Tacey Clayton Cundy graduated from Bucknell University with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She went on to serve as a Teach for America corps member in Phoenix. Following her corps commitment, Mrs. Clayton Cundy remained in the classroom teaching Title I second and third graders in Phoenix and Glendale. Always eager to improve her practice, Mrs. Clayton Cundy earned her master’s degree in elementary education and reading endorsement at Arizona State University and continued her education by earning a second master’s degree in administration and supervision through a scholarship from Teach for America and the University of Phoenix. Mrs. Clayton Cundy served multiple summers on Teach for America’s summer institute staff as a literacy specialist and academic dean. Prior to co-founding CASA Academy, Mrs. Clayton Cundy was an Aspiring Leaders fellow and Charter Starter fellow through the Arizona Charter Schools Association. Outside of work, you can find Mrs. Clayton Cundy teaching Jazzercise fitness classes, hiking in National Parks, and spending time with her husband and daughters.

Liliana Villasenor graduated from Grand Canyon University with a degree in healthcare administration, after being awarded significant academic scholarships. She was a founding CASA staff member, and has served the school with dedication and leadership. As a result of her role with CASA, she was awarded further scholarships to obtain her master’s in business administration at the University of Phoenix. Mrs. Villasenor is deeply connected to CASA’s mission and is excited to continue supporting CASA’s scholars and families!

Ashley Lowry graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in social work. The following year she joined Teach for America and served as a preschool teacher in the Mesa School District. During this time, Ms. Lowry obtained a master’s degree in early childhood education from Arizona State University. Ms. Lowry was a founding kindergarten teacher at CASA Academy and is now the Director of Curriculum and Instruction. In her free time, Ashley enjoys spending time with her son and husband, going to the library, and taking walks around her neighborhood.

Alexandra Cruz graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in political science. During her time at ASU, she became passionate about education. She interned for Congress in Washington, D.C., where she was able to work on education policy directly. Ms. Cruz decided to mentor students and educate them about the importance of obtaining a college degree. After struggling to get to college herself, she wanted to use her own experience to show scholars that with hard work, dedication, and supportive educators, you can graduate from college and get where you want to be. Ms. Cruz is passionate about helping every student achieve his or her dreams. She has worked at CASA since its founding and is excited to continue working with scholars and their families to help them pursue their dreams.

Regina Villalobos was born and raised in California. She has more than 10 years of operational management experience, with a focus on staffing, operations, and human resources. The hustle and bustle of the corporate world left Ms. Villalobos longing for a more fulfilling career. This led her to Texas, where she worked with refugees, and then to CASA Academy, where she was drawn to the school’s mission.

Abigail Verdugo graduated from Northern Arizona University with a bachelor’s degree in social work and a minor in psychology. Ms. Verdugo lived in Italy for a semester abroad during college, which ignited her love for learning about other cultures. She continued expanding her understanding of other cultures and diversity through her work with unaccompanied refugees. Ms. Verdugo is passionate about empowering youth and ensuring every person gets to live a fulfilling life. She is excited to be part of the CASA Academy team to continue making a positive impact on youth. In her free time, Ms. Verdugo enjoys karaoke, walks in nature, and quality time with family.

Marina Iturrios grew up in Sinaloa, Mexico, and moved to Arizona, where she attended Phoenix College on a scholarship. She has 10 years of experience in marketing, service, and management roles. Her daughter is currently a scholar enrolled at CASA Academy. Ms. Iturrios loves going on vacation with her daughter to places like San Diego, Santa Monica, and Newport Beach.

Chelsea Stinson graduated from Anderson University with a bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education. While attending Anderson University, Mrs. Stinson had the opportunity to student-teach at a missionary school for children in Ethiopia for three months. After graduation, she was a private pre-kindergarten teacher for three years. She and her husband moved to Phoenix and she accepted a position at CASA Academy. After teaching first grade at CASA for three years, Mrs. Stinson moved into a remote role to develop curriculum and write grants for CASA. In this role, she has developed CASA’s curriculum for grades 3-5 and is currently developing CASA Academy’s middle school curriculum.