Ms. Tichio grew up in Hicksville, New York, which is on Long Island. She went to Holy Trinity High School where she was also a Titan! However, she became an Arcadia Titan nine years ago when she joined the Science Department. She teaches Oceanography/Astronomy and Honors Earth Science. In the past, she taught a Dual Enrollment Geology class.
Ms. Tichio’s Educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Science in Childhood Education with an Educational Psychology minor
• Masters of Studies in Earth Science The National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT) Southwest Section awarded Ms. Tichio the Outstanding Science Teacher Award in 2007.

The NAGT works to raise the quality of and emphasis on teaching the geosciences at all levels.

Staying active on Arcadia’s campus, Ms. Tichio has served on Site Council, is a member of the Technology Committee, and sponsors the students’ Ambassador Club. Along with Arcadia’s PTO, the Technology Committee has hosted several ‘tech’ lunches where teachers share knowledge with other teachers in order to improve and increase the use of tech-related materials in classrooms and beyond. While not teaching, you might see Ms. Tichio training for ultra-marathons (any race over 26.2 miles)!! She runs 6-7 days a week. She has completed several 50k’s, 50-milers (she won her last one), and attempted a 100-miler but broke her tailbone six weeks before the race and ended up dropping out at mile 59. This June, she will be running the San Diego 100 in hopes to redeem herself. (as if running 59 miles wasn’t a significant accomplishment in itself!) Ms. Tichio loves her students. She really enjoys getting to know them and hopefully inspiring them to do things they never would have thought of doing.

​HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT WORKING When not running, I also enjoy hiking and traveling as much as possible. DOG OR CAT PERSON? I have one of each but I prefer dogs ☺.

A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MS TICHIO: I was an adjunct at Glendale Community College and taught Physical Geology.

​Submitted Spring 2016

from ARCADIA NEWS on January 1st, 2018 by Nick Smith  see here

Arcadia News "TEACHERS WE LOVE WINNER" for February 2018: Angie Berk, Arcadia High School
Nominated by: Cathy Massimi

What was your path to becoming a teacher? 
I’m from right in the middle of Illinois and moved here in 1980. I went to Chandler High School and then to ASU, where I got my degree in Mechanical Engineering. I worked in that field for a while and then spent time raising my children. 
Engineering was never really my passion though. Science was. So, I wasn’t always happy with my job. My parents were both in education, so I was familiar with that career, and I’d spent a lot of time helping out in science classrooms when my kids were in school and I remember really liking it. I did my student teaching at Desert Mountain and taught at Chaparral for six years before coming to Arcadia. 
 
You teach both Biology and Physics. How do you balance teaching two different subjects? 
Everybody thinks it’s a weird combination, but science is science. I bring a lot of biology knowledge into physics class, and vice versa. As an example, we were learning about terminal velocity in physics and using a falcon as an example. We got to learn about how they fly from a biology standpoint, so there are fun crossovers like that.  

Are there methods of teaching that you have moved away from as you became more experienced? 
When I first started teaching, I made power points for everything, especially in physics. It was a new technology and everyone thought “look, animation”, you know? I had grown up with chalkboards, so it seemed cool to me! But I noticed that I didn’t get a ton of excitement with it from the students. 
I was taking some modeling classes at ASU and learning about that method completely changed the way I teach. The modeling curriculum is almost Socratic in the sense that a teacher stays out of it as much as possible. You ask leading questions, but let the kids discover things. 
I think science should be hands on! If I could do labs every single day, I would do it. Now obviously that’s not always possible, but I’ll always try to look at my schedule and make sure that we do labs several days each week. So instead of saying, here’s the equations, we do a lab where the students collect data, make graphs, and come up with the equations on their own. I like everything to be as hands on as possible.  

​What do you enjoy about teaching at Arcadia High School? 
I love that Arcadia has such a community feel about it. I talk to kids whose parents, and sometimes even grandparents, went to the school. That’s rare enough, but especially in Phoenix! The kids are proud of being here, you can feel that excited vibe when you go to assemblies and games. It’s a great place to teach! ​

New to the Arcadia administration staff, Ms. Palatucci joined Arcadia’s Assistant Principal team over the summer.  When you visit her office, be prepared for a positive reception from a person who is clearly passionate about her job and about Arcadia’s students.  As Assistant Principal, she is responsible for student services, graduation, testing, student government, code of conduct, dress code, and serving as an instructional leader for teachers.

