcia

Coach G holds a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from Grand Canyon University. This will be Coach G's 2nd year at Rancho. Prior to teaching full-time Coach G served as a full-time substitute teacher at Rancho. He is excited to teach and instill the importance of living an active and healthy lifestyle to his students. 

Mr. Dante Hunter

Physical Education

Mr. Dante Hunter

Biography Coming Soon

Mrs. Vicki Lyttle

Physical Education

Mrs. Vicki Lyttle

Coach Lyttle has 10 years of Physical Education teaching experience. At university, she studied Sports Science and completed her Physical Education teacher training degree at the University of Southampton, in the UK. She is passionate about all sports and physical activity, with a vision of supporting her students to live healthy active lifestyles.

MS. erin joyce

Lower School Reading Specialist

Ms. Erin Joyce

Ms. Joyce has a BS in Early Childhood Education from Kent State University, and an MA in Teaching: Reading and Language Arts from Oakland University.

FACULTY - MIDDLE & UPPER SCHOOL

Dr. Jennifer Bryant NAgel

Upper School English & Dept. Chair

Dr. Jennifer Bryant Nagel

Dr. Bryant holds an MFA from the University of Notre Dame and a PhD in English Literature and Textual History from the University of Washington in Seattle. She serves on the Historical Advisory Committee for the Town of Paradise Valley and as Paradise Valley’s volunteer Town Archivist.

MrS. Michelle Blincoe

Upper School English

Mrs. Michelle Blincoe

Mrs. Blincoe holds a BA in Economics from the University of Arizona and an MA in English Literature from DePaul University. Her main interests are English Composition and Medieval and Renaissance Literature. She has taught both middle and high school English and history. Mrs. Blincoe's goal is to provide middle school and high school level students with a broad and practical vision of the importance of literature, history, and writing as part of their academic, professional and personal education.

Ms. Charlie Drummond

Upper School English

Ms. Charlie Drummond

Biography Coming Soon

Mrs. Pamela Mccarty

Upper School English & Extended Essay Coordinator

Mrs. Pamela Mccarty

Mrs. McCarty began teaching at Rancho Solano in 2016 after six years overseas where she taught the IBDP in private schools in Thailand and in Bulgaria. She holds a BA in English with a minor in Theater from Saint Leo University and a MA in Secondary Education and English from The Catholic University of America. She became an international educator after experience in both public and private schools in Maryland and Oregon where she taught AP English before transitioning to IB in 2005. She has over 30 years of teaching experience and enjoys inspiring her students in creative endeavors with her work on the school literary magazine, the school newspaper and all arts integration projects. Mrs. McCarty is the Extended Essay Coordinator, an Examiner in English A, and is passionate about the teaching of the literary arts as a vehicle for exploring the human condition.

Mr. Zach Oden

Middle School English

Mr. Zach Oden

Mr. Oden holds his MA in English from Ohio University and a BA in History from Faulkner University. He is entering his twentieth year of teaching in the university and upper school classrooms and is passionate about sharing his enthusiasm for a well-crafted piece of writing with his students. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Oden is a published essayist, musician, and screenwriter who spends his free time putting LEGO sets together with his three children and planning their next trip to Disneyland. 

Mrs. Shasta Phillips

Middle School English

Mrs. Shasta Phillips

Mrs. Phillips has been with Rancho Solano since 2013 and previously worked as a multi-grade teacher at Camelback Desert School and as an eighth-grade English teacher at Roxbury Preparatory Charter School in Massachusetts. She also worked as a Program Coordinator and Assistant to the Chair at the Harvard University Graduate School of Design. She served as a Technology Specialist in the US Air Force Reserves, 4th Combat Camera Unit, a camera operator for ABC/CNN News, and is a published photographer. Mrs. Phillips received her BA in Sociology with a concentration in Race, Class and Gender Studies from the University of California, Los Angeles. She holds a M.Ed. with Distinction and a Teaching Certification from the University of Massachusetts, Boston and a Certificate in Leadership Essentials from Harvard University. She is licensed and certified in the state of MA and AZ in General Education grades K-8th and holds a Language Arts Endorsement in AZ. She is an avid hiker, coffee drinker, and a community service advocate.  She loves climbing mountains and spending time outdoors with her family.

