Voyage Academy Charter School

Kami Coleman

Ms. Coleman earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern Utah University in 1998, majoring in Physical Education with an emphasis in Coaching, and minoring in Spanish. She began her career in education at Ogden High School, serving as a full-time substitute teacher. She later transitioned to Weber High School, where she taught both Spanish and Physical Education, while also coaching the softball and volleyball teams.

Ms. Coleman joined the Charter School at its inception in 2013, initially hired as the LifeSkills Coach. Her exceptional ability to connect with students and staff quickly led to her promotion to Director of Student Services. In this role, she developed several key programs for the school, including the Positive Behavior Plan and the CrewMate Mentorship Program.

In 2023, Ms. Coleman was appointed as the Executive Director and Principal of Voyage Academy. She brings the same dedication and team-building mindset from her coaching background to her leadership role, fostering a collaborative environment among faculty. Her leadership is focused on supporting both academic achievement and character development, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive.

kcoleman@voyageacademyutah.org

Anna Stanton

With over two decades of leadership experience, Ms. Stanton serves as Director of Operations and Human Resources at Voyage Academy, bringing a strong foundation in strategic planning, organizational management, and public service. Her career began in 2003 with the City Council of the City of Clinton, Utah, where she spent 22 years shaping policy, overseeing budgets, and supporting infrastructure and community development, which informs her ability to manage district operations and facilities effectively.

Ms. Stanton brings 22 years of expertise and a proven record of aligning personnel initiatives with organizational goals, fostering employee engagement, and driving performance. Her professional training and people-first approach are grounded in a belief that empowering individuals helps build workplaces that work for everyone.

astanton@voyageacademyutah.org

Amy Mills

I am proud to be part of Voyage Academy, where I focus on making school a fun and welcoming place for students through both activities and lunch. I enjoy creating a lunchroom environment where children can laugh, grow, and build lasting memories, while also encouraging healthy eating and showing students how food fuels both their bodies and minds. One of my favorite parts of my work is helping students feel excited to come to school each day, whether through planning fun events or making sure the cafeteria feels like a positive, social space.

I am married to my best friend, and together we have five amazing children and the world’s cutest grandson, who bring endless joy to my life. Outside of school, I enjoy gardening, traveling, and going on cruises with my family, especially when it means exploring new places and relaxing together.

amills@voyageacademyutah.org

Erica Sperry

With a Master’s in Education and over 20 years as a licensed educator, Erica brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role on the Voyage Education Team. She holds an Instructional Coach endorsement and has served as a classroom teacher, team lead, and mentor throughout her career.
Her teaching journey began in Arizona, where she spent eight years in the classroom, leading her team, mentoring new teachers, and contributing to the district language arts committee. After relocating to Utah, she continued her impact in education by substituting in Davis School District and teaching at a Title I school in Ogden, where she also served on the school community council.
At Voyage, Erica has continued to grow as a team lead, mentor, and Instructional Coach, now supporting curriculum and instruction full-time. She finds deep fulfillment in helping both students and teachers reach their full potential. As a teacher, she found joy in watching students rise to meet high expectations and develop belief in themselves. As a coach, she is inspired daily by educators’ reflection, growth, and dedication to putting students first.

esperry@voyageacademyutah.org

Destiny Hampton

Destiny Hampton has been part of Voyage Academy since 2013, serving in a variety of roles including classroom teacher, instructional coach, assessment director, and now supports student behavior. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Weber State University.
In her current role, Destiny focuses on creating proactive behavior systems, supporting student regulation, and helping students grow into independent, confident problem solvers. She is passionate about equipping every child with the social and emotional skills they need to thrive, both in and out of the classroom.
Outside of school, Destiny enjoys spending time with her husband, DJ, who works as a deputy fire marshal for Utah State University, and their pets, Nala (dog) and Ash (cat). She loves yoga, Pilates, gaming, and exploring the outdoors around Northern Utah.

dhampton@voyageacademyutah.org

Jen Caldwell

Mrs. Caldwell has lived with her husband and two kids in Clinton for over 21 years.  She studied at both Weber State and Western Governors University.  Mrs. Caldwell's kids were once Voyage Vikings!  She taught at Voyage for 9 years before becoming the school's Assessment Director and joining the technology team.

jcaldwell@voyageacademyutah.org

Brook Wapshott

Brook Wapshott joined Voyage in 2018 as a paraprofessional and has since earned her bachelor’s degree in Educational Studies with an emphasis in Elementary Education. She currently works as the school’s RTI (Response to Intervention) Coordinator, where she and her team are dedicated to ensuring that students receive targeted, data-driven support. Brook collaborates with teachers, specialists, and administrators to implement effective intervention practices that promote equity, growth, and success for every learner.

