Faculty and Staff

Following an extensive career in K-12 education in New Hampshire and Alaska, Dr. Vincent Kane moved his family to Idaho to serve as the founding head of school of Idaho Novus Classical Academy. Dr. Kane brings a wealth of experiences to this role. Before entering school leadership, he taught high school courses in government, economics, American 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.

Dr. Kane and his wife have four young children and look forward to sending all of them to Idaho Novus Classical Academy.

After serving 21 years and subsequently retiring from the United States Marine Corps, Maj. Bruce Sims relocated to Idaho to serve as the founding assistant principal of Idaho Novus Classical Academy. In that capacity, he serves as director of operations and dean of students. Maj. Sims brings an abundance of experience in operations and leadership to this 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, Maj. 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, Maj. Sims discovered his passion for educating others. He invested in that passion as his calling, and while still on active duty, he completed his master’s degree in education for teaching mathematics through Western Governors University. While transitioning onto the Idaho Novus team, he taught mathematics at Treasure Valley Classical Academy in Fruitland.

Maj. Sims has three children, and he and his wife are excited to send the youngest two to Idaho Novus Classical Academy.

Aaron Anderson grew up in Utah and graduated from high school in a remote village off the coast of Alaska, where his family moved to work and teach at the school. As a youth, Mr. Anderson earned the rank of Eagle Scout from the Boy Scouts of America. As a young man, he served a two-year mission to our nation’s capital. He then returned to Alaska and continued his commitment to service as a patrolman with a small-town police department. Later, he returned to Utah where he worked as a lead developmentalist with disabled adults for a decade and a half.

After completing his bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education, he returned to his high school alma mater and worked as a special education teacher. The crowning personal event of this period was meeting his wife, Jandy Anderson. Mr. Anderson has run a two-room schoolhouse, been a K-12 assistant principal, and served as the principal of an elementary school. He also possesses a master’s degree in special education and a certificate of advanced graduate studies in educational leadership.

Beyond the classroom, Mr. Anderson’s personal interests include model trains, fishing, camping, and enjoying the outdoors. Though he is also interested in big game hunting, ducks are more his speed.

Mrs. Frederick holds a bachelor of arts in elementary education from Northwest Nazarene University, complemented by a special education endorsement, showcasing her genuine passion for supporting student needs.

With a fulfilling career spanning over a decade, Mrs. Frederick embarked on her professional journey as a 3rd-grade teacher, accumulating seven years of enriching classroom experience. She then transitioned to the role of title 1 teacher, offering personalized support to students in grades K-5. Mrs. Frederick's commitment to early childhood learning led her to become a kindergarten teacher at a dual-language school, instructing students in both English and Spanish. In 2019, Mrs. Frederick joined the founding team as a kindergarten teacher at Treasure Valley Classical Academy, a sister school of Idaho Novus Classical Academy. Since 2021, she has served as the student services director, leveraging her experience to foster a supportive educational environment for all students.

Mrs. Frederick looks forward to sharing her knowledge, passion, and insights into the Literacy Essentials curriculum and American classical education with another startup school.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Mrs. Frederick resides on a small farm with her husband and two children, finding joy in creative outlets and outdoor activities.

Mrs. Amanda Robinson is originally from Phoenix, Arizona, but she lived in Montana, Utah, Maine, and California before moving to Idaho in 2019.

Her journey in education started at Treasure Valley Classical Academy from 2019-2021 as a special education paraprofessional working with students from kindergarten through sixth grade. Working in special education allowed her to see that a rich education in the liberal arts and sciences is beneficial for all students, no matter how they learn or where they lie academically. Classical education completely ignited her passion for teaching. Shortly after, she started working toward her bachelor of arts in elementary and special education from Western Governor’s University and graduated in March. She is excited to return to American classical education as a kindergarten teacher!

Mrs. Robinson likes to spend most of her free time reading, crocheting, or baking, but you can also find her outdoors hiking or skiing (albeit poorly), or listening to live music. She currently lives in Boise with her dog, Seamus, and two cats, Eve and Big Greg.

Mr. Harry Hukkinen was born in Finland, emigrating to the United States at an early age. Mr. Hukkinen chose to teach as a second career after working in the construction trades for 35 years, and has worked as an educator in elementary, middle, and high school capacities.

