Teacher Website: Here
Ms. Adak is thrilled to join the Scottsdale Prep faculty as a 7th and 8th Grade Literature and Composition teacher. English Literature has been her favorite subject throughout her academic journey. Originally from Howrah, India, she moved to the United States four years ago to attend St. John’s College in Santa Fe, where she recently earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences.
While exploring the writings of great thinkers across 3,000 years of history during her time at St. John’s, her love for the classical Western education curriculum and The Great Books was only deepened. This experience ultimately led her to Great Hearts and Scottsdale Prep.
Outside of the classroom, she enjoys exploring Scottsdale and discovering all the area has to offer. She’s an avid reader, especially fond of Virginia Woolf, and enjoys watching classic films from the 1940s.
Teacher Website: Here
Mrs. Alofs teaches 9th Grade Honors Biology. She joined the Scottsdale Prep faculty in 2023-2024 but she is also a Scottsdale Prep alumna. She returned to teach at SPA after being on the founding faculty of Great Hearts Forest Heights in San Antonio, TX, where she taught Physical Science, Earth Science, and Biology.
Mrs. Alofs was born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona. She graduated from the University of Arizona with a bachelor’s degree in Neuro and Cognitive sciences as well as a minor in studio art. While at the University of Arizona, Mrs. Alofs taught an undergraduate Molecular and Cellular Biology lab. After graduation, she moved to Austin, TX with her husband.
Mrs. Alofs is happily married to her husband whom she met while attending Scottsdale Prep. She enjoys painting, board games, and spending time with her wonderful family.
Teacher Website: Here
Ms. Aramowicz joined Scottsdale Prep in 2024-25, teaching 7th grade Literature & Composition. She is a dedicated educator with a comprehensive background in English and Humanities.
Originally from Poland, she earned her MA degree in English and English Literature from St. John Paul II Catholic University in Lublin. In 1995, she relocated to the United States, initially settling in the Chicagoland area before moving to Arizona in 2022. Throughout her career, Agnes has taught various English and Humanities courses at several esteemed institutions, including Columbia College in Chicago, Robert Morris University, and Le Cordon Bleu.
Her passion for education is matched by her love for reading, films, food, and travel. Currently, she enjoys the snow-free environment of Phoenix, AZ, where she continues to educate her students.
Teacher Website: Here
Ms. Arust is a proud alumna of Scottsdale Prep and is excited to return to her alma mater as a teacher. As a student, Ms. Arust developed a deep passion for the principles of classical education, and she is honored to be able to share that passion with her students.
Ms. Arust attended Arizona State University, where she earned a B.S. in Criminology & Criminal Justice with a minor in Philosophy. She has served as a youth advisor and Sunday school teacher at her church for the past four years and looks forward to pursuing teaching in a professional capacity. Ms. Arust has also served as the Coordinator of the Mentoring Program at Scottsdale Prep.
In her free time, she enjoys staying active by hiking, lifting weights, and running, reading Great Books and theological texts, trying new coffee shops, and hanging out with her two cats, Persephone and Athena, and her dog, Butters. Ms. Arust also loves spending quality time with her family, her nephew and nieces in particular, and her amazing friends.
Teacher Website: Here
Raised in the scenic surroundings of Lake Tahoe, Nevada, Mrs. Carlson earned her degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Nevada, Reno with a minor in Chinese studies. Following graduation, she worked as an EEG Technologist for several years before relocating to Scottsdale and beginning a new chapter with her husband.
Over the past four years, Mrs. Carlson has devoted herself to classical education at another Great Hearts academy, teaching a diverse range of subjects including Biology, middle and high school mathematics, and social studies. Her intellectual pursuits extend beyond the classroom, as she is currently completing a Master of Divinity in Apologetics online. Outside of her professional and academic endeavors, Mrs. Carlson enjoys adventuring with her family, camping, traveling, reading, cooking, hanging out with friends, playing tennis/pickleball, showcasing her two standard poodles, playing violin, fishing, and pursuing her longstanding love of medicine. Mrs. Carlson delights in helping students discover both confidence and wonder in the learning process of foundational mathematics and looks forward to contributing to the rich academic culture of Scottsdale Prep while sharing her enthusiasm for math with her students!
Teacher Website: Here
Teacher Website: Here
Mrs. Clement teaches 12th-grade drama and 9th-grade poetry. She has been a part of the Academy since 2015. In that time, she has served in several teaching positions including 11th grade drama, 5th grade drama, and 6th grade Literature and Composition. She is a Fine Arts Master Teacher (Department Head) and Director for the Extra Curricular Drama Clubs, Thespian Troupe #8334 Director, and will be spearheading our Improv Troupe, Laughletes, this year as well.
Born in Germany, but raised in Arizona, Mrs. Clement considers Arizona her always home, minus a stint in Chicago. She attended Arizona State University, Barrett the Honors College, and received her BA in Theatre Arts with an emphasis in Education and Production Management. Previous to her time at SPA, she worked in multiple theatres in Chicago as a Stage Manager and Dramaturg.
