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BLUUM
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We empower educational leaders in the Gem State by providing one- or two-year Fellowships to those who take risks and put children first. Bluum has recruited top talent to the ranks of Idaho’s public charter school leadership, finance, and operations cohort, Learn more about our Fellowship opportunities for aspiring education professionals to advance achievement and expand school choice options for families in their communities.

We Empower Leaders

We believe our new school strategy can help transform education in Idaho if we can help recruit, prepare and support a growing team of educators to become the inspirational school leaders we need for the present and near-term future. That’s why, in 2016, we launched the Idaho New School Fellowship. Fellows receive a paid, one- or two-year fellowships, giving them the time and access to expertise to create and execute plans to open high-performing public charter schools in communities across the Gem State. Some are native or long-time Idahoans. Others have moved here from across the country to realize a dream they all hold in common: to create innovative, high-performing schools that prepare a diverse group of students to thrive in a rapidly-changing world.

$4,366,800
HAS BEEN INVESTED IN 34 NEW SCHOOL FELLOWS, AND COLLECTIVELY THEY HAVE OPENED OR WILL OPEN 25 SCHOOLS ACROSS THE STATE.

Meet our

Fellows

Meet the people dedicated to serving some of Idaho’s finest school leaders in helping them educate and support their thousands of families and students.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2025 Elevate Academy

John Rezendes

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John Rezendes

Idaho New School Fellow – 2025

Elevate Academy

John Rezendes has been in education for 10 years and most recently served as an English Language Arts teacher at Elevate Academy, where he brought a passion for literacy, student voice, and real-world learning to the classroom.

Born and raised in Idaho, John is now raising his own family here. He and his wife have four children who enjoy spending time outdoors camping, paddleboarding, and cheering on their kids in whatever sport they’re playing.

A proud graduate of Bishop Kelly High School in Boise, John earned his bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Boise State University. He went on to complete a master’s degree in Special Education at Boise State and an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Idaho.

John began his teaching journey through Teach for America, where he quickly developed a strong belief in meeting students where they are academically, emotionally, and personally. His experience with Teach for America taught him the critical role that strong leadership plays in a school’s success, and Elevate Academy showed him what that looks like in practice.

A former baseball player and coach, John brings a competitive spirit, team mindset, and resilient work ethic to his role as an educator. He believes that learning should be challenging, engaging, and connected to life beyond the classroom and that every student deserves a champion who won’t give up on them.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2025

Sue Lux

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Sue Lux

Idaho New School Fellow – 2025

Coming Soon!

Sue Lux has dedicated 25 years to the field of education, with the past 22 years focused on alternative education for high school students. She was the founding principal of an alternative charter high school in Nampa, Idaho, where she helped build a supportive and innovative learning environment from the ground up. She later transitioned into a director role, overseeing schools across Idaho, Louisiana, and Arizona. She holds a Master’s degree in School Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Social Psychology.

A passionate educator and leader, Sue is a builder of people. She believes deeply in the unlimited potential of every individual—students and staff alike—to create and achieve amazing things. Her work is grounded in this philosophy, guiding her efforts to empower others through meaningful educational experiences.

As part of her current fellowship, Sue is developing an Agri-Business focused charter school aimed at preparing students for both college and careers in agricultural business. Recognizing Idaho’s rich agricultural heritage, the proposed school will offer students immersive, hands-on experiences across a range of ag-business disciplines, bridging traditional academics with real-world application.

Outside of her professional life, Sue enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and their dog—often found exploring the outdoors or tending to her garden.

Bluum - 2025 Special Education Fellowship

Ashley Simard

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Ashley Simard

Special Education Fellowship

Ashley Simard is an experienced special education professional based in Boise, Idaho. Ashley earned her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from NNU and her undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia.

Her work spans elementary and junior high settings in both the Caldwell and Boise School Districts, where she has developed and implemented evidence-based interventions, designed professional development sessions for staff, and driven data-informed decision-making to enhance student outcomes. Ashley’s commitment to fostering collaborative, trusting relationships among students, families, and educators underpins her success in creating inclusive, supportive learning environments.

Ashley is deeply invested in building leadership skills to further contribute to special education programs across the state and support Idaho’s educational landscape.

Ashley is originally from Richmond, Virginia and moved to Boise with her husband in 2020. She is a new mom to Philip (9 months old) and has two pups, Stella and Chance. She loves running in the foothills and plans to run a few local races this year.

Bluum - 2025 Special Education Fellowship

Kalley Malone

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Kalley Malone

Special Education Fellowship

Kalley Malone brings 18 years of experience as a special education teacher in the Boise School District, with a strong focus on secondary education and transition planning. Her work emphasizes inclusive practices that support students with diverse and complex needs. Kalley is dedicated to ensuring that all students, regardless of support need, have opportunities to engage meaningfully with their peers and access the general education curriculum in authentic, participatory ways. Kalley is a native Idahoan with multiple degrees from the University of Idaho with a B.S in Psychology, a MS in Special Education, and recently graduated with a Doctorate in Education.

