Dr. Amy Cislak believes that education is one of the most powerful forces for transforming lives and creating opportunities. Inspired by Mark Twain’s quote, “The two most important days of your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why,” she often reflects on her own journey of discovering her purpose. That moment came in May of 2004, while riding a charter bus home after the final collegiate softball game of her career at Boston College. As she reflected on the impact she hoped to make in the world, she realized that her calling was to serve others through education. Since that day, she has dedicated her career to helping students discover their potential, overcome obstacles, and pursue lives filled with purpose, achievement, and possibility.

A lifelong learner and passionate educational advocate, Dr. Cislak is deeply grateful for a life in which learning, growth, and service have always been valued and celebrated. Her experiences as a Division I student-athlete instilled in her the principles of perseverance, teamwork, leadership, and resilience—qualities that continue to shape her approach to educational leadership today. Upon returning to Tucson, she began her career at her alma mater, Canyon del Oro High School, where she taught English and led the softball program to three consecutive state championships in 2007, 2008, and 2009, following a state runner-up finish in 2006. During her time at CDO, she also played a key role in the development and implementation of the school’s International Baccalaureate Programme, helping expand rigorous academic opportunities for students.

Her leadership journey continued at the nationally recognized University High School, where she served as Assistant Principal for three years before being named Principal. Over the next five years, she led the school through a period of continued excellence and innovation, focusing on student achievement, instructional quality, and organizational growth. Throughout her career, Dr. Cislak has become widely recognized for her work in secondary education innovation, strategic school improvement, and the development of systems that elevate student outcomes. She is known for challenging traditional approaches to education while ensuring that innovation remains grounded in what is best for students and teachers.

Dr. Cislak is also respected for her ability to build meaningful partnerships and secure resources that expand opportunities for students. A strong advocate for public education, she has worked closely with business leaders, universities, community organizations, and industry partners at both the local and national levels to create innovative programs and pathways for students. Her expertise in strategic planning, capital fundraising, and organizational excellence has helped schools develop programs, facilities, and opportunities that would not otherwise be possible. She believes that exceptional schools are built through collaboration and a shared commitment to investing in the future of young people.

As Principal of Tanque Verde High School, Dr. Cislak has focused on creating a culture where excellence is expected, innovation is embraced, and every student is empowered to succeed. One of her greatest sources of pride is attracting, developing, and retaining some of Arizona’s most talented educators. She believes that outstanding teachers are the foundation of exceptional schools, and she has worked intentionally to cultivate a professional culture that values collaboration, continuous improvement, and instructional excellence. As a result, Tanque Verde High School has developed a reputation for providing students with extraordinary educational experiences and preparing graduates who consistently demonstrate high levels of academic achievement, leadership, and readiness for college, careers, and life beyond high school.

Dr. Cislak holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Linguistics from Boston College, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University. Her commitment to innovation and excellence has earned numerous honors, including being named Arizona Education Leader Trailblazer of the Year by A for Arizona in 2018, a Southern Arizona 40 Under 40 Award recipient in 2018, and Tucson Unified School District Principal of the Year in 2017.

As a proud resident of the Tanque Verde Valley, Dr. Cislak considers it an honor to serve as the leader of Tanque Verde High School. She believes that the strength of the school lies in the people who make up the community—students, educators, families, alumni, and neighbors who share a commitment to learning, growth, and excellence. Each year, she is inspired by the dedication, resilience, and spirit of the Hawk community. For Dr. Cislak, Tanque Verde is more than a school; it is a place where relationships matter, innovation thrives, and students are empowered to leave a lasting impact on the world around them.

There is nothing more rewarding to Dr. Bacalia than supporting students as they achieve their goals and accomplish things they once thought were impossible. Helping students become the best versions of themselves is at the heart of his passion for education. He believes that every student deserves access to opportunities, meaningful relationships, and individualized support that empower them to succeed both in and beyond the classroom. Dr. Bacalia is committed to creating innovative solutions and personalized pathways that meet the unique needs of every learner, ensuring that students are challenged, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. This commitment to student success is what motivates him each day and is one of the many reasons he values being part of the Tanque Verde High School community. He considers it a true blessing to serve in a school where students, staff, and families share a collective commitment to excellence, continuous growth, and lifelong learning.

