Kindergarten
-
Jamie Nelson
Kindergarten Teacher
Jamie Nelson loves working with the amazing kids at ELA. She was born and raised in Chicagoland but moved west to finish high school. She graduated from Brigham Young University-Idaho with a degree in Elementary Education. Jamie spent 13 years teaching the kids in the community of Kearns and the past 4 years at ELA. She enjoyed teaching fourth grade for 10 years and has been in kindergarten for six years now.
As the mother of four kids, Jamie is often found playing legos, reading books, coloring, losing at the occasional video game or playing at the park. When she has a minute to herself she enjoys reading, watching baseball with her husband (go Cubs!), participating in theater and singing. She is excited for a great year!
-
Naomie Williams
Kindergarten Teacher
Naomie Williams is a proud graduate from Utah State University with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. She has loved being a part of the ELA community and is thrilled to be teaching Kindergarten again! Her love for learning and building relationships is clear in her teaching style. She is passionate about making every child feel safe, confident, and empowered to succeed (while having lots of fun in the process)!
With her husband and super-cute dog, Naomie loves to hike, enjoy movies and TV shows, camp, craft, read, and dream about traveling. -
Rebecca Groendyke
Kindergarten Teacher
Becka Groendyke considers working at Early Light Academy an extraordinary adventure. Becka began this journey at the Junior High as a Special Education Teaching Assistant over twelve years ago. Grateful to be a part of this environment, she accepted a full time position as a 4th Grade Educator in 2014-2020. She is currently working as a Co-Teacher in the First Grade with Mrs. Naylor.
Becka was reared in Idaho Falls, Idaho. She graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Science in Education. Becka taught in the Granite School District for thirteen years. She also pursued other dreams and became a Flight Attendant for Delta Airlines, a Hostess for the Marriott Concierge, and a student at Westminster of Salt Lake City, where she earned a Master's Degree in Education.
Becka is married to Rick Groendyke and together they have one son, Noah. Becka finds pleasure in simplistic beauty...quiet moments, supermoons, billowing clouds, the sound of thunder. It is in the small minute details of daily life, that she becomes keenly aware of the breathtaking “WOW” moments. Becka’s passion is sharing those moments of awe with her students. Her strength is being able to see the worth of an individual and having the desire to be an instrument in assisting others in the discovery of their innate potential.
-
Aubree Frandsen
Kindergarten Teacher
Aubree Frandsen is a proud graduate of Utah State University, where she earned Bachelor’s Degrees in both Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education. She is excited to bring her love for teaching and her passion for childhood development to the ELA team. Aubree is a firm advocate for hands-on learning, believing that engaging students in interactive activities is key to fostering their curiosity and deepening their understanding. She strives to create a classroom environment where exploration and discovery are encouraged, helping students to develop a lifelong passion for learning.
Outside the classroom, Aubree and her husband enjoy exploring the great outdoors through hiking, kayaking, and fishing. She is also a self-proclaimed "foodie" who loves trying new things, constantly seeking out new culinary adventures.
-
Shaylie Reiter
Kindergarten Teacher Assistant
Shaylie Reiter enjoyed her time at both Snow College and Utah State University, where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing with a minor in Entrepreneurship. After finishing at the university, she spent 3 months in Manila, Philippines, helping small business owners learn new skills and sharpen their businesses. She also had the opportunity while abroad to teach an entrepreneurial course to high school students. After her time in Manila, she decided to continue the adventure and moved solo to the island of Oahu, Hawaii. She spent her days making new friends and swimming in the ocean. Being on the beach is her favorite thing in the world!
In her free time, Shaylie loves to travel (of course!), watch movies, play board games and card games, and go on spontaneous adventures. She has also become passionate about the gym the last few years, with a big focus on powerlifting. She hopes to enter a powerlifting competition soon, after working some more on strength building. Shaylie is super excited to spend this school year as a kindergarten aide getting to know all the students and helping them grow!
-
Devon Weddle
Kindergarten Teacher Assistant
Devon Weddle currently lives in Utah county with her husband and two kids. She has been a substitute teacher and crossing guard the last few years. This will be her (and children’s) first year at Early Light Academy.
