CTE New Faces
Erin Dorso
Class taught: Careers in Education at SEATech Skills Center
Erin has had the pleasure of working in education for 20 years, and is a passionate advocate for community-centered, inclusive environments where students can thrive in school and beyond. She has been an English Language Arts teacher in Washington, Florida, and Japan, and a Regional Literacy Coordinator for ESD123. Currently, Erin serves as the District Instructional Mentor for beginning educators in Walla Walla. Erin enjoys exploring innovative approaches to PK-12 teaching and learning, and she is a curious learner of all things. Lately, she has been learning about horses, as she spends countless hours at the barn while her daughter rides. On the weekend, Erin also enjoys reading, hiking, and being outdoors with her family.
William Hammond
Classes taught: Geometry in Construction, Engineering Design, and Digital Photography at Walla Walla High School
Mr. Hammond is a Walla Walla native, having attended Edison Elementary, Garrison Middle School, and Walla Walla High School. He continued his education at Walla Walla Community College and Washington State University before moving to San Diego to begin his career in afterschool education. He later returned to Walla Walla to be closer to family, where he got married and now has three children.
Will loves watching a project go from an idea on paper to something a student can actually hold, use, or hang on the wall. In CTE, you get to see the “aha” moment happen with your own hands — whether that’s a bridge that holds weight, a photo that finally comes together, or a floor plan that clicks into place.
Before stepping into the classroom, Will spent 14 years in the afterschool education world. He started out building programs from the ground up — planning day-to-day activities and curriculum — and worked his way into leading a team that ran a thriving program. Will has also dabbled in a few business ventures along the way, which taught him a lot about problem-solving and working with people.
Will is excited to keep building out Engineering & Design projects, get more hands into the shop for GeoCon, and see what students create in Photography. He wants both his students and himself to make the most of every day in the classroom.
Alexis Leathers
Classes taught: Animal Biology and Plant Biology at Walla Walla High School
Lexi is originally from Hermiston, Oregon. She recently graduated from Oregon State University with a Master’s of Science in Agricultural Education.
Throughout her teaching experience, Lexi has found that the authentic connections built with students are the most meaningful part of her work. She loves being a cheerleader for students and encouraging them in pursuing their goals.
This year, Lexi looks forward to contributing to WaHi and the surrounding community by guiding students through learning, leadership, and career pathways. She is especially excited to assist students outside of the classroom through FFA involvement and SAE project support.
Outside of the classroom, Lexi enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and taking road trips. She is excited to take her first steps into the classroom and share her love for the agriculture industry, as well as her love for learning, with her students.
