Midvale Campus

Midvale Campus

Deciding where your child goes to school is one of the most difficult decisions a parent will ever make. We want you to know you can trust us with your child. We are here to nurture them and to provide a safe space where they can learn and succeed!

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1645 West Valencia Road, #101
Tucson, Arizona 85746

Meet Our Principal

Principal Roy Gorris

After finishing my high school and post-secondary adult education I was drafted into the Dutch Army. As an infantry non-commissioned officer, I often trained alongside U.S. Forces. Very impressed by their efficiency and professionalism, I decided to immigrate to the United States 24+ years ago. It did not take long before I joined the U.S. Army, not in the capacity of an infantry crew member, but in the field of aviation as it has been my passion for well over 45 years. Fast forward, multiple deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and South Korea just to name a few, I retired and decided to pick up my educational journey. I now have an AA, BS, and Masters in Business Administration. I am working on my second Masters in Educational Leadership. I have certificates and teaching licenses in Business (K 6 through K 12), Emerging Technologies (K 9-12), Marketing (K 9 -12), and hope to attain my State certification for Principalship (K-12). I have been with TIA now for a few years. I’m very humbled by the kindness and gratitude of the community that we are part of.

Meet Our Staff and Teachers

Miss Lyn Peterson

Assistant Teacher - Special Education

I am in my fifth school year with TIA Special Education. I work at both the Midvale campus and the West Campus. While I see students, I also coordinate all of the meetings for students in the district. I am also the parent contact for the meetings and the person that gathers all data so that the meetings with parents can be completed successfully.

My “sidekick” is Rocky. Rocky is my Labradoodle service dog. He comes with me to both schools. Rocky has grown up coming to TIA, and loves to spend time with the students. He has been coming to the school since he was three months old, so the students have had the opportunity to watch him grow up and learn his skills.

In my spare time, I coach youth bowling and am invested in my crafts. I have a 16-year-old at home, and two other pups (Buddy and Stella). I look forward to the school year and feel that we at TIA are the best place that students can find in any school system.

Erik Cruz

Special Education Teacher

My name is Erik Cruz.  I am the new Special Education teacher for the West and Midvale campuses.  A little about myself:
I was born in New Jersey and raised between there and the island of Puerto Rico.  My alma mater is Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico where I obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Media Communication. I have lived in Arizona since January 2010.  I am married with three children (Ages 23, 10 & 8) and a crazy dog.
Before entering this field, I worked as an interpreter and translator for over 12 years.  Something many do not know about me is that I am also an ordained wedding officiant.  My familiarity with TIA goes back to 2018, as two of my children attended Midvale for the first years of their schooling.  I have been so pleased to begin this new part of my career with TIA.  This was an unexpected turn of events, but it has been a great experience so far and I’m looking forward to the second part of this school year.

Miss Karina Leyva

Spanish Teacher

“To have another language is to possess a second soul” – Charlemagne.

My name is Karina Leyva, and I was born in Agua Prieta, Sonora Mexico. We came to live in Tucson Arizona when I was eight years old. As a child my mother made sure we never forgot our love for our culture and our native language. At that time, I did not understand the importance of having a second language but as you grow you become aware of how important it truly is. I’ve worked with children for the past 18 years. For the past three years I have had the privilege to teach Spanish at Tucson International Academy to our students from kindergarten to high School Seniors. This has opened the doors for me to be able to share my native language, culture, and history. I am committed to helping students understand the world around them and open their minds to learning and experiencing the Hispanic and Latino Culture.

Miss Lizett Leyva

Assistant Teacher

My name is Lizett Leyva, I was born and raised in the beautiful city of Tucson, Arizona. I am
dedicated to nurturing the minds of young learners. My primary focus is helping students
develop strong reading skills and expand their English vocabulary. To learn how to have a
genuine love for language and literature. I strive to create a supportive learning environment
where every student can flourish in their education. I am committed to providing personalized
assistance to my students, tailoring my approach to meet the diverse needs of each and every
one of them. By fostering a love for reading, I aim to empower students to express themselves
confidently.

