New school year, new teachers at Arco Iris Spanish Immersion School, our tuition-free K-5th grade, in Beaverton, Oregon. Here, we introduce Mr. David Zahn, one of our new PE teachers. (Yes, we have two new PE teachers this year and you can find out about Eli Serrao here). He’s always on the move with his classes…and his adorable son Elliot!

Who inspired you to become an educator?

I had many great teachers over the years that all had an impact in my life. My favorite teacher's name was Mr. Firestone. He used to read us sci-fi books and he was my first male teacher. I was glad to have someone to look up to. I am still a huge sci-fi nerd.

What specifically about Arco Iris Spanish Immersion School stood out to you and made you want to teach here?

I've always wanted to work in a school where Spanish Immersion was part of the curriculum and teaching environment. I've worked with many students in middle and high school, but I actually always wanted the opportunity to work in a K-5 where I feel like I can have a greater impact.

What are you most excited about in this role?

I am excited to continue to work with kids of all ages to get kids moving and healthy.

How does the Arco Iris mission and vision align with your personal values?

I believe in providing excellent education to all students through direct effective instruction, while promoting student's diverse differences, cultural backgrounds and specific educational needs.

Fun facts about David Zahn

- I have a wife named Kristi and a two-year-old son named Elliot.
- I am a huge Sci-fi/Fantasy nerd.
- I love LEGOs and I love collecting, including a coin collection, rock collection, and fossils collection.
- I love to sing karaoke and cook fancy food.

We love getting to know our new teachers and welcoming them to our small, close-knit community. Looking for a new school? We’d love to welcome you too- we’re still enrolling.  Contact us here or call us at (503) 372-6052 for more info! 

About Arco Iris

Arco Iris Spanish Immersion is a small tuition-free public charter school providing a rich, immersive Spanish language experience and robust academics in a true multicultural setting. Centrally located off 217, between SW Portland and Tigard, we serve K-5 students in the greater Beaverton area to become bilingual and biliterate leaders of the future. Get to know us on Facebook and Instagram. We’re enrolling for Fall 2025-26. Bilingual Education: A Rainbow of Possibilities