Mrs. Clement is lucky to see her other half, Mr. C, every day as they both continue to serve the Scottsdale Prep Community. While not at school, she considers herself a local foods expert and loves to read or watch a good murder mystery curled up with her cats, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Clement teaches 7th and 8th grade music. He first joined the Scottsdale Prep faculty in 2012-13 and has served the Academy as the Fine Arts Department Head, Network Instructional Coach, Speech & Debate coach, and Director of Instrumental Ensembles, Director of Operations, and Assistant Headmaster. He was honored to be recognized as Scottsdale Prep’s 2015 Teacher of the Year.
He is a native of Arizona and earned his Bachelor of Music from Arizona State University, where he has also completed his training in both Kodaly and Orff-Schulwerk music pedagogies. He has served on the Board of Directors of the Arizona Speech and Debate Coaches Association, directing State Tournaments as well as Scottsdale Prep’s annual Congressional Debate tournament.
Mr. Clement is blessed to be married to “the better Clement.” He and Mrs. Chasse Clement began dating a few months after she joined the faculty and have been happily married since 2016. They enjoy travel, escape rooms, milkshakes, and spending time with their two black cats (Rosencrantz and Guildenstern).
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Copeland has been teaching at SPA since 2011. He usually teaches 7th and 10th grade Latin, but has also taught 8th grade Latin, 9th grade Latin, and 11th grade Greek. He currently serves as Master Teacher of Classical Languages, overseeing the academy’s Latin and Greek curricula.
Mr. Copeland holds a B.A. in Classical Languages from the University of St. Thomas, and an M. A. in Classics from the University of Arizona, where he also taught prior to coming to Scottsdale Prep. He is the recipient of numerous professional and teaching awards.
Outside of school, he enjoys spending time with his wife and seven children. He loves driving on the highways of Arizona, fixing things, and playing old video games.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Curcija joined Scottsdale Preparatory Academy in 2024 to teach middle school science classes.
His curiosity for the natural world and history is reflected in his multidisciplinary education. He holds a Master of Arts in anthropology (research archaeology) from Northern Arizona University and a Master of Science in biology from Arizona State University. His research is published and cited in some of the leading journals of North American archaeology and the biological sciences. An educator since 2009, Mr. C has shared his curiosity with diverse audiences in venues ranging from the backcountry to university classrooms, most recently as an instructor for the Maricopa Community Colleges. He is grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the classical education offered by Scottsdale Preparatory Academy, to nurture a sense of wonder for the beauty and complexity of nature in his students – the problem solvers of the future, and the stewards of a magnificent intellectual tradition.
For leisure, Mr. C enjoys a variety of fitness activities; reading science, history, or philosophy; cooking; and sharing laughter with loved ones.
Teacher Website: Here
Mrs. Davidson is excited to join Scottsdale Preparatory Academy as a music teacher and assistant choral director. A Glendale, Arizona native, she attended Glendale Preparatory Academy from sixth through twelfth grade and is honored to return to Great Hearts as an alumna. She recently graduated from Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, with a Bachelor of Music Education.
Mrs. Davidson has studied piano for over 16 years and discovered her love for choral music when she joined the middle school choir at Glendale Prep. Throughout her education, she participated in every choir available to her, including Bob Jones University’s premier auditioned ensembles, the BJU Chorale and Chamber Singers. She has also performed extensively as a choral singer, soloist, and collaborative pianist in concerts, recitals, competitions, and festivals. Since graduating, she has remained actively involved in the music ministry at her church.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Drubka was born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in Anthem, Arizona, where he developed a fascination with Earth and space science at an early age. He pursued these interests at Northern Arizona University, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation while continuing to explore his passion for the natural sciences. Since graduating, Mr. Drubka has continued studying astronomy and Earth science with the goal of one day sharing that enthusiasm as an educator. His passion for teaching and lifelong learning was strengthened through his work at Friendly Pines Camp, where he serves as an Assistant Program Director and spends his summers mentoring and working alongside children. When not teaching, studying, or working at camp, he enjoys stargazing, writing, and reading. He is an avid fan of the Red Rising series and is always eager to learn something new. Mr. Drubka is excited to join the Spartan community this school year and looks forward to inspiring curiosity, exploration, and a love of learning in his students.
Teacher Website: Here
Mrs. Fisher was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. In her 20s she did a lot of traveling and lived in Kansas, Colorado, Alaska, and Georgia but found that she missed Arizona and moved back. She graduated from Grand Canyon University in 2025 with her B.S. in Secondary Education with an Emphasis in Mathematics.
Mrs. Fisher found her love for teaching math in high school while taking a Teacher Academy class. She has 6 years of classroom experience as a para educator working with students in special education.
Mrs. Fisher spends most of her free time with her husband supporting their 4 children while they chase their dreams. When she does get some time for herself she enjoys reading, being in the kitchen, and bowling.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. George is an international educator with a Master’s in Education from the University of La Verne and a BA in Political Science from UC Irvine. Having taught a wide range of subjects—including Math, Science, English, and Humanities—in locations ranging from Las Vegas to Japan, Jake integrates his global experience and a deep passion for history to inspire students of all backgrounds.