Madison Rozema

Teacher - Grades K-1

I was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona. I have been taking care of children since I was nine years old. Teaching and taking care of children is a part of me; it is my passion. I am very family oriented and come from a big family. My father was in law enforcement for 34 years, I grew up in church, and have a strong sense of right and wrong. My favorite things are Hallmark movies, playing video games with my brothers, the game Fish Bowl, chicken enchiladas, Dr. Pepper Cream Soda, Hershey’s Chocolate, my dog Gryffon, the color blue, Hibiscus flowers, sunsets in Arizona, my friends, and my family.

Lidalyn Salde (Ms. Lyn)

Teacher - Grades 6-8 Math & Science

I’m Mrs. Lidalyn Salde. My journey as an educator has been shaped by the vibrant cultures of the Philippines and Thailand. Having grown up in the Philippines, I carry with me the rich tapestry of experiences from a country known for its warmth, diversity, and strong sense of community.

My educational roots trace back to the Philippines, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a major in General Science. This laid the foundation for my career, and I embarked on a mission to impart knowledge and inspiration to young minds.

My transition from the Philippines to Thailand has not only shaped my professional identity but has also fueled my determination to bridge cultures through education. I am thrilled to be a part of TIA as the Middle School Math and Science teacher. I look forward to the continued adventure of teaching, inspiring, and contributing to the growth of students at TIA.

Alexander Salde (Mr. Alex)

Teacher - Grades 4-5

Greetings, I’m Alexander Salde, and my journey has been nothing but an adventure. With a degree in Psychology and a Teaching Diploma, I’ve embarked on a path that goes beyond mere profession.

Originally from the Philippines,at first I found my true calling within the diverse classrooms of Thailand. Teaching transformed into more than just a job; it became a heartfelt passion. The countless faces, each brimming with unique stories and dreams, have etched an indelible mark on my heart. From guiding primary students as they take their initial steps into the world of knowledge to empowering university-level students on the brink of their careers, I’ve been fortunate to be a part of their educational journeys.

My mission is clear and straightforward: to provide students with the best possible learning experiences, right here in Tucson International Academy. I invite you to join me in this educational adventure, where we strive to make the journey truly extraordinary.

Jocelyn Manzanarez (Ms. Jocelyn)

Music Teacher

As a music specialist, I am honored to provide children at Tucson International Academy the opportunity to experience all of the benefits music education offers.  I received my BA from the University of Montana in Music Education and MA in Music Education from the University of Washington. I hold a certification as a k-12 certified music educator. 

The unique piece about teaching music at TIA is that the classes are virtual and I am teaching from my office in Seattle, Washington! In our weekly musical classes we play instruments, sing, dance and most of all have fun learning through music. I feel so lucky to be a part of this amazing community of learners.

Aaron Dionise

Teacher – Honor Society, ELA & History

I was born in a small town in Pennsylvania and moved to Arizona when I was very young. I attended and graduated from Rincon High School here in Tucson, Arizona. Later I continued my education and graduated from the University of Arizona. After graduating from the U of A, I went on to complete my master’s degree at American Public University. While attending American Public University, I also earned a certificate of Civil War studies. Prior to teaching, I spent a number of years working in the corporate world and I have been fortunate enough to be part of the management team of various major companies, as well as start-up businesses. This experience will certainly help my students prepare not only for college but also for the working world that awaits them.

Lydia Fierro

NSLP Enrichment

I have worked for Tucson International Academy for 10 years! I originally started as a volunteer during their cultural fiestas, such as Chinese New Year, 16 de Septiembre, and Cinco de Mayo while my children attended Tucson International Academy as students. I eventually started helping in the office until the opportunity to be the NSLP at the Midvale Campus arrived in 2012. I have had the opportunity to make lasting relationships with my co-workers, parents, and students. It has been a pleasure to see these students grow and graduate. It brings joy to my heart!