For the past 19 years, Dr. Bacalia has dedicated his career to serving students and communities through education. His professional experiences span multiple roles and educational settings, providing him with a broad perspective on teaching, learning, and school leadership. He began his career teaching English in Mexico before returning to Arizona to teach Spanish in Tucson. He later served for more than seven years as an assistant principal at Pueblo and University High Schools, where he developed extensive experience in instructional leadership, school improvement, student achievement, and staff development. He also served as principal of University School, leading efforts focused on academic excellence, student engagement, and organizational effectiveness.

Throughout his career, Dr. Bacalia has established himself as a leading expert in high school instructional coaching and pedagogy. He is deeply passionate about supporting teachers in refining their instructional practices and creating engaging, student-centered learning environments. His work has focused on helping educators implement research-based instructional strategies, analyze student learning data, and develop classroom practices that maximize student growth and achievement. He believes that exceptional schools are built through a culture of continuous improvement, where educators collaborate, reflect, and grow together in service of students. As a result, he has dedicated significant portions of his career to mentoring teachers, developing instructional leaders, and fostering systems that support both professional excellence and student success.

In addition to his expertise in instruction and leadership, Dr. Bacalia brings extensive experience in college and career readiness initiatives, helping students identify and pursue pathways that align with their interests, talents, and aspirations. He is a strong advocate for ensuring that all students graduate with the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

Dr. Bacalia holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Spring Arbor University with majors in Spanish, English, and Secondary Education, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University. While he is proud of his professional accomplishments and the impact he has had on students and educators throughout his career, his greatest sources of pride are being a husband, father, and educational leader who genuinely loves serving others. He believes that strong relationships are the foundation of successful schools and strives each day to lead with integrity, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to helping others achieve their best.

Mr. Shingler brings a diverse background in education, student services, and school leadership that has prepared him to effectively support the academic, social, and postsecondary success of all students. His professional journey reflects a commitment to continuous growth and service within the Tanque Verde High School community. He began his career at Tanque Verde in 2016 as a student teacher in United States History before teaching World History, AP World History, United States History, and Student Council at Sahuaro High School. In 2019, he returned to Tanque Verde, where he spent three years teaching History and Student Success courses before transitioning into the role of College and Career Counselor. In that position, he worked closely with students and families to navigate postsecondary planning, scholarships, college admissions, workforce opportunities, and career exploration. Currently, he serves as the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Director, overseeing program development, fiscal management, state funding, compliance, and industry partnerships that expand opportunities for students to gain career-ready skills and credentials.

Throughout his career, Mr. Shingler has demonstrated a strong commitment to building systems of support that promote student achievement and staff success. He has extensive experience in college and career readiness, helping students identify and pursue pathways aligned with their goals while ensuring access to meaningful postsecondary opportunities. As a leader in Career and Technical Education, he has worked to strengthen programs that connect classroom learning to real-world experiences and workforce demands.

Mr. Shingler has also played an instrumental role in fostering a positive school culture through initiatives focused on both student and staff development. He helped establish a new teacher mentorship program designed to support educator growth, increase retention, and promote instructional excellence. In addition, he developed and launched the NEST program, a targeted academic intervention system that provides additional support and resources for students in need of academic assistance. For the past four years, he has served as Tanque Verde High School’s testing coordinator, leading the planning and administration of Advanced Placement, state, national, and international assessments while ensuring compliance and operational excellence.

Beyond his leadership responsibilities, Mr. Shingler is deeply invested in the broader school community. As the girls volleyball coach for the past five years, he has helped cultivate a culture of teamwork, perseverance, and excellence, leading the program to two region championships, four state playoff appearances, and a state quarterfinal appearance. During his tenure, six student-athletes have gone on to compete at the collegiate level on volleyball scholarships. His dedication to student success—both inside and outside the classroom—reflects his belief that strong relationships, high expectations, and meaningful opportunities are essential components of a thriving school community.