Meet Veronica Duran, Head of School at Sky Islands High School, where she has been proudly serving since November 2023. With nearly four decades of experience in education, Veronica brings a deep commitment to student-centered learning, equity, and community engagement. She holds a Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Arizona. Her professional journey has included roles as a teacher, school counselor, assistant principal, program coordinator, and hearing officer—positions that have equipped her with a well-rounded understanding of how to support both students and educators in meaningful, lasting ways.

As Head of School, Veronica oversees all facets of school operations, from instructional leadership to school culture and compliance. Her leadership is guided by a strong belief in restorative practices, inclusive education, and building authentic relationships with students, families, and staff. Drawing on her extensive background in school discipline reform, bilingual education, and curriculum development, Veronica fosters a learning environment where every student is seen, supported, and empowered to thrive. She continues to lead with compassion, professionalism, and a deep-rooted dedication to educational equity and student success.

JoAnn Belvedere brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role as Community Liaison and McKinney-Vento Coordinator at Sky Islands High School. With over two decades of administrative and managerial experience across both educational and private sectors, JoAnn is a cornerstone of support for students, staff, and families alike. From overseeing attendance and registration to managing events, transportation, and school health needs, she is known for wearing many hats—always with grace and a can-do attitude.

Before joining Sky Islands, JoAnn served in multiple roles at the Academy of Math and Science from 2008 to 2022, including Office Manager, Registrar, and School Nurse, where she managed operations from student enrollment to parent communications. Her background also includes extensive experience in the auto industry and food service management, giving her a unique skill set in organization, customer service, and multitasking. Her dedication to student well-being, strong work ethic, and community engagement makes her an invaluable member of the Sky Islands team.

Meet Zachary Carducci, a passionate and dynamic educator excited to bring his diverse skill set to the classroom this year. Zachary holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics with a minor in Adolescent and Community Education from the University of Arizona and has his master’s in teaching and Teacher Education. As an honors graduate of BASIS Tucson North and an AP Scholar, Zachary blends academic rigor with an approachable, student-centered teaching style. This school year, he will be teaching Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Physics, and Capoeira, offering students a unique balance of analytical thinking and physical movement.

Zachary brings valuable experience from his work as a science interpreter and planetarium operator at the Flandrau Science Center, where he helped guests explore complex scientific concepts in an engaging and accessible way. His 16 years of training in capoeira, including roles as assistant and substitute teacher, add a rich cultural and physical education component to his teaching. From mentoring youth at UA Fusion Camps to serving as a substitute teacher with TUSD, Zachary is dedicated to building positive, hands-on learning environments where students feel supported, inspired, and empowered.

Meet Bryan Sargus, a seasoned educator and researcher with over two decades of experience inspiring students in both the sciences and mathematics. Bryan holds a Master of Science in Education from the City University of New York – Queens College and dual bachelor’s degrees from the University of Arizona in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and Secondary Education/Biology, with additional studies in Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics. His extensive teaching career includes roles at University High School, BASIS Oro Valley, and Catalina Foothills High School, where he led advanced courses in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, and Robotics. Bryan’s academic research in molecular spectroscopy, conducted in partnership with the University of Arizona, has been nationally recognized and published in leading scientific journals.

This school year, Bryan will be teaching Pre-Calculus, Geometry, STEM, and Horticulture, combining his deep content knowledge with a hands-on, inquiry-based approach that meets students where they are and challenges them to grow. His previous role as a Math Intervention Specialist underscores his commitment to student achievement and differentiated instruction. A published researcher, national conference presenter, and recipient of a $15,000 science advancement grant, Bryan brings a unique blend of real-world science, educational innovation, and a passion for student success. He is a proud member of the National Science Teachers Association, American Chemical Society, and Arizona Science Teachers Association.

Meet Victoria Almanza, the welcoming face of our front office and the person behind the scenes ensuring our attendance and registration processes run smoothly. With a strong background in customer service, administration, and operations management, Victoria brings a wealth of experience and professionalism to our school community. Her work in both financial institutions and retail settings has honed her skills in communication, organization, and client care, making her a trusted and approachable resource for students, families, and staff alike.

Prior to joining our team, Victoria held leadership roles at Tucson Federal Credit Union where she managed operations, supported staff development, and maintained compliance standards. Known for her attention to detail and ability to build strong relationships, Victoria is committed to creating positive and efficient front office experience for everyone who walks through our doors. Whether you’re checking in for the day or have a question about enrollment, she’s here to help with a friendly smile and a can-do attitude.

Jessica Ortiz is excited to join Sky Islands High School as both the Pre-Kitchen and Culinary instructor and as part of the Custodial/Maintenance team. She brings a wealth of experience in both areas, allowing her to contribute her skills and knowledge to benefit students and staff alike. Jessica loves being part of the Sky Islands community and is always ready to lend a helping hand wherever needed. Her dedication extends beyond our campus, as she also provides her valuable services to our neighboring school, Abbie High School.

Meet Lynn Sniegowski, Exceptional Education support liaison. Lynn brings 35+ years of public-school teaching experience to Sky Islands. Her advocacy for youth & the elderly are a continued endeavor which she takes much pride in.

Lynn views her students as endearing, curious and capable of much. Her emphasis on kindness, compassion and wellness are shared throughout out Sky Islands community. She is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment filled with positive, life affirming experiences for all.

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”  Maya Angelou

Andrea Taube holds a Master’s degree in Legal Studies with a concentration in Human Rights from the James E. Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona. Prior to joining Sky Islands High School, she taught English in several schools throughout the Tucson area.

Andrea is currently teaching Humanities, Government, and Creative Arts. She believes that the classroom should be a space where curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking come together. Her goal is to help students not only strengthen their reading and writing skills, but also to discover their own voices and connect literature and the arts to the world around them.

Ms. Fernanda Delgado teaches U.S. and Arizona History and oversees I-Ready classes in Reading and Math. She holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science engineering, a master’s in education, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in General Psychology at Grand Canyon University.

With six years of experience working in a shelter for undocumented children—as a Teacher, Assistant Lead, and Lead Teacher—Ms. Delgado brings deep compassion and dedication to her work. She is committed to creating a supportive, engaging learning environment that fosters critical thinking, cultural awareness, and personal growth.