Erik Cruz

Special Education Teacher

My name is Erik Cruz. I am the 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 Communications. I have lived in Arizona since January 2010. I am married with three children and a crazy dog named Harley Quinn. Before entering education, I worked as an interpreter and translator for over 12 years. I am also an ordained wedding officiant and am practicing Muay Thai. My familiarity with TIA goes back to 2018, as two of my children attended Midvale for their first years of schooling. I was so pleased to begin this new part of my career with TIA last school year and am looking forward to this new year.

“When you say that something is impossible, you have made it impossible.”- Bruce Lee

“Don’t underestimate the power of vision and direction. These are irresistible forces, able to
transform what might appear to be unconquerable obstacles into traversable pathways and expanding opportunities.” – Dr. Jordan Peterson

“Do or Do Not. There is NO “try”. – Master Yoda

Glori May Deliarte (Ms. May)

Teacher - Grades K-1

My name is Glori May Deliarte, but everyone calls me “Ms. May.” I work at Tucson International Academy’s West Campus as a Kindergarten–First grade teacher. I am a licensed professional elementary teacher. I earned a Latin distinction, for completing my bachelor’s degree at the University of Saint La Salle-Bacolod in the Philippines. Currently, I am pursuing a master’s degree in general science.

My mother, who was once a teacher, inspired me to become a teacher. Since then, I’ve decided that I’ll one day become a teacher, and I’m currently living my passion for teaching young children.

I’ve been working in this industry for more than seven years. I worked for three years in my home country, Philippines and four years in Bangkok, Thailand. During those years, I gained the knowledge and expertise required to excel as a teacher. Over the last few years, I’ve had the opportunity to teach in a number of grade levels and disciplines. I’ve also coached interschool academic competitions and facilitated club events. As a result, it shaped me into the type of teacher I am today, not only to teach their young minds but also to touch their hearts to inspire them to be better versions of themselves.

Mr. George Rodriguez

Teacher - Grades 6,7

Hello, I am George M. Rodriguez, a Tucson native, born and raised in the Old Pueblo. I come from a family of eight and am fortunate to still have both of my parents. I have four sisters and one brother, and I’m the oldest of the siblings, sharing that role with my twin sister. I am blessed with three wonderful children—a daughter and two sons—as well as a grandson.

Education plays a significant role in our family, with eight members involved in education across elementary, middle, and high school levels. I own a graphic print shop and have been with TUSD for a little over 25 years, serving as an assistant teacher and coaching middle school sports. I attended the University of Arizona, where I studied business, and Arizona State University, where I pursued social work. In the summer, I work with a youth camp organization called “TGA,” where I enjoy guiding young people as they prepare for their futures.

Airyl Policianos

High School English and History Teacher

I’m Miss Ai! – your 9th-12th Grade ELA/Social Studies Teacher for Tucson International Academy – West Campus.

I am a cultural-exchange teacher who holds a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education Major in English and a master’s degree of Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) Major in English Language from the University of St. La Salle, Philippines. I served as an English Teacher and a School Paper Adviser for six years before I became one of the youngest Head Teachers in English, back in my home country.

With my collective experience in leadership, journalism, and classroom teaching – it has always been my goal to make learning a fun and meaningful experience for my students.

Rachel Wells (Ms. Rachel)

Teacher - Grades 2-3

Hello! I am very excited to be able to be teaching at Tucson International Academy! I absolutely love what I do and enjoy seeing my students grow. I grew up in Oahu, Hawaii and moved to Tucson because I got a scholarship to attend the University of Arizona. There, I studied elementary education and minored in psychology and bilingual education. I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. I come from a family of teachers and would often help out in the classroom from a young age. Teaching is my passion and I always look forward to learning about my students each year!

Growing up in Hawaii I was always surrounded by a lot of cultural diversity and that is what drew me to Tucson International Academy. Their staff and student body is very diverse as well as the cultural language programs they offer. I have been to 7 different countries and have taught English abroad in Hoi An, Vietnam. I think it is important that students take pride in who they are and where they come from as well as learn about other cultures to gain a better global perspective.

Jimmy West (Mr. Jimmy)

Administrative Assistant

Mrs. 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.

Mrs. Chavez

Teacher - Grades 4,5

If I were to be asked what was it that inspired me to become a teacher, I would firmly answer it was my teachers I had during my young years of school.

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.

Denisse Leyva

Teacher – Spanish

“One language sets you in a corridor for life. Two languages open every door along the way.” -Frank Smith

I whole heartily believe that learning a second language opens doors to a whole new world. A new world of friendships, travel, traditions, cultures, foods, colors, and so much more. That is why I am a proud Spanish teacher. My name is Denisse Leyva, and I was born in Sonora, Mexico. I came to live in the United States at the age of four. Spanish was my first language, but it could have been easily forgotten if it was not for my mother’s insistence. She taught my sister and I the importance of never forgetting our native language. She taught us that our native language strengthens our ties with our culture and family, which I am very proud of. My biggest passions are teaching the Spanish language through music, dance, art, and food. When I am not in the classroom, I am with my family. I love long walks in the afternoon with my husband, three boys, and our dog. I am excited to continue with our adventures in the classroom.

Xiuqing Sun (Ms. Sun)

Teacher - Chinese

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.

Lloyd Pio Apsay

Teacher – High School Math & Science

To Teach Minds, Touch Hearts, and Transform Lives is what my mission is all about. Most of my students call me Teacher Lloyd. I am a science teacher who was born and raised in an archipelago of 7083 islands in the Pacific, the Philippines. I grew up in a very large and financially challenged family with five brothers and two sisters; imagine how our family struggles to attain and achieve each of our successes. At the age of 20, I already started teaching Science and Mathematics to Junior High School students in one of the private schools in the Philippines. After serving my country for two years, I decided to explore and teach in Thailand in 2018. I taught senior high school students in government schools in Thailand, worked with different nationalities, taught different subjects, and contributed and gave honor to my schools by coaching and winning various competitions, which left an important legacy to my students. This year, I decided to explore another opportunity at TIA to enhance my teaching career’s growth and pursue my mission. With these experiences, I can say that I am exceptionally equipped with relevant knowledge and skills that a 21st-century teacher must possess who is ready to share this expertise with my future students. As an advocate of student development and capability enhancement, thinking critically, communicating effectively, and becoming a responsible global citizen, I can ensure my students’ future is one step closer to success.

Luis Machado

Teacher – Grade 8

I am originally from Nogales, Sonora, Mexico. I attended and graduated from Tucson High Magnet School, where I was part of the varsity soccer team and the performing Folklorico dance group “Los Tucsonenses.” My favorite subjects are math and Spanish. After high school, I attended Pima Community College and the University of Phoenix where I received my drafting degree. I have volunteered as a coach for soccer leagues and currently coaching high school soccer here in Tucson. I am still involved with Folklorico dancing and playing soccer. I spend my free time with my wife and three kids. We love to go hiking, attend UofA football games, and go camping as a family. My favorite quote is “Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

Click this link to view or download Mr. Machado May 16 Newsletter