Although this is her first year at Arcadia, she has many years of experience in a variety of educational capacities, providing her with a unique perspective.  For the past 12 years, Ms. Palatucci worked in the field of special education.  She first began as a paraeducator at the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children in 2005.  She then became a Behavior Specialist at the same school in 2009.  In 2011, she moved to Arizona and taught Special Education at Chaparral High School.  She became the Department Chair of Special Education at Chaparral in 2013.  Her education includes:

• Bachelor’s Degree- K-12 Special Education; Carlow University in Pittsburgh
• Bachelor’s Degree- Elementary Education; Carlow University in Pittsburgh
• Master of Education- Educational Leadership with Principalship Certi; GCU
• Certified trainer for the Crisis Prevention Institute since 2009

Arcadia’s teachers describe Ms. Palatucci as easy-going while exceeding expectations.  She is decisive, not afraid to answer tough questions, ready to help when needed, and is committed to building positive relationships among the entire Arcadia community.  She obviously has what is best for the kids at the center of her decision-making.  

Ms. Palatucci grew up in Pittsburgh, PA.  Her favorite class as a student at Brentwood High School was English because she always loved to read.  She came to Phoenix just as a tourist, and decided to move here.  She has a large extended family, including a little brother, and although her entire family lives in Pittsburgh, they are still close-knit.  She visits home a couple times of year.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT WORKING AT ARCADIA:
I love having the opportunity to help people the skills to be successful in life and helping students realize and reach their potential.    I also love the diversity of the students at Arcadia and getting to know all the students as individuals.  

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT WORKING
I love to travel, read, watch movies, swim, and play with my dog    

WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD?
Every day I find new things to be proud of!    

DOG OR CAT?
Dog!  I have a very old Miniature Pincher named Ricco.  

A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MS PALATUCCI
I lived and taught Special Education in Ireland for 3 months

Name: Jennifer Dukelow

​Why you chose to work in the district: I graduated from Arcadia in 2001, and I loved it so much that I knew there was no other place I wanted to teach. I told the principal on my way across the stage at graduation that I would come back in four years for a job, and I did!

What I like most about what I do: By far, my favorite part of teaching is working with the kids. My students are like my children, and getting to know them as people and learners is so rewarding. Helping a student experience success in a math class, sometimes for the first time, and grow their self-confidence in math is a wonderful experience.

Where did you come from: I was born and raised in Phoenix.

If I had picked a different occupation, it might have been: A chef or photographer…but truly I can’t imagine doing anything other than teaching. I look forward to my job every day!

What I’m looking forward to the most this school year: Getting to know a new group of math students and helping them love math almost as much as I do!

My vision for the school: Arcadia is my home. I have spent 4 years here as a student, 1 as a student teacher, and 13 as a teacher. My vision for the school is that it will be/will continue to be a place where students are accepted and feel safe and welcome and where students enjoy coming to school and are successful in learning and growing as people.

My interests and hobbies: I have a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old, so most of my free time is spent reading kids’ books, playing tag or hide-and-go-seek, chasing “monsters,” and coloring. However, I also really enjoy reading, painting, photography, and cooking.

The best and/or worst time in my life: I would have to say that the best time of my life is NOW! I have a job that I love every day and is fulfilling and rewarding, and I have two amazing kids that are adorable, challenging, and hilarious. Every day is an adventure.

The trait(s) I admire in others: There are many traits I admire in others, but a few are courage, honesty, kindness, and humility.

People who inspired me (and how): I had an amazing group of teachers when I was a student at Arcadia, and they all inspired me in many ways. I still think about them daily and how grateful I am to them for bringing me to this place in my life that makes me so happy. In particular, Barbara Thomas, who was my math teacher at Arcadia, is the reason I became a high school math teacher. She made me love math, and she was a wonderful mentor when I started my teaching career at Arcadia.

My guiding philosophy: All students deserve the chance to be successful and a teacher who truly cares about them.

My advice to today’s youth: Work your hardest and know that your teachers care about you. We want to help you, so you just have to ask.

One thing I want students to know about me: I love math and I love you!

One thing I want parents to know about me: I am very likely to turn your kids into math nerds!

Printed in the Scottsdale Independent Newspaper on November 15th, 2017
http://www.scottsdaleindependent.com/news/in-the-classroom-arcadia-high-schools-jennifer-dukelow/

Everyone on campus knows and loves Mrs. Eshelman!... and that’s because she knows and loves everyone.  Everyone!  As Arcadia’s Lead Secruty Officer, her number one priority is the students and their safety.  She has worked for SUSD 32 years, serving the past 20 at Arcadia High School.  Her education background includes:

• BS in Criminal Justice with a minor in Chemistry

When asked to describe Mrs. Eshelman, students, peers, parents, and teachers responded:  icon, efficient, reliable, always available, gregarious, loyal, knowledgeable, best friend, trustworthy, funny, loving, and “mom”.