Kalley has multiple publications that focus on inclusion for students with extensive support needs, best practices, and peer mentoring. Kalley is a lifelong learner, continually curious and in pursuit of opportunities that advance the understanding of the interface between disability, education, community, and society. She is excited to learn and contribute at Bluum in this new chapter. Outside of her professional life, Kalley is an avid reader who is rarely without a book nearby. She and her husband enjoy spending time outdoors with their two children—camping, exploring nature, and collecting rocks as enthusiastic amateur geologists.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2024 Lava Hot Springs Elementary

Kolleen DeGraff

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Kolleen DeGraff

Idaho New School Fellow – 2024

Lava Hot Springs Academy

Kolleen DeGraff is excited to serve as the new fellow for Lava Hot Springs Academy, projected to open Fall 2026. Kolleen co-founded and was administrator for Liahona Preparatory Academy, a private K-12 academy and online program in Utah, for 23-years.

She guided Liahona thru the accreditation process with Cognia and built a program of high-achieving ACT scores, while also winning region and state drama awards and sports championships. She was an adjunct professor at Salt Lake Community College, helped with the founding of Noah Webster Charter School, substitute taught for public school, owned KTMP radio station and was the news director at various other radio stations. She has co-written six history textbooks for junior high and high school students. She earned her B.A. in Communication from Stephens College in Columbia, MO and her M.Ed in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Utah.

As the owner of a private school and having started one of the first online programs in Utah, she has been a champion for high quality, innovative educational opportunities which engage a variety of learners. After moving to Idaho, and upon learning the local elementary school was facing closure, she was inspired to help transition it into a charter.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2024 Alturas Academy Rigby

Carina VanPelt

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Carina VanPelt

Idaho New School Fellow – 2024

Alturas Academy North 

Carina VanPelt will serve as fellow for Alturas Academy North. She is a dedicated education professional with a lifelong commitment to fostering high-quality learning opportunities for all students. With over two decades of experience in the field, Carina brings a diverse background in teaching, school administration, and providing fiscal stability to small private schools to her new endeavor.

Carina’s journey in education has been marked by a deep passion for innovation and excellence. Having served as the principal of a small private school for 10-years and also as vice-principal of a Title 1 public school, she has honed her leadership skills and demonstrated a keen understanding of the complexities of educational administration.

Prior to becoming a school administrator, Carina spent a decade as a dedicated educator, teaching across all grades from second to eighth. Her experience spans public, private, and charter schools, including contributions to the founding of a STEM public school and the establishment of a charter school. This diverse background has equipped Carina with a broad perspective and a wealth of practical knowledge in navigating the challenges and opportunities in education.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2024 Alturas Academy: Rigby

Brian Bingham

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Brian Bingham

Idaho New School Fellow – 2024

Alturas Academy North 

Brian Bingham is now serving as the Director of Development for the Alturas Academy network of schools. He was born and raised on a farm west of Blackfoot, Idaho, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for community values. His family continues to volunteer and assist Spanish-speaking immigrants in their community. Brian graduated from Brigham Young University Idaho with a degree in Spanish Education.

He began his educational career at Hillcrest High School in Idaho Falls, where he taught Spanish and Humanities for four years, in addition to coaching football and track. Seeking to make a more significant impact on his students and the broader community, he pursued a master’s degree in educational leadership from Idaho State University.

Brian’s first principal role was at Alturas International Academy, which he joined in its second year. Over a three-year period, he led the school through significant growth, adding a middle school and expanding its enrollment from 250 to over 550 students. He served as principal at Alturas International for four years. In his third year, he co-founded Alturas Preparatory Academy with Michelle Ball and became its founding principal in 2021, witnessing the first graduating class in 2024.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2024 Valor Classical Academy

Sean Hunter

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Sean Hunter

Idaho New School Fellow – 2024

Valor Classical Academy

Sean Hunter is the founding principal of Valor Classical Academy in Kuna, which is scheduled to open in 2026. His extensive experience includes roles as a Director at Boise State University, where he oversaw various educational programs. These programs included initiatives tailored for rural communities, military personnel, community colleges, specialized partnerships, and online programs. Before joining Boise State, Sean dedicated 15 years to teaching high school physics and coaching the Science Olympiad team in Highland, Indiana.

In parallel with his teaching and higher education career, he served as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Idaho Army National Guard for a 21-year military career.  This tenure included deployments and leadership responsibilities in Iraq, Haiti, Germany, and the southern border, as well as part of Idaho’s COVID response. Additionally, Sean is a professional development instructor, higher education consultant, and the owner of Hunter Pinball LLC. Sean has earned degrees from Ohio State University and the College of New Jersey and is a Mission 43 leader fellow.