Outside of school, Brook values time with her family and enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, yoga, reading, and photography. She and her husband are thrilled to be welcoming their first child in the spring of 2026.

bwapshott@voyageacademyutah.org

Jennifer Davis

I am Jen Davis, the School Social Worker at Voyage Academy.  I am thrilled to be part of the Voyage team!  I absolutely love working with children and helping them to become the best version of themselves.  I earned my bachelor's degree in social work in 2008 and my master's degree in social work in 2019.  I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have always worked with children in some capacity from tutoring in schools, to teaching preschool, and being the director of a daycare.  I have a decade worth of experience working in Child Welfare and serving families in our community.  I have experience in crisis intervention as well as individual, group, and family counseling.  I love helping others to work through challenges and to find happiness in their journey.  I am a mom to two fabulous boys who bring me so much joy, and I am married to a farmer who is the love of my life.  We live on a farm with a lot of cows, and it is always an adventure.  I am a people person and love chatting, laughing, shopping, going out to eat, hanging out with my family and friends, and doing crafty things.  I also love to bake and decorate cakes, and I spend a lot of my spare time in the kitchen being creative.  I am a lover of all things that sparkle, polka dots, animal print, and let’s not forget diet coke!  I am grateful every day for the chance that I have to work with the students and staff at Voyage!

jdavis@voyageacademyutah.org

Autumn Barowski

After initial degree work in political science and history, Mrs. B. held a variety of positions: federal employee, freelance editor, author, book reviewer for the New York Journal of Books and stay-at-home mom. She entered the classroom as a paraprofessional, eventually earning her bachelor's degree in special education with a mild/moderate endorsement from Weber State University before earning her master's degree in education from Southern Utah University. She also holds endorsements in English as a Second Language and Education Technology. Mrs. B is currently working on her National Board Certification in teaching learners with Exceptional Needs.  Reading, writing, music, hiking, and watching movies (especially horror movies!) are what she loves to do. She has four grown children, a cutie patootie granddaughter, a husband, two goofy Border Collies, and a fish named Bob.

abarowski@voyageacademyutah.org

info@voyageacademyutah.org

info@voyageacademyutah.org

info@voyageacademyutah.org

info@voyageacademyutah.org

Nicole Danson

I have taught kindergarten for three years now but taught multiple grades before moving to kindergarten. I was a preschool teacher while my children were growing up and loved my time teaching them too. I love to read and so teaching children to read is a thrill that I enjoy. I love to make math fun and show children that we use math every day in many ways. I hope to give all students a love of learning. I love animals, hiking, camping, traveling, reading, all things music, and being with my family. 

ndanson@voyageacademyutah.org

Shauna Hiram

This is my fourth year teaching and first year in kindergarten. There is a special magic in helping students recognize and make sense of the letters and numbers all around them. I love to incorporate books, songs, and silly voices into our day to help us not only learn, but to love to learn. It is a privilege helping them gain self-confidence in their abilities as learners and crew members!  Outside of school, I love reading, sewing, baking, playing games, swimming, and being a mom.

shiram@voyageacademyutah.org

Samantha Hughes

I’ve been teaching for nine wonderful years and have had the opportunity to teach multiple grade levels—but Kindergarten has become my favorite place to be. There’s just something special about the joy, curiosity, and pure excitement that five- and six-year-olds bring into the classroom every day.
I hold a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and I love using that knowledge to create hands-on, engaging, and meaningful learning experiences for my students. My goal is to build a classroom where children feel safe, welcomed, and ready to explore the world around them through play, discovery, and lots of laughter.
Outside of school, my daughter and I love traveling and learning new things together. I also have a deep love for reading and enjoy getting lost in a good book whenever I can.

shughes@voyageacademyutah.org

Larisa Adams

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ladams@voyageacademyutah.org

Rachel Kiesz

Hello! I’m Mrs. Kiesz, and I teach 1st grade here at Voyage Academy. I strive to create a classroom environment where students can explore curiosity, share thoughts and ideas, develop a growth mindset, have fun while learning, and most importantly - feel safe and loved. 