Rosa Torres

Admin

I have been in education for 15 years. I love to be around my family, I love sports, and am a San Francisco 49ers fan. Go Niners! I am the Administrative Assistant for Midvale Campus. I started with Tucson International Academy in 2012.

I choose to work in education out of my many trades because education is a profession where I can see the impact that I am having on the world around me. I also get to grow with the students as well as the parents. As they learn, I learn too. There aren’t many professions that will allow me to do that. Every day my job is to get to school and give it my all. I show them that anything and everything is possible as long as you put your mind to it. You have to be willing to learn to see success! When I was growing up, I was my mother’s helper. So, helping our families comes naturally. The student’s achievements are my happiness!

Xiuqing Sun (Ms. Sun)

Chinese Teacher – All Grades & Campuses

I went to China Communication University and have a degree in Media Management. In China, I taught Chinese to foreigners before I moved to the U.S. I’ve been teaching Chinese at TIA since 2012. I have traveled to Thailand, Japan, Korea, China, and around the U.S. I cannot give a direct translation, but my favorite quote is something like this; “If I walk with two other people, I can learn from at least one of them.” It shows humility and the willingness to learn from different people, regardless of their age, background, or beliefs.

Roy Gorris

After finishing my high school and post-secondary adult education I was drafted into the Dutch Army. As an infantry non-commissioned officer, I often trained alongside U.S. Forces. Very impressed by their efficiency and professionalism, I decided to immigrate to the United States 24+ years ago. It did not take long before I joined the U.S. Army, not in the capacity of an infantry crew member, but in the field of aviation as it has been my passion for well over 45 years. Fast forward, multiple deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and South Korea just to name a few, I retired and decided to pick up my educational journey. I now have an AA, BS, and Masters in Business Administration. I am working on my second Masters in Educational Leadership. I have certificates and teaching licenses in Business (K 6 through K 12), Emerging Technologies (K 9-12), Marketing (K 9 -12), and hope to attain my State certification for Principalship (K-12). I have been with TIA now for a few years. I’m very humbled by the kindness and gratitude of the community that we are part of.

Pablo Samaniego

Teacher – Grades 6-8 ELA & SS

I am Mr. Pablo Samaniego. I was born and raised here in Tucson, AZ. I have always enjoyed sports. My favorite teams are the Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns, and the Las Vegas Raiders. In High School, I played football and basketball. I have a small loving family, a wife, and two daughters.

As for my educational background, I attend Grand Canyon University. I did not always know what I wanted to do with my life as a career until I realized that working with children was something I enjoyed. That is when I decided to pursue my degree in teaching. I realized at an older age, however, that it is never too late, and that is what I want my students to learn and know that we must always go after our dreams.

I look forward to working with all the students and helping them build their knowledge. I want them to take what they learn and move forward to create a successful future. I am excited to have the opportunity to work with the TIA Midvale Middle School ELA & Social Studies Classes.

Marcella Zazueta

Teacher – Grades 2-3

I am a Tucson native. I attended and graduated from Tucson High Magnet School, where I was part of the “Marching 100” band, student-athlete, performing Folklorico dance group “Los Tucsonenses,” and Mariachi Rayos Del Sol My favorite subjects are math and Spanish. After high school, I attended the University of Arizona, also Brookline College, with an Associate in Pharmacy. I am an AmeriCorps Alumni and am a member of the National Honors Society, Alpha Beta Kappa, and the National Pharmacy Technician Association. I am still involved with Folklorico dancing. I spend my free time with my husband and two dogs. We love to go camping, fishing. My favorite quote is “Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the COURAGE TO CONTINUE that counts.” – Winston Churchill.

Click to view or download Mrs. Zazueta’s May 23 Newsletter

Average Teacher Salary

  • Average Teacher Salary FY24: $31,200.00
  • Average Teacher Salary FY23: $43,333.33
  • Average Decrease: $12,133.33
  • Percentage Decrease: 28%