Sonia Gonzales brings more than 30 years of experience in education, with a deep commitment to inclusive, student-centered learning. Her career has spanned classroom teaching, program leadership, and school administration across multiple states. In 2013, Sonia founded AZ Aspire Academy to provide highly personalized, one-to-one education and therapeutic support. She remains a passionate advocate for exceptional learners and believes every child deserves to feel supported, capable, and seen.

Jennifer Jones-Rohde has more than 20 years of experience supporting students with exceptionalities in a wide range of roles, from direct care to educational leadership. She has served as Executive Director of Special Education and Community Engagement at AZ Aspire Academy since 2015, helping grow the school into a thriving, supportive community. Jennifer holds degrees in Special Education and Curriculum and Instruction and is currently pursuing her doctorate in Educational Leadership, with a focus on community partnerships.

David Jefferson is a dedicated leader guided by a clear mission: always do what is right for kids. As Director of Operations for Assist Enterprises, he oversees AZ Aspire Academy, Ascent Academy, and The Future Now Services, bringing deep insight into the needs of students with disabilities. His expertise is shaped by both professional experience and his personal journey as a parent of children with exceptionalities. Having spent years navigating education, behavioral health, and developmental disability systems, David uses his knowledge to ensure every student receives the support they need to reach their full potential.

Monique serves as Director of Student Services, she oversees the Billing, Registrar, and Admissions departments, ensuring smooth and efficient operations across the school. With more than 10 years of experience in education administration, she also serves on the Outreach Team, where she enjoys building meaningful connections with families and the community. She is passionate about guiding families with clarity and care, helping them feel confident and supported throughout their educational journey.

Brianna Grondin is a student-centered special education leader with more than 10 years of experience supporting learners with diverse needs. As Regional Special Education and Academic Director/Interim Scottsdale Campus Director, she collaborates closely with teachers, families, service providers, and district partners to ensure individualized, high-quality instruction. Brianna brings expertise in program leadership, IEP development, and staff mentoring, and is passionate about building inclusive, collaborative teams that help students thrive.

With over 15 years of dedicated experience in special education, Jamie Mitchell brings a rare combination of instructional leadership and genuine advocacy to every student, family, and school she serves. As Regional Director of Special Education and Academics/Queen Creek Interim Campus Director, Jamie operates at the intersection of compliance and compassion. Her deep fluency in Individualized Education Programs and Behavior Intervention Plans ensures that every student's plan is not only legally sound, but meaningfully designed to drive real progress. Jamie's work is rooted in her core belief: every student deserves the opportunity to succeed.

Nicole Kurth serves as Campus Director at AZ Aspire Academy’s Tempe Campus, where she leads a collaborative team focused on individualized, student-centered learning. With more than 17 years of experience in education, she brings a strong background in special education and school administration. Nicole is passionate about helping students discover their strengths, supporting educators, and fostering a school culture grounded in high expectations, compassion, and continuous growth.

Del Vigil serves as Campus Director of AZ Aspire Academy’s Litchfield Park campus, she brings 25 years of experience in education, with a background spanning physical education, reading intervention, special education, and athletic coaching. Originally from Colorado, she has served in a variety of instructional and leadership roles throughout her career. Since moving to Arizona nearly seven years ago, she has been dedicated to supporting AZ Aspire students and helping each learner reach their full potential.

Dr. Judith “Jude” Zenna Valgento serves as District Director at AZ Aspire Academy, where she supports the delivery of individualized, high-quality instruction for students with special needs. With a doctoral background in psychology and education, she brings experience across private practice, family forensics, and K–12 education. Dr. Jude is committed to evidence-based, compassionate learning environments that nurture academic growth, resilience, and confidence in every student.