Ms. Julie Seiz

Middle School English

Ms. Julie Seiz

Ms. Seiz has been teaching for 13 years and loves being in the middle grades. She earned her BA in Business and Public Administration from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and her MA in Teaching from the University of Central Missouri. She’s passionate about providing a learning environment where literature is brought to life and critical thinking skills are being sharpened, all while ensuring kids have fun while learning.  

Dr. Dane spencer

Upper School English & TOK

Dr. Dane Spencer

Mr. Spencer has a PhD in English from the University of Tulsa, an MA in English from Brigham Young University, and a BA in English from Brigham Young University.

Dr. Kaylee Hamann

Upper School Math & Dept. Chair

Dr. Kaylee Hamann

Dr. Hamann joined Rancho Solano in the fall of 2021 after three years of teaching high school mathematics in Vermont.  Prior to teaching high school, Dr. Hamann taught at the University level for five years at California Baptist University and UC Riverside.  She holds a BA in both Mathematics and French from Calvin College as well as a PhD in Mathematics (Complex Geometry) from UC Riverside.

Mr. Jim Berman

Upper School Math

Mr. Jim Berman

Mr. Berman has an MA in Mathematics from Columbia University and a BS in Mathematics from Arizona State University.

Mrs. yukari bromfield

Upper School Math

Mrs. Yukari Bromfield

Biography Coming Soon

Mrs. Susan Butler

Middle School Math

Mrs. Susan Butler

Biography Coming Soon

Ms. Johnnie Frater

Upper School Math

Ms. Johnnie Frater

Biography coming soon.

Mr. Paul Lundquist

Middle School Math

Mr. Paul Lundquist

Mr. Lundquist came to Rancho Solano after living overseas for twenty-five years in Hong Kong preceded by five years in Japan. He holds a Master's Degree in Business Administration from Arizona State University. Mr. Lundquist has experience teaching courses ranging from Pre-Algebra and Algebra at the Middle School level to Critical Thinking at the College level. He is conversant in Japanese and French, and when he is not teaching, he enjoys traveling with his family.

Mr. ryan mcleod

Upper School Math

Mr. Ryan Mcleod

Mr. McLeod has been a faculty member at Rancho Solano since 2014. He served as the Math Department Chair from 2016 – 2022. He now teaches various Upper School Math courses and serves as the Blackbaud Scheduling Specialist. Mr. McLeod graduated from Ferris State University with BS in Education and is certified to teach K-12 Mathematics.

Mrs. Jessica robertson

Middle School Math

Mrs. Jessica Robertson

Mrs. Robertson joined Rancho Solano in 2015. She has over 17 years of experience teaching 4th through 6th grades. She holds an M. in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University and completed her Elementary Education degree at St. Mary’s College in Notre Dame, IN. She believes that successful students learn best when they grow their competence in tandem with their confidence.

Mr. Rakesh Sharma

Upper School Math

Mr. Rakesh Sharma

Mr. Sharma joined Rancho Solano from India where he taught diverse grade levels and classes for over two decades. He has a master’s in mathematics and a bachelor's in education from Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, India, and a postgraduate diploma in Management from Indra Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi, India. In addition to teaching, he also works on different educational projects, and he is an International Baccalaureate Diploma Program Examiner for Mathematics HL and SL courses since 2012.

Mrs. Shelli Powell

Upper School Chemistry & Dept. Chair

Mrs. Shelli Powell

Mrs. Powell has a BS in Biology with an emphasis on Pharmacology from Grand Canyon University. She has a background in teaching organic and general chemistry collegiate laboratories and assisting all collegiate levels of chemistry lectures. She continues to assist with teaching undergraduate students at Grand Canyon University in research involved with carbon nanotubes and electrochemistry. In her spare time, she likes to kayak in northern AZ lakes with her family or read books in her backyard hammock.

Mr. Paul Azabu

Upper School Physics

Mr. Paul Azabu

Paul Azabu is a high school Physics teacher from Cameroon who recently moved to the United States with his family. He holds a bachelor’s degree in physics from the University of Dschang Cameroon, an MSc in Engineering Project Management from Roehampton University, UK, and teaching certifications for high school Physics from the University of Yaoundé 1.  Paul has taught A-level Physics and Mathematics for 17 years, leaving a lasting impact on countless students in Cameroon, South Africa and Dubai, United Arab Emirates.  He is passionate about being instrumental in shaping the future of young scientists and engineers.

