Hi, friends! My name is Mrs. Heywood, and I’m thrilled to serve as the Library Media Specialist and Instructional Coach here at Advantage Arts Academy. I’ve been part of the AAA family since 2022, teaching fourth grade before stepping into this new role. I bring seven years of classroom experience and a passion for supporting both students and teachers. I also assist with Art Club and am proud to be the advisor for Safety Patrol.

As Library Media Specialist, I strive to spark a love of reading in every student by helping them discover the stories and topics that inspire their inner bookworm. As Instructional Coach, I’m dedicated to celebrating and supporting our talented staff, working alongside teams to foster collaboration, growth, and community.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a minor in American Sign Language from Utah State University in 2017, followed by a Master’s degree in Deaf Education in 2018.

I grew up in Hawai‘i on the island of Kaua‘i and have also lived in Orlando, Florida. My husband and I love to travel, some of our favorite destinations include Pensacola, San Francisco, Portland, and Cancún. I love all things Disney, penguins, the color green, and an iced chai latte from Starbucks! In my spare time, you’ll find me reading, watching movies, quilting, collecting pins and Pokémon cards, or learning something new.