Mrs. Eshelman has two brothers.  She grew up in Chicago and moved to Arizona in 1971 to attend ASU.  She met her husband, _____ and a graduate of Coronado H.S., while attending ASU.

It is clear Mrs. Eshelman loves her job and truly cares about all of “her” students!  She makes it a point to meet and learn about every student on campus.  Not only does she know all of them, but ALL students know her!  She probably attends more activities and Arcadia events than any other staff member: every on-campus sporting event, art show, play, dance, musical performance, and special events like Hopi’s Variety Show, robotics competitions, alumni tours, Lacrosse games and more.  She cares about the kids’ well-being, reminding them to make smart choices, and to always be respectful regardless of who the person is.  

FAVORITE THING ABOUT WORKING AT ARCADIA:
Working with the students.  I love being “mom” to students on campus, in fact a lot of students call me mom.   Give me five year olds vs. 1800 high schoolers and I will choose the high schoolers every time!  ☺

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT WORKING
Playing with my grandson who is 16 months old  

DOG OR CAT?
Dog!  I’m not home enough right now, but I will get another one when I retire.  My sweet dog of 17 ½ years, Blue, passed away last Thanksgiving.  

A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR FAMILY
I have two daughters who attended Hopi, IMS, and Arcadia.  They still live in AZ.

WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD?
The way I deal with people- with respect.  I believe:  1.  Nobody is any better than another… we all put our pants on one leg at a time.  2.  I like to kill people with kindness:  you can’t make someone like you, just be kind.  3.  Walk away before there’s an issue.

A RANDOM FACT ABOUT YOURSELF OR ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE
Everybody knows everything about me!  Oh, maybe:  I use to own a Continental Basketball Association Team, Rockford Lightning.   

Submitted by Amanda McCauley Spring 2017

For the past seven years, Mr. Stevens has served as an administrator in the Madison School District. He is currently the principal of Madison Park Middle School and prior to that was the assistant principal at Madison Meadows. During this time, he has focused on instructional leadership, data driven decision making, and developing systems that have allowed students and staff alike to learn and grow to their full potential. Mr. Stevens has also taught high school math and social studies in the Valley. Mr. Stevens earned his bachelor’s degree from Northern Arizona University and his master’s degree from Jones International University.

If you talk about an Arcadia teacher with a lot of energy… you are probably talking about Mrs. Brodison!  This year she is teaching Government, Econ, AP Psychology, and AVID.  In addition, she has been teaching a Macro Econ class at Rio Salado College since 2008.  She has 17 years of teaching experience, with the last three at Arcadia.   Her education includes:

• BA History California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA
• Teaching Certification (Social Studies), Cal State Fullerton, Fullerton, CA
• MA Ed. Educational Counseling, University of Phoenix

Mrs. Brodison is continually expanding her knowledge.  For example, last summer, she completed training for AP Psychology and AVID.  In addition, in October 2016, she attended the National Conference for Econ Teachers.  She also works closely with the Az Council of Economic Educators and is an active member of TOPSS (Teachers of Psychology in Secondary Schools) which is
the voice of high school psychology teachers within the American Psychological Association.

Mrs. Brodison truly enjoys teaching at Arcadia.  When asked, she was happy to describe her AP Psychology class.  She explained:  “It is a year-long college level Psychology class through which students can earn college credit if they do well on the AP Exam in May.”  She says teenagers can really relate to the curriculum.  “They are going through so many changes, and the class gives them a better understanding of themselves, siblings, and friends.”  

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TEACHING:
Being with the students, helping them along the way. Instilling an interest in government and economics, discussing current events and controversial issues.

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT WORKING
I love dancing, going to the gym, sewing, boating, camping, fishing, and more.

DOG OR CAT?
Both! I especially love my two Pugs, Tonka Truck and Mac Truck. (They have been on ANN!)

A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR FAMILY
In AZ, it is just me, my husband and our Pugs.  However, my two sisters, brother-in-law, nephew, and my mom live in California.

WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD?
My education, my home, my family and being a teacher!