Teacher Website: Here
Mrs. Noelia Gomez joined Scottsdale Prep in 2022-23. She taught Spanish at the International School of Arizona for five years prior to coming to Great Hearts. She also conducted classes on watercolor.
She was born in Madrid, Spain, and grew up in Seville in the south of Spain. She finished her Nursing degree in 2014 and worked in different healthcare settings in Spain. She has always enjoyed taking care of others.
She met her husband in Spain in 2003. They have one child (Leonard). They arrived in Arizona in 2017, looking to give their son the opportunity to learn from a different culture and a different language. Her hobbies include traveling, hiking, painting, and watching documentaries about the universe.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Gore serves as Dean of Students and teaches 6th grade Literature & Composition. He joined Scottsdale Prep in 2022-23, after teaching four years at Archway Scottsdale.
He first began as a Fourth Grade Assistant Teacher, then became a Lead Teacher in Fourth Grade. Prior to Great Hearts Mr. Gore was a coach for Fit Kids America and worked for a few years as a caregiver for those with dementia. Mr. Gore received his Bachelor’s Degree from GCU in Digital Film with an Emphasis in Screenwriting.
Mr. Gore married his college sweetheart and best friend, and together they are parents to two crazy cats! In his spare time, Mr. Gore drinks too much coffee, roots for the Green Bay Packers, and avidly collects films and books.
Teacher Website: Here
Dr. Hall started at Scottsdale Prep in 2019. He teaches 11th and 12th grade Humane Letters, works as a Senior Thesis Director, and runs the Writing and Seminar Lab.
Dr. Hall received his M.A. in Philosophy from the University of Colorado, Boulder and his PhD in Philosophy from ASU. Prior to coming to Scottsdale Prep, he taught numerous philosophy courses at Arizona State University and Chandler Gilbert Community College.
Outside of his love for reading philosophical works, he enjoys creating music and working on the virtues of the body through weightlifting.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Herrera is a native of Arizona, where he was born and raised in Chandler until he moved to attend college in Indiana. For his undergraduate college career, Mr., Herrera earned a degree in Classical Civilizations with a minor in Italian Cultural Studies from DePauw University. Alongside his academic career, Mr. Herrera was a four-time conference qualifier for the DePauw Men’s Swimming and Diving Team.
Outside of academics and athletics, Mr. Herrera enjoys playing music on the guitar in his free time. Additionally, he values quality time with his family as well as the chance to swim or weightlift with friends.
Mr. Herrera is ecstatic to start at Scottsdale Preparatory Academy and he hopes to inspire others in the classroom!
Teacher Website
Ms. Hewitt is excited to join the Scottsdale Prep faculty as the 6th and 7th Grade Music Teacher. Originally from Belarus, she earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Music Education from Mogilev Pedagogical University where she specialized in choir conducting, folk-style performance and singing, choreography, and music pedagogy.
Before coming to Arizona, Ms. Hewitt taught music at a prominent choir school in Belarus and directed a children’s folk performance ensemble. She was also a touring member of the Belarusian professional folk group Медуница (“Meduniza”), performing across Europe in countries such as Germany, Moldova, Russia, and Finland.
Her passion for music took her to the Middle East, where she founded a private piano and choir studio in Oman, and later to Florida, where she continued developing young musicians through private instruction. In Arizona, Ms. Hewitt has taught music at three different schools, where she led classes in choir, drum line, and continued to offer private piano lessons.
Outside of school, Ms. Hewitt enjoys off-road driving with her fiancé, listening to classical music, gardening, and spending quality time with her wonderful children, whose joy, intelligence, and curiosity continue to inspire her every day.
Teacher Website: Here
Born in Mexico and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Ms. Hughes is passionate about education, language, and helping students become confident, lifelong learners. She began her higher education at Glendale Community College, where she studied language and earned an Associate of Arts with an emphasis in Secondary Education. She later earned her bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Arizona State University and is currently completing her Master of Arts in Secondary Education at the American College of Education.
Over the past seven years, Ms. Hughes has worked with K–12 students, primarily in Special Education, and has developed a strong commitment to supporting learners with diverse academic needs. Most recently, she worked in an Algebra intervention lab, helping students build both their math skills and self-confidence. In addition to her work in K–12 schools, she teaches English to adult learners, which has strengthened her appreciation for language learning, cultural diversity, and meaningful connections with students from all backgrounds.
Outside of school, Ms. Hughes enjoys spending time with her son and daughter, especially attending their soccer games and celebrating their accomplishments. She also loves hiking, bowling, meditating, traveling, and capturing Arizona’s beautiful sunsets through photography. These activities help her stay active, appreciate nature, and maintain a healthy balance between her professional and personal life.
Ms. Hughes believes that every student can succeed when they feel supported, challenged, and encouraged. She is excited to be part of the Scottsdale Prep family. She looks forward to creating a positive, engaging, and inclusive classroom where students feel inspired to reach their full potential while developing a love for the Spanish language and Hispanic cultures.
