Instructors

Dr. DJ Graham

DJ Graham is the head of school and principal of the Gary K. Herberger Young Scholars Academy, a middle and high school for highly and profoundly gifted learners. He has more than decade of experience in the field of gifted education, teaching and developing curriculum. DJ provides insights, experience, and guidance as a speaker at state and national education conferences, focusing on the social-emotional and academic needs of gifted adolescents and integrating pop culture into curriculum. He obtained Master’s degrees in Gifted Education Curriculum & Instruction and Educational Administration from Arizona State University and Grand Canyon University respectively. DJ earned his doctorate at Northern Arizona University in Educational Leadership.

Liz Mendoza

Liz Mendoza serves as Curriculum and Instruction Coordinator at Gary K. Herberger Young Scholars Academy. She is passionate about developing programs where students are able to learn, create, and explore and where teachers are themselves lifelong learners. She has extensive experience in both public and private schools, especially working with gifted and high ability learners. Liz earned her master's degree in interdisciplinary studies from Arizona State University. Additionally, she is a National Board Certified Teacher. She received her doctorate in leadership and innovation from ASU.

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