EDUCATION
Erika Richwagen Kindergarten teacher, Leading Edge Academy What inspired you to work in education? When I was in college, I did a lot of babysitting and tutoring on the side and I really enjoyed it. I originally studied web design but seeing the impact on working with kids brought me lots of joy. I changed my major to early childhood education and have been a teacher for five years now. What are you most excited about this year? I’m most excited for all incoming kindergarteners because for a lot of them this is their first experience in a school setting. I’m excited to get to know them and be able to give them a great introduction to school. How do you like to decorate your class? With younger kids, I like to add lots of colors everywhere. I want the classroom to look welcoming and fun but not overwhelming. I also have stuffies in the class to give a sense of comfort to kids. What drink fuels your morning? I love Alani energy drinks. I’m trying not to drink them as much, but they are really good. I also do an iced coffee from Dutch Bros. What’s one message you have for students? Always remember to treat others how you would want to be treated.
Amanda Anderson 7th and 8th grade science teacher, Alma Farrell Innovation Academy What inspired you to work in education? I love kids. I know this sounds cliche, but they truly are the future. I think it takes one person to start a momentum of change. What are you most excited about this year? I’m excited because my children are joining me at this school. I want to make it the best school possible for all the kids. What are some ways you’re preparing for the first day? I am decorating my classroom and making sure every little detail is ready. I like to add some personal details around the classroom like my Army flag since I am an Army veteran. Throughout the year I also like to add the kids’ work to make it more personal to them.
Elizabeth Allison Principal, Alma Farrell Innovation Academy What inspired you to take on this role? I was a principal at another school and when this position came up, I thought it would be an incredible opportunity. I was a part of the design process, building the school from the ground up and having the autonomy to develop programming. It’s also a way to leave my stamp on the next generation. What are you most excited about this school year? Our school is a team and work-based learning program. One of the things I’m most excited about is to invite the community to come onto campus and help inspire projects and collaborate with the kids. There’s a lot of space for students to learn in their own ways. Do you still experience first-day jitters? Yes, I think that’s natural. What drink fuels your morning? Definitely coffee, I can’t start my day without it. What’s one message you have for students? We’re excited, ready and prepared. We’ve been planning for the last year from the playground to the programming, to the intervention and enrichment discovery labs.
Dr. C. Jon Beecroft
Dr. Bryon Lemon
Dr. Jordan Richardson
Maricopa Foot & Ankle Center
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Second location
What drink fuels your morning?
Ahwatukee Foot & Ankle Center
What’s one message you have for students? We can do this together!
(480) 893-1090 • AHWFAC.com 15810 S. 45th St., Suite190 Just south of Chandler Blvd.
InMaricopa.com | August 2026
August 2026 | InMaricopa.com
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