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About

Get to know our instructors and explore featured highlights that showcase their expertise, teaching philosophies, and the unique experiences they bring to our courses. Discover the people and stories behind EWU Professional & Continuing Education.

Learn about their backgrounds, passions, and approaches to creating engaging, inclusive learning environments. This page also features insights into our programs, spotlighting the innovative work happening within EWU Professional & Continuing Education.

Meet the Instructor: Gina Yonts

Gina Yonts

Gina Yonts is a dedicated education professional with over 34 years of experience in the field of education, administration, and professional development. Passionate about leading through response to intervention (RtI) in behavior and academics and trauma-informed practices, she has a diverse background in education, having served as an elementary teacher, elementary and middle school administrator, and a leader in professional development. Gina and her husband currently own and operate Excel Education Resources, a long standing EWU Continuing Education partner with the university that specializes in providing high-quality credit and clock hour training for teachers.

When not in the classroom, you’ll find Gina carving through fresh powder! She’s been snowboarding for 25 years. Her favorite spot? McCall, Brundage in Idaho. Lately, Gina and her family have been hitting the slopes at Bluewood near Dayton, WA, just an hour from Walla Walla.

Experience & Credentials 

  • Current Assistant Director of Principal Support for the Association of Washington State Principals (AWSP).
  • Trauma one trainer through Community Resilience Initiative – Walla Walla, WA has the oldest community initiative in the nation.
  • Holds a Bachelor of Arts in K-8 Education and a MA in Curriculum & Instruction
  • 23 years’ experience as a K-12 administrator.
  • 11 years’ experience as an elementary school teacher.
Professional & Continuing Education

What to Expect

Ready to Learn

Get ready for an engaging, interactive learning experience! Gina’s courses are designed with self-pacing, hands-on activities, and reflection woven into every step. Students will explore background knowledge that sets the stage for future learning, while connecting new concepts to current practice. Expect to dive deep—not just into the subject matter, but into self-discovery: What are you learning about yourself as you grow to teach and lead others?

No matter your starting point, these courses build on your foundation and experiences, ensuring that new knowledge feels relevant and impactful. Gina’s teaching philosophy is all about making learning personal, interactive, and connected to real-world practice.

Why EWU Professional & Continuing Education

Gina’s journey with EWU is personal and meaningful. While college wasn’t always the plan, following her passions led to a strong partnership with EWU—even meeting her husband here! Gina loves EWU for its welcoming, family-like atmosphere and its commitment to making higher education accessible for students from all walks of life. Through EWU Professional & Continuing Education, Gina is able to continue to build meaningful connections and support lifelong learning.

About Excel Education
As a founder of Excel Education Resources, Gina Yonts has cultivated a strong partnership with EWU Professional & Continuing Education, continuously expanding this collaboration through her roles as both a course instructor and a businesswoman. This partnership not only enhances learning opportunities for students but also fosters growth and innovation within the educational community.

Non-Credit & PD