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. At Idaho Novus Classical Academy, he has served as the Special Education Coordinator and a substitute bus driver since the founding year.

Beyond the classroom, Mr. Anderson’s personal interests include model trains, fishing, travel, camping, and enjoying the outdoors. Though he is also interested in big game hunting, duck hunting is 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 and faculty needs.

With a fulfilling career spanning close to two decades, 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 has shared her knowledge, passion, and insights into the Literacy Essentials curriculum and American classical education as the founding Literacy Coordinator and has recently been accepted into Hillsdale College's Master of Classical Education Leadership Program.

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. Justine Spencer is an experienced and dedicated educator who recently completed her first year at Idaho Novus Classical Academy, now bringing over 14 years of teaching experience to the classroom. Mrs. Spencer has found a true home in the classical education model. 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 and virtue in her students.

Mrs. Spencer is passionate about her students' learning moments. She adores watching her students’ excitement grow as they learn about the classical virtues and engage with timeless stories. For Mrs. Spencer, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing young learners build a foundation of character and wonder that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Outside the classroom, Mrs. Spencer is a devoted wife of 16 years and a mother to three active children. The Spencer household is currently immersed in the world of classical stories, as she shares the rich kindergarten tales with her youngest while her two older children explore the curriculum in their own grades. The classical influence extends beyond books, as her daughter is in her second year of piano.

With two children who love dirt bikes and one who competes, the family spends many weekend hours together at the race track. Mrs. Spencer finds joy in crafting, reading for fun, and playing with her children and their energetic miniature dachshund, Todd.

Mrs. Spencer is thrilled to continue her journey with the Idaho Novus family and looks forward to another joyful, enriching year of guiding her kindergarten students toward truth, goodness, and beauty.

Ms. Leah Pirro earned a Bachelor's degree in Educational Studies from Grand Canyon University and a Master of Science in Entrepreneurial Leadership from Texas A&M University. While completing her degrees, she played Division 1 collegiate soccer at both institutions. During her time in college she also spent time mentoring young athletes, as well as volunteering at youth soccer camps.

Ms. Pirro enjoys playing pickleball, tennis, and fly fishing with family and friends. She also loves baking and trying new recipes. She is excited to join the Idaho Novus team, and helping foster young minds and developing future citizens.

Bio coming soon.

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. In addition to supporting students and families as a founding faculty member of Idaho Novus, she also supports her colleagues as the Faculty Chair for Kindergarten, First, and Second Grades.

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 enjoys being out in nature, appreciating the beauty of creation. She recently concluded a decade of volunteer service with the Boy Scouts of America, raising her sons to become Eagle Scouts. 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 cacao and a good book, ready for an engaging conversation.

Mrs. Natalie 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 and began to pursue acquiring her teaching certificate.

Mrs. Patten has been teaching for six years. She started teaching at Idaho Novus its founding year and has blissfully enjoyed the rigor and growth she has experienced while being an American Classical Educator.

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.

A North Idaho native, Ms. Saige Butterfield graduated from the University of Idaho with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Literacy. With experience in a variety of K-2 classroom settings, as well as invaluable experience from being a founding faculty member of Idaho Novus Classical Academy, she is enthusiastic and steadfast in her commitment to educating future generations.

Ms. Butterfield has a unique professional background; including prior experience in the logging, road construction, and military industries. She served in the Idaho Army National Guard for 6 years as a Combat Engineer, where she achieved the rank of sergeant. These experiences helped shape her into an educator who values hard work, compassion, and a positive mindset.

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 inclusion teacher in Virginia Beach. While teaching in Virginia, Mrs. Anderson enjoyed traveling around the area and learning about our country’s history. She completed a master’s degree 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 does deeply miss the people.

Mrs. Anderson has enjoyed being with Idaho Novus Classical Academy from its foundational year. Mrs. Anderson is particularly impressed with the reading curriculum and its impact on student learning. Teaching and getting to know her students at Idaho Novus Classical Academy has been remarkable. Since almost all parents attend parent teacher conferences, it has been wonderful to get to know students in the context of their individual families. It is delightful to see parents of so many students at school volunteering. The interactions with parents have helped Mrs. Anderson serve her students more effectively. Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Anderson enjoys traveling, meeting new people, reading, and shopping for deals.

Mrs. Langin will become our next second grade teacher. She previously taught at The Ambrose School for nearly a decade, primarily at the second-grade level and briefly in kindergarten. Prior to that, she was an instructor in a homeschool cooperative. Her academic background includes a B.S. in nutritional science. Mrs. Langin is passionate about running and previously served as a high school cross country coach.

Annalise Bradshaw holds a degree in Elementary Education from George Fox University, with endorsements in science and Teaching English as a Second Language. She has taught third grade for over five years and was a member of Idaho Novus’s founding faculty. Ms. Bradshaw has also taught abroad at an international school in Suva, Fiji. She is grateful for her time at INCA and looks forward to continuing to refine and strengthen her craft as an educator.