A dedicated educator and accomplished artist, Mr. Hukkinen brings a diverse skill set, a passion and commitment to lifelong learning, and a demonstrated ability to engage students across various backgrounds. In his tenure as a K-12 Art Teacher in Idaho, he spearheaded the development of a district-wide art program, curating opportunities for students to exhibit their work internationally and secured significant grants to support artistic endeavors. As a 2nd grade teacher in Hilo, Hawaii, his students took first place for a group art exhibit at the Wailoa Arts and Cultural Center.

Mr. Hukkinen holds a bachelor of arts from Monmouth University, West Long Branch, New Jersey, summa cum laude, and a masters of fine arts from the University of the Arts, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As a professional artist, he finds inspiration in nature's beauty, infusing his work with a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Beyond the classroom and studio, Mr. Hukkinen's interests include camping, fishing, hunting, and exploring national parks and art museums with his family.

Justine Spencer is an experienced and dedicated educator who recently joined Idaho Novus Classical Academy, bringing with her over 13 years of teaching experience in both kindergarten and third grade at Eagle Hills Elementary. She holds a bachelor of arts in Elementary Education from Boise State University and is a proud Idaho native with a deep commitment to fostering a lifelong love of learning with her students. Mrs. Spencer is excited to grow professionally within the classical education environment at Novus.

Outside the classroom, Mrs. Spencer enjoys spending time in the outdoors with her husband of 15 years and their three children. Two of her children love all things dirt bikes and one of them competes, so they spend many hours at the race track as a family. Mrs. Spencer finds joy in crafting, reading for fun, and playing with her kids. She actively supports her children's love of reading and loves volunteering at church events and school activities. The Spencer family enjoys time together outdoors, especially in McCall with family, and shares their home with an energetic miniature dachshund named Todd.

Mrs. Spencer is thrilled to begin this new chapter with Idaho Novus and looks forward to a joyful, enriching year ahead with her kindergarten students.

Kathleen Tribble brings a wealth of experience and collegiate studies to Idaho Novus Classical Academy. Ms. Tribble has taught all grades PreK to 5th in private, public, and charter schools. While she loves all things education, she has a special passion for teaching literacy. Twenty years of her career has been devoted to teaching first grade.

Ms. Tribble holds a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts from Westmont College and a master’s degree in teaching from Grand Canyon University, with honors. Her liberal arts foundation and continued studies have blossomed her skills in critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity across many subjects and educational communities. In addition, her liberal arts scholarship has equipped her to be a lifelong learner of the good, true, and beautiful. Notably, Ms. Tribble has also been recognized as a First Lady Laura Bush Teacher of Excellence.

Outside of the classroom Ms. Tribble is a volunteer leader with the Boy Scouts of America and enjoys great adventures with her sons, an Eagle Scout and a Life Scout. She also trains other leaders by serving as summer camp staff for Wood Badge and National Youth Leadership Training, and she’s a Leave No Trace Trainer. While relaxing outdoors is a favorite pastime, she has challenged herself and climbed Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the Continental United States at 14,505 feet. More often than not though, you’ll find her with a warm cup of Crio Bru (cacao) and a good book, ready for an engaging conversation.

Natalie Patten was born and raised in Provo, Utah with her parents and siblings. She moved to Idaho to work for her brother and to go to school and met her husband along the way.

Mrs. Patten received her bachelor of arts in music from Brigham Young University-Idaho. While raising her young children, she realized she loved working with kids.

While working as an assistant in kindergarten and third grade classrooms, Mrs. Patten earned her teaching certificate and began teaching second grade.

Mrs. Patten loves spending as much time as possible with her little family. She also enjoys reading when given the chance. Mrs. Patten lives on a small farm where she gardens, cooks, and bakes as many things from scratch as possible.

Mrs. Patten looks for the good in others, searches for truth in life, and finds beauty in the world around her.