If I’m not teaching, you may find me cheering on my two boys at their football games, or sitting front row at my daughter’s dance competitions.  In my free time I enjoy cooking, reading, cycling and putting puzzles together.

rkiesz@voyageacademyutah.org

Taryn Schow

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tschow@voyageacademyutah.org

Cora Arboleya

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carboleya@voyageacademyutah.org

Jana Bradshaw

With over 15 years of experience in early childhood education, including kindergarten and second grade, Mrs. Bradshaw is a devoted and passionate teacher who finds joy in nurturing young learners. She has a special love for teaching reading and writing, believing deeply in the power of literacy to open doors and prepare for a lifetime of learning. Her students are always at the center of her heart and mind, and she treasures the “light bulb moments” when learning suddenly clicks and confidence shines through.
As a proud teacher at Voyage Academy, she is continually inspired by the school’s learning model and positive, student-centered culture. Her teaching philosophy is grounded in her favorite quote: “Relationships are more important than any task at hand"  She strives to build meaningful connections that help students feel safe, valued, and excited to learn.
Outside the classroom, she loves traveling with her husband, spending time with her grandkids, playing the piano, crocheting, making cookies—and of course, eating them—and chatting with her children. Her life is full of family, creativity, and joy, all of which she brings into her work with students every day. 

jbradshaw@voyageacademyutah.org

Heather Nelson

Mrs. Nelson is in her second year of teaching 2nd grade at Voyage Academy. She previously served as the school’s music teacher for two years in 2015-2017. She took a break to raise 2 more kids. She then began substitute teaching in 2021 and fell in love with teaching. She is passionate about helping students develop confidence, independence, and a strong sense of self as learners. Her classroom is a place where curiosity is encouraged, growth and mistakes are celebrated, and each child’s individuality is valued.

Outside of teaching, Mrs. Nelson enjoys reading, swimming, crafting, traveling, and playing both the piano and guitar. She also loves spending time with her family and is the proud mother of four children, all of whom attend—or have attended—Voyage Academy. Her favorite reminder as an educator is that “Confidence grows when curiosity.”

hnelson@voyageacademyutah.org

Kimberly Cox

Hello! I’m Ms. Cox, a 3rd-grade teacher with 15 years of teaching experience. This is my second year at Voyage Academy, where I also previously served as a substitute for three years. I hold a master’s degree in the Arts of Education and have taught 1st, 4th, 6th, and now 3rd grade. Outside the classroom, I enjoy music, sports, outdoor activities, and spending time with my family. I’m blessed with four children and four adorable grandsons.

kcox@voyageacademyutah.org

Kristy Culpepper

This will be my 20th year teaching, and my 10th year here at Voyage. My family and I moved to Utah from Georgia in 2015. I am a huge Braves fan and love my Georgia Bulldogs. I have taught every grade from Kindergarten through third grade. I am married with three wonderful children, a beautiful granddaughter, and my fur baby, Pluto.

kculpepper@voyageacademyutah.org

Debby Miller

I went to college at Utah State University and earned my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. I have 6 boys and 2 girls. We began coming to Voyage the first year it opened.  I have spent time subbing, as a co-teacher, and for the last while as a full-time teacher here at Voyage.  I have always worked with third grade. My favorite thing to do is treasure hunt. I love to thrift! I also love plants and flowers, though I tend to kill most of them.

dmiller@voyageacademyutah.org

Adrianna Hebertson

Hello Voyage Families! My name is Adi Hebertson and this is my 14th year of teaching elementary school, and my third year at Voyage Academy. I'm a teacher because really enjoy the kids. It's wonderful to be a part of teaching them important skills that they will take with them on their life journeys. When I'm not teaching, I enjoy hiking, birdwatching, exploring nature, and going to live performances.

ahebertson@voyageacademyutah.org

Alisa Phillips

I am thrilled to be part of the Voyage Academy Crew and especially excited to be back in 4th grade. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to teach across multiple grade levels—three years in 4th grade, four years in 5th grade, and one year in 6th grade—which has given me a deep appreciation for how students learn and grow at every stage. I hold a degree in Educational Studies from Western Governors University and have been involved with Voyage Academy since its beginning in many different capacities.

Outside the classroom, I am a lover of music, reading, soccer, concerts, and all things geek culture—superheroes, Star Trek, Star Wars, Harry Potter, and The Doctor are some of my favorites. I also enjoy fish keeping, and I love carefully planning and aquascaping tanks with the right plants and fish to create healthy, happy biomes. My family is my greatest joy; with five children, two sons-in-law, two granddaughters, and two dogs, gatherings at our home are loud, busy, and wonderfully full of life.