Sean started the competitive pinball scene in Idaho and serves as the Idaho representative to the International Flipper Pinball Association. He has earned degrees from Ohio State University and the College of New Jersey, completed the Army’s Command and General Staff Officer Common Core, is a Mission 43 leader fellow, a Boise State University Blue Turf Thinker awardee, and a Kentucky Colonel.  Sean resides in Boise with his wife, two children, and two dogs.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2024 Valor Classical Academy

Amber Orozco

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Amber Orozco

Idaho New School Fellow – 2024

Valor Classical Academy

Amber Orozco is thrilled to be serving as the new fellow for Valor Classical Academy, which is projected to open in 2026. Amber is an energetic and dedicated educator with eight years of classroom experience as a History, Spanish, and Special Education teacher. At Valor Classical, Amber is ready to continue empowering students and supporting teachers in creating a thriving learning environment.

Throughout her teaching career, Amber has championed the belief that all students can achieve academic success. Her mission is to cultivate a school environment that promotes hard work and perseverance, fosters collaboration, and equips students with the skill sets needed to excel both in their academic pursuits and in the limitless possibilities that await them beyond graduation

Idaho New School Fellow - 2024 Elevate Academy Twin Falls

Sara Praegitzer

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Sara Praegitzer

Idaho New School Fellow – 2024

Elevate Academy Twin Falls

Sara Praegitzer is elated to be the new fellow for the Twin Falls Elevate Academy, projected to open in the Fall of 2026. She has been in education for 17-years, all serving within the Twin Falls School District. During that time, she taught math and ELA, served as an Instructional Coach, and has been in administration for the last seven years.

She currently lives in Jerome with her husband, their one-year-old son Myles, and their two pups, Sam and Nala. Her passion lies in helping students who struggle to engage in school and finding ways to get them interested. She loves building relationships with staff and students, which is the foundation of her philosophy in education.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2024 GEM Prep Ammon

Gerald Love

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Gerald Love

Idaho New School Fellow – 2024

Gem Prep: Ammon

Gerald Love has been a Principal in the Gem organization for the past eight years. He serves as the new fellow for Gem Prep: Idaho Falls, projected to open in 2025. He served as the first principal at Gem Prep: Pocatello leading the school through its initial growth stage and moving to its long-term facility in 2019. In 2020, he took over the principal position at Gem Prep: Nampa. As a dual language (Spanish) principal, Gerald has been able to create a close community of families at Gem Prep Nampa.

Gerald Love has previously worked for Galena Park Independent School District of Eastern Houston, where he served as an assistant principal and teacher for eight years. With a passion for communication and foreign languages, he also served as Chairperson of the Foreign Language Department at North Shore Senior High School and taught Pre-AP Spanish.

He received a Master’s Degree in Administrative Education from Lamar University of Houston. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish Education with a minor in Health Education from Brigham Young University-Idaho.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2024 Hollister Charter School

Julie Koyle

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Julie Koyle

Idaho New School Fellow – 2024

Hollister Charter School 

Julie Koyle is a community leader who strives to make a positive impact in her community. She serves as the new fellow for the Hollister Charter School, projected to open in 2025. Julie believes that education is the cornerstone of a thriving community and is determined to build a brighter, more sustainable future for children.

Julie has a strong dedication to learning and personal growth. She uses her local community college as a valuable resource. She is currently enrolled in a program to obtain a bachelor’s degree in applied science with an emphasis on accounting and leadership.

Julie served as a member of the Filer School Board, with two years spent as its chair. She actively participates in various roles in the community, including serving as the secretary of the Twin Falls County Republican Central Committee, sitting on the board of directors for the Southern Idaho Republican Women, and holding a local leadership position in the Women’s Relief Society for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2023 North Idaho Classical Academy

Jacob Francom

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Jacob Francom

Idaho New School Fellow – 2023

North Idaho Classical Academy

Dr. Jacob Francom is joining us in Idaho as the founding principal of North Idaho Classical Academy (NICA) in Bonners Ferry, scheduled to open its doors in 2025. NICA is affiliated with the American classical Schools-Idaho (ACS-I) network and will be the third public charter school in Idaho aligned with Hillsdale College’s Barney Charter School Initiative (BCSI).

Dr. Francom brings a wealth of leadership experience to NICA, having previously dedicated himself to educating at-risk youth in Montana. He earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Montana, along with a Masters degree in Russian from the University of Arizona.

Over the past decade, he has actively contributed to the boards of various accrediting bodies, giving him the opportunity to engage in international professional development and accreditation visits. This extensive global exposure equips him to seamlessly integrate with NICA;s curriculum, ensuring a successful learning environment.

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Idaho New School Fellow - 2022Idaho Novus Classical Academy

Bruce Sims

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Bruce Sims

Idaho New School Fellow – 2022

Idaho Novus Classical Academy

After serving 21 years and subsequently retiring from the United States Marine Corps, Bruce Sims joins us in Idaho as the founding assistant principal of Idaho Novus Classical Academy (INCA). In that capacity, he will serve as director of operations and dean of students. INCA is under development in the Avimor community north of Eagle and is a Candidate Member School in the Hillsdale College Barney Charter School Initiative (BCSI). Upon opening, INCA will be the second BCSI school in the Treasure Valley.