Submitted by Amanda McCauley Spring 2017

Mrs. Bunker is a friendly and approachable teacher who welcomes students into her room at lunchtime, just to hang out or rest.  Although this is her first year at Arcadia, she has several years of experience under her belt.  Prior to teaching at Arcadia, Mrs. Bunker taught for five years at St. Mary’s.  She taught Algebra I and II, Trig, and College Algebra.  Her education includes:

• Undergrad Secondary Education-Mathematics ASU; Summa Cum Laude
• Master in Higher & Post-Secondary Education ASU; Summa Cum Laude    

In addition to her teaching credentials, Mrs. Bunker posseses extensive experience in coaching volleyball.  After coaching St. Mary’s volleyball team for five years, she coached at ASU (indoor as well as beach) for three years.  When she and her husband had a baby, she decided to return to the classroom, teaching math.  What a major coup for Arcadia!... a much needed math teacher AND a Varsity Volleyball Coach!  This year, Arcadia’s team had the best year in the past four years. They went to state and ended up in the top eight! She said she is impressed with this group of girls because they are committed to the team:  accepting roles for the good of the team rather than individual goals.

It’s clear Mrs. Bunker believes there is a lot of cross-over between teaching and coaching.  To excel, students (and athletes) need to have a growth mind-set:  if you work hard enough, you can learn how to do something that’s challenging. She also explains that students can do well in school when they know their teacher genuinely cares about them, regardless of the performance on a particular assignment; when teachers have the same empathy and care whether the student is an A student or a struggling student.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TEACHING
Meeting all the wonderful students and staff. I love the community aspect of Arcadia.

DOG OR CAT PERSON?
dog

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT WORKING
Coach volleyball and spend time with my family

A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR FAMILY
My husband, Mark, coaches the Men's Basketball team at Scottsdale Community College.  We have a new baby girl named Claire and we also have two Dobermans, Kobe and Hera.

​A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MRS. BUNKER:
I'm allergic to gluten
Submitted by Amanda McCauley Spring 2017

Passion.  If you engage in a conversation with Mrs. Mayorga about education, you will discover she possesses exceptional passion for teaching!   She has been teaching high school English for 13 years, all at Arcadia.  Currently, she teaches AP Language and AP Literature. Her educational background includes:

• BA English-  University of Wisconsin Green Bay
• Masters in Humanities-  ASU
• Masters of Education degree- ASU
• ESL Certification-  ASU
• Reading Specialist
• National Board Certified-  2012

 
For the last six years, Mrs. Mayorga has served as the English Department Chair.  She is honored to have the opportunity to be a middleman, sharing classroom teachers’ insights with decision makers at district-level discussions and likewise, bringing accurate and topical information back to her co-workers. 
 
In 2014, Mrs. Mayorga was recognized by the Scottsdale Charros.  She was selected as a High School Outstanding Teacher of the Year and she was also awarded a Master’s in Education Fellowship!
 
Mrs. Mayorga is very committed to Arcadia and its students.  She has served on the Site Improvement Team for 12 years, and for the past six years, she has been an advisor for Arcadia’s National Honor Society.  She describes NHS as an outstanding group of students who do amazing things for the Arcadia community.  NHS is driven by students who make a wonderful difference in other people’s lives.
 
Mrs. Mayorga’s large German family grew up on a 250 acre farm in Caledonia, Minnesota.  As kids, she and her five siblings would run out and play in the fields and the woods all day long... until her parents would call them in for meals.  That was her playground! 
 
HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT TEACHING
Travel! Our family will purposefully take road trips which allow spontaneity- like when we figured out we were on the Forest Gump Road in Utah and we jumped out to take pictures. J
 
WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD:
Being mom of three great kids (my daughter is a senior at Arcadia and I have two children at Hopi).  I’m also proud to be a public school teacher- I feel public school teachers are held to a higher standard.  I think we are accomplishing great things despite our challenges.
 
A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MRS. MAYORGA:
The first time I went to France, I accidentally ended up at François Mitterrand’s funeral.  I was photographed at the funeral by their press and ended up in France’s version of USA Today.  *My 15 seconds of fame. 
 
Submitted by Amanda McCauley Spring 2017

​Welcome to Arcadia High School, Mrs. Metzler! Mrs. Metzler joined Arcadia’s staff in December as the College and Career Coordinator. She is off and running with scheduling college visits on Arcadia’s campus and helping students in all things college and career: college applications, test preparation, finding scholarships, preparing for “life beyond high school”, and more. 

​Mrs. Metzler’s Educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Arts degree in American Studies
  

Mrs. Metzler gained valuable experience while working as an academic mentor to student athletes at a previous job at ASU. In addition, she has worked in the staffing industry at multiple companies where she assisted people in finding jobs. Mrs. Metzler went to high school in Illinois but moved to New England during senior year and graduated a semester early. After going to college and living in Maine, Massachusetts and Florida, she moved to Phoenix in 2014.