My favorite subjects to teach are math and science, and I am passionate about exploring, discovering, and learning alongside my students. Each day at Voyage, I strive to create an environment where curiosity thrives and excellence is something we grow toward together.

aphillips@voyageacademyutah.org

Valena Taylor

I am proud to be celebrating my tenth year teaching at Voyage. I hold a master’s degree in education and am dedicated to helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. My favorite part of teaching is watching students gain confidence and discover a love of learning as they achieve new goals. I am married and have three grown children who are the pride of my life. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading, traveling, spending time with family, working out, and listening to podcasts—especially while exploring new places or relaxing with a good book.

vtaylor@voyageacademyutah.org

Amy Hestness

 
Hello! My name is Amy Hestness. I teach 5th grade Science and Social Studies! I have a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Weber State University and recently started my Master’s degree at WGU. I’m married and have three children—my youngest is here at Voyage Academy with me, and my two older children have graduated from high school. I love spending time with my family, traveling, swimming, and doing puzzles while listening to a good book. I love the positive, supportive community at Voyage and look forward to another great year!

ahestness@voyageacademyutah.org

Mazie Sessions

I am the 5th grade math teacher, and I love all things math. I love hands-on and engaging learning and helping kids explore in every way they can. A little about myself, I love reading, hiking, and music. I enjoy spending time outside and learning new hobbies. I graduated from Weber State and Southern Utah University and grew up in the area. I am so happy to be a part of the Voyage family.

masessions@voyageacademyutah.org

Stacey Starke

Stacey Starke has been inspiring young learners at Voyage Academy for the past ten years, teaching students in grades 3 through 5. She believes every classroom should be a place where curiosity is encouraged, effort is celebrated, and every student feels part of the story.
With a background in Theatre and Speech Education and a minor in Geography Education, Ms. Starke brings creativity and a love of storytelling into her teaching. She later completed additional coursework to become certified as an elementary school teacher, combining her passion for performance, communication, and learning into her classroom practice.
Ms. Starke loves discovering good stories—whether in books, movies, podcasts, or on stage—and hopes to inspire her students to find and share their own.

sstarke@voyageacademyutah.org

Anthony Costello

I have been with Voyage since the beginning.  I absolutely love this school and teaching math.  
Before teaching, I was in the Navy for 20 years and have since been placed on the retired list.  In 2006 we came to Utah to settle down.  After a few steppingstone jobs,  I began working at LOWES and stayed for almost 6 years.  I quickly rose to the position of Department Manager and started my journey in teaching by attending the University of Phoenix. Since then, I have also received my master's degree in Middle Grades Mathematics.  
I live in North Ogden with my beautiful and amazing wife and daughter, Nora and Samantha.  We have two cats named Hermione and Otter.
I enjoy my family, traveling and site see and watching scary movies.  I also love to BBQ, play games (card, board and online), animals (especially cats) and anything dealing with math.

acostello@voyageacademyutah.org

Viginina Ewart

Hi! I’m Mrs. Gini Ewart, and I’m thrilled to be teaching 6th grade Language Arts at Voyage Academy. I love helping students discover their voice as writers and connect deeply with stories that inspire creativity and empathy. Before moving to 6th grade, I taught 1st grade here at Voyage, and I still bring that same energy and heart for classroom community into everything we do.

When I’m not teaching, I love spending time with my family, reading, and finding new ways to make learning hands-on and engaging. I believe every student has a story worth telling — and our classroom is the perfect place to start writing it.

vewart@voyageacademyutah.org

Jana Patchett

This is my third year at Voyage, but my first year in 6th grade.  I'm excited to to have the same group of kids this year as I did when they were in 4th grade! If you ask my students, they will joke that I am MEAN teacher who TORTURES her students. I try to keep things hands on and relate them to the real world.  I'm blessed to have a large network of friends who love to guest speak in my classes.

I started professionally teaching in 2008 after several years of teaching in preschool settings.  I have a Master's degree in Curriculum and Design, hold a dual license in Special Education (k-12) and General Education (1-8), and am highly qualified in Language Arts.  I've taught transitional first grade, junior high Language Arts and Reading classes, 5th grade (Science, Social Studies, ELA, and Health), K-6 special education ELA/math groups, 4th grade (Science, Social Studies, Writing), and ran a Behavioral Unit. 

After school, I can be found working on my book/tutoring business or attending activities for my personal kids.  I have five biological children who range in age from 25 to 10.  We enjoy hiking, camping, having adventures, playing games, and trying new drinks at Dutch Bros.  My all-time favorite hobby is reading!

jpatchett@voyageacademyutah.org

Stephanie Peterson

speterson@voyageacademyutah.org

Angie Powell

apowell@voyageacademyutah.org

Shaelyn Love

slove@voyageacademyutah.org

Becky Riggins
Briggins@voyageacademyutah.org

April Young

ayoung@voyageacademyutah.org