Amy Palatucci

Administrative Support Coordinator | Krista Demetrulias | 480-484-6802

I have been working in the field of education since 2005, and I have been with SUSD since 2011. Before my current role as Principal of Coronado, I was a Special Education teacher and Department Chair at Chaparral High School. I have also served as Summer School Principal for SUSD. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education and Elementary Education from Carlow University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I also have a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University. In my spare time, I love to read, watch movies, and travel. My favorite musical artist is Sarah Brightman. I got into education because one teacher believed in me. If I were a quote, it would be “I hope you believe in yourself as much as I believe in you."

Melinda Splitek

My career in education began in 2009 after graduating from Arizona State University with a BA in Secondary Education and English. I also completed my Masters in Educational Leadership at Arizona State University in 2015. After spending 8 years teaching high school English, I transitioned into an administrator role at Coronado High School. I am passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and believe that it is never too late to make a positive change in your life and chase your dreams. I am an avid reader who also loves running and cycling.

Robert Villa

I have had the opportunity to spend the last 24 years in education as a math teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal. I have worked at schools throughout the valley from Maryvale to Gilbert. I was the first college graduate in my extended family and graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education – Mathematics. I later earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. I was born and raised in Arizona and am proud to be a native Arizonan. I have played many sports over the years including football, basketball, and sand volleyball. I am a die-hard Sun Devil fan and regularly attend football and basketball games whenever possible. I have been married since 2002 and have three incredible children. We all enjoy traveling, going to the movies, and attending sporting events together. I am also passionate about the arts and especially appreciate music. My favorite bands range from Depeche Mode to Foster the people and I will often travel to see them live. I value building relationships with students and colleagues and am proud to be a Don.

Chad Johnson

I became a professional educator in 2008 and am excited to join the Coronado Don community this year! For the first 14 years of my career I worked at Basha High School in the Chandler Unified School District as a History teacher, Girls Tennis coach. Academic Decathlon club supervisor, level lead and instructional coach. I am an AP Reader for AP World and AP US History and a National Board Certified Teacher. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education from Arizona State University and two Master’s Degrees, the first in Secondary Curriculum and Instruction and the second in Education Leadership, from Northern Arizona University. I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, hiking, and playing tennis. As a native Arizonan, I am a diehard local sports fan and my favorite bands are Jimmy Eat World and The Maine. I became an educator because of dedicated teachers and coaches in my life who helped me feel seen, heard, and valued en route to maximizing my potential in and out of the classroom, and it is my mission to provide that same sense of care and empowerment for every student. I am honored to be a Don!