OUR STAFF | ambassadoracademy

Leading by Example

the Ambassador staff

Dr. Elba I. Reyes, Superintendent

Dr. Reyes brings to the Academy a wealth of experience in the field of education. Since 1977, she has worked toward developing learning environments where all students can succeed. Dr. Reyes earned her Ph.D. at the University of Arizona, has published in leading educational journals and educational books, and has spoken nationally and internationally. Her research interests include the development of learning strategies as well as reading and language development. Her education credentials include teaching at the elementary, high school, and University levels, and Reading First Principal at the elementary school level.

Ms. Elizabeth Melter, Principal & Third Grade

Ms. Melter has her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University and a Master's degree in Elementary Education from the University of Phoenix . She has been a part of the Ambassador Academy family since the school opened in 2007 where she has taught Kindergarten, 1st, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades.

Ms. Melter is a native Arizonian, born and raised in Tempe, AZ. She grew up with a love of caring for animals and children that lead her to a career in education. Ms. Melter is passionate about empowering and challenging students to be come lifelong learners through imagination, exploration, and personal responsibility.

Mrs. Amanda McDanell, Kindergarten

Coming soon

Miss Caitlin White, First Grade

Ms. White is a first-year teacher at Ambassador Academy. Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Central Missouri. Along with her degree, she has a state teaching certificate in both Missouri and Arizona. Before joining the Ambassador Academy staff, Ms. White taught at an Early Childhood Center for six years.

Ms. White has quickly become a beloved member of staff, always smiling and doing her very best by and for her students. She is quick to jump in and take on new responsibilities. She is a wonderful role model for her students, always demonstrating the characteristics of a leader.

Ms. Debra Newman, Second Grade

Ms. Debra Newman is originally from Minnesota. She to Arizona in 1983 to get away from the cold and snow. She lives in Chandler, Arizona with her eleven-year-old daughter, who she adopted as an infant from Guatemala. Her daughter is in the sixth grade and constantly on the run, enjoying a variety of activities like swimming, playing percussion instruments, and drawing.

Ms. Newman's hobbies include spending time with her daughter and niece, reading, putting puzzles together and going on vacations. She enjoys spending time at Disneyland, but her all-time favorite is going on a Disney cruise. "I just love sitting out on the deck and looking at all the beautiful scenery that we are floating past."

Ms. Newman is a dedicated educator who brings a wealth of experience to the Ambassador Academy staff. She loves to attend professional development workshops, especially those that empower teachers to teach math in new and creative ways!