Language Arts
Andrew Hatefi | Language Arts Teacher
My Email: andrew.hatefi@washk12.orgEducation — B.S. in English Education - Dixie State University/Utah Tech
About Me — Born and raised in Las Vegas. I've left Sin City behind and found my home here in Hurricane. This is my third year teaching and I love reading the creative things students write.
Outside of School — I like to play pickleball, read/write, enjoy spending time with my kiddo, and play with my cats.
Quote — "Teaching is 10% inspiration, 10% preparation, and 80% repeating the directions you just gave 30 seconds ago."
Jon Conner | SPED MILD/MODERATE
My Email: jon.conner@washk12.org
Jaimee Harvey | Language Arts Teacher, Theater/Film Teacher
My Email: jaimee.harvey@washk12.orgEducation: Bachelor’s Degree, 2000 — Secondary Education, Speech and English. Master’s Degree, 2019 — Education and Administration. Endorsements in English, Theatre, Film/Media Arts, Speech, Gifted and Talented, Instructional Coaching, and Mentoring.
About Me: I’m a Southern Idaho farm girl, with a passion for learning and teaching. I taught five years at Preston High School in Preston, Idaho, followed by two years in Pennsylvania before moving to Southern Utah. I have been at Hurricane Middle School since 2009.
Outside of School: I love spending time with my husband and 5 sons. I also love to read, spend time outside, and watch movies.
Quote: “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.” — Dr. Seuss
Shaylin Lee | Language Arts Teacher
My Email: shaylin.lee@washk12.orgEducation: B.S. in English Education - Dixie State University/Utah Tech, M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction - Western Governors, Technology and Library Media endorsements
About Me: I have been teaching English Language Arts for ten years and Humanities for four years at Hurricane Middle School. This year I will be running the National Junior Honor Society. I love interacting with and getting to know my students!
Outside of School: I love reading, writing, and spending time with my family. I love being creative and learning new things.
Quote: "I sit at the very top of a fresh month with a choice before me. One which very well may have an impact on the whole of my existence. Which book do I read next?" - Emma M. Lion
Melissa Riach | Language Arts Teacher
My Email: melissa.riach@washk12.orgB.S. | Brigham Young University
M.Ed. | Southern Utah University
I’ve had the joy of spending the past 21 years in education, and I truly love what I do! I have a Bachelor’s degree in English and Health Science and a Master’s degree in Teaching Administration. Teaching has given me so many wonderful opportunities to learn, grow, and make a difference in the lives of others.
When I’m not teaching, you’ll most likely find me enjoying the great outdoors—especially hiking or doing anything involving water during the summer! I’m happiest when I’m making memories with family, and being a grandma to my eight grandchildren is one of my favorite roles of all. They definitely keep life fun, busy, and full of laughter!
I believe life is meant to be enjoyed, learning should be an adventure, and there’s always room for a little fun along the way!
Debbie Sawyer | Language Arts Teacher
My Email: debbie.sawyer@washk12.orgB.A. | Southern Utah University