​When asked what she is proud of, she emphatically answered “My family”. She has three kids and has been a very active mom: volunteering as a Brownie and Girl Scout Leader, on the PTO Board for four years at her kids’ elementary school, and is currently on the PTO Executive Board as Secretary at Desert Mountain High School. Her oldest daughter is a junior, making the opportunity to learn about, navigate, and share her College and Career knowledge with him even more significant.

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT WORKING Spending time with my family, photography (but I delete most of my pictures), and researching my family’s genealogy. One of the most interesting nuggets I have discovered is that one of my ancestors came over on the Mayflower and my husband has two ancestors who came over on the Mayflower.

DOG OR CAT PERSON? Both! My cat thinks she is a dog (she comes when I call her name) and my Beagle acts like a cat (doesn’t come when called).

A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MRS. METZLER: I was a Girl Scout. In fact, when little, I was in a Girl Scout Anniversary commercial. I was the Brownie who got to blow out the candles. Submitted Winter 2016

Ms. Tomlinson is an energetic and dynamic English teacher at Arcadia.  For the past two years, she taught English III and IV, and this year added English I.   She says teaching freshmen is very different, but a lot of fun!  When asked what she enjoys most about teaching, she replied, “The students, and also the fact that teaching offers something new every day.  Although you might teach the same material, it is always different because of the different conversations with each class.”

Ms. Tomlinson’s entire family graduated from SUSD schools!  Her mom went to Saguaro, her dad Scottsdale High School (which closed in 1983), and she and her siblings attended Chaparral.  Kelsey even did her student teaching at Saguaro High School!  Her education includes:

• BA English Literature, ASU
• Masters Secondary Education, ASU (graduated Suma Cum Laude)

In addition to teaching English at Arcadia, Ms. Tomlinson is the Varsity Pom Coach at Chaparral High School.  She began dancing at 2yrs old, and was able to put her many years of experience to work in high school-  she was the first freshman to ever make the Varsity Pom Line at Chaparral.  She was on Pom all four years and is proud to share that they won State her Senior year!  It was the first year Pom was recognized as an official AIA sport.  Ms. Tomlinson does not dance any more, however, she teaches dance professionally all over the country.  During the past two summers, she even traveled to Scottland to dance!

At Arcadia, Ms. Tomlinson is part of Site Council and the Attendance Committee.  In addition, at October’s teacher in-service, she was a lead for one of the breakout sessions where she shared Socratic teaching techniques.  

WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD?
My family.  They all still live close by.  My grandparents too!

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT WORKING
I like to read, run, and I am learning to cook.

DOG OR CAT PERSON?
Dog

A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MS TOMLINSON:
I was born in Hawaii.

Submitted Fall 2016

​

Definitely a ray of sunshine on campus, Mr. Huffman is always ready to help, answer a question, or share a smile.  He has 19 years of teaching experience, with 16 of those years spent at Arcadia.  For the past 3 years, Mr. Huffman has worked as Arcadia’s librarian.  People might argue that he is one of Arcadia’s most erudite staff members, especially after learning that he has taught English I-IV, World History, AP US History, and Earth Science!  No wonder he knows so much!!!  

Mr. Huffman grew up in Scottsdale and graduated from Coronado High School.  He earned his undergrad degree at the University of California Santa Barbara and then moved back to Arizona.  His educational background includes:

• Bachelor’s Degrees in English and History, UCSB
• Post Bac Education Certificate ASU
• Master’s in Educational Technology NAU

Teachers frequently bring their classes into the library for Mr. Huffman to teach a lesson on topics such as how to use the library or how to research more efficiently.   In addition, Mr. Huffman serves on the Technology Committee and helps run Arcadia’s SWAT team (Students Working Actively with Technology) that helps teachers troubleshoot and solve common technology problems.   He loves working with high school-aged students, sharing that “They make me laugh on a daily basis.”

A close knit group, Mr. Huffman spends all of the time he can with his wife and two kids. His ten year old daughter loves softball and volleyball, while his seven year old son loves swimming, soccer, and baseball. All of them are avid readers!

WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD?
My children. While aggravating, at times, they are growing up and questioning everything around them. I love that. They won't be able to fix the planet by doing everything we tell them to do, they will have to think for themselves.

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT WORKING
I love coaching my kids, photography, carpentry, and reading.

DOG OR CAT PERSON?
Both! I have two cats and a Labrador puppy. I grew up with German Shepherds, though. Growing up, the rest of my family was allergic to cats, so they came later.

