Administration
Principal - Courtney Johnson
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Ms. Johnson is an experienced and passionate educator with over 10 years of service in the field of education. She began her journey as a classroom teacher, working with students in grades K–8, where she developed a strong foundation in instructional excellence and student engagement. In 2021, she transitioned into educational leadership and discovered a deep passion for leading and empowering others, fostering strong school communities, and building lasting relationships with families and stakeholders.
Ms. Johnson holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication and a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. Her academic and professional experiences have uniquely equipped her to lead AMS South Mountain with vision and heart. As a proud native of the South Mountain community, Ms. Johnson is honored to serve the very neighborhood that helped shape who she is today. She is committed to ensuring that all scholars receive a high-quality, equitable education and are supported to thrive both academically and personally. Outside of school, Ms. Johnson enjoys photography, spending quality time with her daughter, friends and family, and cuddling with her boxer pup.
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Assistant Principal (K-2) - Amanda Rincon
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Amanda Rincon started in the world of education earning her Bachelor's degree in Elementary and Special Education and Master's in Educational Leadership. With her knowledge she has applied her learning in the classroom, teaching in First, Second, and Fourth grade. From there she moved into Educational Outreach then went into a leadership role as an Early Childhood Director.
She is excited to join the Mambas family with AMS because of its strong commitment to academic excellence, character development, and community involvement. What draws her to this school is its challenging curriculum, passionate educators, and the supportive environment that encourages students to grow not just as learners, but as individual scholars. As a visible and engaged leader, she is known to be consistent, approachable, and solution-oriented, always prioritizing the well-being and success of both students and staff. She works collaboratively to uphold high academic and behavioral expectations, while also fostering a positive and inclusive school culture.
She loves reading and binge-watching the next dramatic reality show. Outside of academics, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching her two boys play sports, exploring new places with her husband, and is always up for a well-planned adventure. Coming from a large, close-knit family that values education, hard work, and kindness, she has always been supported in pursuing her goals. As a first-generation college graduate, she strives to give her best in everything she does. She enjoys deep conversations, telling jokes, and making people feel welcome. Whether through a shared interest or a good laugh, she always seeks to find common ground with those she meets.
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Assistant Principal (3-5) - Don McClintock
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Mr. McClintock is an experienced educator and administrator with over 25 years in education, including 3 years as an Assistant Principal. He has the proven ability to build strong relationships with staff and students, implement successful academic and extracurricular programs, and support school improvement initiatives.
Mr. McClintock received his Bachelor of Science from Southern Illinois University and a Master's in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. He has been married for 39 years and is blessed with three grown children and two wonderful grandchildren.
Mr. McClintock is committed to the AMS culture of excellence, equity, and continuous growth. He is honored and excited to embark on this journey with all of you. Together, we will continue to uphold the tradition of excellence and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed. |
Assistant Principal (6-8) - Dieago de la Cruz
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Mr. de la Cruz is excited to join the AMS South Mountain community as the new middle school assistant principal. With extensive experience as both a teacher and Dean of Students, he brings a strong commitment to student success, a passion for fostering a positive school culture, and a dedication to visible, student-focused leadership. Mr. de la Cruz holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a master’s degree in educational administration, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership. His dissertation explores parental perspectives and expectations of middle school leadership. His mission is to support students, collaborate with dedicated teachers, and build meaningful partnerships with families to ensure every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to reach their highest potential. Outside of school, he enjoys coaching youth sports, spending quality time with his family, and staying actively involved in leadership development. Mr. de la Cruz is eager to embark on this new journey and looks forward to achieving great things together with the AMSSM community. |
Head of Operations - David Garrison
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Mr. Garrison is a native Arizonan with roots in Yuma. He is an alumnus of Arizona State University. This will be his first official school year at AMS South Mountain. He brings with him 6 years of school operations and logistics experience as well as 5 years of managerial experience with the State of Arizona. Mr. Garrison and his wife have 3 children ranging from 18 to 5 years of age. He enjoys spending time with family and friends, hunting, and camping. |
A full summary of school personnel experience and resumes are available for public review upon request. Please contact the school directly.
For more information, please see the Arizona Department of Education Parental Rights Handbook Public Charter Schools