In her down time she enjoys reading, attending plays and musicals, and playing video games with her kids. She can also be found at the aquarium watching the penguins and sloths with her family, going to the movies or watching a baseball game. She excited to be a part of Early light Academy and can’t wait to meet all the new kindergarteners. -
Kate Dastrup
Kindergarten Teacher Assistant
Kate Dastrup loves being a kindergarten teacher's assistant. She recently graduated from the American Academy of Innovation and is excited to start her new path in the education field. She also loves working at the school where many family members attend. This will be her first year at Early Light Academy, but she hopes there's more to come!
In her free time, she enjoys playing games, drawing, baking, and spending lots of time with family and friends! She can often be found at the plant store buying more plants for her indoor jungle or hanging out with her large family. She can't wait for a fun year in kindergarten!
First Grade
-
Chase McCool
1st Grade Teacher
Jambo!! My name is Chase McCool (yes it is my real name), a First grade teacher, originally from Chicago!! My teaching experience has ranged from Denver, New York, and even Kampala, Uganda! Through these experiences, I have had the joy of working alongside students from diverse backgrounds.
I strongly believe that movement is essential for young learners and strive to create a nurturing environment where students can freely express themselves and foster a lifelong love for learning. I look forward to a fun filled school year of growth and discovery!!!
-
Elena Michelsen
1st Grade Teacher
Elena Michelsen is honored to join the team at Early Light Academy. She graduated from Brigham Young University Idaho with a degree in Elementary Education and a minor in TESOL Education. She is passionate about engaging students in learning through art, music, and hands-on learning. Elena has experience teaching third and second grade. She is excited to teach first grade.Elena enjoys hiking, water coloring, and paddle boarding. She loves trying new restaurants and spending time with her husband, family, and friends. She finds fulfillment in trying new things and inspiring her students to discover the joy of learning and creating. She looks forward to learning with your students! -
Shannon Zimmerman
1st Grade Teacher
Shannon Zimmerman is originally from Torrance, California and loved getting to grow up near the ocean. She graduated from Brigham Young University-Idaho with a bachelors degree in elementary education.
Shannon always knew that she wanted to be a teacher and is forever grateful for the teachers in her life who cared and believed in her. They also taught her the importance of working hard and never giving up. Inspired by their example, she wanted to make that difference in her students’ lives. She is excited to join the Early Light team and continue to help enrich students’ educations.
When she’s not teaching, Shannon enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, watching plays and spending time with her family and friends.
-
Marisol Pizarro
1st Grade Teacher
Marisol Pizarro was born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela. She moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida with her family in 1999 to continue her studies. She graduated from Florida International University (FIU) in 2005 as an Early Childhood Educator with ESOL Endorsements. She has been a teacher for more than 16 years. She worked in a private Montessori school for ten years and then she decided to take a different path working in a charter school for the past 4 years.
She has one son that is 16 and will be starting his junior year. He is planning to attend NYU to achieve his engineering career.
She has two adorable cats, Tiger and Bonita, she loves playing and cuddling with them.
Her hobbies are listening to music, shopping, dining out, attending to concerts, and watching movies/series.
Marisol Pizarro’s passion and dedication for educating students have been evident since she was a young girl. She enjoyed playing with her cousins “The Little School” and guess who was the teacher… she was!
-
Desee Ragsdale
1st Grade Teacher Assistant
Desee Ragsdale is a BYU-Idaho graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Child Development. After volunteering in the classroom, she realized how rewarding it would be to have a permanent role as an aide. Desee loves exploring Utah and going anywhere with her family. You will usually find her watching a movie, chatting with friends, taking walks, riding bikes, organizing her house, and trying to not kill her flowers.
-
Michelle Lalor
1st Grade Teacher Assistant
Michelle Lalor -Houghton was born and raised in Ireland and moved to the US in 2009. She taught first and second grade at Early Light Academy for ten years and then decided to stay home with her two rambunctious boys.
In her spare time, Michelle loves to read historical fiction and thrillers, exercise and have adventures with her family. She also loves to have the banter and chat with anyone and everyone about anything and everything!
Michelle loves the ELA community and is very happy to return as a teachers’ aide for the wonderful 2nd grade Team. She is looking forward to getting to know the students and the opportunity to work with small groups.
As an outdoor enthusiast, she is also delighted to be outside for recess duty watching the students run off their abundance of energy.
