Administration

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Dr. Amy Cislak, Principal

Mark Twain once said, “The two most important days of your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” I remember sitting on a charter bus in May of 2004, after finishing the final collegiate softball game of my career at Boston College, reflecting on what my legacy would be — and what I was truly put on this earth to do. It was during that bus ride that I realized my purpose: to be part of education.

I am deeply grateful to have lived a life where learning — about myself and others — has always been valued, supported, and celebrated. My “second day” came when I discovered that I was meant to be an educational advocate and leader. My experience as a Division I athlete prepared me for life’s challenges and opportunities. Upon returning to Tucson, I began teaching at my alma mater, Canyon del Oro High School, where I also led the CDO softball program to state titles in 2007, 2008, and 2009, with a runner-up finish in 2006. After teaching, coaching, and helping to develop an International Baccalaureate Programme at CDO, I served as Assistant Principal at the nationally ranked University High School for three years before leading the school as Principal for five.

I hold a B.A. in English and Linguistics from Boston College, an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University. No stranger to innovation, I actively seek out and collaborate with business and university leaders locally and nationally to create strategic partnerships that expand opportunities for students. Through these efforts, I was honored to be named Arizona Education Leader Trailblazer of the Year by A for Arizona in 2018, a Southern Arizona 40 Under 40 Awardee in 2018, and Tucson Unified School District’s Principal of the Year in 2017.

As a proud member of the Tanque Verde Valley, nothing brings me greater joy than serving as the leader of Tanque Verde High School. The spirit of Tanque Verde resides within our community — though small, we are united in excellence. Each year, I am inspired by the unwavering dedication of our educators, students, parents, and neighbors to learning and growing together. Their commitment reflects the true heart of Tanque Verde: a community where collaboration, curiosity, and care come together to create something extraordinary.

My door is always open, and I look forward to building meaningful relationships with all our students and their families as we continue to learn, grow, and thrive together.

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Gary Lewis, Asst. Principal / Athletic Director

I am one of seven children brought into this world by an amazing couple. My father, from the Los Angeles area, met my mother who is from St. Quentin, France, while he was stationed in France as a member of the United States Air Force. Unlike four of my brothers, who were born in France, I happened to be born in upstate New York. My only sister and my youngest brother were born in California. Our family finally settled in Tucson in the early 70’s. I attended Sahuaro HS before receiving a basketball scholarship to attend Texas A&M University, where I earned my undergraduate degree. After a brief stint of playing basketball professionally in France, I returned to Arizona to begin my teaching and coaching career. Along my journey, with stops at Sahuaro, Catalina Foothills, and most recently, Tucson High, I received a Masters degree from both Concordia University, and Grand Canyon University. I am thrilled to join the Tanque Verde High School community and anticipate great things from our students.

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Dr. Joel Bacalia, Asst. Principal

There is nothing better than being able to support students as they achieve their goals or accomplish things they never thought were possible.  Helping students become the best versions of themselves is my passion in education and helping to create unique solutions and pathways for unique student needs is why I love coming to work every day at Tanque Verde High School.  I count it as a true blessing to be able to work in this community where the adults and students never waver in their pursuit of excellence.  

I have dedicated the past 19 years of my life to serving people of all ages through education.  I taught English in Mexico, Spanish in Tucson, led 7+ years as assistant principal at Pueblo and University High Schools, and also served as the principal at University School. I hold a B.A. from Spring Arbor University, majoring in Spanish, English, and Secondary Education, a M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University, and am a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University.  My biggest claims to fame are being a husband, father, and educational leader that loves people.