Mr. Sims brings an abundance of experience in operations and leadership to his new role; across his military career, he filled key positions in aviation, logistics, and ground operations. He has leadership experience leading smaller units as an enlisted Marine, and as an officer he led squadron detachments in addition to being a company commander. His operations experience includes preparing and deploying units for missions, both in the U.S. and overseas. Most recently, he served as the operations officer responsible for evaluating the efficacy of future Marine Corps concepts, equipment, and technology.

Originally from Alabama, Mr. Sims holds an undergraduate degree in Business Administration and Supply Chain Management from Auburn University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. Subsequently, when serving as an instructor pilot for an unmanned aerial vehicle squadron, Mr. Sims discovered his passion for educating others. He invested in that passion as his calling, and while still on active duty, he began his master’s degree in education for teaching mathematics through Western Governor’s University.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2022
Idaho Novus Classical Academy

Vincent Kane

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Vincent Kane

Idaho New School Fellow – 2022

Idaho Novus Classical Academy

Following an extensive career in K-12 education in New Hampshire and Alaska, Dr. Vincent Kane joins us in Idaho as the founding principal of Idaho Novus Classical Academy (INCA). INCA is under development in the Avimor community north of Eagle and is a Candidate Member School in the Hillsdale College Barney Charter School Initiative (BCSI). Upon opening, INCA will be the second BCSI school in the Treasure Valley.

Dr. Kane brings a wealth of experiences to his new role. Before entering school leadership, he taught high school courses in government, economics, history, and world religions as well as sixth grade. He worked in urban, small town, and rural settings, including a remote village school on an island in the Bering Sea. His leadership experience encompasses all grade levels and includes assignments as an assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent.

After completing undergraduate studies in political science and philosophy in the honors program at Franklin Pierce University, Dr. Kane pursued three graduate degrees. He holds a master’s degree in social studies education from Boston University, a certificate of advanced graduate studies in educational leadership from Plymouth State University, and a doctorate in entrepreneurial leadership in education from Johns Hopkins University.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2021
Elevate Academy East Idaho

Logan Waetje

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Logan Waetje

Idaho New School Fellow – 2021

Elevate Academy East Idaho

Logan Waetje is has been in public education for 12 years in Idaho. Logan’s experience includes teaching in all grades K-12 as well as serving as a technology director, Dean of Students, Principal, and most recently as the Director of Digital Learning for the Idaho Falls School District. Logan has an undergraduate degree from the University of Montana-Western in Business Administration, a Masters of Arts in Secondary Education from the University of Phoenix, and an Ed-Specialist in Building Administration from Northwest Nazarene University. Logan lives in Idaho Falls with his wife and three children.

Logan believes all students can be successful and is a passionate supporter of CTE programs. “I am so excited to bring new and great opportunities to students in the greater Idaho Falls area. Idaho Falls is growing rapidly and I can’t wait to prepare students for the jobs that will facilitate this growth.”

Idaho New School Fellow - 2021
Gem Prep: Twin Falls

Adam Bruno

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Adam Bruno

Idaho New School Fellow – 2021

Gem Prep: Twin Falls

Adam Bruno came to Idaho two years as the middle and high school social studies teacher at Gem Prep Nampa. Prior to coming to Idaho, Adam completed a BA in history education at Valparaiso University and an MA in history at Miami University where he also taught undergraduate history classes. He is currently completing his Master’s in Education from the University of Idaho.

Adam is excited to expand Gem Prep’s college-oriented mission to Twin Falls and continue the organization’s proven track record of helping all scholars succeed. He believes that all students deserve the opportunity to reach their potential and pursue higher education. Adam aims to continue the process of spreading high-quality education across the state of Idaho.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2020
Cardinal Academy

Deborah Hedden-Nicely

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Deborah Hedden-Nicely

Idaho New School Fellow – 2020

Cardinal Academy

Deborah Hedden-Nicely came to the teaching profession after a 20 year career as a journalist and public information director which culminated in co-founding and co-publishing of the Boise Weekly newspaper with her husband, Andy Hedden-Nicely. After the successful marketing of the weekly newspaper in 1999, she returned to Boise State University and earned an M.A. in Education, Curriculum and Instruction, along with her teaching certification in Journalism and Social Studies. Deborah holds a B.A. in Journalism from Idaho State University.

Since 2001, Deborah has had an accomplished 19 year career as a professional educator and site administrator at the secondary and post-secondary level. She has comprehensive experience in teaching students of all ability levels, ages 13 to adult, creating special programs for at-risk students, especially pregnant and parenting students, and in differentiating curriculum to ensure that all students have the opportunity to learn and succeed.

In her 40 year career, Deborah has developed an extensive background in managing an organization and business, including budgetary and financial responsibilities, hiring and managing staff as well as administering the day-to-day operation of a unique speciality high school and a weekly newspaper business.

Deborah believes in a circle of equals management style, honoring and welcoming all ideas and concepts to the table, empowering people to have ownership in the organization. She believes entrepreneurship, creating and innovating, is as essential in education as it is in business.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2020
Cardinal Academy

Emily Bergstrom

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Emily Bergstrom

Idaho New School Fellow – 2020

Cardinal Academy

Emily Bergstrom completed her Master’s degree from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. In 2007, she and her husband settled in the Northwest. After a year in the Troy School District, she moved to Boise and served as a school counselor at the Boise Language Academy, Marian Pritchett School, Victory Academy, Boise Evening School and Alternative Summer School, as well as several elementary schools.

