About US

OUR MISSION

We are a team committed to excellence.

In a safe learning community rich in the arts, sciences, and languages, we are dedicated to developing nobility of character, cultivating academic success, honoring diversity, and promoting physical and environmental responsibility.

MEET OUR TEAM

The well-known phrase, “It takes a village to raise a child,” reflects ACCLAIM’s approach to the school environment. We believe that it takes a whole school team to educate a child. Everyone here strives to provide a safe, nurturing environment where students can thrive and achieve their best, both academically and socially.

Our teachers have experience levels from just entering the field to over 30 years as educators. We have team members from three continents, eight countries and various parts of the U.S. This adds to the rich educational experience students receive at ACCLAIM.

Take a look at who we are!

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Melanie Powers

Executive Director

After graduating from ASU with a major in education and minors in Spanish and music, I taught in bilingual programs in Guadalupe and Tolleson. I received my Masters in Bilingual/Bicultural Education from NAU and started ACCLAIM Academy in 1997.
Creating a culture of character with a richly diverse staff and engaging curriculum makes ACCLAIM a great place to come to every day.
Now in our 30th year, I consider it an honor to serve the students, parents and staff of ACCLAIM Academy.

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Edward MacDonald

Associate Director

Entering my 40th year in education, 33 as an Administrator, I am honored to be a part of the team at ACCLAIM Academy. I came to ACCLAIM in 2021 and instantly knew that I had found a “hidden gem”. Blending academic excellence with a central emphasis on building character through the Virtues Project makes ACCLAIM a unique and special culture for students and staff. Combining this with my belief that good choices and clear expectations are the foundations of success, I see a school where we all have the tools to make the world a better place…Together!

Michael Acosta

6th-8th Grade Teacher – Math

At any early age math was my favorite subject. I would try to calculate answers to problems in my head, and I wanted to be the fastest in the class. During high school, my math teachers made math fun, and I felt I could do the same for students.

I decided to focus on a career in education and graduated with a degree in mathematics from the University of Texas at El Paso. I moved to Arizona in 2019 and joined the ACCLAIM staff in 2021.

Jody Gristwood

8th Grade Teacher – ELA, Reading, Writing

Originally from Upstate New York, I moved to Arizona in 2018. When not enjoying the outdoors, you’ll usually find me lost in a good book!

I joined ACCLAIM in 2021 – starting in the library, moving to 7th grade ELA, and now teaching 8th grade ELA. It’s been an incredible journey sharing my love for reading and writing. Strong readers make strong thinkers – and strong thinkers change the world.

Yinka Teibo

6th-8th Grade Teacher – Science

Greetings! I go by the name Mr. Teibo, although many students refer to me as Mr. Tee. Equipped with a Bachelor’s degree in Botany/Microbiology and an MBA in General Management, I have dedicated over two decades to teaching science in both high school and middle school settings.

My passion for guiding students towards greatness remains unwavering, firmly believing in their ability to achieve success. As an educator, my role is to serve as their guiding light on the path to excellence.

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Alyrra Espineli

7th Grade Teacher – ELA, Reading, Writing

Blending creativity with curriculum to ignite a passion for learning has been my approach as a classroom teacher. I believe in turning challenges into opportunities for growth and exploration, and transforming lessons into interactive experiences.

I’m excited to guide students on their educational journey in a classroom where curiosity is always encouraged and we explore, learn, and grow together!

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Carmelo Repollo

6th-8th Teacher – Social Studies

Hello! Hailing from Cebu, Philippines, I have ten years of experience educating students from Grades 1-9. I hold a Bachelor of Arts with minors in Social Science, Mathematics, and Humanities.

I strive to create an inclusive and engaging learning environment and am committed to helping my students reach their full potential. I am thrilled to join ACCLAIM Academy and look forward to a wonderful year ahead.

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Vanessa LaCoursier

6th Grade Teacher – ELA, Reading, Writing

Born and raised in Los Angeles, I graduated from Grand Canyon University with a B.A. in Christian Studies. I then founded a Children’s/Family Ministry, and worked in a Montessori School.

I came to know ACCLAIM Academy during a year-long fellowship program for future teachers and knew immediately it was special. With the Virtues curriculum and everyone’s dedication to excellence, I am honored to be a part of this school!

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Santana Lopez

5th – Math, Science, Social Studies

I was born and raised in the beautiful state of Chihuahua, Mexico. Residing in Arizona for the past 30 years, I received a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from ASU West.

I have 20+ years in the teaching profession and joined the ACCLAIM Team in 2005. As a teacher, I stand for organization and cleanliness along with routines and habits that will help my students master skills for life.

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Jeremiah Mangilit

4th/5th – ELA, Reading, Writing

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 2019 at Polytechnic University of the Philippines and have been passionate about teaching ever since. Before joining ACCLAIM Academy, I was a fellow with the Arizona STEM Acceleration Project.

I love how ACCLAIM combines academic excellence with character development and fosters a love of reading. I look forward to creating a positive learning environment for every student.

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Audrey Mathias

4th Grade Teacher

Hailing from India, I have been at ACCLAIM for over 5 years. With a Bachelor of Education and a Master of English Literature, I have a true passion for working with our young learners!

Helping each child progress in all areas of their development,  I strive to create a community of learners that nurtures growth in a positive, fun, and safe environment. I look forward to working together with you as partners in your child’s growth and development.

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Jessica Bustos

3rd Grade Teacher

Originally from Nogales, Sonora, I came to the US in high school and graduated from ASU in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. I have been a part of the amazing ACCLAIM team since 2012, coming to work every day with a mission to instill the love for learning in my students.

