Administrators

Shay Swan grew up in Jerome, Idaho, in a household where both of his parents were educators. His mom taught reading and English at Jerome High School, and his dad taught science at Gooding Middle School. Shay has been in education since 2003. He has worked 13 of those years in administration at Syringa Middle School. Shay earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Secondary Education from Boise State University. Later, he earned a Master of Arts in Education/Administration and Supervision from the University of Phoenix.

Shay's favorite thing about being an administrator is working with students. He thoroughly enjoys working beside them as they learn what it takes to overcome challenges. Shay loves the students of Syringa Middle School.

His favorite thing to do outside work is spending time with his family. His wife, Christi, is also an administrator in a neighboring school district. They have four beautiful kids that they get to spend time with. Shay's biggest hobby is following their kids to activities and sporting events.

Brita Velazquez has been in education for seven years. She began her career teaching as a Special Education Teacher at Chicago International Charter School Bucktown in Chicago, Illinois. Ms. Velazquez has also been a mentor, teacher, and impact team leader. She earned her bachelor's in Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations from the University of Chicago and a Masters of Arts in Teaching from National Louis University, also in Chicago.

She has taught at Syringa Middle School as an Extended Resource Room teacher for the last four years. Ms. Velazquez looks forward to helping students and families solve problems. She also is excited to support the dynamic and passionate teaching staff at Syringa.

Originally from Hawaii, Ms. Velazquez spent some years in Chicago. She now lives in Idaho with her husband and two-year-old son. She enjoys gardening, running, reading, and spending time with her family.

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