A career serving at-risk students has given Emily the opportunity to lead in various capacities. She believes strongly that students can flourish when given a safe space with proper supports in place. Emily believes in the power of community and creating a trauma-informed school that honors the needs of both students and faculty/staff.

Emily is a co-founder of the proposed Cardinal Academy, a public charter school for pregnant and parenting teens. The program focuses on the whole person, providing wrap-around services such as on-site childcare, counseling, medical appointments and workforce preparedness, while also providing a rigorous, well-rounded academic foundation.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2020 RISE Charter School

Heidi Child

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Heidi Child

Idaho New School Fellow – 2020

RISE Charter School

Heidi Child is a wife and mother to four children who have attended public schools, charter schools and one was homeschooled through middle school. Her experience as a mother of a child with special needs to children who need challenges, have been most influential in shaping the teacher she has become.

Prior to returning to teaching full-time, Heidi had the opportunity to work as a substitute teacher in the Nampa and Meridian, Idaho school districts for six years. Here she experienced all types of schools, subjects, grade levels, and school cultures.

In 2013 Heidi began teaching STEM full-time to 6th graders at Kimberly Middle School. During these eight years she developed a project-based, engaging curriculum from scratch, mentored many teachers, served as team leader multiple years, and received the KMS 2018 Teacher of the Year award. She belonged to the Kimberly CORE teacher group for five years where she collaborated with a group of educators to practice and implement effective lesson design.

In September of 2020, Heidi received her Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, and was a presenter at the IMLA education conference in both 2018 and 2019. In 2018, Heidi joined an Exploratory Committee to design a new school to fill two soon-to-be-empty district buildings, and in 2020 was invited to play a larger role in the running of the school that resulted. Heidi will be the Executive Director/Principal of the new RISE Charter School in Kimberly, Idaho.

When not in a school, Heidi can be found enjoying the outdoors, building home projects, running, spending time with family, or reading.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2020 Elevate Academy Nampa

Jewels Carpenter

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Jewels Carpenter

Idaho New School Fellow – 2020

Elevate Academy Nampa

Jewels Carpenter is a 20-year education veteran and has been a teacher, high school administrator, state-level program manager and a district-level administrator. She most recently served as Director of Career and Technical Education for the Nampa School District.

Carpenter graduated from Sonoma State with a BS in Kinesiology and became a Nationally Certified Athletic trainer, who worked with both high school and college athletes helping them prepare mentally and physically for their athletic seasons. She relocated to Idaho with her husband and two children in 2000, and quickly realized she had found her “passion” when she had the opportunity to teach Sports Medicine and Medical Terminology.

“I absolutely love teaching and serving the people in my community of Nampa. We have been here for 20-years and I can’t wait to continue to help this community be stronger and healthier,” shared Carpenter.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2020
Elevate Academy North

Marita Diffenbaugh

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Marita Diffenbaugh

Idaho New School Fellow – 2020

Elevate Academy North

Marita Diffenbaugh has twenty years of service in Idaho’s education system, from the classroom, school district, and university to the State Department of Education. With fourteen years dedicated to students in the classroom and six years of district and state-level administrator experience, she believes her greatest contributions involve building relationships with others and helping them connect their talents, knowledge, and skills with community needs.

As a teacher, administrator, and leadership support for educators in Idaho, Marita gained expertise and experience as a student-focused, purpose driven servant leader. She has supported school and district leadership in the strategic development of mastery-based education and instructional technology implementation. As a connected educator, she has provided teachers with professional development for student engagement and positive digital citizenship practices through local, state, national, and international presentations.

Marita’s education – a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education (K-8), Master of Arts with a Technology emphasis, and Education Specialist (Ed.S) in Executive Educational Leadership – provide a foundation for her work in K-12 instructional leadership, augmented by her teaching and administrator/superintendent certifications. Being a co-Founder of #EdCampIdaho, facilitator/participant of the Idaho Mastery Education Network, #IDedchat, Discovery Education Network, and iCivics keeps Marita engaged in professional learning as part of a growing and dynamic network of educators.

She is honored and excited to support the expansion of Elevate Academy, a public charter school working to create a pipeline of highly-skilled, employable workers that meet the needs of Idaho industry and business, while empowering students to be leaders in their own lives. As a leadership partner, with Elevate Academy’s co-founders Monica White and Matt Strong, Marita will plan, develop, and launch a 6-12th grade Career Technical school.

This will be a school of choice for students who qualify as at-risk, with CTE offerings that reflect workforce needs and opportunities in North Idaho. Marita is dedicated to using her strengths and experiences to ensure respect and opportunity for all students. She is passionate about connecting learning to community resources and needs, and restoring hope to support learners of all ages to develop their full potential.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2019
Treasure Valley Classical Academy

Clinton Condra, Ph.D.

