Board and Faculty

Margaret Weir-Sangalli brings decades of professional experience, integrity, and servant leadership to her role as Chair of the Board of Directors at Blessed Sacrament Academy. A retired Certified Financial Planner® with a distinguished career at Vanguard, she advised high-net-worth individuals, institutions, and boards, guiding organizations through complex financial decisions with clarity, prudence, and ethical discipline.

Margaret now brings that same commitment to transparency, accountability, and faithful stewardship to Catholic education. In her role at the Academy, she works to ensure that resources are managed responsibly and in service of the school’s long-term mission and stability.

A devout Catholic with broad academic and cultural experience, Margaret studied abroad in Spain and holds a degree from a Lutheran university. She values intellectual honesty, clear reasoning, and the pursuit of truth, qualities that inform her leadership and vision for the Academy.

Since retiring, Margaret has devoted herself to service within the Concho community, including longstanding involvement in the annual Christmas in Concho outreach. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to classical education, the dignity of every child, and the importance of trustworthy governance rooted in faith and reason.

Criss E. Candelaria is a lifelong resident of Concho, Arizona, and a retired attorney with nearly four decades of legal service in Northern Arizona. A graduate of Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, he was licensed to practice law in 1985 and built a respected career in family and criminal defense law, where he was known for his fairness, integrity, and strong advocacy for his clients.

Throughout his career, Criss earned the trust of individuals and families by providing clear counsel, steady judgment, and compassionate representation. His work was shaped by a deep understanding of the communities he served and a commitment to justice rooted in respect for the dignity of every person.

Criss comes from a family with deep ties to the region and a strong tradition of service. Raised in the Catholic faith, he continues to live that faith through regular participation in parish life and ongoing service to his community. Since retiring from legal practice, he remains actively involved in local initiatives and is widely regarded as a source of wisdom, guidance, and encouragement.

As a member of the Board of Directors at Blessed Sacrament Academy, Criss brings legal insight, institutional memory, and a steadfast commitment to ethical leadership and community responsibility.

Meredith Marks is a registered nurse with extensive clinical and leadership experience in the field of infectious disease. Over the course of her career, she served in a variety of roles including nurse manager, charge nurse, and preceptor for new graduate nurses, where she was known for her clarity of judgment, commitment to excellence, and ability to lead others in demanding environments.

Her professional experience, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, shaped her perspective on ethical responsibility, conscience, and service. Through these experiences, Meredith developed a deep commitment to truth, integrity, and principled decision-making, qualities that continue to inform her work and leadership.

Meredith is a devoted wife and mother of three, and she approaches family life with seriousness and intentionality. Rooted in her Catholic faith, she values formation, discipline, and moral clarity, both in the home and in education. As a member of the Board of Directors at Blessed Sacrament Academy, Meredith brings healthcare leadership experience, ethical insight, and a strong commitment to the formation and well-being of children and families.

Stacey Scott brings extensive healthcare experience, practical leadership, and a steady commitment to service to her role on the Board of Directors at Blessed Sacrament Academy. A certified pharmacy technician for more than 25 years, she has worked in demanding clinical environments that require precision, responsibility, and care. In addition to her healthcare background, Stacey is a small business owner, bringing firsthand experience in organization, accountability, and long-term planning.

Stacey is also a devoted mother and is deeply engaged in family life and community involvement. Her approach to service is marked by consistency, generosity, and a strong sense of responsibility toward others, particularly children and families. She is known for her reliability and willingness to support others quietly and effectively.

As a board member, Stacey contributes a grounded perspective shaped by healthcare, business, and family life. She is committed to supporting the mission of Blessed Sacrament Academy through thoughtful governance, encouragement of families, and a clear focus on the formation of both mind and character.

Ann Bunn brings extensive administrative experience, educational training, and a deep commitment to service to her role as Academy Secretary at Blessed Sacrament Academy. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from York College of Pennsylvania and pursued additional studies at the University of Maryland and Notre Dame of Maryland. Earlier in her career, Ann served as parish secretary at Holy Infant Catholic Church in York, Pennsylvania, where she supported parish life and religious education, including teaching CCD.

Ann’s professional background spans several decades and reflects a strong work ethic and adaptability. After raising her family, she spent over 20 years as an auditor for Medicare contracts with Florida Blue and also worked in federal and service-oriented roles, including the student loan industry and transportation security. Across these positions, she earned a reputation for reliability, attention to detail, and integrity.

Now residing in Arizona, Ann is actively involved in the Concho community and regularly volunteers at the St. Lawrence Thrift Store. As Academy Secretary, she provides essential administrative support with warmth, organization, and consistency, helping ensure that daily operations run smoothly for students, families, and staff.

John Bunn brings decades of hands-on experience, reliability, and steady leadership to his role as Campus Operations Coordinator at Blessed Sacrament Academy. His professional background spans more than forty years across industrial operations, maintenance supervision, logistics, and skilled trades. He spent fifteen years in the hazardous waste treatment industry, where he served in multiple operational and supervisory roles and was responsible for implementing maintenance systems, coordinating inventory, and overseeing daily operations.

