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Fanny Hanson, affectionately known as "Maestra Fanny," is the heart and soul of Villa Vista. With a lifelong passion for early childhood education, she brings warmth, wisdom, and a deep cultural richness to everything she does.

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Originally from Honduras, Fanny earned her teaching degree there before moving to the United States, where she obtained her U.S. equivalency in 1989. Since then, she has devoted her career to nurturing young learners, blending academic guidance with genuine care and connection.

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Her journey to Spokane included years of experience working with children, as well as raising two daughters and a son, now grown with families of their own. That personal experience, combined with her professional expertise, gives her a unique ability to understand and support each child’s individual needs.

 

As owner, director, and lead teacher at Villa Vista, Maestra Fanny creates a joyful, inclusive environment where children are encouraged to explore, express themselves, and grow into confident, compassionate individuals.

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Our Volunteers​

 

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Celeste Nevarez has been a valued member of the Villa Vista team for over 15 years, bringing dedication, heart, and a deep connection to the school’s mission. As Maestra Fanny’s oldest daughter, Celeste has grown alongside Villa Vista, contributing her time, talent, and care to help create a nurturing environment for young learners.

 

​Celeste Nevarez blends academic insight with hands-on experience, supported by her STARS certification in early childhood education. Her calm presence and thoughtful approach make her a natural with children, and her commitment to their growth is evident in everything she does.

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Celeste’s long-standing involvement with Villa Vista reflects her belief in the power of bilingual education and her passion for supporting families in their learning journey. She continues to be a steady and compassionate presence—someone both staff and students know they can count on.

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Mindy Hanson has been a part of the Villa Vista community for over 13 years, contributing her talents both in the classroom and behind the scenes. As the second daughter of Maestra Fanny and a mother of four herself (who have all attended VVLA), Mindy brings a deep understanding of children’s needs, along with a natural gift for connecting with young learners.

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From an early age, Mindy showed a special love for working with children—a passion that continues to shine through in her gentle presence and creative approach. In addition to her work in education, she is a multi-talented artist, expressing herself through jewelry design, photography, and other creative mediums. Her artistic spirit adds a vibrant layer to the learning environment at Villa Vista, inspiring children to explore, imagine, and express themselves freely.

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Whether she’s leading a classroom activity or capturing joyful moments through her lens, Mindy’s warmth, creativity, and dedication make her an invaluable part of the Villa Vista family.

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