Administration

Executive Principal - Mrs. Norma Derby

Norma Derby has been an educator for 26 years, the last 7 years of which have been as the proud principal of AMS-MASSA. Graduating from the University of Texas at El Paso, she began her career as a Special Education teacher. She relocated to Tucson, AZ in 2001 where she explored other teaching opportunities, in varies grade levels as a general education teacher and as a Specials teacher at AMS-Prince. Ms. Norma received her master’s degree in educational leadership in 2014 from Northern Arizona University. Immediately after graduating she was hired by the Tucson Unified School District as an Assistant Director in the Exceptional Education Department. These years were very formative in her development as a leader by solidifying the importance of equity of all learners. In 2016, she moved into her current role as principal of MASSA.

Norma is a devoted wife to her husband, William, of 19 years and a mother of three a 23-year-old Son, an 18-year-old Daughter, and a 9-year-old Son. She loves to spend time with her family, travel, cook her favorite childhood recipes for the holidays and play with her Aussie-doodle, Penny.

Resident Principal - Mrs. Alicia Morris

Mrs. Alicia Morris has 13+ years educational experience working with K-8 students in Mississippi, Arizona, and France. She is originally from Phoenix, but graduated from The University of Arizona with Bachelor’s degrees in Business Economics and French and from Arizona State University with a Master’s degree in Educational leadership. Alicia has served as Assistant Principal of Academics at MASSA for 5 years. She has a spouse who has devoted his career to being a teacher and a young, energetic son who loves to keep his parents on their toes! Alicia is passionate about educational equity and thrives on coaching teachers to help provide the best educational opportunities for their scholars.

Assistant Principal - Kimberlin Garcia

Assistant Principal - Sarah Williams

Assistant Principal - Joseph Montgomery

Head of Operations - Marcela Dominguez

Originally from Chihuahua, Mexico, Marcela pursued her university studies in Guadalajara, Jalisco, specializing in business administration management. Throughout her career, she has gained valuable experience working with international brands, managing multiple locations, and developing expertise in operations and team leadership. After more than a decade in the restaurant industry, she discovered her passion for making a meaningful impact in the education field. Marcela's motivation to transition to the educational system stemmed from her desire to assist the Hispanic community and help individuals navigate the challenges of transitioning to a new country. She has actively contributed to projects that positively influence the lives of scholars and benefit the community. In addition to her professional pursuits, she enjoys cycling and exploring the outdoors with her husband. As a nature lover, she embraces the unique desert vibes that Tucson has to offer.

*A full summary of school personnel experience and resumes are available for public review upon request at school grounds.