Administration

Deneille Wyatt | Principal

I graduated from Dixie State University (now Utah Tech University) with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and later earned my master's degree from Southern Utah University. Throughout my career, I've taught first, second, third, and fourth grade, and spent the past ten years serving as a Learning Coach, supporting teachers, fostering collaboration, and helping students grow and succeed. I also hold endorsements in ESL, Mathematics, Administration, and Leadership.

Although I was born in Mexico, I grew up in St. George and am proud to call Southern Utah home. My husband and I have lived in Hurricane for the past 12 years, where we've loved raising our four daughters. We enjoy traveling, exploring new places, spending time outdoors, and taking advantage of the beautiful sunshine and red rocks that make this area so amazing.

I am honored to be the principal of La Verkin Elementary and excited to be part of such an incredible school community. I believe every child deserves to feel known, valued, challenged, and to be successful. I look forward to partnering with our outstanding staff and families to help every student learn and grow. We are CUBS!

Chelsie Merrill | Learning Coach

My Email: Chelsie.Merrill@washk12.org

I graduated from UNLV with a Bachelor's degree in Education and began my teaching journey in 2006. I later earned my Master's degree in Education from SUU and have endorsements in Early Childhood, ESL, and Reading.

I grew up in Las Vegas but have happily called Southern Utah home for the past 20+ years. When I'm not in the classroom, you'll find me spending time with my husband, our five amazing kids, their wonderful spouses, and my adorable grandkids. Family time is my favorite! We love skiing in the winter, camping in the summer, relaxing at the beach, and exploring new places whenever we can.

I'm so excited to be a LaVerkin Cub and work alongside such an amazing group of educators and staff. I'm also thrilled to be part of this wonderful community and can't wait to get to know all of the students and families.

Erin Woodbury | Counselor

My Email: Erin.Woodbury@washk12.org

I grew up in Northern Utah and moved here after high school to attend Dixie State University. I completed an associates degree and then started my bachelors degree until I got married to my husband of 18 years and we had our 4 wonderful children. During this time I obtained a Master's Esthetician License and taught at Taylor Andrews Academy. This is where I developed my love for education and helping others succeed in their career pathways. In 2019, I returned to school, attending Utah State University, and completed my bachelors and Masters degree in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in School Counseling. I am going into my 5th year as the school counselor for La Verkin Elementary and couldn’t be happier. La Verkin ELementary is a special place, with amazing students and parents and such a supportive community. I can’t wait to see who these students grow up to be and what they achieve.

I am happy to call Hurricane home and enjoy the sunshine, small town living, and watching my own kids shine doing their various activities. I love to read and spend time with my family. I am so thankful to be a part of this wonderful community and school!

Becky Seymour | Reading Interventionist

My Email: Becky.Seymour@washk12.org

I've been in the education field since 2004 with a wide range of experience across K-12 education, virtual/online learning, and various school leadership roles.

Before coming to La Verkin Elementary (2019-current), I held roles such as High School Admin at Utah Virtual Academy, Title 1 Coordinator, and K-5 Teacher/Reading Specialist. I started my career teaching 1st grade at Three Falls Elementary in Hurricane Utah and then moved to the position of Staff Developer and Reading Specialist there as well. I completed my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Southern Utah University with a Reading Minor. I am currently enrolled in the Teacher Leadership Endorsement pathway as well as the Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling certification.

I love building, learning, and growing. I hope to instill that drive in my students to persevere in life with passion and joy.

Sandi Gubler | Lead Finance Secretary

My Email: Sandi.Gubler@washk12.org

La Verkin has been my home for the past 34 years, and I truly love it here. The people in this community are some of the kindest and most genuine you'll find anywhere, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by them every day. I'm married to Kyle Gubler, and together we enjoy spending time with our five wonderful children and twelve amazing grandchildren who (in our eyes!) are perfect in every way. I love to travel - whether it's a faraway adventure or a quick weekend getaway - and I enjoy reading, playing pickleball and taking long walks (with the occasional run thrown in). Before joining the team La Verkin Elementary, I spent many valuable years as the office manager at Buck's Ace Hardware. While there, I gained a wealth of experience and made many lifelong friends. For the past 22 years, I've been here at La Verkin Elementary, and it's truly been an incredible journey. The students, faculty, and staff have become like a second family to me. One of the things I love most about my work is that there's always something new to learn-no two days are the same, and it keeps me inspired and engaged. I love being a La Verkin Cub!

Mary Gubler | Registrar Secretary

My Email: Mary.Gubler@washk12.org

Serving as the secretary at La Verkin Elementary is one of the greatest joys of my life, second only to being a wife and mother. I’ve been married for nearly 27 years, and my husband and I are blessed with four wonderful children who are truly the light of our lives. Working at La Verkin Elementary is a privilege. Our students bring so much joy and energy to each day with their curiosity, creativity, and the delightful things they say. Watching them learn, grow, and progress over the years is deeply rewarding. I am also honored to work alongside an exceptional team of educators and staff. Each person here is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our students—it’s not just a job; it’s a calling. Together, we support one another in nurturing and guiding the future leaders of our community and the world! It is a true blessing to be part of this school, and I look forward to continuing this journey for many years to come.