Hello! My name is Nolan Burns and this will be my second year at Lovejoy Elementary. I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 2017 with a degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Mathematics. I believe every student has the potential to succeed and I want to have all my students achieve their goals. Outside of teaching, I enjoy watching/playing sports, traveling, and exploring the outdoors.

Hello! My name is Haley Cox-Benson (or just Miss Benson). This will be my second 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. 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.