Teacher Website: Here
Ms. Hutchings is a Latin teacher for Scottsdale Prep, and she joined the SPA faculty in 2015-2016. She is the 8th and 9th grade Latin lead teacher and has the privilege of teaching Greek this year. In addition to classical languages, she tutors students in German. In her time here, she has been the Field Day Coordinator and Summer School Coordinator, and involved with Homework Club, Creative Writing Club, Rock Climbing Club, Mythology Club, the Junior Classical League, building sets for theater, groups focused on giving back, and in numerous theses.
She hails from Redford Township, MI, but is now a Phoenician. Ms. Hutchings has a double Baccalaureate in History, and in Classical Languages and Literature at the University of Michigan, followed by a Masters in Classics and in Education at the University of Arizona. Prior to coming to Great Hearts, Ms. Hutchings taught in public schools in Ann Arbor, MI, and in private schools in Tucson, AZ.
She enjoys cuddles with her fluffy puppy, whom you might recall played Toto in the Wizard of Oz, and is working on finishing her novel (about Rome, of course!).
Teacher Website: Here
Mrs. Kashihara is a 6th Grade Physical Science and 8th Grade Earth Science Teacher at Scottsdale Prep. Mrs. Kashihara joined the Scottsdale Prep faculty in 2018-2019. She has served as the course level lead for 6th grade physical science, assistant conductor of the symphony orchestra, and homework club monitor.
She is originally from Gloucester, England. She studied for her Bachelor of Science with Honors degree in Geography at Keele University in England. During her Bachelor of Science with Honors degree, Mrs. Kashihara spent one semester as an exchange student at the University of Utah. She earned a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) at the University of Nottingham in England. Prior to coming to Great Hearts, Mrs. Kashihara served three seasons as a Park Ranger in Environmental Education with the National Park Service and US Forest Service in California, Oregon, and Idaho. She also taught in public schools in Indianapolis, Indiana and Avondale, Arizona.
Mrs. Kashihara is happily married. She enjoys playing the violin and piano. She played the violin in county orchestras in England. She enjoys traveling, pickleball, hiking, gardening, and nature / landscape photography.
Teacher Website: Here
Mrs. Klaus has served the Scottsdale community as a middle school math teacher for five years. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Education from ASU and her Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from GCU.
She is an Arizona native. In her free time, you can find her paddle boarding the Salt River with her Australian Shepherd, at Roadhouse Theaters with her husband, or at sports practices and dance lessons with her son (10) and daughter (3).
Mrs. Klaus is looking forward to inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders and engaging in discourse with students as they start their new chapters at Scottsdale Prep.
Teacher Website: Here
Ms. Magdalena Lawer-Borfigat joined the Scottsdale Prep Faculty in 2021, teaching High School French.
She is originally from Poland where she completed a Bachelor’s Degree in French Philology, and studied French Literature and Linguistics. She then moved to France where she completed a Master’s Degree in Teaching French as a Foreign Language. She has taught French in various school settings in Europe. After having moved to Arizona, she taught French to middle schoolers at BASIS Goodyear.
In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling and spending time with her daughter. She also is a big enthusiast of French cinema and food, especially pastries! She never says no to her favorite French dessert – “fondant au chocolat”.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Leahy joined Scottsdale Prep in Spring 2023, taking on a position teaching 6th and 7th-grade Literature and Composition.
A Phoenix native, Mr. Leahy achieved his B.A. in Philosophy from Arizona State University in 2022. Prior to joining Great Hearts, Mr. Leahy lived in several states including Missouri, California, and Arizona, while working at Starbucks and earning his degree through the Starbucks College Achievement Program at Arizona State University.
When not teaching, Mr. Leahy enjoys hiking, running, biking, ping pong, and spending time with friends. Mr. Leahy is also a voracious reader, who has a particular love for fantasy, and is typically tackling one audiobook and one physical book at any given time.
Teacher Website: Here
Originally from Newport Beach, California Mr. Lidd played collegiate baseball at Arizona State University and Creighton University. After college, he worked in player development with the Seattle Mariners and later became a Strength and Conditioning Coach at Servais Sports Performance in Omaha.
Mr. Lidd earned his degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Strength and Conditioning and most recently coached high school baseball at Scottsdale Prep. He is excited to teach middle school Physical Education, lead the morning high school strength and conditioning program, and coach middle school and varsity baseball. Marc is passionate about helping students grow through fitness, teamwork, and athletics.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Mathieux joined Scottsdale Prep at the end of 2023, after deciding to pivot his career from business to his true passion, teaching. He started at Scottsdale Prep as a Math Teacher, teaching 6th and 8th-grade Algebra classes, but now teaches 9th grade Spanish.
Mr. Mathieux grew up in France and moved to California at the age of 10, where he developed his interest in Math and languages. He received his BA in Economics from UC Berkeley and his MBA from ASU’s Thunderbird School of Global Management. He began his corporate career working with logistics/supply chain in Brazil. After returning state-side, Mr. Mathieux developed his entrepreneurial spirit by launching and running small businesses in San Francisco. In 2020 he moved to Scottsdale with his family, where he finally pulled the plug on the business world by sending a job application to Great Hearts Academies.
