Ohio born, east coast raised and westward landed, I am delighted to say that my AZ adventure is a dream come true that was born 30 years ago when I visited Arizona with my oldest daughter and fell head over heals in love! *Remember, it’s a dry heat!

I am the lucky mom of 4 magnificent daughters; Erin, Abby, Christie and Mycala. My hubby, Chuck, of 28 years, and I are empty nesters and newbie grandparents, thanks to the arrival of our very own Charming Charley! My daughters, dad and siblings all live in other states so it’s always great to travel to spend precious time with them!

I have been a child champion and partner to children with very special learning styles for almost 4 decades, 35 of them in Colchester, Connecticut. I have been fortunate to be part of hundreds of children and family’s lives and have even been gifted with the opportunity to learn and grow with my former student’s children! So awesome!

I have been a Fund for Teachers’ Fellow, a director of summer school, an author of To Know Me is To Love Me: A Celebration of the Autistic Gifts in All of Us, Teacher of the Year, recipient of a Donors Choose grant and 2019-2020 Carefree Cares Excellence Award, thanks to the endless support, encouragement and inspiration I have received from my students, their families, my colleagues and leadership teams!

 I love to be inspired and inspire others to reach for their highest star and go for it! I am excited to be part of the committed and passionate vision of Deer Valley Unified School District and most of all, one of Diamond Canyon’s Coyote cubs! I look forward to continuing to serve, grow together and encourage children to find their very special gifts along the way!

Cheers to a fantastic school year!

Lori Drube