Biography: Derek joined SAAS in the 2025–26 school year as an Upper School English teacher. He has lived in Seattle for more than a decade and earned a B.A. in English Literature and Creative Writing from the University of Washington in 2019. In 2021, he enrolled at Seattle University, where he earned a master’s degree in Secondary Education. After graduating, Derek taught Language Arts for two years at Hazen High School in Renton, Washington. He has encouraged students’ creativity both inside and outside the classroom, including by founding and leading a poetry club. Outside of school, Derek enjoys watching and discussing films, crafting, exploring Seattle’s parks, and writing fiction. He is excited to bring his passion for literature, creativity, and artistic expression to the SAAS community.