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Clinton Condra, Ph.D.

Idaho New School Fellow – 2019

Treasure Valley Classical Academy

Clint Condra was introduced to Idaho in January 2018, when he arrived in Coeur d’Alene to teach American government at North Idaho College. He comes to Payette County to help found Treasure Valley Classical Academy, the state’s first classical charter school and an affiliate of Hillsdale College’s Barney Charter School Initiative (BCSI). The experience he will gain as a New School Fellow at TVCA will prepare him to lead the founding of a second BCSI school elsewhere in Idaho in the near future.

Dr. Condra’s enthusiasm for classical education began at St. John’s College, a school renowned for its great-books curriculum. There he wrote a thesis on the thought of Edmund Burke and earned a master’s degree in liberal arts in 2010. He then taught American and modern European literature and history at a classical charter school in Phoenix, Arizona. In 2014 he moved to Waco, Texas, to begin work on a Ph.D. in political science at Baylor University. His course work at Baylor included classes on ancient and modern political philosophy, international relations, American literature, and the American Founding. He defended his dissertation on the thought of Jonathan Swift in February 2019 and graduated this past May.

Dr. Condra is honored to bring the benefits of TVCA’s classical and content-rich curriculum to the students and families of Payette County.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2019 Island Park Charter School

Connie Day

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Connie Day

Idaho New School Fellow – 2019

Island Park Charter School

Connie Day became an educator 14 years ago when her daughter was in kindergarten. She followed a non-traditional path into education, and often found herself questioning the effectiveness of traditional educational models. As a teacher in a high-performing charter school in southeast Idaho, she was encouraged to use innovative approaches to help her students succeed. She also had the opportunity to take on several leadership positions in the school, including being the curriculum coordinator, a mentor teacher, and the director of an academic coaching program designed to meet individual student needs.

As an active “part-timer” in the Island Park community, Connie became aware of the need for a local elementary school. The children in this remote rural area can travel for up to four hours each day to attend school. This is especially difficult for young children. Connie began talking with parents and community leaders about opening a charter school. The idea was met with skepticism. Parents had been trying for over 20 years to start a local school. After several meetings with community members, and with the support of the local district superintendent, the school district voted to authorize a K-3 charter school in Island Park. The school will offer a comprehensive content rich curriculum in a multi-grade classroom, using a mastery education approach.

Connie looks forward to working with Bluum to develop a school that not only meets the needs of students of Island Park, but also serves as a model for other schools and educators.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2019
Gem Prep: Meridian

Kellie Dean

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Kellie Dean

Idaho New School Fellow – 2019

Gem Prep: Meridian

Kellie Dean is a first-generation college student who is intimately familiar with the importance a solid academic foundation has on post-secondary success. Kellie is a graduate of Boise State University where her degree in Elementary Education brought her a 30-year career in education to fruition. Kellie’s journey in education began as a 5th-grade teacher with the West Ada School District. In 2001, Kellie took on the role of Educational Director at the Warhawk Air Museum, where she designed and implemented educational programs focused on historical perspectives and STEM education for students in Kindergarten through 12th-grade.

Kellie’s dedication to excellence earned her a new position in 2007 as the Director of Curriculum and Training with a STEM-focus education company. In this new role, Kellie had the opportunity to collaboratively influence teaching practices by aligning best practices with instructional delivery routines throughout the United States and across the globe.

Drawn back into public education in 2014, Kellie took on yet another new challenge as an Instructional Coach, Gifted and Talented Coordinator, and Interim Principal for the Emmett School District. In 2019, Kellie scooped up an opportunity that would bring all of her educational expertise to culmination and joined Gem Innovation Schools because of their college prep focus. Kellie now serves as the Assistant Principal of Gem Prep: Meridian, the fourth school in the Gem Innovation School network.

Kellie works closely with the school’s head principal, Nanette Lehman, as they lead the K-8 school, ensuring each scholar is prepared for success in college and beyond. Kellie is thrilled to have been selected as an Idaho School Leadership Fellow and work alongside those who serve Idaho students in innovative ways with passion, commitment, and integrity.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2019
Anser Public Charter School

Heather Dennis

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Heather Dennis

Idaho New School Fellow – 2019

Anser Public Charter School

Heather serves as the Organization Director of Anser Public Charter School. Working collaboratively with the Education Director Michelle Dunstan she leads the school and ensures that the mission of Anser Charter school is realized. They work alongside Anser’s faculty, board and families to foster innovation and excellence in a collaborative education environment where children are empowered to feel a sense of connection with their community and the world.

She is a University of Kansas graduate with a degree in Developmental Psychology. Her work in education began at the Early Childhood Autism Project where she worked directly with children with ASD, supported their families and worked within the school setting in the Kansas City area to develop new supports for her clients. It was during her time supporting ECAP students in the public school setting that Heather developed her beliefs that every child can succeed if given the proper tools and environment, that success looks different for each child and that the social and emotional development of students are of equal importance to their academic development when measuring success. Heather worked at Community Living Opportunities as a manager of a career development center for adults with disabilities in Kansas and on special projects at the Center for Community Change, before moving into her current role at Anser in 2010.