In addition to his industrial experience, John owned and operated a full-time home improvement business for over a decade and has worked extensively in facilities installation, warranty service, and technical maintenance. His work is marked by precision, accountability, and a strong commitment to safety and quality.

John is deeply rooted in faith, family, and service. As Campus Operations Coordinator, he ensures that the academy’s facilities are well maintained, safe, and functional, supporting a learning environment that reflects order, care, and stewardship. His practical expertise and dependable presence make him an essential part of the academy’s daily life.

Edward Sangalli is a veteran educator with decades of teaching experience and a lifelong commitment to learning. He spent many years teaching on the East Coast and was recognized as a highly qualified special education teacher, with particular strength in literacy instruction. Throughout his career, Ed was known for helping students develop confidence as readers and thinkers, guiding many children from foundational skill-building to academic independence.

Ed brings broad intellectual curiosity and a deep appreciation for the natural world to his work in education. His experiences living and working near a national park shaped his attentiveness to observation, reflection, and wonder, qualities he continues to encourage in students and teachers alike. His interests in art, music, craftsmanship, and literature reflect a classical appreciation for beauty and lifelong learning.

At Blessed Sacrament Academy, Ed provides faculty support and mentorship, working alongside educators to strengthen instruction, encourage professional growth, and foster a school culture marked by joy, curiosity, and intellectual engagement. His presence reinforces the academy’s commitment to education that forms both mind and character.

Kimberley Dalle Nogare is an experienced educator with more than a decade of service to children and families across Arizona. A resident of Concho, she has worked in a variety of academic and support roles within both public and charter school settings, developing particular strength in early childhood education, literacy support, and student supervision.

Kim began her work in education at Concho Elementary, serving as a food service assistant before moving into paraprofessional roles supporting Title I classrooms, special education services, and reading intervention. Her experience has included small-group instruction, classroom support, substitute teaching, and supervision across multiple grade levels. She has also worked with Three Rivers Education Foundation and George Washington Academy in Snowflake, gaining experience with preschool through middle school students.

Kim holds current EL testing credentials, is trained in state assessment administration, and is completing her bachelor’s degree through Grand Canyon University toward full teacher certification. At Blessed Sacrament Academy, she brings diligence, adaptability, and a deep care for students, along with the perspective of a Catholic mother committed to academic excellence, moral formation, and faithful education.

Natasha serves as a classroom aide at Blessed Sacrament Academy, bringing experience in early childhood care and a steady, attentive presence to the classroom. She has worked in daycare settings supporting young children through early developmental milestones and understands the importance of structure, patience, and consistency in early learning environments.

Natasha approaches her work with care and professionalism, assisting teachers with daily classroom activities, supporting students individually, and helping maintain an orderly and welcoming learning space. As a new mother, she brings added insight into the needs of young children and the value of strong adult guidance during the formative years.

In addition to her work in education, Natasha has experience in customer service and brings organization, reliability, and clear communication to her role. She has a strong interest in visual storytelling, animation, and the arts, and her creative perspective adds warmth and attentiveness to the school environment.

At Blessed Sacrament Academy, Natasha supports students with kindness and consistency, contributing to a classroom culture where children feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.

Ruben Vizcarra serves as the Physical Education instructor and coach at Blessed Sacrament Academy, bringing discipline, energy, and a strong commitment to character formation. Fluent in multiple languages and experienced in both education and coaching, Ruben approaches physical education as an essential part of forming the whole person, emphasizing discipline, perseverance, and self-control.

Ruben is a double black belt and state champion in Taekwondo and leads both the academy’s physical education program and Taekwondo Club. His instruction emphasizes high standards, mutual respect, and steady personal growth, helping students develop confidence, resilience, and healthy habits through consistent practice.

In addition to his work at the academy, Ruben is a small business owner with experience in mechanical trades and entrepreneurship. His background in hands-on work and mentoring provides students with a practical model of diligence, craftsmanship, and responsibility. As a coach and mentor, Ruben contributes to a school culture that values strength of character, disciplined effort, and purposeful living.

April Schneider serves as Executive Secretary at Blessed Sacrament Academy, bringing professionalism, organization, and a strong commitment to service to her role. She is a devoted wife and mother whose steady presence and attentiveness make her a trusted point of contact for families, faculty, and staff.

Prior to joining the Academy, April built a successful career in corporate administration, serving as executive secretary to the CEO of a major pharmaceutical company. In that role, she managed complex scheduling, confidential communications, and high-level administrative responsibilities with precision, discretion, and reliability. Her experience in demanding professional environments shaped her ability to anticipate needs and maintain order in fast-paced settings.