-
Jennifer DuCharme
1st Grade Literacy Aide
Jennifer DuCharme was raised in Riverton, Utah. Both of her parents were school teachers and she spent countless hours helping in the classroom. She graduated from Bingham High School, Ricks College with an associates degree in Elementary Education, and Utah State University with a degree in Elementary Education and an emphasis in Language Arts. She taught school in Cache Valley and Bluffdale. She is married and has 3 children. Education has always been a very important part of her life. She quit teaching to raise her kids but was very involved in their schools. She loves sewing and reading. She hopes to pass her knowledge and enthusiasm for reading along to the wonderful first graders at ELA.
Second Grade
-
Kristi Maples
2nd Grade Teacher
Kristi Maples worked in the medical field for 22 years before earning her teaching degree and joining Early light academy in 2020. Kristi attended Western Governors University where she graduated with her Bachelor of Arts in education.
Kristi was born and raised in Pocatello, Idaho where her and her 5 siblings would spend countless hours outdoors camping, hiking, and fishing. Kristi moved to Utah in 1996 to raise her family and enjoy the many outdoor adventures that Utah had to offer. Kristi loves to travel and has been to 28 of the US states, and 5 different countries. Kristi also enjoys working in her garden, watching movies, and playing with her granddaughter.
Kristi is passionate about reading and loves to share her passion with all of her students.
-
Rebecca Woodard
2nd Grade Teacher
Rebecca Woodard is looking forward to another great year at ELA! She has been teaching the second grade at ELA since our opening in 2009. She thinks it's so much fun seeing her former students in the hallways and watching everyone grow up!
Mrs. Woodard was born and raised in West Virginia. She graduated from Fairmont State University in 2005 with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Before coming to ELA, Mrs. Woodard had experience working as a classroom aide, teaching preschool, substituting, and working with the Boys and Girls Club of America. She moved to Utah in 2008 with her husband, Chris, after living the Army life in Colorado Springs.
-
Jennifer Perry
2nd Grade Teacher
Jen attended Utah State University (Go Aggies!), graduating with her Bachelor’s degree in Family and Human Development and her Master’s degree in Deaf Education. After volunteering in her children’s classrooms for several years and then working at her children’s school, she decided to go through the alternate route program to get her license in Elementary Education.
She believes every child has greatness within them and is excited to help her students reach their full potential. She is thrilled to be starting her second year teaching 2nd grade at ELA!
Jen loves spending time with her adorable family, including her math-teacher husband and four spunky children. She enjoys riding roller coasters, playing board games, jumping on the tramp, watching sunsets, hiking, traveling, reading good books, telling hilarious jokes, and eating chocolate.
-
Emily Tanner
2nd Grade Teacher
Emily was born and raised in Utah as the oldest of four. She attended Utah State University, where she received bachelor’s degrees in both elementary and special education. After graduating from USU, she moved to Mexico to take a head teacher position over a group of english teachers for four months! She loves traveling and having new experiences, whether that’s going to new places or meeting new people!
When Emily is not working, she loves trying new restaurants, cooking, going to concerts, and planning trips. She has attended 46 concerts so far, and has lived in Texas, Thailand, Pennsylvania, and Mexico!
Being an ELA alumni herself, she is so excited to be joining the team as a first year teacher!
-
Cierra Caskey
2nd Grade Teacher Assistant
Cierra worked in Veterinary Medicine for 6 years as a Receptionist and Veterinary
Technician. As a child, she was continually bringing animals home to take care of and nurse back to health. Her parents were always thrilled when this happened and let her keep every single animal she brought home. (Insert sarcasm here.) After volunteering in her children’s classrooms, Mrs. Caskey transitioned to a classroom aide teaching third grade and being a substitute teacher.
Cierra loves spending time with her phenomenal husband and two witty children that keep her on her toes. They play board games, do family movie nights every Friday, road trips, and enjoy quality time. Reading is one of her favorite hobbies, along with traveling and exploring new places. Cierra is a food lover at heart and enjoys making and trying all kinds of recipes and food.
She looks forward to this upcoming year working with your students.
-
Erin Coates
2nd Grade Literacy Aide
Born and raised in Utah, Erin Coates has lived in Herriman for seventeen years with her husband; together they have three wonderful children. She has enjoyed being a stay at home mom for the past 13 years while giving her time and crafting skills to various school projects and assisted living facilities. Spending time with these children and older adults while volunteering has been an amazing opportunity that she has adored. Her hobbies include, but are not limited to, card making, sewing, baking and especially reading. Reading has always been a passion for Erin and she is excited to share this love of reading with the students here at Early Light Academy.