Mr. Chris Kotila

Middle School Science

Mr. Chris Kotila

Mr. Kotila joined Rancho Solano in 2015 with 15 years of experience in Middle School education. He holds an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from Arizona State University and a BA in Mass Communications with a specification in Graphic and Web Design from Principia College. He is passionate about teaching students and working with them to learn real-world skills. 

Ms. karen martinson

Middle School STEM & Science

Ms. Karen Martinson

Biography Coming Soon

Mr. John McCulley

Upper School Biology, Anatomy & Physiology

Mr. John McCulley

Mr. McCulley is passionate about teaching and mentoring students and strives to both enrich and challenge them in their educational journey. He has an MS in Biology with an emphasis in Education from Grand Canyon University. He has a background in teaching general biology and anatomy & physiology labs at Grand Canyon University.

Mr. Geoff Montgomery

Upper School Biology

Mr. Geoff Montgomery

Mr. Montgomery is new to Rancho Solano this year and it is his second year teaching. He has subbed at elementary and middle schools in the past and taught high school biology last year in Connecticut. Mr. Montgomery was born and raised in Connecticut and just moved to Arizona this summer. He graduated from UConn in 2018 for his undergrad in Natural Resources and the Environment with a concentration in Sustainable Forest Resources. He just finished his master's degree this past May for secondary teaching in science attending Sacred Heart University. 

Ms. Megan Taflinger

Middle School Science

Ms. Megan Taflinger

Ms. Taflinger graduated from Wichita State University in 2022 and holds a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering. She played collegiate volleyball at Wichita State for 5 years and another year at Grand Canyon University where she received her MBA.  This is her first year of teaching and she is so excited to teach growing minds about science. Ms. Taflinger is passionate about playing and coaching volleyball, outdoor activities/adventures, and her three dogs.

Mr. marco Garbarino

Upper School Economics & IB Coordinator

Mr. Marco Garbarino

Mr. Garbarino began teaching IB Economics at Rancho Solano in 2017 and added the role of IB Coordinator in the fall of 2019.  He earned a BA in Economics from the University of California, Berkeley, and received his MBA from Saint Mary’s College of California. Mr. Garbarino had taught economics for over fifteen years at a premier college preparatory school in the Bay Area called The Branson School prior to moving and teaching in Arizona.  In addition, he has been an entrepreneur and has had a private equity firm in San Francisco for over 30 years.

Ms. Angela George

Upper School History

Ms. Angela George

Ms. George is from Brooklyn, NY as well as Alabama.  She has been in education and working with youth organizations since 1997 throughout the country and has taught in New York, Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and now in Arizona. Ms. George has a Bachelor's Degree in Social Science Secondary Education. Her areas of expertise are History (World/US), Psychology, Sociology, Geography, Anthropology, Government and Economics. She is also a Reading and Writing Interventionist and Curriculum Coach. She is very happy to be part of the Rancho Solano faculty and family.

Ms. Amanda Hansen

Middle School History

Ms. Amanda Hansen

Biography coming soon.

Ms. Devorah Kenney

IB History

Ms. Devorah Kenney

Ms. Kenney holds an M.Ed. and a BA in Political Science from Emory University. She has 22 years of classroom experience teaching high school social studies, including Advanced Placement and IB History. Early in her career, Ms. Kenney and her students were nationally recognized for service learning campaigns that promoted activism in underserved communities. She has had extensive training in teaching literacy in the content area. Ms. Kenney encourages students to critically examine texts, to find messages depicted in visuals, and challenges students to read and share narratives that provide unique perspectives on historical events.

Mr. Joseph Klein

US History & Photo Journalism

Mr. Joseph Klein

Biography coming soon.

Ms. Olivia McPherson

Middle School History

Ms. Olivia McPherson

Biography coming soon.

Mr. Matthew Moran

Upper School Economics & Government

Mr. Matthew Moran

Mr. Moran has over 25 years of experience as a teacher and administrator working in both New York and his native Arizona. He returns to Rancho Solano, where he served as both the IB Coordinator and IB History teacher from 2011 – 2015. Mr. Moran is an enthusiastic, creative, and passionate educator, mentor and advisor who believes that all students can learn and thrive in a learning environment that is stimulating, comforting and appropriate to their unique talents and abilities.  He has had the good fortune of working with students in Pre-K 3/4 up through grade 12. He has served as Principal, Assistant Principal, Athletic Director, IB Coordinator and History Department Chair. Additionally, he has worked with several curricula: Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and the NY State Regents. He graduated with a BA in Political Science from the State University of New York, College at Buffalo.