An Idaho native, Saige Butterfield is a recent graduate from the University of Idaho, where she received a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Literacy, summa cum laude. Her educational experience includes many hours volunteering in a variety of classrooms, teaching at MOSS (McCall Outdoor Science School) for two years, and working for the Moscow, ID, school district for one year. Ms. Butterfield is passionate about her role in educating future generations to be knowledgeable and courageous in all they do.

Before pursuing a degree in education, she held positions in the logging and service industries, gaining many unique skills. Ms. Butterfield also served 6 years in the Idaho Army National Guard as a combat engineer, where she obtained a love for learning, teaching, and leadership.

Outside of school, Ms. Butterfield is an avid outdoorsman and loves taking advantage of all that Idaho has to offer. Most often she can be found camping with family, traveling, or reading a good book.

Jandy Anderson graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor’s degree in child development and family studies. She then attended Purdue University to continue studying child development and completed a master’s degree. The focus of her studies was on how children learn to read. Later, she attended Utah State University and became a special education teacher.

Mrs. Anderson began her rewarding career teaching students in grades K-3 as a special educator in a suburb of Salt Lake City. Next, she continued her career as a grades 2-5 special education teacher in Virginia Beach. While teaching in Virginia, Mrs. Anderson enjoyed traveling around the area and learning about our country’s history. She also continued to take graduate classes at Old Dominion University to become a reading specialist. In time, she moved to Las Vegas, where she was a lower elementary general education teacher.

While working in Nevada, Mrs. Anderson met and married Mr. Anderson, then moved to Alaska, where they worked as educators in remote village settings. She had a marvelous experience working with students and local teachers there, as a classroom teacher, reading specialist, and instructional coach. Although she does not miss the dirt roads of rural Alaska, she will deeply miss the people, and looks forward to investing herself in the community at Idaho Novus Classical Academy. Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Anderson enjoys traveling, meeting new people, reading, and shopping for deals.

Emilia Matt is a second grade teacher at Idaho Novus Classical Academy. She is an Idaho native, born and raised in Sandpoint, with a passion for children, learning, nature, and the developing mind. Mrs. Matt recently earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Boise State University and has several years of classroom and childcare experience in a variety of settings. Inside Mrs. Matt’s classroom, you will find students who value literature, who know their unique gifts, who discover the joy of learning, and who are in pursuit of a full and meaningful life. Outside of the classroom, you can find Mrs. Matt in the Boise foothills, buried inside a C.S. Lewis novel, or spending time with her husband, lab, and Saint Bernard. She is eager to partner with parents to help children learn the true, do the good, and love the beautiful.

Annalise Bradshaw holds a degree in elementary education from George Fox University, with endorsements in science and teaching English as a second language. She began her teaching career at a rural school nestled in the heart of Oregon's wine country, where she honed her skills and passion for education. Ms. Bradshaw also taught abroad at an international school, immersing herself in a new cultural setting and gaining invaluable insights. Originally from Idaho, she returned to her home state and took the opportunity to explore the tech industry as a training and event coordinator. Now, she is excited to bring her varied background and enthusiasm for learning to her third-grade classroom at Idaho Novus Classical Academy.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Bradshaw enjoys exploring Idaho's scenic landscapes through backpacking and paddleboarding. She also loves cooking and discovering new local restaurants. Her adventurous spirit and love for new experiences inspire her teaching approach, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment for her students.

Brita Miranda is honored to be joining the Idaho Novus Classical Academy faculty as a third-grade teacher. Mrs. Miranda graduated, summa cum laude, with her bachelor of science in elementary education and an additional emphasis on structured English immersion from Grand Canyon University.

Before calling Idaho home, Mrs. Miranda was born and reared in Southern California. She enjoyed twenty fulfilling and successful years alongside her husband as an industry business owner. She has always had a passion for the arts, particularly ballet and music. She dedicated many years to training, performing, and teaching ballet and lyrical dance.

The Miranda family relocated to Boise in 2019 where they continue to participate and serve in their church. Mrs. Miranda and her husband are very actively rearing two beautiful daughters that love animals, art, science, martial arts, and all things outdoors. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys spending time in her garden, hiking with friends, camping, travelling, and reading.

In the classroom and beyond, Mrs. Miranda is committed to developing young citizens that learn for the love of learning, think logically, act compassionately, and strive for a life full of purpose, integrity and courage.

