District Staff
Bob Weir, Superintendent
Bob Weir serves as the Superintendent of Valley Academy for Career & Technology Education (VACTE), a position he has held since 2016. With a strong commitment to career and technical education, Bob provides leadership and vision for the district while working to ensure students have access to meaningful, hands-on educational opportunities that prepare them for college, careers, and life beyond high school.
Throughout his career, Bob has been a dedicated advocate for Career and Technical Education (CTE), supporting programs that allow students to develop valuable technical skills, industry knowledge, and real-world experience. Under his leadership, VACTE continues to strengthen partnerships with local schools, businesses, community organizations, and post-secondary institutions to expand opportunities for students throughout the Verde Valley.
Bob's leadership and dedication to CTE have earned him recognition at both the state and national levels. He was honored as the ACTE Administrator of the Year for 2017–2018 and has received the ACTE Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his longstanding service and contributions to career and technical education. He has also been recognized as a CTSO Champion for his support of student organizations and leadership opportunities.
Bob believes strongly in developing students through hands-on learning, strong industry partnerships, and opportunities that connect classroom instruction to the workforce. He is passionate about supporting VACTE's instructors and staff and creating an environment where students can discover their strengths, develop confidence, and build a foundation for successful futures.
Outside of his professional responsibilities, Bob enjoys being a rodeo clown and spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He takes great pride in his family, the VACTE community, and the students and staff he has the privilege of serving.
Shawnna Patton, Business Administrator
Shawnna Patton serves as the School Business Manager for Valley Academy for Career & Technology Education (VACTE). With many years of experience serving VACTE, Shawnna plays an essential role in the day-to-day operations of the district and works closely with staff, students, families, administration, and community partners.
Her responsibilities include overseeing business and financial operations, payroll and employee support, student program funding, compliance, records, purchasing, and a wide variety of administrative functions that help keep VACTE running smoothly. She is known for being organized, dependable, resourceful, and always willing to jump in wherever she is needed.
Shawnna first worked at VACTE from 2007–2009 before taking time away to raise her family. She returned to VACTE in 2013 and has continued to grow within the district, developing a strong understanding of its programs, people, and mission.
Shawnna is passionate about supporting VACTE’s staff and students and takes pride in being part of an organization that prepares students with real-world career and technical skills. She especially values the relationships she has built with the VACTE community and the opportunity to contribute to the continued success and growth of the district.
Outside of work, Shawnna enjoys spending time with her husband and family, supporting her children in their activities, and staying involved in the local community. She is proud to be part of the VACTE family and looks forward to continuing to serve the district and its students.
Laura Carbonaro, Registrar
Laura Carbonaro serves as the Registrar for the Valley Academy for Career & Technology Education (VACTE). In her role, Laura is an important part of the district’s student support team, helping ensure that student records, enrollment, attendance, and other essential student information are accurate, organized, and maintained according to district and state requirements.
Laura holds a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education with a major in Earth Science and minors in Mathematics and Geology, bringing a strong educational background, attention to detail, and analytical skills to her work at VACTE. She works closely with students, families, school counselors, instructors, and district staff to help make the enrollment and student records process as smooth as possible.
Laura is dedicated to providing dependable support to students and staff while helping maintain the accuracy and integrity of VACTE’s student records. She takes pride in being part of a team that helps students navigate their educational journey and prepare for their futures.
Outside of work, Laura enjoys traveling, exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and creating lasting memories with family and friends.
Fun Fact: Before joining the education field, Laura had an impressive career working on nuclear submarines. Her unique professional background, combined with her education in Earth Science, Mathematics and Geology, brings a unique perspective and a wealth of experience to her role at VACTE.
Daria Weir, Counselor
Daria Weir serves as a Counselor at Valley Academy for Career & Technology Education (VACTE), where she is dedicated to helping students make the most of their career and technical education experience. Daria works closely with students, families, instructors, and school partners to provide guidance and support as students navigate their educational and career goals.
In her role, Daria helps students explore their interests, identify opportunities, and develop plans for success. She is committed to making sure students feel supported, encouraged, and confident as they work toward their futures. Daria understands that every student has different goals and strengths and enjoys helping them discover pathways that fit their individual interests and aspirations.
Daria is known for being approachable, supportive, and willing to go the extra mile for students. She takes pride in building relationships with students and being a trusted resource throughout their time at VACTE.
Outside of work, Daria's favorite role is being a grandma. She treasures spending time with her grandchildren, making memories, and watching them grow. Family is an important part of Daria's life, and she enjoys every opportunity to spend time with the people she loves. She is proud to be part of the VACTE team and passionate about helping students recognize their potential and build a strong foundation for their future.