Lively English Language Arts Department

6th Grade ELAR Teacher

I'm Soraya Haghighatian, a 6th-grade teacher in my second year of teaching. I earned my undergraduate degree in Education from Texas Tech University, where I began my teaching journey. In my classroom, I emphasize structure, compassion, and creating a love for reading and writing. Outside of school, I enjoy listening to music and spending time thrifting and antiquing. I’m excited to work with my students and help them grow this year!

Ms. Haghighatian can be reached by email:
soraya.haghighatian@austinisd.org 

6th Grade ELAR Teacher

Mr. Van Genderen is an enthusiastic English teacher with 5 years of experience in the classroom, teaching both high school and middle school. Originally from New Jersey, Mr. Van Genderen received a Masters in English Education from Rutgers University, as well as a Certificate in Creative Writing and a Minor in Medieval Studies. He is dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive learning environment where all students feel valued and respected. 

Mr. Van can be reached by email at:
gregory.vangenderen@austinisd.org

7th Grade ELAR Teacher 

Mr. Benson got his start in Science but found real belonging in the ELAR department. He holds a Bachelors in Microbiology from the University of Idaho and, as a counterbalance, has spent more than three years working in independent book stores in Idaho and Washington. In the classroom, he prioritizes teaching diverse contemporary voices in furtherance of helping students develop lifelong habits of reading and writing. 

Mr. Benson can be reached by email at: elijah.benson@austinisd.org 

ELAR Department Chair and 7th Grade Teacher

Mr. Zimmerman is a dedicated middle school English Language Arts educator with five years of experience, and serves as Lively’s ELAR Department Chair. Mr. Zimmerman earned his Bachelors in Secondary Education from Temple University, located in his hometown of Philadelphia, PA. Mr. Zimmerman inspires students through dynamic lessons that foster critical thinking, creativity, and a love for literature. He cultivates an inclusive classroom environment where every student feels valued and empowered to express themselves through the written and spoken word, laying a strong foundation for their academic and personal growth. 

Mr. Zimmerman can be reached by email at: shai.zimmerman@austinisd.org 

8th Grade ELAR Teacher

Mr. Addington, an 8th-grade ELAR teacher and Campus UIL Academic Coordinator with eight years of experience, graduated from the University of Houston: Clear Lake in 2016 with a degree in History.   Beyond the classroom, Mr. Addington is an amateur 3D printing hobbyist, showcasing his innovative and creative side.  His dual roles highlight his commitment to academic excellence and fostering well-rounded interests among students.

Mr. Addington can be reached by email at: sean.addington@austinisd.org 

8th Grade ELAR Teacher 

Ms. Mau has taught 8th grade ELA at Lively for 2 years. She holds a Bachelors degree in English and an associates in Theater from Texas State University where she coached at The Writing Center for college students, wrote for the Life & Arts section at the University Star, and created content for the radio station KTSW. She is dedicated now to creating exciting and authentic writing and reading experiences for her students. 

Ms. Mau can be reached by email at:

andrea.mau@austinisd.org