Laura Young was born and reared in Nashville, TN. She spent two years at Rhodes College in Memphis, TN before transferring to American University in Washington, D.C. to pursue a degree in communications. She graduated in 2005 with a bachelor of arts in broadcast journalism and a minor in religious studies. After graduation, Mrs. Young stayed in D.C. working as a content manager for a health website.

While in the D.C. area, she met her husband, Erik, and they lived in Whitefish, MT and Portland, OR. In 2013, Mrs. Young received her master’s in teaching from Concordia University. She went on to teach 7th and 8th grade English at West Hills Christian School. Mrs. Young and her family eventually relocated to Boise to be closer to family.

Most of Mrs. Young’s free time is spent volunteering at church and trying to keep up with her two rambunctious children. Her other interests include classic movies from the 1940’s and 1950’s, origami, Star Wars, and Nashville Predators hockey. She also enjoys hiking with her family and exploring everything Boise has to offer.

Ms. Samantha Young earned a bachelor's degree in health science from Boise State University, where she developed an understanding of wellness and uncovered her love for education. Following graduation, she spent four years teaching at Challenger School, where she worked with young children in early childhood education. Eager for more, she found classical education at Idaho Novus, where she will guide her students to seek the good, the true, and the beautiful.

Outside the classroom, you can find Ms. Young on the greenbelt, paddle boarding, and spending time with her dog, Rex. She also loves cooking and discovering new coffee shops. Ms. Young is thrilled to be joining the Novus team and looks forward to every adventure ahead.

Mrs. Melissa Canney brings a wealth of experience and a deep love for classical education to Novus. She holds a teaching degree from Malone University and has spent many years teaching in classical schools across the country. Most recently, she served as a 2nd grade teacher at The Ambrose School in Meridian.

Known for her gentle wisdom and thoughtful approach, Mrs. Canney is passionate about cultivating both the minds and hearts of her students. Her classroom is a place where academic excellence is pursued with joy, and students are guided toward lives of virtue, wonder, and lifelong learning.

Mrs. Canney lives in Eagle with her husband Joe, their playful goldendoodle Waffle, and their five wonderful children. She is thrilled to be part of the Novus community and looks forward to growth, discovery, and delight in learning.

Hailing from the agricultural heartland of California in the San Joaquin Valley, Mr. Smith completed his bachelor of arts in psychology at Fresno Pacific University. He went on to pursue a career in student services. While teaching, Mr. Smith earned his master of arts in educational leadership and administration from California State University, Fresno.

Mr. Smith’s background in the classroom spanned the K-12 system, teaching at the secondary, intermediate, and elementary levels with an emphasis on the latter. In 2018, he left the classroom to provide instructional coaching to new teachers in the profession. This role took him to his district’s Curriculum Department, where he ultimately became the lead instructional coach for all new teachers entering the profession. Mr. Smith has engaged in a variety of pursuits within the field beyond his primary role, including curriculum design, assessment pilot examiner and trainer, Demonstration Summer Academy Co-Lead, district level committee member, athletic coach, and university guest lecturer.

Mrs. Husmann was born and raised in Tampa, Florida, and holds a bachelor of arts from the University of Florida, and a juris doctorate from Levin College of Law. Prior to joining the faculty of Idaho Novus, she directed a homeschool cooperative, and sat on several boards of directors for classical education organizations in Sarasota, Florida, for which she also acted as General Counsel.

Mrs. Husmann is very interested in historical research and writing; her first book on historical sites in Central Florida will be released in Fall of 2025. In her leisure time, Mrs. Husmann loves to read Laura Ingalls Wilder and Jane Austen books, bake bread, and knit with her daughter, Lily. She now lives with her family in Avimor, along with her dog, Bruno, and cat, Kiki.

Mrs. Husmann is passionate about children, classical education, and fostering a culture of the good, the true and the beautiful. She is thrilled to engage in the character formation and academic training of her sixth grade students at Novus.

Mrs. Conly is a sixth-grade teacher at Idaho Novus Classical Academy. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Smith College. Her early career included ten years in Technical Training and Curriculum Development at major Silicon Valley companies. She then segued into Government/Education management roles, serving for many years as a Deputy City Clerk and a Faculty Affairs Representative. Her family moved to the Treasure Valley region of Idaho in 2022.