A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MR HUFFMAN:
I love books. I would build my entire house out of them, if I could! Both of my children have very full bookshelves in their rooms. Most of our disposable income goes to books.
Submitted Fall 2016

​

​A native of Arizona, Mrs. Assali grew up in Scottsdale and graduated from Coronado High School. She earned her teaching degree at ASU and has been teaching in the Social Studies Department at Arcadia for the past nine years. She currently teaches World History and World History Honors, however, she has also taught American History Honors and AP US History. 

Mrs. Assali’s Educational background includes:

• Bachelors in Secondary Education, History
  
• Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Arizona State University
  
• AP US History Certified and AVID trained

Teaching is in Mrs. Assali’s blood: her mom taught at Tavan for over 20 years and her sister taught in SUSD for seven years.

When it comes to utilizing technology in the classroom, Mrs. Assali is as enthusiastic as they come! She has attended multiple Google and tech conferences to learn about integrating 21st century standards for technology into her curriculum. Not only does she have students use chrome books and web-based products in her own classroom, she shares what she’s learned with other teachers.

​Mrs. Assali and her husband love teaching, traveling, and doing their best to inspire students to become good people. They share their experiences from around the world with their students and encourage them to travel as well.

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT TEACHING Traveling is my ultimate passion. I love experiencing new countries and cultures all over the world. I also enjoy going out to eat!

PROUD OF: I am proud of the fact that my husband and I have stuck to our passions and put our heart and soul into teaching students and bettering the lives of teachers. It is not always easy, but we understand the importance of dedicated teachers and that our students will shape our futures! I am also proud to be part of the Arcadia community. This school, my colleagues, the students, and the parents have all been absolutely amazing! I am so happy to be a Titan!

DOG OR CAT PERSON? I don’t have either L. We travel a lot so it is difficult to have a pet.

A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MRS ASSALI: I have been to 17 countries throughout the world. Submitted Fall 2015

​Mrs. Kim has a great sense of humor, but takes her job as Guidance Counselor very seriously. She has been a Guidance Counselor at Arcadia for eight years! Prior to joining Arcadia’s staff, she taught ESL at Coronado High School, Navajo Elementary School, and Tonalea Elementary School for a total of eight years. She also worked two years as a Guidance Counselor at Coronado High School.

In addition to being a teacher and counselor, Mrs. Kim has been very busy on campus. She served on Arcadia’s Climate Committee and has been Arcadia’s Spirit-line Sponsor for seven years. While at Coronado, she was the JV Cheer Coach as well as the sponsor for the Unitown Club and the Doncers, a Mexican Folklorico dance group. She was recognized for her passion for teaching when she was awarded Outstanding First Year Teacher at Coronado.

​When working with students, Mrs. Kim not only draws from her education and work experience, but also from her own experience as a high school exchange student in Denmark, a semester of college in Denmark, and a year in Brazil where she taught English. 

Mrs. Kim’s Educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts
• Secondary Teaching Certification in Speech & English as Second Language
• MA in Bilingual/ Multicultural Education
• ESL Endorsement
• Guidance Counseling Certification

Mrs. Kim was born in New York and when eight years old, moved to Arizona. She and her husband, Rick Dwyer, both graduated from Arcadia high school, but they did not know each other while at Arcadia. Mr. Dwyer, Arcadia’s school psychologist, graduated in 1986. They have three children: Mia, an 8th grader at Ingleside; Jackson, a 6th grader at Ingleside; and Tessa, a 2nd grader at Kiva. They also have two dogs: Kenzie & Milo (Milo is a Bodznick dog!)

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT TEACHING I love to be crafty, spend time with my family and friends and be alone (doesn’t happen too often)

WHAT ARE YOU PROUD OF? I am proud of my career and my family.

A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MRS. KIM: I’ve lived in Korea (I’m half Korean), Denmark, and Brazil. I learned all three languages, but the only foreign language I can speak decently now is Spanish. LOL!

​Submitted Fall 2015

​One of the nicest and most helpful persons you’ll find on Arcadia’s campus is Mrs. Thomas. She manages the bookstore, but you’ll also find her smiling, taking tickets and checking ID’s at many of the sports games.

Mrs. Thomas has been working in SUSD for over 20 years! Many students remember her from her days in the library at Hopi Elementary. This year is her 10th year working at Arcadia.

