HI, MY NAME IS… Kathy Denious.
I’VE LIVED IN ARIZONA FOR 33 YEARS, AND I LOVE IT BECAUSE… it’s like living in a postcard. I wake up to stunning mountains and sunrises every morning, with hiking trails practically in my backyard. I can’t imagine living anywhere else.
A TYPICAL DAY IN MY LIFE INCLUDES… a sunrise hike around Piestewa Peak with family, friends, and our energetic (and slightly rabbit-obsessed) dog. I love seeing fellow hiker friends that I’ve made over the years on these trails. From there, I head to my classroom at The Elle (Evidence-based Language and Literacy Education) Center. I’m incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by remarkable students who inspire me daily. In the evening, I love curling up with a good book or having dinner with my family at home or a favorite restaurant.
MY FAMILY IS… my source of pure joy.
ONE THING I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT IS… watching the sunrise. It brings me peace and sets a positive tone for the day ahead.
MY FAVORITE MOVIE I COULD NEVER GET TIRED OF WATCHING AND WHY IS… “My Octopus Teacher.” The cinematography is stunning, and the connection between the filmmaker and the octopus is profound. It’s a reminder of the power of empathy, patience, and understanding.
WHEN I WAS YOUNGER, I WANTED TO BE… a veterinarian. I grew up surrounded by animals — horses, dogs, cats, rabbits, sheep, and ducks — and I wanted to learn how to keep them happy and healthy.
THE SONG I WOULD SING AT KARAOKE NIGHT IS… I honestly cannot sing, but with enough encouragement, I’d belt out “Landslide” by Stevie Nicks.
THE ONE PERSON WHO MOTIVATES ME IS… Dr. Maryanne Wolf, a dedicated reading researcher, is such an inspiration to me. Her passion for understanding how we learn to read and her belief in the power of literacy are truly motivating. She reminds me that teaching isn’t just about sharing information, but about sparking a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.
THE LAST THING THAT MADE ME LAUGH OUT LOUD WAS… my last genuine laugh came courtesy of my husband. He was trying to tell me something was simple, and out popped, “Easy peasy chicken dinner!” instead of “lemon squeezy.” It was so unexpected and hilarious.
THE PERFECT DAY IS… a Sedona adventure on the West Fork Trail. I love hiking this trail with my friends and family because it allows me to be with my favorite people and share the beauty of this magical place with them.
MY FAVORITE LOCAL NONPROFIT IS… the Helios Education Foundation. Their mission is to empower students and ensure that every child reads proficiently by the end of third grade. I encourage you to check them out!
MY LIFE IS… a wonderful whirlwind of learning, laughing, adventure, and the deep satisfaction of doing what I love most – teaching.
THE BEST GIFT I’VE EVER RECEIVED WAS… notes my sons have written inside birthday and Mother’s Day cards.
MY DREAM VACATION WOULD BE TO… explore the monasteries of Meteora in Greece.
THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I’VE EVER RECEIVED IS… the purpose of listening is to understand.
