Hello! My name is Mr. Burns. This will be my fourth year at Lovejoy Elementary. I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa, and I am currently getting my masters at Drake! Outside of school, I am always up for an adventure! I enjoy biking, hiking, and running. I also enjoy watching sports and trying new restaurants (specifically sushi restaurants)!

Hello! My name is Haley Cox-Benson and this will be my fourth year working at Lovejoy Elementary. I graduated from the University of Iowa in 2019 and then moved back to the Des Moines area. Outside of teaching, I enjoy reading, going on walks, and trying new things! In the classroom, I want students to gain independence and feel in charge (and excited) of their own learning. I am excited to work through any challenges with my students this year and to watch them grow not only as learners, but also as people in our community!

This is my 8th year teaching, and my 3rd at Lovejoy. I graduated from Drake University in 2003 with a Journalism degree then went back to become a teacher. I received my Masters in Teaching from Drake University in 2011. After spending several years subbing in Des Moines, I started at Brubaker Elementary in 2013. In the last eight years I have taught grades 1st, 2nd, and 4th, in Des Moines and Newton. When I’m not at school I enjoy reading, running and spending time outdoors with my husband and three children. I look forward to watching my students grow into strong, caring, leaders and learners every year.