An Arcadia neighborhood native, Mrs. Thomas went to Tavan Elementary when it was a K-8 school. J Therefore, she never attended Ingleside, but went straight to Arcadia for high school. And it was in French class during Freshman year at Arcadia, that she and her husband met. Their first date was to Prom, Junior year. If you have ever attended an Arcadia football or basketball game, you have probably heard Mr. Thomas’ distinctive radio voice- Arcadia is lucky to have him as our announcer! After graduating from Arcadia, Mrs. Thomas took classes at SCC and then attended ASU. She and her husband have three children who also graduated from Arcadia. Two still live in the neighborhood and one in Oregon. Mrs. Thomas’ favorite things about working at Arcadia are the kids. She has enjoyed getting to know the students through the years and has loved watching them grow. In fact, this year’s sophomore class was in kindergarten when she left Hopi to come work at Arcadia.

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT WORKING I love spending time with my grandchildren and traveling!

WHAT ARE YOU PROUD OF? My family.

DOG OR CAT PERSON? Cat. I have one of Bodznick’s cats! (I also feed the strays in my neighborhood)

​A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MRS. THOMAS: I was in a series of commercials for the Gap!

Submitted Fall 2015

​Welcome to Arcadia, Ms. Munn! This is Ms. Munn’s first year teaching full-time at Arcadia. She teaches Biology I and Zoology/Botany. Actually, many students were fortunate to meet Ms. Munn last year when she was student teaching for Mrs. Christensen. In fact, two years ago, Ms. Munn spent two semesters as a student intern at Arcadia, enabling her to get to know the Arcadia staff (and the staff to get to know her). She shared: “After interning here and doing my student teaching, I felt very comfortable with the science staff and the administration at this school, so I fought really hard to work here. I just got extremely lucky last year when a science teacher left and a spot opened up for me. “ 

Ms. Munn’s Educational background includes

• Bachelor in Secondary Education degree with a concentration in Biology from Arizona State University
  
• Highly Qualified to teach
  

​Ms. Munn explained that Biology is the study of life and therefore students learn everything from the smallest cell and DNA to evolution and ecology. Just like in Zoology, Biology classes are very lab-based, and the students do a lot of handson activities. Ms. Munn’s students benefit from her high energy level and her love of putting together fun labs for them to complete. “The labs provide opportunities where students gain a deeper understanding of the true science behind the activities. Then it’s easier for them to make connections to the real world, which is happening around them every day.“ A native of Arizona, Ms. Munn has lived here her entire life to date. She is the oldest of three kids and graduated from Pinnacle High School.

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT WORKING I love outdoor activities including camping, snowboarding, and traveling!

DOG OR CAT PERSON? Dog. I have a Beagle.

​A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MS. MUNN: I love food. (When asked to name her favorite food, she answered: “Oh gosh, this is a hard question! I love all food, I love trying new things, so I don’t really think I have a true favorite!”) Submitted Fall 2015

Arcadia is incredibly fortunate to have such a strong and inspirational teacher like Mrs. Patterson in the Math Department! This year, she is teaching Geometry Trig Honors, Algebra Seminar, and AVID, but she has also taught Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry during her 16 years at Arcadia.

Mrs. Patterson’s Educational background includes

• Bachelor of Science degree in Math
• Master of Education in Secondary Math
• Certified as Secondary Math Teacher

In 2004, Mrs. Patterson was recognized by the Scottsdale Charros as an Outstanding Teacher in the Scottsdale School District! When asked to describe her favorite thing about teaching, she had many answers. Helping students become problem solvers and seeing them grow through the year was at the top of the list. She also thoroughly enjoys learning about new technologies and social networks for education!

Mrs. Patterson is active on Arcadia’s campus and beyond. She sponsors student-led clubs on campus, like the Arcadia Green Club which focuses on recycling. She serves on the School Improvement Team and is the Treasurer for the Scottsdale Education Association. Over the past several years, she has become more politically aware, prompting her to become active on behalf of public education in Arizona. She hopes to encourage teachers, parents, and community members to vote for people who support teachers.

​Married for 16 years, she and her husband enjoy spending time with their two daughters.

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT WORKING Tennis, enjoying Phoenix, taking the pop-up camper camping, reading outdoors. Her favorite place to camp is Carpinteria State Beach.

DOG OR CAT PERSON? “Dog!!! We have a rescue named Simon.”

