Meet the White River Academy Staff

Justin Nielson: School Administrator

Justin Nielson was one of the founders, when White River Academy was established in July 2002 and currently serves as a member of the Board of Directors. As School Administrator, he is committed and responsible for fostering the tone of the Academy by making insightful decisions that impact parents, staff members, and students in positive ways. He was instrumental in developing the Academy's standards and goals and its policies and procedures as found in the Academy's Mission Statement. Justin greatly enjoys working with people and has been very supportive of all the staff members, including counselors, shift managers, staff members, and teachers.

Justin is a key contributor in building cohesive relations with parents, prospective and current students, and employees to meet individual and group goals for each young man who attends the Academy. Prior to his current position as School Administrator at White River Academy, Justin set up an admissions agency for world-wide therapeutic programs for at-risk youths. He also directed another Academy in Southern, Utah.

Throughout his career, Justin brings over 16 years of professional, caring experiences and dedication in working with at-risk youths. He has specialized in targeted case management, a psychiatric technician, and an assistant recreational therapist. For over ten years, Justin also effectively partnered with Organization For Family Advancement (OFFA) and coordinated home life and educational opportunities between Foster Parents, the State of Utah, and OFFA.

In addition to his native language of English, Justin also communicates proficiently in Spanish. He learned to speak Spanish when he lived in Puerto Rico for five years establishing the White River Academy. In addition, Justin also had the honor of serving a two year mission in Oporto, Portugal for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. During that time, he was able to learn how to speak Portuguese. On a personal level, Justin and his wife Jennifer were proctor parents for another Academy in Utah for several years. He currently enjoys many outdoor activities with his wife and their three children, such as baseball, camping, fishing, football, hiking, and hunting. His personal philosophy statement: "Seek to understand, then to be understood."

Kris Cary: Academic Director

Kris Cary has been the Academic Director of White River Academy since December of 2006. He represents White River Academy for their national accreditation. His primary responsibilities are to review student's transcripts and create appropriate academic curriculum. With over sixteen years of involvement with at-risk youth, he focuses on the academic process, delivery, content, and course application for White River Academy.

Kris received a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership with an emphasis in Alternative Education from Prescott College in June of 2009. Furthermore, he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Kinesiology from West Texas A & M University in December of 1994. His professional experiences include working in group homes for adjudicated males, males in self-contained classrooms, and those who are participating in credit recovery programs. Kris has also coached in various recreational and high school sports.

Kris' passion is sports of all kinds, camping, and working with youth. Two of Kris' proudest accomplishments include being named a 1989 NCAA All-American in the 3000 meter Steeple Chase and serving as a Scout Master in the Boy Scouts of America program. Kris declares that his most treasured activity is spending quality time with his wife and family. Kris's personal philosophy statement: "People don't care about how much you know until they know how much you care."

Cydney Cary: Academic Registrar

Cydney Cary has been an Academic Registrar since December of 2007. Her responsibilities include requesting students' academic records, evaluating these records, creating an Individual Student Plan (ISP), enrolling students, keeping track of individual and overall academic progress, releasing academic records, assisting in the state accreditation process, designing and developing high school diplomas and program plaques, ordering miscellaneous graduation supplies, designing and printing of programs.

In addition to her professional career at White River Academy, Cydney, volunteers as a youth leader in her community and has been a licensed foster parent through the State of Utah for more than three years. She has also taught in and operated a pre-school out of her home for over four years.

Cydney's empathy, experience, and commitment to helping families have been motivating factors in her life and have assisted the White River Academy team to reach out to more families in need. Cydney's varied hobbies include collecting lighthouses, enjoying all kinds of music, genealogy, and reading. She has been married for over 25 years and has three children. Cydney's personal philosophy statement: "It is our job as leaders, parents, and educators to lift up, dust off, and inspire those placed in our care; thus, insuring a brighter and more prosperous future generation."

Aubrie Jones: Teacher/Tutor

Aubrie Jones has been a Teacher/Tutor at White River Academy since June of 2008. Her responsibilities include teaching history, sciences (excluding physics), and electives such as information technology, music, and art appreciation. She brings an impressive level of educational and tutoring experience to White River Academy and instills in her students the academic support they need to evolve into independent self-directed learners.

Aubrie attended Northland Baptist Bible College in Wisconsin and earned her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education in 2005. After graduation, Aubrie taught at Grace Baptist Schools in West Valley, Utah instructing children in 4th through 6th grades. She then had an opportunity to advance her skills while teaching biology, physical education, and music to high school students. Currently, she is pursuing a Masters Degree as a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Aubrie had previously lived in Delta, Utah for over 21 years and was delighted to return as a Teacher/Tutor of White River Academy. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Aubrie has recently been certified as an Emergency Medical Technician - Basic (EMT-B). She plays and teaches the piano, including being the lead pianist at her church. Furthermore, she strives to live an active life style and loves playing sports such as baseball, basketball, and volleyball. Aubrie's personal philosophy statement: "Always live a life of transparency and strive for high ethical moral values. This helps govern the role model you are with your family, friends, parents, and students."