Third Grade
-
Naomi Foreman
3rd Grade Teacher
Naomi has been at Early Light Academy since 2014. She graduated from NMSU in 1994 and taught nine years in NM. She moved to Utah in 2002 and in 2005 started substituting for the Jordan School District. She has taught first grade for eight years and now teaches third grade. In the eight years she substituted in the Jordan District, she has had a long term sub job in every grade from K-6. In 2014, she knew it was time for her to have her own classroom and ELA was the perfect place for that classroom. She has always been an advocate of Charter Schools and could not wait to start. In all of the years that she has been at ELA, she has come to love the Charter School life and the family ELA is.
Naomi is married to Les and has two children, Kelsie and Lucas. In her free time, she enjoys reading and camping. However, most of her free time is spent watching kids play soccer. She has volunteered with Copper Mountain Soccer Club for years and can often be found watching a team of eight year olds play soccer. Her goal is to see all 50 states.
Her sense of humor spills over into her classroom and she enjoys laughing and learning with her students. Nothing makes her happier than to see a student fall in love with reading. She looks forward to meeting each one of you and spending the next year making some really cool third grade memories.
-
Annie Taylor
3rd Grade Teacher
After 15 years teaching kindergarten and first grade, Ms. Annie Taylor looks forward to new adventures teaching third grade! Ms. Taylor welcomes the opportunity to make up for lost time with some former students... courtesy of the pandemic.
Ms. Taylor has met some amazing parents already and anticipates meeting many more in the upcoming years. Ms. Taylor appreciates the parent involvement that comes with charter schools and hopes to have regular and positive engagement with her students’ parents.
In her free time, Ms. Taylor enjoys biking, reading, spending time with family/ friends and travel. She has a good sense of humor and genuinely loves children, and loves helping them learn and grow. Ms. Taylor raised two children who are both working. Although neither of her children has children yet, Ms. Taylor dreams of having grandchildren at some point in the future.
Ms. Taylor cannot wait to level up her love of reading and math; and introduce and explore abstract concepts with a more mature student body. She hopes to continue to foster a feeling of joy at school and a love for learning in general.
-
Stacey Blank
3rd Grade Teacher
Stacey received her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Social Studies from Salisbury University located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Upon graduation she began her teaching career in Lawrence Township Public Schools, New Jersey where she taught 4th grade for 10 years. Fun fact- she taught in the same school she attended as a child! Stacey has also spent many years of her life at the pool, either in the pool as a swimmer or on the deck as a coach.
In her free time Stacey enjoys spending time with her children and her husband. She has twin girls who attend ELA. Traveling is Stacey's top hobby and her favorite destinations thus far have been Italy, Turks & Caicos and Nashville.
Stacey is looking forward to another great year in 3rd grade at ELA!
-
Derek LeDoux
3rd Grade Teacher
Mr. LeDoux has been teaching at Early Light Academy since 2021. He is originally from Neenah, Wisconsin. He graduated from BYU-Idaho. He previously taught elementary school for several years in inner-city Milwaukee, Wisconsin and then in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. He is the boys’ and girls’ head basketball coach at ELA.
Mr. LeDoux loves to bike in the beautiful Utah outdoors. He is a good bass singer. He loves all of his home sports teams in Wisconsin. He loves his parents and his 3 brothers and 3 sisters. He is a huge Beach Boys fan and strives to make learning fun, fun, fun for ELA students!
-
Shauna Price
Third Grade Assistant
Shauna Price was born in California but as the daughter of a Colonel in the Army, she lived all over the world. Her father retired in Los Angeles, California and that is where Shauna graduated from high school. She also graduated from Ricks College with an Associates of Arts Degree and then attended the University of Utah, majoring in Political Science & History.
Shauna and her husband have three awesome boys, ages 23, 21 and 16. They have attended ELA since its opening year. They have lived in the South Jordan area for 21 years.
Shauna enjoys reading, shopping, attending plays and concerts and watching her kids play sports.
-
Jennifer Ashby
3rd Grade Literacy Aide
Jennifer Ashby was born and raised in the Salt Lake Valley. She graduated from Utah State University with degrees in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and a minor in English. Following graduation she taught kindergarten and fourth grade in Granite School District. After four years of teaching she moved with her husband to Texas and started a family. She volunteered often at her daughters’ schools and enjoyed helping the teachers and students. While her two daughters were in middle school and high school, her family moved to Bogota, Colombia and Muscat, Oman. She enjoyed experiencing different cultures and making friends from around the world. In 2014 her family moved back to Utah and she became a kindergarten aide in Jordan School District, followed by a first grade teacher the following year. She loves to read, cook, hike, and spend time with family and friends. Jennifer is excited to bring her love of learning and reading to Early Light and working with the teachers and students!