When not teaching, Mr. Mathieux loves spending time with his wonderful wife and two daughters. He has an annoying habit of telling his daughters silly jokes while they laugh at him. Mr. Mathieux enjoys hiking, golf, skiing, traveling, and practicing foreign languages.
Teacher Website: Here
Dr. Mershon joined Scottsdale Prep in 2022. She currently teaches Economics and 8th-grade Medieval History, and previously taught Ancient History. She received a BA degree in Art History from Arizona State University, an MBA in International Business from Thunderbird, and an Ed.D. from the University of West Florida. Before joining the SPA faculty she worked in different capacities with Junior Achievement and in higher education. Her family was very happy to make Arizona their forever home in 2015 after living in many different places in the US and abroad while her husband served in the Air Force. She enjoys spending time with her family, including her husband and their two adult daughters, Morgan and Erin. In her free time, she also loves to travel and read.
Teacher Website: Here
Mrs. Michaels is excited to teach math again and be an instructional coach after serving in other roles. Since joining the Scottsdale Prep community in 2014, she has served as Assistant Headmaster, Dean of Academics, Master Teacher of Mathematics, Lead 504 Coordinator, and Mathematics teacher both in the Middle and High Schools. She was honored to be named Scottsdale Prep’s 2023-2024 Teacher of the Year.
She was born and raised in Scottsdale, and understands the desire of Arizona natives to move to where it snows! She studied Metallurgical Engineering at Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colorado before realizing that her true passion was in Mathematics. She received her B.S. in Computational Mathematical Sciences from ASU, and later received her M.Ed. in Secondary Education from GCU.
She enjoys traveling and adventuring with her husband and son during her time off, and is always up for a good game of Clue or Liverpool Rummy.
Teacher Website: Here
Ms. Miller has been a Studio Art Teacher at Scottsdale Preparatory Academy since 2012 and is currently the Department Head for the Visual Arts. She teaches both Middle School and High School Studio Art classes.
A native of Scottsdale, she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drawing from Arizona State University and a Master of Fine Arts in Printmaking from Clemson University. Before Scottsdale Prep, she taught several Art Classes and Workshops to students ranging from Elementary through College. As a practicing Artist, her works have appeared in public and private collections and publications.
Ms. Miller enjoys spending time with her family, drawing, and painting. In addition, she is an avid bird watcher and a voracious reader.
Teacher Website: Here
Ms. Monterrubio is excited to share her love of mathematics as she teaches Algebra II and Calculus I this year. She is a proud Great Hearts alumna who went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Arizona State University. Through her educational journey, she has developed a deep appreciation for classical education and is excited to return to Great Hearts and contribute to the wonderful community at Scottsdale Prep. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, puzzling, crocheting, and spending time with her two cats.
Teacher Website: Here
Ms. Moore is a Literature and Composition teacher at Scottsdale Prep, having joined the faculty in 2021.
An Arizona native, Ms. Moore has lived across the Phoenix-metro area in Litchfield Park, Scottsdale, and now central Phoenix. She graduated in 2021 from Grand Canyon University with a B.A. in English for Secondary Education and a minor in Philosophy, with honors. Having been introduced to Great Hearts by her father (who now teaches Humane Letters at Anthem Prep), she completed her last semester student-teaching at Scottsdale Prep Spring 2021 teaching 8th grade Literature and Composition and 9th grade Humane Letters.
In her free time, she enjoys drinking coffee, writing fantasy for pleasure, making meals for her family, and spending leisure time with her best friend.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Robin Neely joined SPA in 2013. In that time, he has taught our 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th-grade curricular music classes and conducted our extra-curricular choirs. In addition to being a music educator, he is also a senior thesis director at SPA. Mr. Neely’s proudest accomplishment is the creation of the “Caroling Club” which spends its holiday season singing for nursing homes, Hospice Homes, and Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
Mr. Neely earned his Bachelors of Music at Northern Arizona University and his Masters of Music at Arizona State University. He also sang with the Sonoran Desert Chorale under the direction of Jeff Harris for 9 years, touring a variety of countries including Austria, Hungary, Slovenia, France, Ireland, and Scotland. He is proud to have served as an adjudicator, clinician, or chair for numerous honor choirs across Arizona.
Outside of the arts, Mr. Neely takes great pride in managing his coral reef aquarium, doing photo shoots for local aquarium hobbyists or fish stores, hiking extensively, rock climbing, and taking care of his family.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Newman is excited to join Scottsdale Prep as a middle school math teacher. Prior to Great Hearts, Mr. Newman spent the majority of his career at several reputable financial firms. He has also enjoyed stints as a Teacher of English as a Foreign Language at Tonghua Normal University in Jilin, China and as co-producer of a full-length independent film.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut after graduating from St. Mark’s School in Massachusetts. While at Trinity, he studied Art History and Architecture at the school’s campus in Rome. As a student, he excelled in mathematics within a liberal arts curriculum, which taught him the value of applying analytical thinking to his natural curosity and broad appreciation for learning.
