Hello Owls! My name is Ms. Williams and I’m the Lead Kindergarten teacher here at VVA. I hold a Master’s in Educational Policy and Human Development from the University of Chicago and have 15 years of experience in educational research, administering NSF grants and evaluating funded programs with universities and foundations. I have 7 years of classroom experience, teaching Kindergarten exclusively and earned my RBT certification to better support students with Autism.  When I’m not fostering a love of learning in students; you can find me with my 5 year old daughter, reading a great book, traveling or hanging out with family and friends. I am so excited to meet everyone and can’t wait to grow your students’ brains! 

Hello! My name is Samantha Clodt (pronounced CLOHT), and I am a first-year Kindergarten teacher! I graduated from the College of Southern Nevada with my Associate of Arts in Elementary Education in 2023. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, in May 2025. In my free time, I love gaming, crafting, and reading. I am thrilled to be part of this community as it blossoms into something special. 

“Courage need not be remembered, for it is never forgotten.”

Hello Owls! My name is Mrs. Tamara Stewart, and I am honored to be a classroom teacher at VVA. This is my 15th year teaching in an elementary school. When I am not at school, I enjoy lounging by the beach/pool with my family, husband and my two dogs Ahsoka and Simba, crocheting, sewing and watching movies. This year, I am excited to get to know the students and families at Vegas Vista Academy.

Welcome to a world of wonder! I’m Ms. Avila, your friendly neighborhood 1st grade teacher here at VVA — home of the wise and whimsical owls! With over 7 years of early childhood magic (5 in Private Kindergarten, 2 as a Preschool Director), I bring heart, joy, and a sprinkle of pixie dust to every lesson. I earned my Business degree from the University of Phoenix and am currently on my next grand adventure: earning my Elementary Education degree at Grand Canyon University (PhD dreams ahead!). At home, I share my castle with my amazing husband Walter and our two shining stars, Everly (12) and Phenix (11). I love baking enchanted treats, diving into anime worlds, playing epic games, singing showtunes and creating delicious spells in the kitchen. I can’t wait to soar through a year of imagination, growth, and discovery with my little owls!

Hello Owls! My name is Ruby Howell and I am so excited to be a part of VVA’s staff again this year. I am going into my second year of teaching as well as entering the role of IB Coordinator! When I am not at school, I enjoy spending my time outside. You can find me climbing, fishing, camping, backpacking, and skiing, just to name a few of my hobbies. I also have a love of coffee and playing with my espresso machine at home. I am so excited to continue to get to know the students this year as they enter second grade and I am looking forward to another fantastic year at Vegas Vista Academy.

Hoot Hoot Hooray!

Hello Owls! My name is Leslie Navarro, and it is such a privilege to be a classroom teacher at VVA! This is my first year teaching here at Vegas Vista Academy and I am so excited to get to know everyone! In my free time I enjoy traveling, crafting, exploring nature and spending time with my loved ones! I also have two wonderful cats named Luna and Blueberry. I am positive that this school year is going to be a hoot! 

Hello Owls! I’m Ms. Jackson. This will be my third-year teaching, and I’m so excited to be a part of the amazing VVA family. I’m a proud Vegas native, born and raised, although I did spend a few years in Texas to further my studies at the historic Wiley College. I’m a proud mom of two future superstars who will be joining VVA. When I’m not in the classroom, you can find me exploring the outdoors, traveling, or learning something new. I love to bring energy, creativity, and real-world connections into everything I teach. Let’s make this year unforgettable!

Hi everyone! My name is Corinne Butts. I’m originally from Medina, Ohio, but I’ve been living in Las Vegas since 2020. I studied Environmental Studies at Kent State University before transferring to UNLV for Elementary Education. I realized that I have a stronger calling towards education, though I’m still passionate about environment science. This will be my third year teaching elementary school. I’m a nerd at heart and love the outdoors. I have a passion for animal rescue; I’m the fur-mom to a pittie named Zeus. I can’t wait to get to know the students and families at Vegas Vista Academy, I look forward to making meaningful connections with you all!

Hello, My name is Dr. Mysha. McClain and I will proudly serve as your special education coordinator at VVA. I have been teaching students of all ages and abilities for nearly twenty years. When I am not teaching, I enjoy writing, traveling, and shopping. I love children and I have three children of my own. This year I am excited about getting to know everyone and support inclusive practices at VVA!

*P.E./Experiential Ed. Coordinator

Hoot! Hoot! My name is Anias Brewington and I am excited to join the Vegas Vista Academy this year. This will be my first year teaching and I will be coordinating the field trips and teaching specialty. I graduated from UNLV with a BA in Kinesiology and enjoy playing games with family and friends.

*K-2nd Grade

Hola y Bienvenidos!
My name is Silvia Ruiz, and I’m excited to continue my journey as the Spanish teacher at Vegas Vista Academy. I have 18 years of experience in education, I’m passionate about creating a classroom where students feel safe, valued, and inspired to explore a new  language and culture.This is my second year at VVA, and I had the pleasure of leading the VVA Ballet Folklórico and Cheer team,  celebrating our school’s diversity through meaningful cultural experiences. Outside the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my two wonderful children and family, making memories through life’s simple blessings. I look forward to a school year full of growth, fun, and meaningful connections with both new and returning owls and their Families!