Heather’s understanding of the business side of charter schools, coupled with her work on many strategic planning change initiatives at Anser, gives her collaborative and project management skills but also the understanding of how change happens in a school and the role school leaders can play in inspiring, encouraging, supporting and implementing it. She is excited for the opportunity to become an Idaho School Leadership Fellow, where she can develop new areas of expertise, learn from the best of what others have to offer and create new partnerships for Anser. Bluum’s Idaho School Leadership Fellowship will allow her to focus her time and energy on imagining what Anser Charter School looks like beyond its first 20 years and to continue to serve as a part of the Anser Crew as they develop innovative new approaches to learning and to serving more families in Idaho.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2018
McCall Community School

Jenny Schon, Ph.D.

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Jenny Schon, Ph.D.

Idaho New School Fellow – 2018

McCall Community School

Jenny grew up in Western Washington where she fell in love with the mountains and all things outdoors. She completed her undergraduate degree at Western Washington University in Environmental Science. She spent several years conducting field research for the National Park Service, earning a Master’s in Education, and several more teaching science in Montana’s Flathead Valley. She also served as a Program Coordinator for an outdoor science school in McCall. These experiences all came together in a doctoral program, where Jenny focused on Science Identity and assessment in students.

Jenny returned to the classroom at Meadows Valley, where she came to understand how students benefit from learning in variety of environments, and that not all students progress at the same pace. Her experience working with the Idaho Mastery Education Network, her time in the field, and her time working at outdoor science school helped shape her vision of -the school she hopes to create, and how it could benefit a diverse group of students.

Providing a school of choice that reflects the values and shared love of the outdoors is a natural progression for the small but mighty town of McCall. Jenny looks forward to reimagining education through the creation of the McCall Community School, a place-based, mastery-based school of choice, with the support of Bluum’s Idaho New School Fellowship.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2018
Treasure Valley Classical Academy

Steve Lambert

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Steve Lambert

Idaho New School Fellow – 2018

Treasure Valley Classical Academy

A proven and effective school leader, Steve Lambert comes to Idaho to help found and lead Treasure Valley Classical Academy (TVCA), a new school in Payette County.  TVCA will be established as part of the Hillsdale College Barney Charter School Initiative (BCSI).  Previously, Steve was the assistant principal and principal of Atlanta Classical Academy, a BCSI charter school with 630 students and a 67-member faculty and staff.  The school maintained an active 1,200 student wait list.  While serving as principal, the school successfully underwent AdvancED/SACS accreditation as an independent K-12 charter school.

Mr. Lambert retired at the rank of colonel from the U.S. Air Force in May 2014 after a decorated 24-year career.  Previously, he served as the Director of the U.S. Air Force Commanders’ Professional Development School, where he was responsible for preparing over 1,400 senior officers annually for command with an executive-level curriculum spanning a broad range of topics and integrating mentorship from the most senior cadre of Air Force general officers.  Before that, he served as the Vice Commander of the 86th Airlift Wing headquartered at Ramstein, Germany, where he helped lead an organization comprised of over 10,000 Air Force personnel dispersed across three air bases in Germany, Spain, and Belgium.

Other highlights in his career include numerous operational leadership and flying assignments, an assistant professorship with the Department of Military Strategic Studies at the Air Force Academy, flying special air missions in support of the President and his staff as well as members of Congress during the George W. Bush administration, and serving in a variety of national security policy positions at the Pentagon and in Washington D.C.

Mr. Lambert earned his undergraduate degree in political science from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1990.  He is a distinguished graduate from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, where he was awarded an MA in National Security Affairs in 1995.  In 2004, he was selected for a research fellowship at the Center for Strategic Intelligence Research (Defense Intelligence Agency, Washington D.C.) and in 2008 he was chosen to be a National Defense Fellow at the Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy (Tufts University, Boston).

With his extensive leadership experience and a deep passion for serving students, Mr. Lambert brings a classical school model and culture to offer the families of Payette County a tuition-free education opportunity of a lifetime.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2018
McCall Community School

Patrick Berg

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Patrick Berg

Idaho New School Fellow – 2018

McCall Community School

Patrick Berg grew up in North Dakota and followed a non-traditional path into education. He earned his BS in Recreation Administration from the University of North Dakota. With his endorsements in special education and physical education, he attended University of Phoenix to earn his M. Ed. He then went on to earn his Ed.Specialist in Administration from NNU.

In 2001, Pat and his wife, moved to Idaho. He spent 14 years at the Nampa School District teaching Special Education, Physical Education, and serving as Athletic Director, Dean of Students and Assistant Principal. He then went on to serve as K-12 Principal in Meadows Valley.

Pat’s passion for education has grown over the years, and his experience in Special Education has taught him the power of student-focused instruction and an individualized approach to learning. He enjoys the challenge of helping students fill their unique needs, meet their goals and create a vision for their future.

