Yarixa ‘Yari’ Zapien, is local to our Yakima community. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, most recently having accomplished her student teaching with the East Valley school district. Yari is a bilingual Spanish speaker that describes herself as a passionate advocate dedicated to supporting students and families by fostering strong school-community partnerships, promoting student success, and connecting families with essential resources. Aside from student teaching, she has served in school substitute roles and has experience in early childhood education through Heritage University. She is eager to learn and grow in providing meaningful support to diverse communities.