I am truly honored to introduce myself as the new principal of Sierra Verde. It is a privilege to join this exceptional community, and I look forward to partnering with you to support every student’s growth and success.
This is my fifth year as a principal in the Deer Valley Unified School District and my 28th year as a proud public-school educator. Before moving into school leadership, I served as the DVUSD Gifted Coordinator and, earlier in my career, as a general education and gifted cluster teacher in grades 1, 2, 3, and 6. I’ve also worked as both a gifted specialist and a reading specialist. Throughout my career, I’ve been driven by a deep passion for excellence in teaching and learning, and I’m inspired by innovative practices that help students thrive.
As principal of Sierra Verde, an A+ School of Excellence, I am committed to honoring the strong traditions that make our school special while continuously striving to improve outcomes for every student. My goal is to ensure that all students learn at high levels and feel supported in their academic and personal growth.
I earned my bachelor’s degree in K–8 education in 1999, my master’s degree in school administration in 2014, and completed the coursework for a doctorate in organizational leadership in 2021. Although the demands of COVID and my first principalship paused my dissertation, I proudly claim “ABD” (All But Dissertation) status—perhaps permanently—as my top priorities remain my family and school community.
A bit about me personally: I grew up in Maine and have lived in San Francisco, Seattle, and now Phoenix. My husband is a special education teacher and we have three adult daughters. I enjoy traveling, trail running, hiking, music, and spending time with family. Our home is full of life, currently shared with 14 animals—including cats, dogs, chickens, ducks, desert tortoises, and a corn snake.
I am excited to begin this journey with you and look forward to a successful and fulfilling year together.
I am an Arizona native and have been in education 22 years, my career has consisted of the following roles Middle School ELA Teacher, Reading Interventionist, Instructional Coach, and Assistant Principal. I consider myself a servant leader and enjoy building community with our students, staff, and families. I am a big Disney fan and Disneyland is my happy place. In my spare time you can find me spending time with my husband and son - we like to watch movies, play video games, and see new places. We have two pets a Cocker Spaniel and a Sonoran Desert Tortoise. I am excited to join the amazing community of Sierra Verde!
I am excited to be joining the SV team as an occupational therapist this year! I am an AZ native. I attended Norterra Canyon for many years and graduated from MRHS. I have my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary and Special Education from ASU and have my Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Midwestern University.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, traveling, playing card games, attending theater productions and watching new movies, and doing anything crafty.
I am looking forward to being a part of the team and helping students achieve their goals!
Kristin is a passionate and experienced Speech-Language Pathologist who has been serving children and families since earning her graduate degree from Northwestern University in 2006. Over the years, her career has taken her through a wide range of settings—including public and private schools, hospitals, home health, early intervention, and most recently, owning and operating her own private practice, which she successfully sold.
Kristin is married to her husband, Joe, and together they have four wonderful children, ages 14, 10, 8, and 2. Outside of work, she’s fueled by coffee, inspired by travel, and finds joy in reading, dancing, and staying active. She brings both professional expertise and a parent’s perspective to her work, always striving to make a meaningful impact in the lives of the children she supports
Hi my name is Melanie and I am a recent graduate from Grand Canyon University! During my free time, I love to sing, hike, hang out with friends, and bake. I am so excited to join the Vipers and meet every single one of you!
Hi! My name is Sam Ruby and I am thrilled to be SV’s new librarian! I taught kindergarten-3rd for 18 years in the Paradise Valley district and have subbed at SV for the last 2 years. So teaching, and especially reading, are my passion! I have 3 children that go to SV. Hudson is in 6th, Harper is in 4th, and Cade is in 1st. I love to read (obviously!), hike, and spend time with my family. We are also big sports fans! So you can always catch us rooting for our AZ home teams. I am beyond excited to officially be a part of the SV family and look forward to an amazing year!
My name is Tyra Taylor (Helt). I love the sunshine, boat rides, and traveling! I also love to try new things and eat new foods. This last summer I got married in Georgia on the beach and it was beautiful. I love to teach and be in the classroom! One of my favorite things about younger grades is how excited they get to learn and try new things! I am excited to be a part of Sierra Verde and to be a Viper!
I'm an AZ native (since I was 2). I graduated from ASU and then taught 3rd-6th grade for 17 years in the Madison and Deer Valley districts (Las Brisas for 6 years, and Arrowhead for 1 year). I had my daughter in 2019 and stayed home with her for a few years (enjoyed volunteering in her half day preschool class). She's in kinder at Highland Lakes. I spent this past year substitute teaching, and am excited to join Sierra Verde as a Paraprofessional. I also have a wonderful husband who is an administrator in the Peoria School District, and a fantastic son who attends ASU west. In my spare time, you'll find me hiking, doing yoga, or playing with my daughter. Looking forward to getting to know everyone!
My name is Cindy Eversmeyer and I am so excited to be joining the SV family. I grew up in Northern California, attended NAU for my bachelors, and GCU for my masters. This will be my 15th year teaching- I am so happy to be back in 2nd grade! I have three children. My oldest will be in 1st grade at SV this year. When we are not at school we keep ourselves busy hiking and exploring. This is going to be a great year!