With the help of Bluum’s Idaho New School Fellowship, Pat looks forward to providing a option for students in their education and building on their individual strengths to ensure their success in the 21st century.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2018 MOSAICS Public School

Anthony Haskett

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Anthony Haskett

Idaho New School Fellow – 2018

MOSAICS Public School

Anthony Haskett is a lifelong Idahoan who has spent the past 10 years working in education. In that time, he spent 7 years working as an elementary teacher serving students in southwest Idaho. He then became an administrator at Idaho Arts Charter School. Anthony has always valued lifelong learning, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, a Master’s of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, and an Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership from Northwest Nazarene University. He has also been awarded fellowships from the Boise State Writing Project and 4.0 Schools’ Essentials Program. Through these fellowships, he learned the importance of using inquiry-based instruction to increase both student engagement and retention of content as well as designing schools to include those who are on the margins of society.

In the past few years, Anthony has seen the visible impact arts education can have on students’ abilities to express themselves and think critically as it is integrated into their everyday experiences at school. He plans to use his experiences and knowledge to open a STEAM charter school, focused on developing 21st century skills based in collaboration, design thinking, and arts integration.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2017 Co-Founder, Elevate Academy

Monica White

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Monica White

Idaho New School Fellow – 2017

Co-Founder, Elevate Academy

Monica White has been in the education profession for 15 years.  During this time, she has served as a teacher, coach, principal and assistant superintendent. She believes that there is genius in all of us and that the best way to create success is to ensure that people have the tools to work and live with passion and purpose. Monica is an inspired and passionate educator who is committed to being an advocate for teachers, and even more importantly, students.  She’s a problem-solver who will work tirelessly with her team to find opportunities and resources to help all students become successful.

Monica believes in empowering people, and she works intentionally to empower her staff so that they can deliver the best education to students. When offering professional development opportunities, Monica spends equal time building the staff up personally, improving their professional efficacy, and having fun and coming together as a team.

Monica is Co-Founder of Elevate Academy, a proposed public charter school intends to train and create a pipeline of highly-skilled, employable workers that meet the needs of Idaho industry and business, while empowering students to be leaders in their own lives.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2017Co-Founder, Elevate Academy

Matt Strong

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Matt Strong

Idaho New School Fellow – 2017

Co-Founder, Elevate Academy

Matt Strong has been an educator since 1995. His tenure includes time at Weiser Middle School, Skyview High School and Caldwell High School before becoming the assistant principal at Canyon Springs High School. Matt has been deeply involved in athletics; coaching football at every level, including his current position as an assistant football coach at the College of Idaho. He was formerly a District 3 basketball referee. Matt is very community minded and serves with Caldwell Proud, a community improvement organization, and Go Purple, a College/Community collaboration initiative. As an assistant principal, Matt has been an instrumental part in transforming Canyon Springs High School from a school in need of restructuring to a school that has become a model throughout the state of Idaho.

Matt is a master at working with and reaching at-risk students.  He has a gift for making them believe in their potential, and providing them the opportunity and resources necessary to reach it.  Matt’s strengths lie in community relations and recruitment, classroom management and school culture.

Matt is Co-Founder of Elevate Academy, a proposed public charter school intends to train and create a pipeline of highly-skilled, employable workers that meet the needs of Idaho industry and business, while empowering students to be leaders in their own lives.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2016
Co-Founder, Future Public School

Amanda Cox

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Amanda Cox

Idaho New School Fellow – 2016

Co-Founder, Future Public School

Amanda Cox is a first generation college graduate and native of the Northwest. In 2007, she began her career in education as a Teach For America corps member. She spent four years teaching in rural North Carolina. Amanda is a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians and currently serves on the national advisory council for the Native Alliance Initiative. Amanda served as a Director of Teacher Leadership Development for TFA South Carolina. Amanda graduated from Whitworth College with a B.A. in Sociology, with an emphasis in Social and Cultural Analysis, as well as an Ed. M in Prevention Science and Practice from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Amanda is Co-Founder of Future Public School, a public charter school in Garden City with a future-focused view of learning and a deep commitment to community, equity, and diversity.

Idaho New School Fellow - 2016
Co-Founder, Future Public School

Brad Petersen

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Brad Petersen

Idaho New School Fellow – 2016

Co-Founder, Future Public School

Brad Petersen taught and designed curriculum for KIPP Houston Public Schools from 2013-16. Brad graduated magna cum laude from Brigham Young University-Idaho in 2012, speaks fluent Spanish, and started teaching as a Teach For America corps member in 2013. He founded and ran an after-school computer science club in partnership with Google, and also co-founded and led a technology startup focused on empowering student voice. Brad recently competed for, and won, a highly competitive new school development grant from 4.0 Schools. This ‘Tiny Fellowship’ will support the planning and launch of an after-school computer science program in a Treasure Valley community. Brad is committed to starting a high-performing elementary school in an underserved region of the Boise area. His school will have a STEM focus and prepare students for the finest secondary schools, universities and careers by offering a personalized, technology-enthused curriculum for each student.

Brad is Co-Founder of Future Public School, a public charter school in Garden City with a future-focused view of learning and a deep commitment to community, equity, and diversity.