Meet the New Val Vista Lakes Teachers

Please help us welcome these new, amazing teachers to the Val Vista Lakes Viking community!

 

Mrs. Loeffler - Kindergarten

I was born and raised here in the valley, and I earned my Bachelor’s Degree from Arizona State University. This will be my eighth year teaching. My family includes my husband Eric, our three daughters, and our two dogs. I enjoy reading and puzzles in my free time. I also love to be active! I plan to run a half-marathon in January!

 

Mrs. Walther - 3rd Grade

My name is Mrs. Walther. I’ve spent the past 10 years teaching kindergarten and 2nd grade, as well as working as an EL coordinator. Now, I’m excited to bring all that experience into our
3rd grade classroom. What a joy!
In my free time, I enjoy reading and spending time with my husband and our son. We’re always
looking for fun places to explore together, whether it’s a new city, a cool museum, or just somewhere we can learn and laugh as a family.

I'm so excited to begin this journey with all of you. I truly believe that when teachers
and families work together, amazing things can happen. We are a team, and I’m
looking forward to building strong, positive connections with each of you, learn together, and making this a wonderful year in 3rd grade!

 

Mrs. Nesbit - Art

My name is Erica Nesbit. I am an alumni of VVL! I went to school at Val Vista Lakes Elementary from 1st grade to 6th grade. I graduated from ASU in 2006 with my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. I have two daughters, Charlotte and Violet. This will be my 7th year of teaching Elementary School! This will be my 1st year teaching Art! When I am not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family and watching movies! My favorite color is purple, and I love elephants! I am so excited to be here with you!

 

Miss Martino - Special Ed

My name is Miss Martino, and this is my 4th year at VVL! I did my student teaching here and this is my 3rd year teaching at VVL in their SPICE II program. I am originally from Orlando, Florida, and got a Bachelor of Science Education from the University of Arizona. I have taught all grade levels in my 4 years being a teacher. I love helping students with learning to read and also with learning how to believe in themselves. When I am not teaching, I love cooking, hiking, seeing concerts, getting matcha with friends, and traveling. My family still lives in Florida, so I often travel there to see them. I am also working on my master's in Mental Health Counseling and specializing in giving therapy to children and teens. I left VVL for a year to explore other Special Education programs and gain more experience. Then I came right back home to my Vikings. I’m so happy to be back in this community of amazing staff, parents, and students.

 

Mrs. Griggs - Speech Pathologist

My name is Sara Griggs, and I am a certified Speech Language Pathologist. I am thrilled to embark on my new journey, a place that holds special significance for my family, as my son is a proud student of VVL. Since graduating with a Master’s Degree from Wichita State University, I have spent the last 15 years providing therapy services and training in various settings, including schools, home health, and clinics. Professionally, I am passionate about nurturing the next generation of therapists and providing hands-on therapy services to students. Outside of my career, I enjoy reading, paddling, gardening, spending time with family, and walking our dogs. I am eager to contribute my expertise and love of language to VVL!