Mrs. Maria Casillas

If you had asked me 20 years ago where I would be today, I never would have guessed correctly.  But that’s what I love so much about seeking God’s will for my life.  What He has in store for me is always so much more fulfilling than the plans I set out for myself.  I grew up in the Midwest where I met and married my college sweetheart and began a career in counseling after studying Psychology (BA) and Counseling (MA).  A short time later, I became “Mom” to our firstborn daughter  and moved to Arizona when she was just one year old.  Since 2005, we’ve lived in the West Valley and have enjoyed growing our family and seeking ways to build community.  

We now have 4 incredible daughters who continue to teach and challenge me on a daily basis.  As a family, we love hanging out by the pool, watching movies, going to church, and playing cards & board games.  Other activities I enjoy include reading, puzzles, cross-stitching, podcasting, coaching, and traveling.  My absolute favorite place to visit is any ocean - I love listening to the sound of crashing waves.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring “Personal Finance” to life for students at the middle- and high-school levels.  As a personal finance coach for over 10 years, I have seen the rippling effects that the lack of this subject being taught has had on individuals, families, and society at large. My goal is to equip students with a foundational understanding of how money works, provide opportunities for practical application, and engage in meaningful conversations about how students can use this information to become faithful stewards of God’s provisions in their lives.

Mrs. Jennifer Desalvo Watson

My name is Jennifer Watson.  I met my husband, Robert, 23 years ago at the Arizona State Fair and we have two amazing kids, Blake and Brooke.  I am beyond excited to be a part of United Collective this year.  I will be one of the Math instructors for your middle school students. 

I graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a Bachelors of Science in Marketing and Logistics.  I've spent the majority of my career focused on the financial, analytical and strategic side of Marketing.  I have built and mentored my analytic teams to be empowered, autonomous thought-leaders as I am of the mindset that you lift yourself up when you selflessly lift others to reach their potential.

I walked away from my corporate career five years ago when personal family matters, that included my two autistic children, required my full attention, dedication and flexibility. 

During my hiatus, I have spent my time working part-time as a respite provider for Air Force families, being highly involved in Cub Scouts as my kid's den leader and the Pack treasurer and involved in the West Valley/Goodyear delegation of Special Olympics for the last 2 years.  Most recently, I have been serving as a private math tutor with Smart Cactus through which I have rediscovered my love of math and believe I have found my passion and calling.

For fun, I enjoy making memories as a family--camping by a campfire under the stars, riding and exploring our beautiful desert in our UTV and family game night.  I also love listening to audio books, my new-found hobby of crocheting and jamming out to 80's music.

I am truly grateful to Our Lord for having crossed paths with Kristen Sylvester and her amazing organization.  From both a personal and professional standpoint,  I am honored for this opportunity and the trust you afford me to foster, mentor and inspire your children. My goal is not only to teach math, but do so in such a manner that is an extention of your family and spiritual values.

Mrs. Amanda Hanback

My name is Amanda, and have been with my husband Scott for almost 23 years. Together, we have a
daughter, Catherine, who is about to turn 12. We are a Christian family and can be found serving at our
church any chance we get. My lifelong involvement in childcare began early. as my sister and I were
latchkey kids, with me being responsible for getting us to school and taking care of her until our parents
returned home. This early responsibility evolved into babysitting and nanny Jobs during my teenage
years and into adulthood.

After Catherine was born, I studied to become a lactation consultant but ultimately chose to be a stay-
at-home mom. When Catherine started kindergarten, we quickly realized that public school was not the
right fit for us, leading to the beginning of our homeschooling journey.

Homeschooling has been the biggest blessing to our family, allowing me to cherish Catherine's
childhood and tailor her education to her strengths. Through this experience, l've discovered there are
many different ways to teach children, which has deepened my love for teaching.
I have been homeschooling for nearly seven years and actively teaching in the homeschool community
for four years. My teaching experiences span co-ops, classes in my home, local libraries, and
neighborhood parks, both in Arizona and Texas. I am looking forward to teaching the Eloquent
Expressions class. I think it’s very important for students to learn how to articulate their thoughts,
clearly and confidently. Preparing for debates teaches students how to research topics thoroughly, how
to analyze various perspectives, construct logical arguments and anticipate counter arguments,
enhancing their critical thinking skills. Speaking in front of others helps students overcome fear and gain
confidence in their abilities, they learn how to persuade others effectively, a skill that is useful in many
aspects of life from everyday interactions to leadership rolls.

Debating different sides of an issue helps students understand and appreciate diverse viewpoints, fostering empathy and open mindedness.
The skills gained in speech and debate often translate to improved performance in other academic
areas, such as writing, reading, comprehension and analytical thinking. Overall speech and debate
provides a strong foundation for personal and academic growth, preparing students for future success.

Mrs. Sandy Macklin

Hi!  My name is Sandy and I am your Health and Fitness Instructor.  I love adventure and trying new things.  I love running, especially when it involves a trail.  I've completed several half marathons and 5k/10k races over the years, my favorite race being the Monument Valley Half Marathon.

I have backpacked to Supai, in the Grand Canyon four times, one of which was a prerequisite for my husband to marry me. And many other adventures in Zion, Yosemite, on the Kern River, and beyond.  My biggest adventure though is being the Mama to my 7 amazing high energy kiddos who keep me young!