Fourth Grade
-
Allison Villastrigo
4th Grade Teacher
Allison Villastrigo (Vee-uh-stree-go) grew up in Boise, Idaho and attended college in her home state. She earned a BA in Psychology and MA in Teaching from The College of Idaho. Allison enjoyed traveling to Europe and studying abroad in Australia as a part of her studies. Attending a small college, Allison learned the value of a strong community, an open mind, and listening to a variety of perspectives in education. She seeks to create that same kind of close-knit, caring community of smart, objective thinkers in the classroom each year.
Allison has had the privilege of working with unforgettable children from 2nd to 6th grade in Idaho, Washington, and Utah schools, since she began teaching in 2007. There is nothing that brings her more joy than synergizing with students each day, especially relishing a good book as a classroom community. She seeks to help students learn that they can persist through and even enjoy difficult concepts or tasks and is always trying to find a way to keep things engaging for kids.
Allison is grateful to be a long time member of the Early Light Academy team. Though she has taught at some really phenomenal schools, ELA stands out as one of the best of the best. She loves the history focus and the aim for a more well-rounded education at the school. Her family enjoys living and playing in Daybreak and includes ray-of-sunshine daughter, Cora, quick-witted son, Miles, silly husband, Drew, and two very adored dogs, Ernie and Ellie. Allison is looking forward to another wonderful year in fourth grade!
-
Michael Herren
4th Grade Teacher
Michael is an extraordinary elementary school teacher with a passion for education that spans across various grade levels. He brings a unique perspective to his classrooms. Known for his love of learning, Michael encourages his students to explore the wonders of literature and always fosters a curious spirit within them. As an animated teacher, he goes above and beyond to make learning engaging and fun, leaving a lasting impact on his students' lives.
Beyond the classroom, Michael has an impressive array of hobbies and interests. His collections of records, books, coins, and Americana showcase his appreciation for history and culture. Outside of his teaching endeavors, Michael has been a beekeeper, gardener, and chicken keeper, connecting with nature and enjoying the serenity it offers. His love for philosophy is evident in the thought-provoking discussions he shares with his students and colleagues.
One of Michael's unique passions is crafting traditional, earthy root beer, using actual roots, reflecting his love for history. He ensures every student feels welcome and valued by emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in the classroom.
Above all, Michael cherishes his family and relishes the time spent with his wife and children. His love for hiking and mindfulness is reflected in the joy he finds in exploring the picturesque landscapes of Utah, Idaho, and Sydney, Australia, where he has lived and embraced their cultures. Michael's multifaceted background and dedication to his students make him an exceptional educator who leaves a lasting positive impact on the lives of those he teaches.
-
Matika Sumsion
4th Grade Teacher
Matika Sumsion grew up in Meridian, Idaho on a small “hobby farm” where she helped her family raise milk cows, sheep, pigs, llamas, chickens, emus, peacocks, cats, dogs, a skunk, and any other animals she could convince her parents to keep.
She loves being outside, whether it be working in a garden, climbing trees, playing sports or hiking mountains.
In April of 2021, she graduated from Brigham Young University-Idaho where she majored in Elementary Education with a minor in Mathematics. She loves learning new languages and getting to know different cultures. This was sparked by the time she spent living in Chile and learning the Spanish language. She is excited to teach and learning with her students this year.
-
Sabrina Dahl
4th Grade Teacher
Sabrina Dahl was born and raised in Utah, and deeply values her education from Utah State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. Sabrina is delighted to join the vibrant fourth grade team at Early Light Academy and is eager to inspire young minds and cultivate a love for learning within her classroom.
Outside the classroom, Sabrina finds joy in spending time with her family, getting lost in a good book, and crocheting. She loves exploring the outdoors by hiking, kayaking, and fishing.
With her warm-hearted nature and commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment, Sabrina looks forward to inspiring her students and helping them thrive academically and personally at ELA this school year!
-
Hattie Deluca
4th Grade Aide
Hattie was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah sandwiched in the middle of five kids. She attended Granger High School where she developed a love of art and music. She later went on to attend the University of Utah (go Utes!!!) where she majored in Sociology with a certificate in Criminology.