Mr. Newman and his family have called Scottsdale home since moving from Boston in 2019. He lives with his loving wife and two children, who are his pride and joy. Whenever time permits, he enjoys studying philosophy and European languages while listening to Classical music.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Nordtvedt has been a 7th-grade life science teacher at Scottsdale Prep since 2021. He joined Great Hearts in 2020 at Archway Classical Academy Scottsdale and as an assistant baseball coach at Scottsdale Prep.
He is a Minnesota native but has been living in the Phoenix area since 2013. He received his bachelor’s degree from Cornell College in Mount Vernon, IA. He later completed his master’s degree in exercise science at California University of Pennsylvania.
Mr. Nordtvedt and his wife have two sons and two dogs at home. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family, sports, and being outdoors as much as possible.
Teacher Website: Here
Ms. Patton joined Scottsdale Prep in 2023-2024 and teaches 6th grade US History and 9th grade Humane Letters. She will also be directing the middle school play this winter, and serves as a co-leader of the Scottsdale Prep Shakespeare Society which is open to both middle and high school students.
Ms. Patton grew up on both coasts, in California and New Hampshire. Her passion for timeless wisdom and truth led her to study at the University of Dallas, where she received a BA in Drama. Ms. Patton previously worked in Los Angeles as the director of a non-profit serving at-risk youth and seniors. While in Los Angeles she also produced, wrote, directed and acted in many theater productions and short films.
When not teaching, Ms. Patton enjoys working on her screenplay about the American Renaissance, embroidering, and she’d love to see you at both the middle school play and Shakespeare Society!
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Petiford joined the Scottsdale Prep faculty in 2012 and currently teaches 7th, 8th, and 11th-grade studio art. He has also taught 6th grade Intro to Fine Art, run multiple 6th-grade performances, and an extra-curricular percussion ensemble. You can frequently see Mr. Petiford playing percussion for SPA musical theater productions and numerous SPA Jazz Choir concerts.
He earned a BFA in Drawing with a minor in Printmaking from Arizona State University, summa cum laude. Prior to SPA, he taught for 3 years at East Valley High and worked as a manufacturing training and web developer for a large manufacturing corporation, and as a multimedia designer for an R&D group. He has three published papers on music pedagogy, multiple book designs and illustrations, and has participated in multiple group and solo exhibitions of fine art.
In his free time, Mr. Petiford is an avid painter, musician, and cinematic connoisseur.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Primavera is the Physics 1 teacher, head football coach, and head baseball coach at Scottsdale Prep Academy. He joined the Academy in 2014.
David is a native of Lincoln, NE. He received his master’s degree in education with an emphasis in science teaching from the University of Nebraska and received his undergraduate degree in Liberal Arts from Thomas Aquinas College in Santa Paula, CA. He previously taught in Elkhorn, NE before joining Great Hearts.
He is married with 5 children. His hobbies include watching college football, golfing, and gardening.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Redmond teaches Geometry and Logic & Computation at Scottsdale Prep. He joined the school as a long term sub for middle school Algebra II in 2019 before becoming a full teacher during the 2020-2021 school year.
He was born and raised in Scottsdale, but went to university in Washington State for his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. He then completed a Master’s in Secondary Education from Arizona State University.
He has interests in gardening, strategy games, game design, and science fiction.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Rose was born in raised in Tokyo, Japan. Growing up in a multicultural and multi-religious environment, he developed an interest, over time, for understanding how different cultures view reality and the whole of human life.
Mr. Rose majored in Philosophy at Grove City College, where he encountered, through his professors, a love for education and a desire to grow in the goods of the Western intellectual tradition.
In his free time, Mr. Rose enjoys reading novels and philosophy books, especially works written by the Roman stoics and the Medievals. He also enjoys hiking and basketball.
Teacher Website: Here
Ms. Sells teaches 7th grade history and is the head coach for middle school volleyball. She joined Scottsdale Prep in 2023, after working as a Teaching and Research Assistant for Arizona State University’s History Department. Prior to becoming an SPA Spartan, she was a dedicated Sun Devil, earning both her B.S. in Political Science and M.A. in History from Arizona State University.
Ms. Sells is an accomplished horseback rider, earning herself a National Championship in the Arabian horse world, and riding for the ASU Equestrian team during her university years. In her youth, Ms. Sells served as Miss Teen Arizona, a platform which inspired her to nurture a philanthropic cause near and dear to her heart: a state-wide anti-bullying campaign.
Ms. Sells is a proud mother to her four-and-a-half-year-old son and her six-year-old Golden Retriever. In her free time, Ms. Sells enjoys riding horses, playing volleyball, and reading.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Scott Shaughnessy joined Great Hearts faculty in 2012, first teaching science at Anthem Prep and transferring to Scottsdale Prep in the fall of 2018. In that time he has taught middle school Physical Science, Earth Science, and upper school Physics I and Physics II. In addition, he has been a sponsor of Astronomy Club and Mountain Biking Club.
He moved from southern California with his family where he taught physics, math, and astronomy at The Buckley School in Sherman Oaks, California since 1998. He is a graduate of ASU’s Construction Engineering program, and has taken additional classes in physics and astronomy at UCLA.
He enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, traveling to tropical islands, gazing at the cosmos, and mountain biking wherever he can find a trail.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Sheaffer was born and raised in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and graduated from JP McCaskey High School in 1992. In 1996 he received a BA in History from the University of Pittsburgh. He earned his Master’s degree at Duquesne University in 1998. His scholarship ranges from the Founding to the early republic; with a primary focus on the US Civil War. This spring saw the publication of his first book, The Brothers’ Duty: Echoes of Valor and Sacrifice. He has been a Civil War reenactor for over 30 years.
Mr. Sheaffer is excited to become a Spartan and cannot wait share his passion for US History with the student body.
Teacher Website: Here
Dr. Bente Shoen teaches Spanish at Scottsdale Prep and joined the Academy in 2020-21.
She is a Phoenix native with a BA in English from Dartmouth College, an MA in Spanish Language and Culture from Middlebury College, and another MA and PhD in Hispanic Literature from Boston University. Prior to coming to Great Hearts, Dr. Shoen taught Spanish at Boston University, did process engineering for nonprofits in Guatemala, and worked in logistics in the Northeast.
In her free time, she does interior design, writes poetry, and swims in any body of water she can find. She also loves to host soirées and game nights for her large extended family, friends, and colleagues.
Teacher Website: Here
Ms. Spielvogel teaches 10th and 11th grade Humane Letters and joined Scottsdale Prep in the 2023-2024 academic year.
She graduated with her bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Arizona State University in 2022 and most recently finished her master’s degree in English Literature with a focus on early modern literature from the University of Oxford in 2023. Her research interests include Shakespeare and his history plays, classical reception, and kingship in the medieval and early modern periods. She is also an active theatre-maker, having been a dramaturg, deviser, playwright, and director in Arizona, North Carolina, and Oxford.
Outside of the classroom, she enjoys participating in a variety of sports, including fencing, cycling, and swimming. She also enjoys classical music, having played flute since the 5th grade. She is also currently a member of SPA’s esteemed faculty choir.
Teacher Website: Here
Mrs. Stamate is a 10th and 12th grade Humane Letters teacher. She joined the SPA faculty in the 2011-2012 school year. During her years at the academy, she has taught 5th grade, 6th-8th grade Lit/Comp, and Humane Letters. She also serves as Senior Thesis Director.
Mrs. Stamate is originally from Florida, and she attended St. John’s College in Annapolis for her undergraduate degree in the Liberal Arts. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Classical Education from the University of Dallas while teaching at SPA.
She enjoys life at home with her husband of three years and their one-year-old daughter. In her leisure time, she enjoys reading, playing chess, and staying active outdoors.
Teacher Website: Here
Join us in welcoming Mrs. Strader to Scottsdale Prep as a Middle School Literature and Composition teacher. A proud alumna of Scottsdale Prep, Mrs. Strader graduated in 2020 after attending the school from middle through high school. She is excited to return to her alma mater—this time as a teacher—and to be working alongside her husband, who also teaches at SPA. The two have been classmates since the fourth grade and first met through the Great Hearts community, making their return to Scottsdale Prep especially meaningful.
Mrs. Strader earned her bachelor’s degree in Communications from Grand Canyon University in 2024, graduating with minors in Counseling and Biblical Studies. Her studies at GCU deepened her love for meaningful communication, mentorship, and the integration of faith and learning—foundations that shape her approach to the classroom.
Before joining the Prep campus, Mrs. Strader taught 5th Grade at Archway Scottsdale, where she developed a love for fostering thoughtful discussion and a deep appreciation for classical education. She also brings years of experience in student ministry, having volunteered extensively in church settings with students ranging from elementary to high school.
In her free time, she enjoys reading great books, hiking Arizona’s trails, and spending time with her family and husband. Mrs. Strader is honored to continue her journey as a Spartan and looks forward to walking alongside her students in the pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty through the study of literature and composition.
Teacher Website: Here
Dr. Szadzinski is Director of Campus Life and teaches 7th-grade Latin and 11th-grade Humane Letters at Scottsdale Prep. He started at SPA in 2022-23.
While born and raised in Chicago, Dr. Szadzinski has spent significant time living in Vermont and the UK. He earned a Graduate Teaching Certificate in Latin and a M.A. in Greek and Latin Languages from the University of Vermont. He obtained a M.A. in Ancient History from Cardiff University. In May of 2021, he was awarded his Ph.D. from King’s College London, where he worked with both the Classics and War Studies Departments in crafting a thesis focused on the battlefield tactics and practices of mid-republican Roman legions.
When not teaching or researching, Dr. Szadzinski loves to golf, hike, snowboard, travel, and spend time with friends and family.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Threadgall teaches sixth grade Latin at SPA and joined the Academy in 2012-13. Since then he has occasionally also taught 7th and 8th grade Latin and chaired a recorder ensemble.
A Tennessee native, he studied Classics and English at UT Knoxville before taking an MA in Latin at the University of Virginia with a certificate in comparative literature. He has also taught middle school Latin in Tennessee and Virginia, but after ten years in the valley he is now pleased to regard himself as “from here.”
