Tanya Gorbunov is a Human Resources Operations Specialist in the Human Resources and Legal Services department.

How long have you worked for ESD 112 and what does your job entail?

2 years this October. I work as an HR Operations Specialist and I process paperwork to make sure everyone gets paid correctly, assist with hiring and teacher certification, run mail and occasionally cover fingerprinting and reception.

What do you like best about your job?

I like helping people, whether it’s new hires, teachers in need of certificates, or school district staff that need to get in to get their fingerprinting done. I like knowing that, even though I don’t have direct contact with children, somewhere down the line I am serving them as well.

What do you find most challenging about your job?

Staying away from all the treats in Foode!

What do you consider to be your greatest on-the-job skill or asset?

I am very detail-oriented and learn quickly, which helps with time.

Single? Married? Kids? Pets?

I am married to my wonderful husband of 2 years, Andrew.

What do you enjoy doing with your free time?

I enjoy hiking, baking yummy goodness, traveling to new places, going on walks, playing board games and just spending time with my husband.

If your coworkers wanted to surprise you with a little treat sometime, what should it be?

Latte with an extra shot…or a cinnamon roll…or any sweet treat, really.

If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be?

I wish I could master the art of good latte/coffee making. We have an espresso machine at home and no matter how many times I try, I struggle with making the perfect latte (then again, I’m very picky with coffee).

If you could time travel, would you go to the past or the future?

Past. Everything seemed so much simpler back then. I’m kind of sick of social media and how much time it steals out of my day.

If you could play one instrument you aren’t able to now, what would it be and why?

In middle and high school I played the violin but if I could go back, I would choose to play the cello. There is just something about the deep, rich, beautiful notes that captivate the soul.

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

It’s a tie between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I love being able to spend time with the entire family and since it’s cold outside no one is in a hurry to leave anywhere. Cozy blanket + warm fire + apple cider = perfection!

Tanya and Andrew rock-hounding for thunder eggs in Bend this past spring.

What did you want to be when you were little?

I wanted to be a forensic scientist – I think i watched too much NCIS. That changed once I realized blood made me queasy. Although, I once shadowed a financial forensic investigator and think that would be the coolest job ever!

What famous person do people always say you look like?

I had someone tell me I look like actress Jennifer Jones a few times.

What’s the song you can’t resist singing along to?

Any Disney Princess song – once I start, I won’t be able to stop!