Welcome to Second Grade!

Mrs. Smith had dreams of teaching since she was a young girl. She has applied that love of play and education in preschool settings prior to joining the Sunny Wolf Charter School team in 2015. She has experience as our Title 1 Assistant, 1st Grade Assistant, and she joyfully accepted a position as our 3rd Grade teacher in the 2021/2022 school year. Now she is our 2nd Grade teacher!  She has earned her Bachelor or Arts degree in Elementary Education and her Oregon state teaching license after completing her course of study through Western Governors University.  She is ecstatic to be teaching 2nd grade. Her reason why is “The absolute best perspective of the world is through a child’s eyes! It is so magical and full of wonder!”

Danielle spent the majority of her childhood growing up in Alaska and feels so lucky to call Alaska and Oregon home. She now resides in Southern Oregon with her husband, son, daughter, 3 dogs, 1 bunny, 1 cat, 1 bearded dragon, 2 conures, and 15 guinea pigs. Some of her favorite things in life include spending time with family, the great outdoors, reading… (SHE LOVES BOOKS!), laughter, painting and crafts, PIZZA, all beaches, traveling, sushi and you CANNOT forget the Seahawks!

Mr. Welton first joined Sunny Wolf Charter School in 2024, beginning his journey as a 6th-grade assistant teacher. The opportunity to be closer to his son initially inspired him to apply, but he quickly discovered a deeper passion for teaching. After also working with 4th grade, he realized he gravitates toward the younger students, drawn to their creativity, curiosity, and natural love of learning.

Mr. Welton grew up in Palmdale, California, and later moved to Wolf Creek, Oregon, where he settled in 2012. He has pursued a variety of interests and educational paths throughout his life. He attended West L.A. College, where he earned certification as a peace officer, and later studied horticulture at Antelope Valley Community College. His diverse background reflects his wide-ranging skills and curiosity about the world.

Outside of the classroom, Mr. Welton enjoys metal fabrication, gardening, and spending time at the coast. He is a fan of motorsports, and his favorite food is a double bacon cheeseburger. Music has also played an important role in his life, as his favorite subject in school was band.

Mr. Welton brings both life experience and enthusiasm to his role at Sunny Wolf, and he is committed to fostering a positive, engaging learning environment for his students.