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 dedicated more than 20 years to serving and empowering students with exceptionalities and the families who support them. Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of roles—from direct care to educational leadership—always guided by the belief that every student deserves to feel valued, supported, and capable of success. As Chief Academic Officer at Assist Enterprises and a member of the AZ Aspire Academy family since 2015, Jennifer has helped foster a school community in which students, families, and staff are encouraged to thrive together. She holds degrees in Special Education, Curriculum and Instruction, and is currently pursuing her doctorate in Educational Leadership.

David Jefferson is a dedicated leader guided by a clear mission: always do what is right for kids. As Chief Operations Officer 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 Administrative 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, 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.

Dr. Judith “Jude” Zenna Valgento serves as Director of Special Projects, where she supports AZ Aspire with her vast knowledge and experience in education. 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.

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.

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.

Ashley Ellis serves as our Gilbert (formerly Queen Creek) Campus Director at AZ Aspire Academy, bringing more than 16 years of experience in education and special education. Ashley received her BA in Education from Arizona State and her MA in Special Education from Grand Canyon University. Ashley’s passion for special education is deeply personal, inspired by her younger brother with autism. She is committed to creating supportive, student-centered learning environments where every child is empowered to reach their full potential.

Ms. King is a dedicated special education leader with more than 20 years of experience in education, including as AZ Aspire’s Scottsdale Campus Director. She earned both her Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Master's Degree in Special Education from the University of New Mexico and has taught a variety of subjects while supporting students with diverse academic, behavioral, and learning needs across New Mexico, Georgia, and Arizona. Passionate about student advocacy, Ms. King is committed to creating inclusive learning environments that empower students to achieve academic success, develop independence, and reach their full potential.

RoxAnne Williford is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona with more than 30 years of experience serving children, adolescents, adults, and families in clinical, educational, and behavioral health settings. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Criminal Justice from Minnesota State University Moorhead and a Master of Counseling from the University of Phoenix. Throughout her career, RoxAnne has worked in residential treatment centers, psychiatric hospitals, schools, and private practice, supporting individuals with diverse social, emotional, behavioral, and educational needs.