Mr. Wilson Moreno

Upper School Spanish & Dept. Chair

Mr. Wilson Moreno

Mr. Moreno has 22 years of teaching experience. He holds a BA in Business Administration and several international language acquisition certifications from the University of Cambridge. He joined Rancho Solano in 2020.

Ms. Sylvia Adam

Upper School ELL

Ms. Sylvia Adam

Ms. Adam joined Rancho Solano in 2012. Over the last 10 years, she has taught English language acquisition courses to international English language learning students in middle and high school. She has also taught beginner Spanish in middle school. In the last 2 years, she has also taught a Practical living course in high school at Rancho. Ms. Adam holds a BA in University studies with an emphasis in TESOL from Brigham Young University -Hawaii and earned her MA in Curriculum and Instruction from Grand Canyon University.

Mr. Richard Cao

Upper School Mandarin

Mr. Richard Cao

Mr. Cao joined Rancho Solano in 2020 with 17 years of private school teaching experience. While specializing in the areas of Chinese and English language acquisition, he also learned Greek, Hebrew, German, and Korean. Mr. Cao has a BA in Linguistics from Yantai University in China.

Mrs. claudia descloux-peisl

Upper School French

Mrs. Claudia Descloux-Peisl

Mrs. Descloux joined Rancho Solano in 2019. She is from Switzerland and came to the United States in 2017. Mrs. Descloux has a BA in English, German, and Psychology from the University of Lausanne (UNIL), Switzerland, and has taught French, English, and German for over 30 years. Teaching is her passion; she embraces the IB spirit and is trained to teach IB at every level. She is pleased to see that more and more students are joining the French program and that everyone finds their right place.

Mr. Alexander Granillo

Upper School Spanish

Mr. Alexander Granillo

Biography coming soon.

Mrs. Adriana Herrera

Upper School Spanish

Mrs. Adriana Herrera

Mrs. Herrera has been teaching Spanish for 14 years and has had the pleasure of teaching students at every level of learning from pre-k to college. She was born and raised in Mexico City where she graduated from Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. After moving to Arizona in 2003, Mrs. Herrera discovered her passion for teaching her native language to others. Her teaching career includes 10 years of experience at BASIS Peoria teaching AP Spanish Language and Culture and Capstone Spanish Literature and Culture, and online teaching at Johns Hopkins University and Arizona State University. Additionally, she serves as national mentor and reader for the AP Spanish Language and Culture exam through the College Board. Mrs. Herrera is a teacher with a passion for sharing her language and culture and helping students reach their full potential. She is excited to be part of Rancho Solano and share her experience and knowledge with the students. 

Mrs. Cecile mahieux

Middle School French

Mrs. Cecile Mahieux

Biography Coming Soon

Mrs. Carmen Sanchez

Middle School Spanish

Mrs. Carmen Sanchez

Mrs. Sanchez holds a BA in Cultural Anthropology from Kent State University and an MA in Spanish Education from the University of Akron. She joined Rancho in 2012 and has sixteen years of experience in teaching Spanish.

MS. Jessie Tolman

Middle School Spanish

Ms. Jessie Tolman

Ms. Tolman joined Rancho Solano in 2022 as a middle school Spanish teacher.  She holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras in addition to an M.Ed. in curriculum and instructions from Grand Canyon University.  She has over 20 years of teaching experience.  Ms. Tolman is overjoyed to be part of the Rancho community working with her middle school students.

MS. Julianne Wahl

Middle School Mandarin

Ms. Julianne Wahl

Ms. Wahl, a seasoned Mandarin instructor with nearly 20 years of experience, is driven by a deep commitment to enhancing language proficiency and cultural awareness. She has a B.A. in Foreign Language and International Communications from Shih Chien University (Taipei, Taiwan, ROC) and an M.A. in Logistics and Business Marketing Management from the National Penghu University of Science & Technology (Taiwan, ROC). Her teaching philosophy focuses on developing all four language skills, emphasizing real-life language use. Beyond language, she passionately introduces students to Chinese culture, aiming to foster not just Mandarin speakers but also cultural enthusiasts. Ms. Wahl's ultimate aspiration is to nurture global leaders by equipping them with Mandarin proficiency and cultural knowledge, enabling them to engage positively in our interconnected world.

