Welcome to first grade!  I am Vanessa Akin and am so excited to be here at Western Peaks for my nineteenth year teaching. I have had the pleasure of teaching both first and second grade. I have lived in Arizona my whole life and have three amazing children, Mason, Katelynne and Elizabeth. Mason and Katelynne are both grown and have children of their own. Katelynne is a nurse at a local hospital and Mason an automotive mechanic. Elizabeth (Ellee) will be eight in November and is in 2nd grade here at Western Peaks. I also have three grandchildren, Jaxon (12), Payton (7), Kaydence (8) and Casey (4).  I am married to my best friend Ryan and we just celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary. I enjoy reading all different kinds of books! I also love owls and coffee! I graduated from Arizona State University and am a Sun Devil fan. I also have my master's degree from Grand Canyon University. I am very excited to meet you all! If you ever have any questions please call or email me.          Vanessa.akin@dysart.org