Administration
Principal - Dr. Jay Samant
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Dr. Samant has been in education for the past 14 years. Prior to his current role, he served as a Director of Academic Readiness & College Success, a High School Principal, Founding Assistant Principal, and a District Leader in Special Education. He also cherished his time in the classroom as a former Special Education and World Studies Teacher. During his childhood, Jay immigrated to the United States. His parents, who were raised in humble beginnings in Mumbai, made several sacrifices to ensure that he and his three sisters had better opportunities to access education, equity, and inclusion. This experience has shaped his "why" as a lifelong educator. He looks forward to learning, collaborating, and innovating with everyone in transforming educational experiences for scholars and families through STEM, character development, creative arts, and cultivating cultural traditions that make the campus community so special. Jay has lived in Denver for the past eight years and spent most of his childhood in New York. He enjoys hiking, pickleball, tennis, eating different ethnic foods, exercising, traveling, and watching movies. |
Assistant Principal for 4th & 5th grade - Ms. Laura Alshamie
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My name is Ms. Laura Alshamie, and I am the Assistant Principal overseeing grades 4,5 and ELD. I am looking forward to working with you all and ensuring the progress and growth of Desert Sky! When I am not working, I enjoy paddle boarding, hiking with my puppy, dancing salsa and bachata, and enjoying some down time watching the latest Netflix series. I can't wait to meet you all and learn more about each one of you. Let's make it a fantastic year! #FIREupthedragons! |
Assistant Principal for 3rd and 7th grade - Mrs. Keristian Dugar (Edwards)
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Keristian Dugar is a native of Eunice Louisiana. She has been in education for over 9 years and has worn many hats while in this profession. As an educator, Keristian strongly has a passion for all children from all walks of life. In the field of education, Keristian has taught various subject content areas such as: 5th grade English, Kindergarten, 8th grade Science, 7th and 8th grade Social Studies, 9th-12th grade Social Studies, 9th-12th grade Humanities, K-8TH grade Computer Science, and she has served as Student Success Coordinator (AP role) for grades 9th – 12th. Keristian now serves as one of AMS Desert Sky’s Assistant Principals where she services 4th grade, Computer Science, 7th grade, and Interventionalists. Keristian is a mother to a beautiful baby boy and a wife to Cory Dugar. Overall, Keristian is determined to make a change in encouraging future generations to be the best that they can be and to let their light shine no matter what cards they are dealt with in life. |
Assistant Principal for Kindergarten-2nd grade - Mr. Michael Flanders
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Mr. Flanders was born and raised in Phoenix, AZ. He has been part of the Maryvale community for as long as he can remember, and even graduated from West Phoenix High School right down the road. He met his wife in a creative writing class at Phoenix College. Together they have three sons, as well as three foster daughters. His six children range from a year and a half, to 18. Mr. Flanders has almost 20 years of experience in Education, including special education, early childhood education, post-secondary education, opportunity youth, etc. A former award-winning educator, Mr. Flanders is now the K-2 assistant principal for AMS Desert Sky. FUN FACTS/HOBBIES
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Assistant Principal for 6th and 8th grade - Mr. Mivon Green
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My name is Mr. Mivon Green and I am originally from St. Louis, Missouri. My wife and I moved to Phoenix, Arizona six years ago to pursue our careers and create a better life for our family. I have served in education for 10 years as a peer mentor, college counselor, teacher, and an administrator. In my free time, I enjoy reading, working out, gaming, and doing jiu jitsu. I am so excited to serve such an amazing community and I look forward to building long lasting connections with you all. |
Head of Operations - Karla Espinoza
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Hello Dragons! I'm Karla Espinoza, the Head of Operations on campus. This is my 4th year at Desert Sky. Prior to joining the Dragon family, I dedicated 15 years to teaching 8th grade math. Outside of work, my two children keep me on my toes! I enjoy reading, am an avid Disney enthusiast, and a huge sports fan! I'm excited to see you all soon and make this year truly exceptional! |
*A full summary of school personnel experience and resumes are available for public review upon request at school grounds.