Shayla Sauther
6th Grade Teacher, Otis Orchards Elementary
Shayla Sauther is a 6th-grade teacher at Otis Orchards Elementary who began her career with the East Valley School District nine years ago in 2017. In addition to being an educator, she is a mom to one rambunctious little boy with another one on the way. One of Shayla’s passions is spending as much time in the mountains as possible, and one of her biggest goals is to get both of her boys on bikes and skis or snowboards so they can explore the outdoors together as a family.
Hearing from former students, staying connected, learning where life has taken them, and knowing she played a small part in their journey are things Shayla loves and cherishes. She’s incredibly thankful for the secondary educators who encourage students to reach back out to the teachers who helped guide them along the way.
Fun Fact:
Teaching found Shayla in an unexpected way. She entered college as a pre-med student, planning to transfer to Carroll with the goal of becoming a radiologist. Along the way, a conversation with a teammate challenged that plan and planted a new idea. Though it meant her soccer scholarship was wasted, Shayla discovered her true passion in teaching—and found the path she was meant to follow.
Why she chose East Valley:
Shayla had subbed in many districts, but when she began at Otis Orchards, she immediately felt something special, saying, “Otis felt warm, welcoming, and like a family.”
Why she loves Otis Orchards:
Shayla loves her Otis family! She appreciates the students, families, and staff who make it such a special place. She believes her colleagues are amazing! They always make her laugh, and she knows she always has someone to turn to for help or support. Shayla believes Otis’ students have an entire team who help them become the best they can be—it’s not just talk; she sees it every day in how her colleagues serve students.
Favorite part of her job:
“I love watching my students make academic growth, but I think watching their personal growth is the best part. I love seeing them mature and know that they have that student agency that we look for to help them find success after they leave me. I also love playing games with my students; they are hilarious.”
Three words to describe her:
Dedicated - Goofy - Caring