“Don’t be afraid. Be focused. Be determined. Be hopeful. Be empowered.” Michelle Obama

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Romina Guevarra

2nd/3rd Grade

Hello! Originally from the Philippines, I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. I first came to ACCLAIM Academy in 2019 and taught 1st through 5th grades. I returned to the Philippines for two years and got a Master’s degree in Special Education. Now I am excited to begin another year here.

My goal is to help students grow, build confidence, and enjoy learning every day in a caring and supportive classroom.

Kyomara Gomez

2nd Grade Teacher

Born and raised on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, I earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary English and a master’s in Instructional Design with E Learning.

Teaching since 2002, I moved to the States in 2020 to teach at ACCLAIM Academy. As a teacher I love to create materials for my students and always make sure the learning experience is fun and exciting.

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Megha Kalia

1st Grade Teacher

I am a first grade teacher at ACCLAIM, where every day brings the joy of watching young learners grow and believe in themselves. Originally from India, I bring over 18 years of teaching experience and hold a Bachelor of Arts in Education.

Being part of ACCLAIM Academy since 2018, I enjoy the school community built on excellence and commitment to student success. Our classroom engages in hands-on activities, exciting projects and interactive games making education a source of delight.

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Cinthya Piceno

Kindergarten Teacher

I am proud to be part of ACCLAIM Academy since 2014. I received a Bachelor of Arts in Education from ASU.

I have a true passion for working with our youngest learners! Helping each child progress in all areas of their development academic, social, language, and motor is a challenge that I am honored to accept daily. I strive to create a community of learners that nurtures this growth in a positive, fun environment.

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April Oliverio

1st Grade Teacher

With a heart dedicated to teaching, I am honored to work with kindergarten and 1st grade students, helping them explore the world around them and build a strong academic foundation.

I hold a Certificate in Early Childhood Education, and a Master’s Degree in Special Education from the Philippines allowing me to provide personalized support for children with diverse learning needs and create a bright and inspiring future.

Sarrah A Casimiro Resource Teacher

Sarrah Casimiro

Resource Teacher

A passionate educator from the Philippines, I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Literature, a Master’s in English Language Teaching, and a Master’s in Special Education. Over the past 13 years I have taught students from kindergarten through high school.

I’m thrilled to be part of ACCLAIM Academy experiencing different cultures and sharing my own with my students. I am deeply committed to contributing to their academic and social growth by helping them reach their fullest potential.

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Natalia Cruz

K-5 Teacher – Spanish

I was born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Puerto Rico. Since joining ACCLAIM Academy I have assisted teachers, taught fitness, and now teach Spanish.

I treat children the way I’d want my own children to be treated. My goal is to demonstrate this in every class, every day.

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Ivan Enriquez

3-8 Teacher – Fitness

Welcome! I am thrilled to bring a joyful, high-energy approach to ACCLAIM Academy’s fitness program. With a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, a decade of coaching experience, and ISSA certifications in Personal Training, Health Coaching, and Nutrition, my mission is to help students build strong foundations for a healthy, vibrant life. I passionately believe that movement is one of our greatest tools for mental health, balance, and lifelong wellness.

Practicing what I preach, I strength train early in the morning, run, and hike. When taking a break from fitness, I’m a big fan of history, geography, comic books and anime. I can’t wait to move, learn, and achieve great things together this year!

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Carlos Antonio Ramirez

Librarian

I’ve been working in public schools since 2014. In 2017 I started working as a school librarian and have loved it ever since. My favorite parts of working in the library are making sure that students have access to books, helping students choose the just right book, and making sure that the library is a safe place for all students. I’m happy to be joining the ACCLAIM Academy family for the 25/26 school year, and am looking forward to working with staff, parents, and most importantly, students, as we cultivate their passion for reading!

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Raquel Quintana

K-5 Teacher – Music

Hello! I am excited to be part of the ACCLAIM Academy family. I grew up in Glendale, Arizona then went up north to NAU where I got a BS in Exercise Science. Afterward I went to ASU and got a Masters degree in Elementary/Special Education. My first teaching experience was 2nd grade in 2020, and this year I’ll be teaching Music.

Having grown up around music, and dancing in a Mexican ballet folklorico group for several years, I love music and am excited to share my joy, passion, and knowledge with the students. I am looking forward to having a fun and positive musical year together.

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Paul Asselin

Technology / SIS Coordinator

I have had the pleasure of providing technology services for ACCLAIM Academy for over a decade. Finding innovative solutions to real world problems is my passion.

I enjoy building multi-worksheet spreadsheets, resolving integrity errors, and perusing technical manuals. Rebuilding damaged laptops and returning them to useful service is also source of great satisfaction.

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Cindy Macias

Office Coordinator

Originally from San Fernando, California, I went to high school in Colorado and moved to Arizona in 2007. I’ve been working in public and charter schools for 15 years and it’s always my pleasure to help parents and/or students in any way I can. I’m so excited to be part of the ACCLAIM Academy family. My goal is to make everyone feel welcomed and cared for.

Acclaim Academy New Teacher Arturo Cacho

Arturo Cacho

Maintenance and Landscaping

My family and I moved to Arizona from central California so we could be closer to family in Sonora, Mexico. My professional experience in California included 18 years doing maintenance and landscaping at a high school, owning and working my own landscaping business, and working with my uncle on his sweet potato farm. I enjoy landscaping – being outside in the sun and creating a welcoming environment. It has been peaceful working at ACCLAIM and I’m glad I’m here.

ENROLL TODAY!

At ACCLAIM Academy, we believe in creating a diverse and inclusive community of learners. Our admissions process is designed to identify students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, a strong work ethic, and a genuine desire to make a difference in their communities.

ADMISSIONS

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