Our People
Emily Escobedo, Director of Admissions
Hello wonderful families, I am the Director of Admissions and Principal of Ivybrook Academy in South Scottsdale. I bring nearly 20 years of experience in education, having served as an early childhood teacher, elementary classroom teacher, instructional mentor, and school leader.
I believe that education begins long before elementary school and that the preschool years lay the foundation for a child’s confidence, curiosity, and lifelong love of learning. I am passionate about creating warm, nurturing early childhood environments where young children feel safe, supported, and joyful as they explore the world around them. I believe every child deserves to be truly known at this stage of development, where their individuality is celebrated, their strengths are recognized, and their social, emotional, and developmental needs are thoughtfully supported. At Ivybrook, I am excited to help create a preschool experience that fosters independence, wonder, and meaningful connections through hands-on learning and intentional care.
Coming from a long line of educators, I deeply value the role a strong learning community plays in a child’s growth. I believe that early childhood education is most powerful when families and educators work together in partnership, creating a supportive and connected environment where children can truly flourish.
I am a proud graduate of Arizona State University, where I completed extensive coursework in early childhood education, curriculum and instruction, and educational leadership. Arizona born and raised—and a proud product of Arizona schools myself—I am honored to help bring Ivybrook Academy to the South Scottsdale community and to support families during these foundational early years.
I look forward to welcoming your family and partnering with you to create a joyful, enriching beginning to your child’s learning journey.
Zoie Borjon, Curriculum Coordinator
My name is Zoie Borjon, and I am the Assistant Principal and Curriculum Coordinator here at Ivybrook Academy Scottsdale. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a Montessori Teaching Credential, and I have been in the field of early childhood education for a little over a decade.
What excites me most about Ivybrook is our commitment to meeting each child exactly where they are and intentionally expanding on their individual interests and developmental needs. I am deeply passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences that nurture curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. I look forward to partnering with our families to support each child’s unique journey and growth.
Owner's Story
Rob Wax and his wife, Jen, first discovered Ivybrook Academy while searching for the right preschool for their oldest son, Cooper. Like many families, they wanted a half-day program that would provide quality early education while still leaving time to share lunch and afternoons together at home. When they found Ivybrook’s purposeful approach — one that meets children at their individual levels of development and offers a more intentional half-day structure — they knew it was exactly what they had been searching for.
With a background as a Mechanical Engineer from Virginia Tech and certification as an Energy Manager through the Association of Energy Engineers, Rob has spent his career leading teams in both small and large companies. He is passionate about servant leadership and creating strong, positive cultures. His personal philosophy of “leaving no negative impact” aligns closely with Ivybrook’s mission to nurture and inspire children in ways that will positively influence the community for generations to come.
At Ivybrook Academy South Scottsdale, Rob’s focus is ensuring that teachers and staff have the tools, resources, and supportive culture they need to provide the very best early childhood education. His vision is to set a new standard for half-day preschool programs in Arizona — where children feel encouraged, families feel supported, and learning is both meaningful and joyful.
Outside of work, Rob’s greatest priority is family. He believes that children are every parent’s most important investment, and he hopes that every child who walks through Ivybrook’s doors will leave with not only a strong academic foundation but also cherished memories of kindness, curiosity, and growth that will stay with them for life.