Mrs. Conly became avidly interested in the merits of classical education as she raised her children. An epiphany came one evening when she was reading Laura Ingalls Wilder’s book “Little Town on the Prairie” to her younger daughter. As Mrs. Conly read Mrs. Wilder’s accounts of her last year of schooling and passing the teacher’s examination, her daughter grasped her arm and exclaimed, “I’d love to learn everything that Laura is learning.”

Mrs. Conly had just attended a parent education meeting about a new school that was to be built at Avimor, the Idaho Novus Classical Academy. She looked her daughter squarely in the eye and said, “we’ll do just that.” A little over a year and a half later, she was proud to follow her student and begin service as a teacher there.

In her spare time, Mrs. Conly loves exploring parks and historical sites with her family. Her favorite parks are Yellowstone National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. She is also a dedicated volunteer, having been involved with Junior League, Girl Scouts, Project Cornerstone, Scripps Spelling Bee, and Odyssey of the Mind.

Areana “Moon” Whittaker is originally from New Jersey and has lived in Idaho since 2015. Both of her parents are talented artists and inspired her to draw since she was a very young child. She has a bachelor's degree in history from Eastern Oregon University. Mrs. Whittaker gives credit to the amazing teachers she had growing up for her fascination and appreciation of history.

Mrs. Whittaker’s interest in classical education began when she got to know her husband, who was classically educated his whole life. It was evident that his experience did not just prepare him academically, but also shaped his character. Since then, she has had the privilege of teaching art (K-12) at The Ambrose School and sixth grade humanities at Greenleaf Friends Academy.

Mrs. Whittaker's goal for the art program at Novus is for students to develop a carefully cultivated aesthetic, mastery of artistic skills, and a thorough understanding of the connections between art and history. She values the instinct that children possess to create and is looking forward to sharing her love for art with her students.

Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Whittaker is also a proud mom of two little girls and enjoys spending her weekends baking and reading with them.

Vanessa Morse began studying music at the age of five. She is the director of her church choir, teaches private lessons, and is active in holding performances throughout the year. Her experience as a private piano and voice instructor spans twenty six years. During that time, she has helped her students become successful musicians and perform with confidence. Mrs. Morse also teaches ancient Byzantine chant.

Over the course of her distinguished career, Mrs. Morse has taught hundreds of students and worked with children of all ages and backgrounds, many of whom have gone onto to study and practice music as a profession. In addition to offering private lessons, she has taught in private and public schools, where she helped develop curriculum and enhance musical achievement.

Mrs. Morse has traveled around the world performing with PaTram Choir, the LA Philharmonic, Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, the Alexander Singers under John Mauceri, and the Boston Pops. She holds a bachelor of arts in music education with an emphasis in piano pedagogy from California State University: Fullerton, and a master of arts in choral conducting from Azusa Pacific University. Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Morse enjoys outdoor activities such as cycling, running, hiking, and traveling. She resides in Boise with her husband and two children.

Beth Hayes is a native of Cleveland, Ohio, where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in health
sciences from Cleveland State University. Throughout her career, she has worked as a college
chemistry supplemental instructor, exercise therapist, personal trainer, and small business
owner.

She and her husband met training for ultra marathons. Adventure brought them to Idaho in 2017. They have two elementary aged boys. Mrs. Hayes enjoys all things outdoors, as well as playing and composing music. Outside of school, she teaches piano lessons, instructs small group fitness classes, volunteers in Sunday school, and plays piano in her church praise band.

Mrs. Hayes feels privileged to get to share her passion for movement and nature with the students and families of the Idaho Novus Classical Academy community.

Serena Kapoor recently graduated with honors from the University of Georgia with a bachelor of science in psychology and a minor in Spanish. Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Serena attended the Atlanta International School for her formative years. It was there that she acquired fluency in Spanish through a bi-lingual International Baccalaureate curriculum. She continued her language studies and expanded her cultural experiences throughout her secondary and university years. Serena is excited to be part of pioneering Idaho Novus Classical Academy, as she is an alumna from the first graduating class of Atlanta Classical Academy – an established American classical school.

