Meet Our Staff

Sarah Swayze, the individual who established Empowering Youths of Iowa, Inc. (EYI). Sarah commenced her professional journey in the field of education in 1991, assuming the role of a paraeducator at Cedar Rapids Washington High School. Sarah obtained her Associate of Arts degree in Business from Hamilton Business College, and she also earned her Associate of Arts degree in Education from Kirkwood. Subsequently, she obtained her undergraduate degree from Mount Mercy University and her graduate degree from Graceland University. Sarah has accumulated over three decades of experience working with and instructing kids with disabilities in Washington. In March 2021, Sarah concluded her tenure at CRCSD and embarked on the endeavor of establishing EYI. In June 2021, EYI commenced its operations with the assistance and collaboration of CRCSD.

EYI, or Empowering Youths of Iowa, Inc., is a new organization founded by Sarah with the goal of providing specialized education and support for high school students who struggle to fit into the traditional school system and who benefit from a flexible schedule. With her extensive experience and knowledge in the field, Sarah saw an opportunity to create a more tailored and inclusive learning environment for these students. Collaborating with CRCSD allows EYI to leverage their resources and expertise, ensuring a smooth transition and the successful launch of their programs.

Jim has his BA with an emphasis in History and PE. from the University of Dubuque. He has 33 years of experience teaching at Lisbon School and 15 years as a substitute teacher in the Cedar Rapids School System. He volunteered to teach at Empowering Youths of Iowa Credit Recovery Program for the summer of 2021 and is currently serving as a teacher and Director of Education for Empowering Youths of Iowa, Inc.

He has been married to Kate West for 48 years and has raised two children, six grandchildren, and twelve foster children.

His interests include reading, sports, and family activities.

Jim is looking forward to assisting in growing this much-needed educational program and working with the students that have and will benefit from participating in Empowering Youths of Iowa, Inc.

Janessa worked in Human Services for 10 years, first working with youths who had been through traumatic experiences such as abuse. Many had behavioral issues, and Janessa aided them in developing therapeutic coping skills as well as other skills necessary for success as they transitioned into adulthood. Janessa then transferred to working with adults who had physical or intellectual disabilities, mental illness, and/or substance abuse. She is currently studying to get her bachelor's degree in Business Administration. Additionally, she is owner and operator of a small business selling handmade all natural products. Her interests are true crime documentaries, reading about social justice issues (past and present), and hanging out with her four guinea pigs.