Laurel Jones:Assistant Academic Director/Teacher

Laurel Jones has been an Assistant Academic Director/Teacher of White River Academy since December of 2006. She is responsible for teaching students English and math. Furthermore, she is also the mediator between the students and White River Academy's Academic Director. She is extensively involved in parent weekends and parent/teacher conferences. Her accomplishments have been working with youth ever since she was a teen herself. She has volunteered at youth camps, counseled youth, and lead youth activities. Her dedication to education has helped White River Academy students receive goal-driven instruction and focus on producing measurable results that close achievement gaps.

Laurel holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Secondary Mathematics with a minor in Music from Northland Baptist Bible College, in Wisconsin. Prior to this position, Laurel taught and tutored two years at Grace Baptist School. Math is Laurel's passion and she enjoys sharing the complexities of mathematics with her students. In addition to teaching, Laurel's unique hobbies include reading, singing, playing the piano, and playing games with her family. Laurel's personal philosophy: "Seeing each student learn to enjoy, begin to thrive, and finally to succeed in his individual academic goals."

Gary Andersen, M.S. LPC: Therapist

Gary Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and has provided services to White River Academy since November of 2006. He gives professional therapy services to every student. In addition, he also supports and makes available counseling to parents to discuss their teen's goals, problems, and solutions with them. This is a critical component in strengthening the emotional, mental, and social well-being of each of the students at White River Academy. Gary also consults with the White River staff as needed on an ongoing basis to assist them in working with the students at White River Academy.

Gary is a 1987 graduate of Delta High School. Gary attended one year of college at Snow College before serving a two year LDS Mission. Following his missionary service Gary attended Weber State University earning his bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. One year after earning his BS, he pursued a Masters Degree in Psychology from Utah State University and later completed his clinical training through the University of Phoenix.

In 2002, Gary completed his clinical training through the University of Phoenix. He holds a Master's Degree in Psychology from Utah State University completed in 1996 and a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Weber State University, in Utah, completed in 1993.

Throughout his eighteen year career Gary's employment, education, and internships have focused on his long-range goal of providing clinical family counseling services in rural Utah. Gary's range of experience includes counseling and social work experience in such areas as employment and guidance counseling and assisting clients living with long-term poverty. Gary has worked specifically with multiple youth treatment programs and has worked with employee assistance programs, providing services to individuals and families.

In January 2006, Gary opened his own mental health practice in Delta, Utah. In January 2010 he established Cornerstone Clinical Services, LLC. Today he continues to pursue his original goal of providing mental health counseling services to the residence of Millard County, Utah.

Gary has strong roots in Delta, Utah. He served a two year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). After completing his bachelors' degree, he returned to Delta with a desire to strengthen the Delta community through his knowledge and experience. Gary's hobbies include camping, gardening, jeeping, and spending time with his wife and three children.

Dave Barclay: Group Leader

Dave Barclay has been a Group Leader at White River Academy since March of 2010. He is responsible for coaching teens through their therapeutic group sessions. These self-help sessions build trusts and assists boys to recognize their strengths and areas of improvements. At White River Academy, he focuses on teens realizing their potential and resiliency that could be used to aid them to be a unique and sound individual. In addition, he assures that they have a voice and are heard. Dave is a highly motivated and an optimistic member of the White River Academy team that focuses on positive peer culture.

Dave has been certified as an Addiction Counselor (CAC) and has worked closely with the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC) and has done so with his attendance at the University of Utah's School of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse; of which he has attended for several years. In addition, he is still pursuing a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Psychology and a minor in Early Childhood Development from Southern Utah University. Additional education is also being pursued with a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Behavioral Science from Utah State University. Prior to joining White River Academy, Dave had extensive hands on experience consisting of over 20 years with the Division of Child and Family Services (D.C.F.S), State of Utah, and is Case Management certified. Dave has practical residential treatment center experiences with youth over ten years. This includes being an accountability coordinator, group leader, parent liaison, and a support staff supervisor.

Dave's accomplishments include serving a two year mission in California for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Dave has five beautiful children and treasures moments in raising them and looks forward to his family gatherings around the holidays. Furthermore, he is an avid fisherman and in the past, he has performed the Scottish bagpipes in completion around the United States of America.

Throughout his eighteen year career Gary's employment, education, and internships have focused on his long-range goal of providing clinical family counseling services in rural Utah. Gary's range of experience includes counseling and social work experience in such areas as employment and guidance counseling and assisting clients living with long-term poverty. Gary has worked specifically with multiple youth treatment programs and has worked with employee assistance programs, providing services to individuals and families.