Hattie has worked for two major flooring companies in their respective accounting departments, but really fell in love with the education system having volunteered many times at Early Light Academy for the classes of her two beautiful girls who attend Early Light Academy. Hattie really enjoys working as a 4th grade aide and loves the students she works with.
During her spare time she enjoys spending time with her kids, the great outdoors, puzzles, legos, listening to podcasts, enjoying music (she plays the piano and loves to sing), games, reading, enjoying a good meal and spending time with family. She is also a sports fan who enjoys supporting the Utes and Utah Jazz.
-
Kathy Angus
4th Grade Literacy Aide
Kathy was born and raised in Salt Lake. She has lived in Riverton the last 20 years with her husband and three kids all of whom attended ELA. She loves being involved in all of their activities and her favorite job has been a stay at home Mom for the last 14 years and helping in classrooms.
She loves being surrounded by the mountains and spending time hiking, camping, and riding ATVs with her family. She enjoys traveling, good food, going to movies, game nights with family and getting lost in a good book. She is excited to work with the students at ELA and hopes to help them in becoming better readers and share her passion for reading
Fifth Grade
-
Anna Leggett
5th Grade Teacher
Anna first learned of her love for teaching while volunteering in her daughter's classroom, and decided to pursue her license through the Alternate Routes to Licensure program. She hasn't looked back! Anna graduated from the University of Utah with a BA in French and a Minor in Business. Prior to teaching 5th grade at Early Light Academy, she taught 1st grade at Bastian Elementary and STEM Education at Daybreak Elementary.
Anna loves Early Light Academy, and is passionate about making learning engaging and fun, and ensuring her classroom is a safe and inclusive environment where all students can thrive.
Anna resides in South Jordan with her husband, two children, a rambunctious cocker spaniel, and two unfriendly parakeets. She enjoys movies, dogs, running, sarcasm, yoga, Diet Coke, music, Harry Potter, sea otters, manual shift vehicles, nature, art, bad jokes and Europe, in no particular order.
-
Heather Inama
5th Grade Teacher
Heather Inama (ee-nah-ma) grew up in Washington State where her love for seafood and fresh produce was ingrained. There will always be something special about the smell of salt water and eating a strawberry the size of your hand.
Heather’s love of learning and teaching started young. As an elementary student she would tell others that she was going to be a teacher when she grew up. Over the years since, she has taught in many different capacities to many different age groups. At one point she taught high school students, university level students, and most recently has been teaching Leader in Me and Keyboarding to the 5th grade students at Early Light Academy.
Heather has always had a passion for music. She can be seen belting out a balled in the car by herself when it’s time to de-stress and get centered or singing a soulful spiritual in the classroom to demonstrate the type of music that was popular during that time. Not only does Heather enjoying singing and listening to music but she loves all concerts, musicals, theater performances, and the arts.
When Heather isn’t at school, she loves to take trips with her husband and daughter, host a BBQ or party, go to the movies, seek out a new restaurant, and experience new areas of Utah she hasn’t seen before. Heather loves organization and efficiency and can be found cleaning out and organizing a closet for fun.
Heather is so excited for the opportunity to teach and see her students make progress and grow this year!
-
Maddy Thompson
5th Grade Teacher
Heather Inama (pronounced ee-nah-ma) grew up in Washington State, where her deep appreciation for seafood and fresh produce began. She cherishes the memories of the salty sea air and biting into a strawberry the size of her hand.
Heather's passion for teaching started early. As a child, she dreamed of becoming a teacher, and she has since taught students of all ages in various settings. From high school and university students to serving as a 5th-grade aide at Early Light Academy, Heather discovered her true calling in elementary education. Her experience there ignited a love for teaching younger students, leading her to earn her Associate Educator License and pursue a master's degree in Elementary Education.
Heather also holds a bachelor's degree in Vocal Music from Brigham Young University - Idaho. Music has always been an important part of her life. Whether she’s singing a ballad alone in her car or sharing a soulful spiritual in the classroom, she loves expressing herself through music. She also enjoys attending concerts, musicals, and theater performances.
Outside of teaching, Heather enjoys spending weekends exploring with her husband and daughter, hosting barbecues and parties, discovering new restaurants, and exploring different parts of Utah. Her love for organization means she often finds joy in cleaning out and organizing closets.
Heather is passionate about education and looks forward to helping her students grow and succeed.