Mr. Threadgall cultivates frankincense and myrrh in his back garden, ferments a variety of vegetables and herbal tonics, and loves the monsoon season.
Teacher Website: Here
Mrs. Walters teaches 10th grade Earth Science. She joined Scottsdale Prep in the 2022-23 school year and is excited to be a part of a school with such a distinguished reputation. She has also previously taught 8th grade Earth Science.
She was born and raised in Arizona and attended the University of Texas at Dallas where she received a B.S. and M.S. in Chemistry. While at UT Dallas, she had the opportunity to be a research assistant working on biochemical studies involving metabolism. After graduation, she worked as an analytical chemist in an environmental laboratory. She has also taught chemistry for over 10 years at Glendale Community College.
Mrs. Walters and her husband of 26 years, Dr. Darrin Walters, have two boys – Braden and Devin who are both competitive swimmers. Braden is a student athlete at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee and Devin will enter his Junior year at Chaparral High School. In their free time, they enjoy hiking and camping, but spend most of their time at the pool.
Teacher Website: Here
Mrs. White-Goss joined SPA in the 2018-2019 academic school year. She is a middle school studio art teacher. She has been teaching art for 20 years.
She was born in Michigan, but has lived in Scottsdale since she was three. She studied Art Education and Art History at Arizona State University.
She has been happily married for nearly 30 years and they have one son. She has two miniature dachshunds and loves yoga, hiking and pickle ball.
Teacher Website: Here
Ryan Yingling is excited to be a part of Scottsdale Preparatory Academy. He spent his first 20+ years of teaching in Washington state, where he taught a variety of subjects including social studies, language arts, theater, and student leadership at the junior high and middle school levels. In addition to his teaching, Ryan also coached football, baseball, and wrestling, and directed several school plays. He then taught for two years at Jefferson Preparatory in North Phoenix before moving to the Cherry Creek School District near Denver, where he taught theater. This year, Ryan will be teaching 6th Grade U.S. History and is immensely proud to be a Spartan.
Teacher Website: Here
Mr. Zelkin, who has taught 11th and 12th-grade Humane Letters at Scottsdale Prep since 2021, comes to us from Cicero Prep (where he served as their 11th and 12th-grade Humane Letters teacher). Prior to this, Mr. Zelkin filled in for Mrs. Stamate’s 10th and 12th-grade Humane Letters here at Scottsdale Prep in the Spring of 2020.
He was born in the former Soviet Union and immigrated to the United States as a child. He received his bachelor’s degree from Colgate University where he double majored in music and philosophy & religion. He then studied religion at the University of Chicago Divinity School where he received his master’s degree.
Mr. Zelkin worked for over two and a half decades as a professional film composer in Los Angeles. He and his wife, with whom he continues to co-compose, have both received Emmy Awards for their music and have been nominated multiple times. Together, they have written the music and themes for various movies, sports, and news shows including: The NBA, The WNBA, NASCAR, The America’s Cup, Wimbledon, The Stanley Cup Finals, The X Games, The NCAA Championships, The US Open, The Masters, The British Open, CBS Sports Desk, and Tucker Carlson Tonight, among others.
Casa de Zelkin consists of his wonderful wife of three decades, their son (a student at Prep!), a very good dog, and a one eyed, three-legged cat who operates under the assumption that the entire household exists merely to serve him. Mr. Zelkin enjoys coffee, discussing great books and ideas with interesting people, reading fantasy fiction, backpacking and running…but mostly coffee.
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Ms. Nelson is a front office assistant at Scottsdale Prep, having joined the staff in 2022.
Mrs. Lacy Walther joined the SPA staff in 2022-23 as our School Counselor. She is a native and second-generation Arizonan. She graduated from ASU with a Bachelor of Arts in Comparative Religion and a minor in Southeast Asian Studies. In 2009 Mrs.Walther received her Master of Science in Community Counseling, and has worked as a licensed therapist in Arizona with adolescents and their families in various settings.
Officer Sloan serves as our Campus Security Officer and began serving Scottsdale Prep and Archway Scottsdale in the 2022-23 school year.
Mrs. Avery has been a long-time parent at Scottsdale Prep, and joined the staff in 2024-25 as an Athletics Coordinator and School Social Media Specialist.
Mr. Allen-Lisbon is the Middle School Athletic Director, 6th Grade P.E. Teacher, and Girls Basketball Coach. Coach T joined Scottsdale Prep in the winter of 2018.
Duane Ediger is the Athletic Director for Scottsdale Prep; he joined the SPA faculty in the 2014-15 school year. Duane grew up in Edmonds, WA, and moved to Phoenix after graduating from college in 1986.
Mrs. Noyes joined Scottsdale Prep in 2021 as the Academy Giving Manager.
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Mrs. Shewchuk joined Scottsdale Prep’s staff in 2022-23.
Mrs. Hasic joined the Scottsdale Prep staff as an ESSA in 2024-25.
Mrs. Page began serving Scottsdale Prep as an ESSA in Fall of 2024, but previously served the school as a School Aide in 2022-23.