My name is Callie Deblon and this is my 4th year at Hanawalt and 5th year in the district. I love the community that Hanawalt has, and I feel very lucky to be here. I am a 2nd grade teacher and love 2nd grade so much. I think it’s a “sweet spot” of teaching. I went to Simpson College–go Storm! I live in Des Moines with my husband and Covid-puppy, Kobe. I am excited to make this the best year yet!!
In his 33 years at Hanawalt, Tim has been a second and third grade teacher. He began working for the Des Moines Public Schools in August of ’89, starting as a half-time teacher at Hanawalt in August 1990. Tim earned his B.A. degree from the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, who majored in Spanish and Elementary Education. He attended Central High School in Davenport, IA. In 2022, at the age of 58, he earned a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville. He completed the work in three semesters and two summer sessions.
Tim is a native of western Kentucky, where he credits getting his southern demeanor, along with his passion for civil rights, from living in a racially-segregated community in the 60s. He is a proud Iowa resident since starting second grade in 1970, who grew up and served for Governors Vilsack and Culver in the Iowa Civil Rights Commission. Tim is such a proud Iowan, that he’s also been to each of Iowa’s 99 counties. He is also a recipient of a Milken National Educator Award in 1998, who also was featured on the cover of Newsweek magazine in 2000. Finally, Tim is an avid fan of trains, traveling, Crocs (the shoes), music, and, most of all, his students, friends and family.
Sara von Arb was born and raised in Le Mars, Iowa. She lives in Johnston with her husband, David, and her son, Nick.
She spent many years in banking before she went back to school to pursue her teaching certification. In January of 2004, she graduated from Upper Iowa University with endorsements in reading, language arts, and social studies. She joined Hanawalt School in August of 2004. Sara thoroughly enjoys her time with the students, staff, and parents!