-
Angela Nadauld
5th Grade Teacher
Angie grew up in Utah. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. After working in the Finance world for a few years, she took time off to raise her three children. As she witnessed the magic that happens in the classroom, she decided she wanted in on the fun! She began teaching in 2016 and hasn’t looked back!
Angie loves learning! She is currently finishing her Masters of Education at the University of Utah. She hopes to instill a passion for learning in her students by creating a fun, productive environment.
When Angie is not teaching, or doing homework she loves to be outside! Her hobbies include walking her two dogs Rocket and Pepper, running, biking, skiing, and hiking. Angie’s loves are her husband, her kids, Coke Zero, jeeping, dogs, Crystal Light and 80’s hair bands!
-
Ashlie Allison
5th Grade Teacher Assistant
Ashlie has lived on three continents and in three states, but has called South Jordan home for most of her life. She skipped first grade, started at BYU at 17 (two weeks after high school graduation!) and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Marriage, Family and Human Development with a minor in Public Health.
Ashlie loves to plan trips even if she doesn't take them, but taking them is always better! She believes there's not much better in life than good food and good company. One of her very favorite things to do is cheer others on as they work towards doing something hard!
Ashlie grew up in a very large family and has worked with children her whole life, including those with autism, ADHD and high anxiety. She has known her husband since Jr. High! They have 3 children- one girl and two boys- all who have attended ELA. After being a room parent for many years, volunteering in her kid's classrooms and teaching GAP art Ashlie is excited to join the staff at ELA!
-
Shayna Swiss
5/6 Literacy Teacher Assistant
Shayna is thrilled to be joining the ELA staff. She has been substitute teaching for the last two years and has loved working with the amazing students at Early Light (including her own four children who have all attended).She is always up for adventure and loves learning.
Shayna enjoys yoga, playing tennis, traveling anywhere and everywhere, and reading. But most of all, she loves spending time with her family and friends.
Sixth Grade
-
Jodie Adams
6th Grade Teacher
Jodie Adams is originally from Sacramento, California, and loved growing up near the water and a few hours away from Disneyland. She graduated from Utah Valley University with a bachelor's degree in University Studies with a minor in Community Health Education.
Jodie realized that she wanted to be a teacher in college and is grateful for the teachers in her life who cared and believed in her. They also taught her the importance of working hard and never giving up. Inspired by their example, she wanted to make a difference in her students' lives. She is excited to join Early Light Academy and continue to help enrich students' education.
When Jodie is not teaching, she enjoys spending time running, cycling, hiking, taking pictures, playing sports, camping, and spending time with her family and friends.
-
Brittany Lindsay
6th Grade Teacher
Brittany Lindsay is excited to be a part of the 6th grade team this school year! Brittany was born and raised in Texas. She received her teaching degree at Brigham Young University. She taught 7th and 8th grade math for a few years.
She loves hiking, running, and skiing with her husband and 3 kids. She also has a love for traveling with her family and is always ready for the next adventure.
-
Tiffani Birge
6th Grade Teacher
Tiffani Birge is originally from a tiny town in Southeast Texas, just minutes from the Gulf Coast, where she loved growing up on a farm. She graduated from Western Governors University.
Tiffani is excited to join the team at Early Light Academy and is looking forward to the experiences ahead that will help her continue to sharpen her expertise in the education world.When she is not teaching, Tiffani loves to take road trips, go camping/fishing/shooting, play games, cook/bake, play and watch sports, and spend quality time with family and friends.| Website -
Christopher Matson
6th Grade Teacher
Mr. Matson has over fifteen years of teaching experience as a sixth grade teacher. Mr. Matson loves being outdoors. One of his favorite activities is biking. In the evenings he enjoys going on walks with his wife, Becky. He also enjoys cooking, playing games, and reading.
-
Kimberly Jelitto
6th Grade Assistant
Working in the Parks and Recreation department, Kimberly coordinated and taught the after school program for Elementary students, and discovered her love for teaching. She was hired on with the Granite School District in 2008. She worked for three years in the resource department, then was transferred to a Title I school in Kearns where she worked as an aide for 4th, 5th and 6th grade. This is her first year at ELA and is very excited to be part of the team.
She has two sons, three daughters and five grandchildren that keep her very busy. She was born and raised in Utah. She lives in Herriman and loves dancing, hiking, camping and spending time with her family.
