Tammy Yount
Tammy moved to Spokane Valley when she was just 2 years old and has never left. She graduated from University High School and earned her accounting degree from EWU. Her career in East Valley began in 2006 at Trent Elementary, where she worked as a dishwasher and helped fill science kits. This job provided a perfect work-life balance, allowing her to work while her kids were in school and enjoy summers off to spend time with them.
Tammy eventually decided to pursue substitute work within the district, taking on roles as a paraeducator, dishwasher, cashier, and secretary across all of East Valley’s buildings. In 2013, she returned to full-time work as a paraeducator, starting at Trentwood Elementary before moving to Otis Orchards Elementary. In 2021, she transitioned into a secretary position at EVMS, where she has been ever since. Over the years, Tammy has worked with 16 different principals and has seen thousands of students graduate.
Tammy has two children, both of whom started and completed their education in East Valley. Her daughter is working towards her Doctorate in Physical Therapy, while her son works as a forensic scientist with the Phoenix Police Department. Tammy now lives on a 5-acre farm, where she gardens, raises cattle, and spends time with her dog. Each morning before work and every night after, she enjoys quality time with her mom, doing puzzles, watching Jeopardy!, and chatting about their day.
Why she loves East Valley Middle School: Tammy loves EVMS because of the people—it's not just the staff, but also the students. The staff feels like family, and they enjoy many get-togethers throughout the week, from breakfast on late start Mondays to locker hotdogs during special occasions. Tammy takes great joy in watching the students grow and develop into young adults. She especially loves it when seniors, who are ready to step into the real world, return to visit the middle school.
Why she chose East Valley: When Tammy worked as a paraeducator, she supported students who needed extra help, whether it was with reading, math, writing, or personal needs. She knew she could make a difference, so when she moved into her home within the district 28 years ago, she knew this was where her children would grow up. The East Farms area offered a peaceful and relaxing environment. What started as just a job has since become a passion for Tammy—she now works to ensure every student has the support they need to succeed in life.
Favorite part of her job: Tammy’s favorite part of the job is the students. With her children having moved out of state, she loves spending her days in the student office, where students come in for a life saver and to chat with her about their classes and their lives.
Fun fact: Growing up, Tammy played the drums in her high school marching band. The band traveled to Whitewater, Wisconsin, where they won the National Band Competition. She earned a gold medal, just like the ones awarded at the Olympics.
Three words to describe her: Selfless, Hardworking, Caring