Fitness hasn't always been important to me, however, over the years I realized that challenging my body and pushing myself did so much more for me than just making me physically fit.  Nearly every lesson in life can be learned in the gym   Being physically fit builds confidence and empowers people to succeed in all areas of life and THAT is what I want for those people that join my class.  

Mrs. Keli Price

I have taught for four decades as a homeschool mom, co-op leader, classroom instructor in Colorado and Arizona charter schools, and in Colorado community colleges. 

I have been employed as a nurse for Mayo Clinic, hospice companies, and has served as a medical missionary and teacher in Togo and Zambia, Africa.

I have taught the Apologia curriculum for Biology and Chemistry since its inception and is a big fan of the way Apologia sets the students up for academic rigor and success.

I was chosen by Intel Corporation for two years in a row for Inspirational High School Teacher at the Colorado Science and Engineering Fair. 

Mrs. Joanna Rudderman

I grew up in a small, one square mile town, in central New Jersey.  I have a B.S in Mathematics from the University of Pittsburgh and a M.S in Mathematics Education from Hood College in Frederick, MD. My teaching career started at a boarding school in Western Maryland. After 5 years, I took the plunge and taught internationally.

I taught in Abu Dhabi, UAE where I met my husband playing slow pitch softball and then taught in Israel at the American International School. When my husband had the opportunity to work in Alaska, I left the warm Mediterranean beaches of Tel Aviv to experience the cold winters in the North Pole. We recently moved to Arizona to be closer to family and explore the Southwest. With my experience, I understand that education is not only a subject matter but also a social, physical, and emotional journey for students. 

I love traveling, hiking, kayaking, camping, snowshoeing and exploring new places around the US & the world with my family. I am excited to share my enthusiasm about mathematics within the United Collective Community, while helping students become lifelong learners. 

Mrs. Sharon Stewart

Seeing students learn and grow brings me joy. I am a former Homeschool mom, who loves to
teach. The variety of settings and topics of instruction in my lifetime vary from Aquatics and
Aquatic Therapy to English as a Second Language, GED Math, Microsoft Word, homeschool
science classes and one-on-one math for those with and without dyscalculia.

My academic background includes a B.S. in Biological Sciences from the University of California, Irvine and
an M.A. in Exercise Science from the University of Southern California. I’ve always had a
passion for science, but also enjoy the strategies of math. My personal interests include being
in the water, reading, natural health, cooking and socializing with friends, playing word games
and sudoku.

I love to travel and learn about the history, geography and flora/fauna of a place.
I’m married and have one daughter, just out of college. I am a Christian and strive to live my life
in a way that honors God. As a teacher, my aim is always to impart knowledge, spark an
interest in learning and promote confidence.

Mrs. Denna Walker

Hi! I'm Mrs. Walker. I am so excited to meet all the new families I'll get to work with through the United Collective Community! Here's a little bit about me. 

My educational path began at UC Santa Barbara, where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biological Psychology. Continuing my academic journey, I earned a Master's degree in Teaching at USC. After university, I spent two enriching years in Germany teaching English to business professionals, immersing myself in European culture along the way. Upon my return to the United States, I embarked on a career in public education as a middle school and high school science teacher, while also building my family. I have also worked as a Marketing Director building small businesses, and love using my skills to grow others. I now have three children, ages 10, 4, and 2, and my family owns a local sign business, J. Walker Signs and Lighting! 

With over 14 years of experience in education, I am eager to guide and inspire our youth to appreciate the wonders of God's Creation, all while preparing them for their boundless future. I will bring my love of teaching and desire to reach all my students to smaller groups where I can make a real impact in my classes. With a knack for hands-on learning, my teaching style integrates technology, games, and interactive labs and activities, fostering a passion for learning and collaboration in my students. Beyond my role as an educator, I am deeply involved in my community, volunteering regularly at Radiant Church and leading my local GO Clubs troop. My family enjoys movies, travel, camping, and helping those in need. 

Mrs. Sharon West

Hello! I'm Sharon West, an accredited life coach with over 15 years of experience dedicated to
empowering youth. My passion for guiding young minds led me to create "Confidence and Life
Skills Mastery: Becoming Unstoppable," a course designed to equip youth with the confidence
and essential skills they need to thrive.

As a mother of three and a former foster mom, I deeply understand the unique challenges and
joys that come with raising confident and resilient teenagers. As an ASU grad and after a career
in the corporate world, my love and passion for coaching has provided me valuable insights into
the skills necessary for success. I love teaching them!

Outside of coaching, I am an avid outdoor enthusiast who loves to stay active. Whether it's
hiking a mountain, doing water sports, or in a gym - I love finding some way to move my body. I
am a country music lover, with Luke Combs on repeat - turn it up!

Some interesting facts about me: I speak Spanish, my favorite place in the world is Lake Powell,
and I’m married to the kindest person I have ever met! I am a very social person, and have a big
place in my heart for those with special needs. As I have served and taught youth, I feel closer
to my Savior, who I know has such a special love for children. Two years ago I resigned from my
corporate job to follow my passion and opened my own business, Walk Forward Coaching, LLC
where I spend my days mentoring and teaching teens.

Join me on this journey to empower your youth with confidence and life skills that will set them
on the path to success. Let's get started on becoming unstoppable together!
Sharon :)