Since relocating to the White Mountains, April has become deeply involved in community service, including a central role in organizing the annual Christmas in Concho outreach. At Blessed Sacrament Academy, she supports daily operations, coordinates communication, and assists with events and administrative needs, ensuring that the academy functions smoothly and professionally. Her combination of competence, warmth, and faith-rooted service makes her an essential part of the academy’s mission and daily life.

Lisa Hezmalhalch is an experienced educator with more than twenty-five years of work in education and ministry. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Bible/Theology and Journalism from Multnomah University and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies and Pastoral Counseling from Multnomah Biblical Seminary. Her academic background reflects a strong foundation in theology, language, and formation.

After years of theological study and discernment, Lisa entered full communion with the Catholic Church in 2015. This journey deepened her engagement with the Catholic intellectual and liturgical tradition and shaped her approach to teaching and formation. She has completed advanced certification in classical education through the Augustine Institute and Classical University, with particular emphasis on the Trivium and the Great Books tradition.

At Blessed Sacrament Academy, Lisa teaches English and Journalism using a classical approach that emphasizes clear thinking, disciplined writing, and responsible communication. She guides students in developing strong language skills while engaging literature as a means of understanding truth, beauty, and the human experience. In addition to her work in education, Lisa is a published author, with A Rome for Restless Hearts forthcoming from Penguin Random House.

Edward is a Catholic educator with experience teaching mathematics, philosophy, and literature in Catholic school settings. He has guided students through subjects including algebra, logic, and classical literature, with a consistent emphasis on disciplined reasoning and intellectual formation.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from Thomas Aquinas College, where he was formed in the Great Books tradition through rigorous study of authors such as Aristotle, Euclid, Aquinas, and Shakespeare using Socratic dialogue and classical methods. This education shaped his conviction that faith and reason are mutually reinforcing and central to authentic learning.

To further deepen his formation as a classical Catholic educator, Edward has completed advanced certification through the Augustine Institute and Classical University, strengthening his engagement with the Trivium and classical pedagogy. He is also currently pursuing teacher certification through the State of Arizona. At Blessed Sacrament Academy, Edward brings clarity, intellectual seriousness, and a commitment to forming students who think carefully and pursue truth with integrity.

Eric is an educator and theologian with more than a decade of experience in education and ministry. He brings a strong background in theology, history, and the arts to his teaching, helping students understand the development of Christian culture and the role of beauty, tradition, and continuity in Western civilization.

Eric holds a bachelor’s degree in Bible, Theology, and Educational Ministries, with a minor in Pastoral Ministries, from Multnomah Bible College. After extensive theological study and discernment, he entered full communion with the Catholic Church in 2014. His formation was further shaped by time immersed in Benedictine monastic life, which deepened his appreciation for liturgy, prayer, and the Church’s intellectual tradition.

At Blessed Sacrament Academy, Eric teaches Art and History using a classical approach that draws from sacred art, historical sources, and the Church’s cultural heritage. He has completed advanced certification in classical education through the Augustine Institute and Classical University and is currently pursuing teacher certification through the State of Arizona. His instruction emphasizes historical understanding, aesthetic formation, and the integration of faith and reason.

Giovanni Vizcarra is an educator with extensive experience in philosophy, theology, pastoral care, and interdisciplinary teaching. Fluent in multiple languages, he brings a broad intellectual foundation and a strong commitment to classical Catholic education, emphasizing disciplined reasoning, intellectual formation, and attentive care for students.

He earned a bachelor’s degree with a double major in Philosophy and Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary and pursued graduate studies in theology, philosophy, divinity, and pastoral counseling. Giovanni also completed Clinical Pastoral Education at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, strengthening his formation in ethical reflection, spiritual guidance, and pastoral support.

Giovanni holds advanced certification through the Augustine Institute for Catholic Educators and Classical Academic Press University in areas including school leadership, classical pedagogy, and disability and classical education. He is currently completing teacher certification through the State of Arizona. At Blessed Sacrament Academy, Giovanni teaches Science and Latin, integrating classical formation with clear instruction and practical skills to help students think critically, learn responsibly, and pursue truth with confidence.

Anthony is an educator with a strong background in sacred music, philosophy, and classical Catholic education. His work is shaped by a lifelong engagement with the liturgy and a commitment to forming students through beauty, discipline, and intellectual rigor.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in Music and Philosophy and a master’s degree in Philosophy (Systematics), with extensive academic and practical training in sacred polyphony, Gregorian chant, and choral conducting. His formation includes years of experience in music ministry and education, where he has worked to preserve and transmit the Church’s musical and intellectual tradition.

At Blessed Sacrament Academy, Anthony teaches sacred music and philosophy using a classical approach that emphasizes attentiveness, reverence, and thoughtful engagement with the Catholic tradition. He has completed advanced certification in classical education through the Augustine Institute and Classical University and is currently pursuing teacher certification through the State of Arizona. His instruction supports the academy’s mission to cultivate students who are attentive to truth, formed by beauty, and grounded in disciplined study.