It is a great privilege to be a part of the Highland Lakes Community.  I am excited about this coming year that promises to bring fun challenges and learning opportunities for both my students and myself!  This begins my 11th year at Highland Lakes.   Prior to working for DVUSD, I taught in the Peoria Unified School District. 

I received my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education with an emphasis on psychology from the University of Arizona...Go Wildcats!!!.  I went on to earn my Master's in Education Degree from NAU.  I have endorsements in Structured English Immersion, Reading, Gifted Education, and Middle School Language Arts. 

When not in the classroom, I am with my family.  Most of our weekends are spent playing with our grandson, Dylan, or trips to U of A or NMSU.  Our kids keep us busy, but I love being a mom!   My husband is a principal in Peoria Unified School District and our dinner conversations often turn towards educational topics.  We are both passionate about our children's futures and those of the students we work with every day.  

Our eldest, Derek, a former Wildcat, lives in the Valley with his beautiful wife, Amanda, and our 3-year-old grandson, Dylan.  Our daughter, Emily,  attends New Mexico State University...Go Aggies!  She runs both cross country and track for NSMU.  Our youngest, Crag, attends U of A... another Wildcat!  Our family is complete with our boxer, Lulu.

Oh My!   It is a crazy and amazing life, but I love it!  My children truly are my passion and I love watching them grow through life and I look forward to being part of that same journey with your child. 

I was born and raised in Phoenix and love the warm weather.  When the weather becomes a bit too warm, we head up north to our family cabin in Blue Ridge.  It is a little over 2 hours outside of the city and about 25 degrees cooler!  My family enjoys hiking, camping, the beach and playing games.  When not in the valley or the mountains, my next favorite spot is on a beach with a good book.

Teaching children is an unbelievable pleasure.   Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives. Please know that my door is always open and I look forward to the partnership we will share this year.  It will be EXTRADIONARY!

Mrs. Stutesman