Dave's personal philosophy statement: "He has found the optimum potential to learn by serving these greatest of great students here. The older he gets, the more he realizes it is the students who are teaching him. They, through their development; educate us all with our alignment to their progression through life. Using his magic potion of rapour, he loves the opportunity and expects to participate for as long as he is breathing in this great experience of life!"

Barbara Habel: Parent Liaison & Medical Coordinator

Barbara Habel has been a Parent Liaison and Medical Coordinator of White River Academy since April of 2008. As a parent liaison, she is responsible for bringing out clarity, empathy, and telephone coaching calls involving the student and their parents. She also establishes additional growth through practicing conflict resolution skills and exploring new and positive communication skills. She respectfully integrates parental concerns with those of their teens to ensure both are working toward the same objectives.

As a medical coordinator, she is responsible for scheduling doctor appointments and medication monitoring, etc. Barbara holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Brigham Young University, Utah with an emphasis in Business. In addition, she is a Licensed Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and is working on an EMT Advanced Certification. Barbara is also a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Instructor. She has been a paid volunteer for over 13 years with the Utah Ambulance Service in Millard County.

With her professional medical knowledge and background, as well as, her many years of using very effective parenting skills in raising five children, Barbara is able to draw upon her experiences to support White River Academy staff members in successfully reuniting parents with their teenagers during difficult times. Barbara and her husband enjoy their five adult children and their nine grandchildren. Her relaxation hobby is to quilt. Barbara's personal philosophy statement: "Students to recognize the value of education in their lives because it is a key to success!"

Natalee Oppenheimer: Office Manager

Natalee Oppenheimer has expertly performed the role of Office Manager at White River Academy since October of 2007. She is the backbone of the business office and ensures that the day to day operations in the office run smoothly. Some of her responsibilities include, initiating student enrollments and discharges, overseeing student files, performing payroll, and scheduling staff members. With her extensive business background, she is also responsible for performing quality assurance administrative state regulation audits. Most importantly, she genuinely cares about the employees, parents, and teens at White River Academy. She consistently offers words of encouragement to students as she observes their transformation throughout their stay at White River Academy.

Natalee attended Sevier Valley Applied Technology Center, in Utah focusing on Business Management. She further advanced her education with concentrated endeavors at Nevada State College with an emphasis in Elementary Education. She also holds a Diploma in General Education at North Sevier High School, Utah.

Natalee is a proud mother to all her children. She takes an active role in being available for her family. Her outdoor hobbies include camping, fishing, four wheeling, attending rodeo events, and playing volleyball. Natalee's personal philosophy statement: "Be happy and enjoy what you do."

Cody Clegg: Shift Manager

Cody Clegg has been a Shift Manager at White River Academy since April of 2008. He is responsible for managing support staff members, assisting in resolving problems, and diffusing issues. He answers questions and instills teaching moments to the teens in a respectful form of communication. Cody is a Certified Trainer for the "Handle with Care" program issued from the State of Utah. Cody also has a Diploma from Lehi High School, in Utah.

As an avid outdoor enthusiast, Cody enjoys camping, fishing, and hunting. His hobbies include building cars and making wood furniture. Furthermore, he also enjoys breaking in horses to accept the reins and training horses for riding. Most importantly, he also loves spending time with his wife and three children. Cody's personal philosophy statement: "No matter how big the problem seems to be that there is a positive solution."

Gary Porter: Shift Manager

Gary Porter has been a Shift Manager at White River Academy since October of 2009. He is responsible for overseeing support staff members, resolving problems, and diffusing issues. He instills techniques to his staff to provide skillful communication and discipline approaches for positive learning moments. With Gary's passion for working with youth and using his natural leadership skills, he has a valuable opportunity to assist in the growth and development of the young men who attended the academy.

Gary attended Ricks College in Rexburg, Idaho for two years on a Wrestling scholarship where he studied psychology. After attending Ricks College, Gary pursued studies in Biology and Chemistry with an emphasis in Genetics.

Gary was born and raised in Delta, Utah and resides here with his wife and six children. Gary decided to diversify his talents and interests in many entrepreneurial venues in Delta. He has farmed up to 500 acres of land and ran 150 head of cows. He currently farms a little over 180 acres and a small herd of cattle. At the same time, he actively manages his goat milk soap manufacturing business and trades his own futures and trading account in preparation to qualify and receive his CTA (Commodity Trading Advisor) license. Lastly, he operates a graphic design and T-shirt business with his wife.

Gary has enjoyed being involved in the lives of young men as a wrestling coach for all skill-set levels from beginner to coaching several All-American athletes at the National Level. Throughout his 21 plus years of coaching, he has effectively learned to work with young men of all different backgrounds and personalities and their individual problems and concerns.

