Kindergarten

Robin Mortensen | Teacher

I grew up in Hurricane and earned a degree in Elementary Education from SUU. I’ve taught Kindergarten, 1st, and 3rd grade over the past 12 years and hold endorsements in Early Childhood Education, ESL, and Gifted and Talented Education, along with a Master’s in Curriculum Design and Instruction. I’m passionate about helping students love learning and grow both in and out of the classroom. I value strong relationships and love spending time with my family—especially baking pie, jumping on the trampoline, and exploring together.

Paula Armstrong | Teacher

My Email: Paula.Armstrong@washk12.org

I grew up in the Hurricane Valley. I am married to Philip Armstrong and we are the parents of 8 children. I graduated from Southern Utah University with a degree in Elementary/Special Education and I have my ESL endorsement. I have taught kindergarten and special education at LaVerkin Elementary over the past 8 years. My hope as a teacher is to help students to feel valued and find joy in learning.

Heidi Tandy | Teacher

My Email: Heidi.Tandy@washk12.org

I’m excited to join the kindergarten team at La Verkin Elementary School! I’ve been living in La Verkin for the past five years, but I’m originally from Southern California. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Child and Adolescent Studies from California State University, Fullerton. For the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of working as a special education paraprofessional right here at La Verkin Elementary. Outside of school, I enjoy kayaking, hiking, and spending time in my garden. I look forward to an exciting year full of learning and laughter.

Kimberly Cowan | Teacher

My Email: Kimberly.Cowan@washk12.org

I grew up in Southern California. I came to Utah in 2001 to play softball at Southern Utah University where I earned my degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Early Childhood. In 2002, I met my husband who was an SUU football player. He graduated a few years ahead of me and took a coaching/teaching job in Duchesne, and I followed him there a few years later. I started teaching in Duchesne in 2005, later earning a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction.

We have three children; a 19 year old daughter, Kloee ( with a wonderful boyfriend, Ty), a 16 year old son, Kannon, and a 14 year old son, Rambo.

We left Duchesne just over a year ago to move to Hurricane. My husband is now the Hurricane High School football coach, and I’m trying to build my collection of red, Tiger football gear. In my spare time, you’ll probably find me at a ball game of some sort, or anywhere near water. I like fitness, but I like chips and salsa more!

I just finished a year at Three Falls Elementary, which wraps up my 20th year of teaching. Most of my teaching years have been in kindergarten. I love teaching and feel so blessed to have found my true calling.

I am thrilled and grateful for the opportunity to teach at La Verkin Elementary!