In her free time, Serena enjoys getting outdoors, doing anything from horseback riding and hiking to hammocking or backpacking. When not outdoors, she enjoys grabbing coffee with friends, getting involved with church ministries, or cozying up on the couch with her cat and a good book.

Mrs. Trovinger holds a master of science degree in computer science and a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering from the University of California in San Diego.

Mrs. Trovinger discovered a passion for teaching through homeschooling her children. Most recently she had the pleasure of teaching the fourth grade at Idaho Novus during its inaugural year. She has also taught biology, marine biology, human anatomy, chemistry, physics, engineering, astronomy, computer programming, English literature and composition, and mathematics to middle and high school students in the Treasure Valley. She also taught sixth grade at a private school in Meridian.

Before teaching, Mrs. Trovinger worked as an engineer for several high-tech companies. Out of college, she developed software for a CAD/CAM company and then went on to work as a manufacturing
engineer designing software for the assembly lines of a telecommunications company. She then worked as an engineer developing data management tools for a computing and printing company before turning toward home to start a family. She has three grown children and has been married for over 30 years.

When she is not in the classroom, Mrs. Trovinger enjoys reading, nature study, astronomy, homemaking, and spending time with her family.

Mr. McGrady is originally from San Diego, California. He graduated magna cum laude from Hillsdale College in Michigan with a bachelor of arts in history in 2019. In the same year, he moved to Fruitland, Idaho and joined the faculty of Treasure Valley Classical Academy, INCA’s sister school, in its opening year. Mr. McGrady was TVCA’s original sixth grade teacher. He served four years in this role, including two years as the faculty chair for fifth and sixth grade.

In 2023, Mr. McGrady graduated magna cum laude from the University of Dallas’ Classical Education Graduate Program with a master of humanities with a concentration in classical education. He also taught history and philosophy to TVCA’s ninth and tenth graders.

Mr. McGrady is a husband and father to a growing family. He currently has two young children, and looks forward to sending them to Idaho Novus in years to come!

Ms. Elizabeth Williams is thrilled to be part of the faculty of Idaho Novus as an upper school humanities teacher. Ms. Williams has always felt called to teach, and her love for literature and the arts deeply informs her approach.

She is originally from Northern California and grew up on a small family farm where she raised dairy goats, pigs, and chickens. She studied at Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio, where she earned bachelor of arts degrees in English (British and American Literature) and History, with a minor in Theatre Arts. Drawn to the beauty and rigor of classical education, she moved to Chandler, Arizona to teach at a Great Hearts Classical Academy. There, she taught 6th and 8th grade Literature and Composition, and directed extra-curricular theatre, supporting their growing arts program. She moved up to Idaho to be closer to family and discovered a strong, beautiful community in Idaho Novus Classical Academy.

Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, baking, singing, and the performing arts.

Kalena Holladay a dedicated educator with a background in both general and special education. She began her college journey at Auburn University and later graduated from Boise State University with a degree in history, earning certifications in both general and special education. Her teaching career began in a special education classroom in Nampa, where she worked with students with Level 2 and Level 3 autism.

Having attended school in multiple U.S. states as well as in Japan during elementary school, she brings a broad perspective to her work. She’s also an avid traveler—having visited all 50 states before turning 20 and exploring many countries including Canada, Mexico, Japan, and Korea.

Outside of the classroom, she enjoys traveling with her family, reading, and spending time with her dogs. She has been married for 10 years and is the proud mother of a daughter entering the fourth grade. As the oldest of four siblings—and the only girl—she values family deeply. She is excited to be part of the Idaho Novus Classical Academy team and looks forward to the meaningful experiences and connections ahead.

Laurie Young graduated from Washington State University with a bachelor of arts. She then pursued further education at a hotel and tourism school in Switzerland, earning a Swiss Hotel Diploma. Next, Mrs. Young embarked on a dynamic career journey in the field of event planning, where she grew her communication and organizational skills and worked on both the east and west coasts for 15 years.

Following the gift of having two children, Mrs. Young seamlessly transitioned into the realm of education. Over the years, she has held various positions in schools and loves fostering the growth and development of young minds. Mrs. Young has worked as a conduit between parents, teachers, students and leadership in all of her school roles.