Mr. Brandon Zale

Choir, Musical Theatre & Fine Arts Chair

Mr. Brandon Zale

Mr. Zale came to Rancho in 2015 after teaching in schools in Phoenix and his native Chicago since 2001. He has taught various courses in General Music, Choir, Theatre, and Musical Theatre to grades Pre-K through high school. Mr. Zale holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Millikin University. In addition to teaching, Mr. Zale is also a freelance artist and professional actor, having sung, acted, directed, and performed in numerous venues both nationally and internationally.

MS. Remy Barnes

Middle School Visual Arts

Ms. Remy Barnes

Ms. Barnes joined Rancho Solano in 2021. She holds a BA in Studio Art and Spanish from the University of Oregon, in addition to a BFA and an MAT in Art Education from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She has had over 13 years of teaching experience. Ms. Barnes is thrilled to be part of the Rancho community, working with her favorite age group.

Ms. Cheryl Berech

Upper School Visual Arts

Ms. Cheryl Berech

Ms. Berech has lived and worked as an artist and teacher in Africa, Europe, and The United States. She has master’s degrees from UCLA and the Academy of Art in San Francisco and has taught IB Art (ACST Tunisia) as well as AP Studio Art and AP Art History (BASIS Scottsdale). She has also served as an officer and on the board of directors of the Tempe Artists Guild. When she is not teaching, she loves to take kayaking trips and wildlife photography and to create paintings of people and places. Her artworks are in private and public collections around the world.

Mrs. Andrea Gamez

Middle & Upper School Dance

Mrs. Andrea Gamez

Mrs. Gamez has been the dance teacher and high school varsity pom team coach at Rancho Solano since 2017. She has a BA in Dance Education from Grand Canyon University and is recognized with honors for the completion of the National Honors Society for the Dance Arts Program (NHSDA) in both the high school and university levels. She has had numerous performance opportunities such as being a part of the Be Kind People Project, as a professional dancer on the Be Kind Crew, and performing in many schools across the valley.

Dr. Therese Kerbey

Instruments & Orchestra

Dr. Therese Kerbey

Dr. Kerbey joined Rancho Solano in 2016 with 25 years of school band and orchestra teaching experience. At Rancho Solano, she has taught Beginning Orchestra, Intermediate Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Beginning Guitar and Ukulele, Intermediate Guitar and Ukulele, Piano, IB Music HL /SL, and Fiber Arts. Dr. Kerbey earned her B.M.Ed at Aquinas College, and both her M.M.Ed. in Jazz Studies and D.M.A. in Historical Research degrees from Arizona State University. In addition to being a professional woodwind musician, Dr. Kerbey served the last ten years of her 23-year military career as First Sergeant of the 108th Army Arizona National Guard Band.

Dr. Maurice Terrell

Band Director

Dr. Maurice Terrell

Dr. Terrell is a veteran of the United States Airforce. He joined Rancho Solano in 2018 with over 15 years of teaching experience in higher education, and a professional performance background. Dr. Terrell received his BA in music performance from Rollins College, Winter Park, FL., MA in music education/curriculum & instruction from the University of Central Florida, and an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership with emphasis on Organizational Development from Grand Canyon University. During his career, Dr. Terrell gained experience as a program director and department chair at Seminole State College of Florida, and program director at Yavapai College.

Mr. Scott Guerin

Middle & Upper School Technology

Mr. Scott Guerin

Mr. Guerin's experience in the field of computers and technology spans over 20 years. He was born in Laguna Beach, CA but has called Arizona his home since the third grade. He graduated High School from Scottsdale Christian Academy and pursued his college education at Northern Arizona University. He received a BFA in Visual Communications from NAU, then followed his love for technology at UACT where he earned an AA in Web Development/Digital Animation. He has worked as a teacher in other private schools and with children’s organizations where he has been able to share his passions for technology education and art. Outside the education realm, he is a huge soccer fanatic and art enthusiast.

Mrs. Melanie Hopek

Middle School Technology

Mrs. Melanie Hopek

Mrs. Hopek grew up in Colorado and earned her degree in Geology from the University of Colorado - Boulder. During her college career, she worked two part time jobs - one as a Mad Scientist and one as a research assistant. This is when she became quite interested in teaching and fell in love with teaching middle-school aged children. Before finishing her degree, Mrs. Hopek became involved with the University Rover Challenge. She is still involved with the challenges today and is quite excited about teaching the children about Mars.

