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J M Chapman Agency Inc Jay Chapman, Agent Bus: (480) 945-7122 7055 E Thomas Rd Scottsdale, AZ 85251 jchapman@amfam.com American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. & its Operating Companies, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2015 006441 – Rev. 2/20 – 12923221 Call (480) 945-7122 for a no-obligation free quote. insuranCe DesigneD with You anD Your Dreams in minD. INSURANCE DESIGNED WITH YOU AND YOUR DREAMS IN MIND. CALL (480) 990-8855 FOR A NO-OBLIGATION FREE QUOTE. 22 AUGUST 2024 By Sherry Sklar Two new faces will soon be seen in the halls of Arcadia High. Drew Ammon will join the staff as athletic director, and Erica Rodgers will step into the role of assistant principal. Both hope to bring a wealth of knowledge and a shared commitment to enhancing the student experience this coming school year and beyond. DREW AMMON – ATHLETIC DIRECTOR  Diverse experiences and a deep-rooted passion for athletics led Drew Ammon to Arcadia. Born in San Diego, he moved across the country during childhood, living in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Washington and Idaho before settling in Arizona. He graduated from Millennium High School and pursued higher education at Northern Arizona University, earning a Bachelor’s in Secondary Education and a Master’s of Education from Grand Canyon University. Ammon said his career in athletics administration is a testament to his unwavering commitment to being a voice for student-athletes and coaches. “Educational athletics helped me become the person I am today, and I want that for every student that attends Arcadia,” he said. His accolades include being named Teacher of the Year in his first year in education and receiving the AD of the Year for the 5A Northeast Valley Region. As the new athletic director, Ammon aims to build on the successes of his predecessor. He emphasizes the values of GRIT: Grace, Respect, Integrity and Toughness. He is committed to fostering a positive and inclusive environment through character coaching and student leadership groups, ensuring that Arcadia’s athletes are skilled and exemplary individuals. “Being the steward of an athletics program is no small task. I want our student-athletes and coaches to be known for GRIT. I expect them to continue striving for excellence. We will focus on how we can impact our culture and take Arcadia to the next level,” he said. Outside of work, Ammon enjoys music and attending concerts, a hobby that he hopes will connect him with students on a personal level. ERICA RODGERS – ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL     Originally from Pittsburgh, Erica Rodgers brings a rich educational background to her role as assistant principal. She attended Arizona State University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in history and a Master’s Degree in secondary education and educational administration. She is in the final year of her doctoral program in Educational Leadership at the University of Pittsburgh. Rodgers’ career path includes eight years of teaching AP macroeconomics and AP government in the Paradise Valley Unified School District, roles as a program coordinator for the International Baccalaureate program and coaching speech and debate. Most recently, she served as the Dean of Students at Paradise Valley High School, gaining valuable experience supporting students and teachers. Returning to Arcadia High, where she began her career as a student teacher, fulfills a long-held goal for Rodgers. She said she is excited to oversee state testing, support student activities and mentor new teachers. Rodgers’ educational philosophy centers on student engagement and ownership of learning. She plans to implement strategies that allow students to take active roles in their education, focusing on clear objectives, self-reflection and continuous improvement. “I believe in a student-centered approach to classroom engagement, where students actively participate in learning. This starts with clarifying the lesson’s objectives, the skills being developed and how success will be measured. I plan to support this approach by encouraging students to take ownership of their learning, self-reflect and take steps toward improvement and enrichment,” she said. Rodgers’ goals include ensuring students are equipped with the skills they need for future success, such as focused note-taking and critical reading. She is also enthusiastic about school activities, believing that a vibrant school community enhances the student experience. “I want our students to have the tools they need to be successful at the next level once they graduate. They should enjoy school, which begins with our leadership team aspiring to create an atmosphere they look forward to being a part of,” she explained. Outside work, she enjoys spending time with her family, including attending her daughter’s athletic events. Arcadia High welcomes new administrators Drew Ammon Erica Rodgers