A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MRS. PATTERSON: I have been a vegetarian for seven years. I love Italian, Mexican, Indian, and Thai food! Submitted Fall 2015

​Mr. Bodznick has always enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others and helping students find the fun in science. He has been helping Arcadia students find the fun in science for 18 years! He does this not only through traditional classroom teaching, but also through sharing his passion for animals as well as supporting students’ interests on campus. He sponsors the Health Occupation Students of America Club, the National Technical Honor Society, the Animal Welfare Club, and the Outdoor Adventure Club. He is also a co-sponsor of the new Garden Club. And many years ago he founded the original Robotic’s Club which built 14-foot, self-manned, solar-powered boats for competition.

Mr. Bodznick’s Educational background includes:

• Undergrad: Marketing, Management, and Biological Sciences
• Post-bac degree in Secondary Education
• Masters in Education
• Associate Professor at Phoenix College teaching Bio 181 for Majors

​Currently, Mr. Bodznick teaches Honors Biology, Biotechnology I, and Biotechnology II. In past years, he has also taught Earth Science and AP Bio. It’s not a surprise that he has been acknowledged for outstanding teaching several times over the years: 2003 Az Science Teachers Association High School Science Teacher of the Year; 2002 Charro’s Teacher of the Year; and 2013 SUSD Foundation Quest for the Best recipient!

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT TEACHING I’m an avid hiker and field enthusiast. Most of my “free time” is spent with my animals.

PROUD OF: I’m proud of the impact I’ve had on the lives of my students.

DOG OR CAT PERSON? I am an “animal” person. I have one dog, six cats, five Sonoran Desert tortoises, two domestic rabbits, 12 chickens (11 hens & 1 happy rooster), five ball pythons, a king snake, a corn snake, a green iguana, a leopard gecko, two tarantulas, three female black widows, several species of frogs and toads including spade foot toads, leopard frogs, Sonoran Desert toads, Great Plains toads, Woodhouse’s toads, barking frogs, Northern Chorus frogs, Northern Wood frogs, and a bull frog as well as 250 gallons of tropical fish and two Az Tiger salamanders.

A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MR BODZNICK: Every summer, I take a group of students on a ten-day canoe adventure to the Canadian/ USA Boundary waters. Submitted Fall 2015​

​Mr. Wisniewski currently teaches American/AZ History at Arcadia. He has also taught US history, World History, and US Government. He’s been a part of Arcadia’s Social Studies team for seven years, but he has eleven years of teaching experience overall. Mr. Wisniewski’s

Educational background includes

• Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science and History, University of Illinois 

In 2014, Mr. Wisniewski was awarded the Outstanding Teacher of American History Award by the Grand Canyon Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The DAR is an organization dedicated to promoting historic preservation, education and patriotism.

During his Senior year in high school, Beirut was bombed and this prompted Mr. Wisniewski to join the United States Marines. Because of the Marines, Mr. Wisniewski has travelled extensively, providing him with a rich understanding of the world which he shares with his students. The French side of Mr. Wisniewski’s family came to America in 1790 to escape the French Revolution. Both of his parents were teachers, so it was natural for him to pursue a teaching career after serving in the Marines. He thoroughly enjoys teaching social studies and when asked to describe his favorite thing about teaching, he answered, “The look in students’ eyes when they finally understand.”

​HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT WORKING Hiking, camping, biking, and reading

DOG OR CAT PERSON? Cat, but I like dogs too.

​A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MR. WISNIEWSKI: My family has a long history of military service. For example, my great grandfather was a Commander of the Guard for the Czar, Nicholas II. Submitted Fall 2015

Mr. Gabriele’s Educational background includes:

• Master's degree in Bilingual/Multicultural Education from California State University, Dominguez Hills
• Master's degree in Spanish Language and Culture from the University of Salamanca, Spain
• AP Spanish Certified
• 10 yrs teaching Spanish at SCC; currently an adjunct faculty at SCC

​He grew up in Rhode Island, and he loves to travel. He also loves sports. Before coming to Arcadia, he taught Spanish at Supai Middle School. While there, he was the boys’ basketball Coach for three years. Prior to that, he coached girls’ basketball at the North Scottsdale YMCA for four years.

​Each year, Mr. Gabriele looks forward to helping students learn and appreciate the Spanish language and its different cultures. When asked to describe his favorite thing about teaching, he answered, “making connections and developing strong relationships with students”. He sponsors a student ping pong club, and last year he taught a weekly Spanish night class to adults from the neighborhood.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT TEACHING?
​Traveling, chess, art, music, and all kinds of sports.

DOG OR CAT PERSON?
Dog

WHAT ARE YOU PROUD OF?
I am proud of my daughter who is a sophomore at NAU. I am also proud of my students here at Arcadia.

A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MR. GABRIELE
I can juggle and am ambidextrous in ping pong and pool. Submitted Fall 2015