Specialists
-
Kevin Robinson
Physical Education Specialist
Kevin Robinson is originally from the state of Oregon. He graduated from Southern Oregon University with a bachelor’s degree in Art. Kevin has been working in a school since 2004 and at Early Light Academy since 2013. He teaches Elementary PE, K through 6th grades, and is the Athletic Director for the junior high sports programs. Athletics and physical activities have always been his passion. Kevin is married and has three adult children and four grandchildren.
-
Amy Hickenlooper
K-6 Music Specialist
Amy Hickenlooper grew up in Idaho Falls in a musical family. She has been playing the violin since she was 4 years old, and began actively studying singing and piano in her early teen years. Performing has always been a part of her life. She attended Idaho State University on a full tuition music scholarship. She struggled choosing between her love of playing the violin and singing, so she decided to pursue both. She fell in love with teaching others when she was in college while maintaining a large private studio. She graduated with 3 bachelor’s degrees in Vocal Performance, Violin Performance and Music Education in 2002. She completed a Master’s Degree in Instructional Design last year. (2019)
Amy just completed her 12th year of teaching music. She loves the students and is passionate about sharing her love of music with them. Along with teaching a performing children’s choir, she also is passionate about music integration and recognizes the power to learn that music can bring into a child’s life through play. She has written many songs and developed lessons for elementary music integration that have been shared throughout the state of Utah. She has been a presenter at several professional development courses for other music educators in her District and Region. She was awarded an “Elementary Teacher Commendation” award from Eagle Elementary School of the Arts in Meridian Idaho. (2009) She is a two-time recipient of the PTA Outstanding Educator award at Hidden Hollow Elementary, (2012 and 2017) and was the CTL of the team that was awarded most outstanding team of the year (2020). She was also recently awarded the “Sorenson Legacy Award for Excellence in Arts Education” for the State of Utah this past Spring. Her former elementary school was chosen to host the principal’s discussion for being the “Arts Rich School of the Year” for Alpine School District. (2020)
Amy just celebrated her 20th Wedding Anniversary and has two wonderful children. They love to spend time together as a family at home and love all things having to do with the outdoors. She loves reading, crafting, organizing, cleaning, decorating and most of all making music!
-
Teresa Thompson
Library Media Specialist
Ms. Thompson was an original staff member at Early Light Academy, first working as the third-grade aide, and then in the library. She took a 4 year hiatus in the inner-city schools of South Bend, Indiana, but now she is so excited to be back home at ELA! Ms. T is a fervent advocate for literacy and the power it holds in the lives of our students. She believes that although literacy starts with reading, it evolves into so much more as students grow and mature. She looks forward to teaching your amazing kiddos a full range of educational literacy including literature, research, and critical thinking.
Ms. T is the mother of two incredible adult kids – both of whom were at ELA the day the doors opened until they graduated – and one pampered puppy named after Luna Lovegood from Harry Potter. She loves audio books, crafting, writing, rock hounding, traveling, and book fairs! Feel free to come see Ms. T and find out how you can volunteer in the library!
-
Mica Hawkins
Digital Literacy Teacher
While working as a personal care assistant for disabled children and as a tutor, Mica learned what it means to make a difference in someone's life. She loved working with children and decided to pursue a career as a teacher. Mica graduated from Western Governors University with her Bachelors in Early Childhood Education. In 2014, she joined the ELA family as a third grade teacher and has loved being a part of this awesome community ever since! She now teaches Digital Literacy, helping students learn how to be a safe and responsible Digital Citizen.
Mica grew up in Minnesota, spending most of her time outdoors enjoying the lakes. She has fallen in love with Utah’s amazing mountains and national parks. She has two children, Ryker and Arya, who are the joys of her life and teach her new things everyday. In her free time Mica especially enjoys hiking, going on adventures with her children, paddle boarding, and reading.
-
Britteny Candelaria
Simulator and Technology
Britteny Candelaria has been a part of the ELA family for 9 years now. She started off as a Library Aide and absolutely loved every minute of it. For the past 6 years, she has assisted and is now team coordinator in our tech department. For the last 3 years she has had the opportunity to run our Space Simulator. It is one of her favorite things to do for ELA!!! It has been so exciting to see the students discovering what it takes to not only be a great team player but realizing that they can become wonderful leaders too. This is the program that a lot of the students look forward to completing throughout the year and she feels so lucky to see all of the ELA students! She is so excited to continue to facilitate this wonderful program for ELA!