Mr. Daniel Welter

Middle School Technology

Mr. Daniel Welter

Mr. Welter joined Rancho Solano in 2023 and this will be his sixth year teaching middle school. He has a Bachelor's degree in Marketing and a Master of Arts in History with an emphasis in Education from Grand Canyon University. He has taught various subjects in the past, including 5th grade, as well as 7th and 8th grade History within the Great Hearts School Network. While he has a wide range of teaching experiences, he is currently focused on teaching Robotics, Tech, and Media Arts. Mr. Welter has a particular passion for cinematography and photography, and he integrates these arts into his current subjects.

Mr. Carl Varnado

Mac Lab, Media, and Film

Mr. Carl Vernado

Mr. Varnado is a passionate and dedicated media arts teacher at Rancho Solano. With over a decade of experience in the field of media arts, he holds a Bachelor's degree in Film and Television Production and a Master's degree in Digital Media Arts. Throughout his career, Mr. Varnado has been deeply involved in the film and animation industry and has held various roles such as screenwriter, film and animation producer, and game designer. At Rancho Solano, he teaches a range of media arts courses including IB film, animation, screenwriting, film and production, and game design. He is known for his ability to inspire and motivate students to pursue their passion in the media arts field. He is an expert in developing and implementing a curriculum that aligns with the International Baccalaureate (IB) standards. Mr. Varnado is dedicated to staying current on industry trends and best practices, and he is an active member of several professional organizations related to media arts. He is also a strong advocate for fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in his students. Mr. Varnado is committed to providing an engaging and challenging learning environment for his students and is dedicated to helping them achieve their full potential in the field of media arts.

Ms. Gail Avenell

Middle School P.E. & Dept. Chair

Ms. Gail Avenell

Coach Avenell has been a part of Rancho Solano since 2000. She holds an MA in Coaching and Athletic Administration from Concordia University Irvine and a BS in Physical Education from Central Washington University. As a college athlete, she stayed involved in sports which led her to teach Physical Education and coaching. She enjoys guiding young adults through life’s journey. 

Mr. Brett Cauchi

Middle & Upper School P.E.

Mr. Brett Cauchi

Coach Cauchi joins Rancho Solano as the new Head Coach of the Girls' Basketball program and Physical Education teacher. Cauchi spent the last five years at Folsom Lake College in California coaching women’s basketball, serving as an assistant coach and student personnel assistant. Coach Cauchi helped take over a program that went 5-20 the year prior to 23-7 and a Sweet Sixteen appearance in just four seasons. Cauchi’s teams consistently held over a 3.4 team GPA. As student personnel assistant his duties included overseeing all academic success for over 200 athletes at FLC. Cauchi graduated with a B.A. in English Studies from California State University, Chico- where he also began his college coaching career. After a two-year high school teaching stint, Cauchi attended and graduated with his M.A. Education in Intercollegiate Athletics Leadership from University of Washington. With his background in college academics and athletics, Cauchi believes in the power of the student-athlete experience and their preparedness in life because of the high standards and demands they live with every day.

Mr. Jackson Oldham

Middle School P.E.

Mr. Jackson Oldham

Mr. Oldham graduated from Friends University with a BS in Business Administration. Prior to teaching full-time, Mr. Oldham served at Rancho as a substitute teacher. He also coaches middle and high school basketball for the Mustangs. 

Mr. dallin payne

Middle School P.E. & Assistant Athletic Director

Mr. Dallin Payne

Mr. Payne has been in education for over 20 years in various roles and levels. He has earned a BA from Arizona State University in Family & Human Development and an MA in Educational Leadership from Walden University. He has been with Rancho Solano for 17 years.

Ms. Stacey Peed

Upper School P.E.

Ms. Stacey Peed

Ms. Peed holds a BS in Health & Physical Education from Northern Arizona University and earned her MA in Secondary Education from the University of Phoenix. She has been an educator for 20 years and joined Rancho Solano in the fall of 2007 as the lower school PE teacher at the Gilbert Campus. In 2014, she moved over to the Greenway campus and in the fall of 2021, she joined the upper campus as the high school Health & PE teacher. Ms. Peed also coaches cross country, volleyball, and track & field. 

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