Outside the classroom, Ms. Bradshaw enjoys exploring Idaho’s landscapes through backpacking and paddle boarding. Her love for learning shapes her teaching and she hopes to instill a curiosity about the world in her students.

Mrs. Brita Miranda is proud to be a founding faculty member at Idaho Novus Classical Academy, where she has spent the last two years dedicated to the growth of her students. Now entering her third year of teaching, Mrs. Miranda brings passion and academic excellence to the third-grade classroom. She graduated summa cum laude from Grand Canyon University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a specialized emphasis on Structured English Immersion.

Before calling Idaho home, Mrs. Miranda was born and raised in Southern California. Prior to her career in education, she spent twenty fulfilling years as an industry business owner alongside her husband. Her background is deeply rooted in the arts; a lifelong lover of ballet and music, she dedicated many years to training, performing, and teaching both ballet and lyrical dance.

Mrs. Miranda and her husband are busy raising two daughters who share a love for animals, art, science, and the great outdoors. When Mrs. Miranda is not in the classroom, you can find her tending to her garden, hiking with friends, camping, traveling, or lost in a good book.

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

Laura Young is a Nashville native who earned her bachelor's in broadcast journalism from American University in Washington, D.C. in 2005. In 2013, she received her master's in teaching from Concordia University and went on to teach 7th and 8th grade English at West Hills Christian School. She and her husband eventually relocated to Boise to be closer to family.

Mrs. Young joined Novus during its inaugural year and is a proud member of Washington House. She feels truly blessed to be part of the Novus community, where she has the privilege of contributing to the improvement of students' hearts and the training of their minds. One of her greatest joys is teaching the fourth-grade curriculum. She has a deep passion for the classic literature woven throughout the year and loves nothing more than watching timeless stories come alive for young readers. Introducing students to these treasures of literature is, for her, one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

Most of Mrs. Young's free time is spent trying to keep up with her two rambunctious children. Her other interests include classic movies from the 1940's and 1950's, origami, 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. Ms. Young has completed her first year as classical educator at Idaho Novus, where she continues to guide her students to seek the truth, do the good, and love the beautiful.

Outside the classroom, you can find Ms. Young running cross-country, paddle boarding, and spending time with her dog, Rex. She also loves cooking and discovering new coffee shops. Ms. Young is looking forward to another year at Idaho Novus Classical Academy.

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. Prior to joining the Novus team, 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 who are all classical learners! She is thrilled to be continuing at Idaho
Novus and looks forward to growth, discovery, and delight in learning.

Mrs. Molina joined our community this year, first as a parent and soon as a fifth-grade teacher. She has taught at a range of private schools and public charter schools, including Freedom Academy and North Star Charter School. Her experience encompasses most elementary grade levels as well as upper school science. Mrs. Molina holds a B.S. in Liberal Studies from California Polytechnic State University and an M.Ed from the University of California: Davis. By next year, she will have two students enrolled at Novus.

Mrs. Husmann is dedicated to the formation of virtue in her students, teaching them to be truly noblehearted. She daily seeks to make her classroom at Idaho Novus a school of virtue, where good character shines brightly and the least movement of the will toward the good, the true and the beautiful, is recognized. Teaching children that it is always possible to choose the good, is the hallmark of her mission–and her vocation–as a teacher and as a mother.

Born and raised in Florida, Mrs. Husmann 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 in 2025, she directed a homeschool cooperative, and sat on several boards of directors for classical education organizations for which she also acted as General Counsel. Mrs. Husmann’s favorite author is Jane Austen.

Mrs. Husmann has always liked historical writing; she authored a book on historical sites in her native state that was released by The History Press in January 2026. She lives with her husband and three children in Avimor, along with her dog, Bruno, and cat, Kiki. In her leisure time, Mrs. Husmann likes to hike with her husband, read and write, and care for her children, all of whom attend Idaho Novus.

Mrs. Gammon joins us as a sixth-grade teacher, where she will put her broad academic background to work in preparing students for the upper school. Most recently, she taught at The Ambrose School where she instructed in the areas of rhetoric and humanities and served as a department chair. She also has an extensive background in legal writing, having spent many years drafting documents for a law firm in the Treasure Valley. Mrs. Gammon holds a B.S. in English from Southwest Baptist University, an M.A in English from Fort Hays State University, and has completed coursework on Aristotle, Aquinas, classical rhetoric, and classical education at New Saint Andrews College. Something else Mrs. Gammon has shared with us is that all three of her sons have been classically educated, and all three joined the National Guard.

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.

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 Meridian with her husband and two children. Mrs. Morse has been with Idaho Novus since it opened for the 2024-2025 school year and also had the joy of attending the ground breaking the previous year in 2023.

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 is an upper school teacher and founding member of the faculty at Idaho Novus Classical Academy.

She 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.

She discovered a passion for teaching through homeschooling her children. She has 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.