Mrs. Young spends her free time with her family. Being an Avimor resident, she enjoys hiking in the foothills, beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. With her event planning and catering background, she enjoys gardening, entertaining, and cooking for her friends and family. She looks forward to greeting and supporting the students and families of Idaho Novus Classical Academy.

Mrs. Petushkov holds a bachelor’s degree in English from The Master’s University, where she graduated with honors. Following her undergraduate studies, she began a career in office management in the food and beverage industry, focusing on records management, accounting, marketing, and reporting. She subsequently discovered her passion for working in the field of education as an academic counselor for her alma mater. In this role, she managed marketing, recruiting, enrollment, and registration processes as well as institutional audits, which has prepared her well for supporting Idaho Novus Classical Academy in the same vein.

She had the great privilege of raising and education her three children at home for 11 years before coming to Idaho Novus Classical Academy. Leading and teaching in various co-ops and nature groups while homeschooling brought her into contact with passionate educators, books, and conferences which have fed her passion for education that values the true, the good, and the beautiful. She spends her free time involved at church, which has led to her leadership in various church planting, foster care, and youth ministries together with her husband over the years.

Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, Mrs. Petushkov and her family relocated to Eagle in 2021. Shortly thereafter, they were delighted to discover that an American classical school was coming to their city in 2024. She feels honored to have been a part of the founding team of this school and to contribute toward its lofty mission.

Brian Blakeley has been a part of Idaho Novus Classical Academy since 2020. He attended nearly every information session from the school’s inception to its opening day, volunteering his weekends during this period to raise awareness of the school in the community. His wife, Alyssa, served as PTCA Co-Chair during the school’s inaugural year.

Brian has spent the last twelve years running his own building inspection business (both commercial and residential). Years of commercial building experience make him uniquely qualified to maintain Idaho Novus’ building and facilities. He is thrilled to now officially serve as Idaho Novus's Facility Coordinator. 

Brian has six children, the three youngest of whom attend Idaho Novus along with his niece. Outside of school, the Blakeleys can often be found at one of the many great swimming holes Boise has to offer. Brian especially loves to float the Boise River with his family during the summer.

Danielle Thai is overjoyed to be a part of Idaho Novus Classical Academy. While home schooling her two youngest children, she discovered the value of a classical education. After experiencing first-hand the difference that a classical education makes, she is eager to invest in our country’s next generation.

Mrs. Thai was born and raised in Southern California. However, once she moved to Idaho, she was instantly at home. Mrs. Thai has been married for 15 years, is the proud mother of three wonderful children, and a grandma to two adorable grandsons. In her spare time, she can be found on the baseball and softball fields cheering on her two youngest in their favorite sports. Once ball season is over and summer begins, Mrs. Thai loads the Jumping Jack with camping equipment and heads to the mountains.

Mrs. Thai looks forward to getting to know all of the students at Novus and their families.

Serenity McCormick is a native Idahoan who loves her great state and country. She is passionate about the power of words and the joy of learning. By nature, she is an optimistic person who delights in the elegance of good grammar.

Mrs. McCormick is married to a bookish and brainy engineer (who is also a wonderful man) and is the proud mother of four children. Together, they give her life meaning. Her family is her greatest joy and inspiration.

When she’s not in the classroom, Mrs. McCormick enjoys getting lost in a great book, kayaking in the sunshine, baking something sweet, or camping in the mountains. She’s excited to begin her journey in American classical education and believes that a strong mind and character are always worth pursuing.

Michelle Wonacott, a graduate of Bishop Kelly High School and the College of Idaho, is a dedicated mother, educator, and public servant whose path has woven together her lived experience, practical insights, and devotion to family and friends. She earned her bachelor’s degree in sociology and human services—fields that reflect her lifelong passion for understanding people and helping communities thrive. Since 2023, Mrs. Wonacott has worked for the Idaho House of Representatives in the Chief Clerk’s office during Idaho’s legislative session (January through March).

