Heather Horne
In 2018, Heather Horne was in the middle of getting her master’s degree in kinesiology when her plans changed. Always being passionate about helping her community and finding ways to alleviate the teacher shortage, she realized she could be a part of the solution.
Heather started working as an instructional aide and six months later, became a long-term substitute while finishing her teaching certification. Hired as a teacher in residence, Heather learned that she is very passionate about teaching too.
Mesa Public Schools is proud to have Heather in our school system and the following is an interview with her.
What are Your Goals for the New School Year?
I am so excited to continue all the wonderful things that have been happening at Hermosa Vista Elementary School. One of our biggest goals for next year is to grow our love and curiosity for learning among students and staff.
As a dual language immersion school, we have the opportunity for amazing experiences, positive outcomes, and unique challenges at our campus.
As a staff, we will be learning alongside one another to build thinking classrooms and provide more opportunities for authentic learning with the goal of bringing real-world connections to our students.
What Advice Do You Have for Staff and Students?
A little empathy goes a long way. Never miss a chance to put yourself in someone else’s shoes, to see something from a different perspective, or to learn from others’ experiences.
What we are building at school today builds all of our futures. Education is truly sacred work to instill in others the ability to learn, think, problem solve, collaborate, and be generous and compassionate to one another.
What are Your Favorite Books?
I am a nonfiction reader these days. One of my favorite books lately is Culture Code and A Man’s Search for Meaning. The sixth-grade teacher in me loves good historical fiction by Alan Gratz. My favorites are Refugee and Prisoner B-3087.
Do You Have a Favorite Food, Beverage, or Guilty Pleasure?
Chips, salsa, and LDC (large Diet Coke) with extra ice. I enjoy spending time with my three teenagers and walking my Goldendoodle, Fitzgerald, with my husband in the evenings. Saturdays are spent at music recitals and watching my children’s rugby games, and we love sneaking away to the beach during fall and spring breaks.
For more information regarding Mesa Public Schools, please visit mpsaz.org