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 worked as a manufacturing
engineer designing software for the assembly lines of a telecommunications company. She also 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 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 Idaho and joined the founding faculty of Treasure Valley Classical Academy, Idaho Novus’ sister school, in Fruitland. 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. During his final year at TVCA, Mr. McGrady served as the history and philosophy teacher for 9th and 10th grade, then the leading classes.

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.

Mr. McGrady joined the founding faculty of Idaho Novus as a sixth grade teacher in August 2024. He moved into seventh grade with the leading class the following year. Mr. McGrady now teaches history and serves as Upper School Faculty Chair. Since joining Idaho Novus' faculty, Mr. McGrady has also contributed to various initiatives of the Hillsdale K-12 Office, including two chapters in the teacher's guide for The Golden Thread and a video series about the teaching of American history.

Mr. McGrady is a husband and father to a growing family. He currently has three young children, the eldest of whom now attends Idaho Novus.

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.

Mrs. Brooks has served as a long-term substitute sixth-grade teacher at Novus since January and looks forward to joining us as a mathematics teacher in the upper school next year, where she will teach Pre-Algebra and Algebra I. She is the mother of two Novus students and an active member of our community. Mrs. Brooks previously taught at Freedom Academy and Innovate Academy and before that was a mathematics department chair in California. Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in communications from Michigan State University where she was a NCAA Division I student athlete. She has completed graduate certificates in Workplace Performance Improvement and Instructional Design. She is working on a Master of Science in organizational performance and workplace learning from Boise State University that she looks forward to completing in the fall.

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 three girls and enjoys spending her weekends baking and reading with them.

Mr. Reeder will be teaching sixth through eighth grade Latin and seventh grade Classic Literature. He has spent the past 20 years as the pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Emmett, is the father of three Novus students, and has a background in Latin, Greek, and German. Mr. Reeder holds a B.A. from Boise State University with a major in German language and an M.Div. from Concordia Theological Seminary.

Bio coming soon.

Mr. Smith is a Founding Faculty Member of Idaho Novus Classical Academy who hails from the agricultural heartland of California in the San Joaquin Valley. Mr. Smith earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Fresno Pacific University and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration from California State University, Fresno. He currently resides with his wife and two children in Avimor.

His background in the classroom spanned the K-12 system, teaching across levels. 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.

Mr. Smith has returned to the classroom and imparts his passion for the Western and American Traditions to his fifth grade students. He enjoys studying great books with his class, teaching logic and reason in mathematics, and leading the class in discourse while they learn about American history. Cultivating virtue in his students has been deeply impactful for Mr. Smith witnessing his students transform while they strive to embody our core virtues.

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.

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.

Bio coming soon.

Ms. Rabino joins us as our new literacy coordinator, replacing Mrs. Frederick who will soon serve as elementary school principal. Ms. Rabino grew up in France near the border of Switzerland, later moved to the United States, and joined the American classical education movement early on in her career. For the past six years, Ms. Rabino has taught at St. John’s Classical Academy, a Hillsdale K-12 Member School in Florida. She is also a literacy trainer with the Teacher Support Team at the Hillsdale College Office of K-12 Education. Her academic background includes a B.A. in elementary education from Florida Atlantic University.

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.

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.

Mrs. Holladay is a dedicated educator with experience in both general and special education. She began her academic journey at Auburn University and later graduated from Boise State University with a degree in history. After starting a family, she felt called to pursue teaching in order to serve students while remaining closely connected to her own child’s education. She earned her certifications in general and special education and began her career in Nampa, Idaho, working with students with Level 2 and Level 3 autism.
Her experiences as both a teacher and a parent have shown Mrs. Holladay how important a school’s approach to learning is in shaping student growth. This led her to seek out a classical education model that aligned with her values for her daughter. Her daughter joined Idaho Novus Classical Academy in its inaugural year, and Mrs. Holladay was grateful to join the team as a special education teacher the following year.

This year at Idaho Novus has been especially meaningful for Mrs. Holladay both as a teacher and as a parent. She has witnessed the beauty of classical education firsthand, watching students grow in confidence, develop a love of learning, and truly come into their own. It has been a deeply rewarding experience to be part of a community that nurtures both academic and personal growth.

Mrs. Holladay’s upbringing contributes to her broad perspective. Having attended schools in multiple U.S. states as well as in Japan during her elementary years, she brings cultural awareness and adaptability to her classroom. She has also traveled extensively, visiting all 50 states before the age of 20 and exploring countries including Canada, Mexico, Japan, and South Korea.

Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Holladay enjoys traveling with her family, reading, and spending time with her dogs. She has been married for ten years and is the proud mother of a daughter in elementary school. As the oldest of four siblings—and the only girl—she values family, connection, and community deeply.

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.

Bio coming soon.

Professional biography coming soon.

Professional biography coming soon.

Professional biography coming soon.

Professional biography coming soon.

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.

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.