Mrs. Wonacott and her husband, Jay (both native Idahoans) have five daughters, whom they have educated through a combination of homeschooling, online schooling, and classical education. When they discovered Idaho Novus would be opening in 2024, they decided to enroll their youngest daughter in sixth grade. Inspired by the experience of the Novus community, Mrs. Wonacott pursued the special education paraprofessional position to become part of the team. She is convinced that the classical model is the future of education. Her favorite things in life (besides her family) include visiting the Oregon Coast, drinking iced espresso, playing word games, and reading good books, especially the works of C.S. Lewis.

Lisa Starns is a dedicated educator and passionate advocate for classical education. Originally hailing from southern California, Mrs. Starns made the leap to Idaho with her husband and two boys in 2015.

For the past 16 years, Mrs. Starns has wholeheartedly embraced the role of a homeschooling parent, investing in her children's future as well as mentoring others. Her prior experience includes working with elementary-aged students in the classroom as an assistant and preschool teacher. Her belief in the power of classical education as a sturdy cornerstone for learning has been unwavering throughout this journey.

Mrs. Starns is very excited for this next chapter in her journey to be a part of the Idaho Novus Classical Academy educational staff. She holds an associate's degree in Early Childhood Development, and brings a blend of practical knowledge and hands-on experience to this role. Mrs. Starns enjoys spending her free time with family and friends, as well as gardening, reading, and baking.

Rachel Rowe is thrilled to be returning to the education career field after taking some years to work part-time as an office administrator and grow her family. With her oldest starting kindergarten this coming school year, she is making the jump back in as a literacy aide.

Having received a bachelor’s degree in a two-year accelerated program with Logos University, Mrs. Rowe is no stranger to the high standard of education that Idaho Novus Classical Academy upholds. Helping to teach children to read, and to read well, is a dream job for her.

Mrs. Rowe has lived in Idaho for 14 years and enjoys the friendliness of Idahoans, as well as the beautiful outdoor activities there are to enjoy. Outside of school, Mrs. Rowe is a full-time wife and mom of two. Her free time is filled with books, creativity, and color as an avid reader, aspiring author, and painter.

Yvonne Scharf is married and has two adult children. Mrs. Scharf has enjoyed a varied career across an array of sectors. When her children were in elementary through junior high school, she was a full-time mother and homeschool parent/teacher in a hybrid program with a Classical Academy. Mrs. Scharf served as a volunteer in and out of the classroom, as a fundraising events coordinator and as a parent advisory board chair at the American Heritage Charter High School where her children attended. Mrs. Scharf has also worked as an Elementary Instructional Aide in both public district and charter schools. She went on to earn her Certificate in Clinical Nutrition and ran a private nutritional consultant practice, was a representative for retail nutraceutical lines and a public speaker on health and wellness topics. With an itch to continue her education, Mrs. Scharf later earned her Certificate in Clinical Medical Assisting, specialized in Ophthalmology and worked both in corporate and private medical practice.

Mrs. Scharf has a deep love for the arts and studied music performance and music education when she attended university. She has performed at public and private events, taught private music lessons and directed church music ministry. She is a flutist and currently performs in the Capital City Flute Club, at private functions and also in her local church. Mrs. Scharf is passionate about being a lifelong learner, pursuing personal growth and professional development. She enjoys organic gardening, gourmet cooking, hiking, camping, and the creative arts.

Professional biography coming soon.

Professional biography coming soon.

Professional biography coming soon.

Professional biography coming soon.

Casey Wells has had the privilege of traveling to over 20 countries and spent extended time in New Zealand, Swaziland (Eswatini), and Thailand. She spent time visiting villages, working with orphans, and visiting schools around the world while working with young adults.

Although she no longer travels frequently, she loves that social media allows her to see the amazing things her friends are continuing to do around the world. During Ms. Wells' adventures she enjoyed shopping in the markets and eating like the locals, she often found herself helping prepare meals for small to large groups of fellow travelers. Ms. Wells loves that even when you don’t speak the same language, food still brings people together in every part of the world.
Ms. Wells moved to Idaho in 2014 and has worked for several small businesses in Boise County. She enjoys being creative, spending time outdoors, and continuing to learn and experience new adventures.

Ms. Wells is looking forward to serving both students and staff at Idaho Novus Classical Academy.