Gary's personal philosophy statement: "It has been my great privilege to have been involved in so many young lives and affirms to me that through hard work and determination, any of man's inherent weaknesses are overcome and be formed into one's strengths, if one has the proper motivation and guidance."

James Greathouse: Shift Manager

James Greathouse has been a Shift Manager of White River Academy since October of 2009. He is responsible for managing support staff members, overseeing students, problem solving and diffusing issues. With his supervisor skills, he task fully guides the support staff and students to create a positive peer culture environment.

James received several Certificates of Achievements from Delta Technical Center in auto mechanics, machine tools, and welding. He graduated and received a Diploma in General Education at Delta High School. In addition, James is still pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice at Dixie State College, in Utah. Prior to working at White River Academy, James position was being a staff member at a youth center. Another vocation James performed was being a professional sign painter, in Utah for over seven years.

James married his high school sweetheart and they have three beautiful children. His hobbies include, being outdoors, camping, hunting, riding four wheelers, and riding motorcycles. He also creates airbrush artistry in his spare time. James's personal philosophy statement: "There are no bad kids, there just bad choices."

Tracy Benson: Kitchen Manager

Tracy Benson was initially employed as a Support Staff member at White River Academy in January of 2010. But, based on her motivation, work ethics, and diverse life experiences, she was promoted to the position of Kitchen Manager four months later. Tracy is responsible for ordering food, planning and preparing all meals, including serving of food for parent weekends. Tracy's food preparation and management skills have helped White River Academy effectively comply with State and Federal Food regulations and standards. Tracy assures that every boy assisting in the kitchen receives a State of Utah Food Handler's Permit. She instills to each boy high work Ethics and supervises them along with setting each boy's kitchen schedules.

Tracy offers an educational and military background that helps her understand how to motivate and communicate with at-risk youths who attend White River Academy. She received an Air Force Reserves Honorable discharge after completing eight years of military service and had acquired the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Tracy also completed a Bachelor's Degree in Criminalistics with a minor in Chemistry from Weber State University, in Utah. In addition, she earned an Associate of Arts Degree in Early Education from Linn-Benton Community College, in Oregon and an Associate of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Utah Valley University. Tracy's prior work experience was in being a lead teacher with a Head Start pre-school program for low income families. Tracy lives in Delta, Utah with her husband of thirteen years and their four children. Her varied hobbies and interests include crafts, hunting, painting, and scrap-booking. Tracy's personal philosophy statement: "Always have high work ethics and remember to be your best at what you do!"

Tom Sinnott: Service Project Manager

Tom Sinnott has been a Service Project Manager at White River Academy since May of 2010. He is responsible for community service projects that boys are required to perform. Through a variety of activities, teens develop the value of contributing something positive to their community. In addition, students gain confidence in their ability to overcome difficult obstacles by persevering through challenges.

Tom was an Electrician Mate in the United States Navy. He is currently pursuing his Associates of Science Degree in General Studies. Previous work experiences include being an assistant manager, lifeguard, and a trailer mechanic.

Besides being a Service Project Manager, Tom is an animal breeder and loves to raise them. He also plays sports and in high school, he was Captain of his wrestling team. In addition, he also lettered in lacrosse, swimming, and wrestling. He spends his spare time hunting, off road, and being home with his family. Tom's personal philosophy statement: "It is that the little things in life count the most."

Kevin Black: Facilities Manager

Kevin Black has been a Facilities Manager at White River Academy since October of 2006. He is primarily responsible for managing and maintaining all the physical facilities. Kevin's professional construction background has helped White River Academy consistently offer a safe and clean environment for all parents, staff members, and students. Furthermore, Kevin is also a White River Academy Service Project Mentor. He works closely with the boys during their individual community service project. He instills good work ethics, perseverance, and hard work to assist boys to give of one-self.

Kevin attended Utah Valley Technical College and in 1984, he graduated from Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Program (JATC), in California. Prior to working at White River Academy, Kevin managed large scale construction projects for a construction company as a union electrician. Kevin loves spending time with his children and grandchildren. He enjoys dirt biking and even has a pet goose named Fiona, which guards his farm wonderfully. Kevin's personal philosophy statement: "Gratification comes from working with youth".

Isaac Dodoo: Support Staff

Isaac Dodoo has been a Support Staff member of White River Academy since August of 2009. He is responsible for monitoring boys' schedule for adherence. Through positive peer culture, he disciplines boys in a teachable learning form of communications. In addition to raising his own children, Isaac brings many years of experience working with children and in gaining their respect.

Isaac was born in Accra, Ghana, but moved to England with his parents when he was young boy. He speaks fluent English, the official language of Ghana. (There are nine major dialects in Ghana, but Dangme and Ga are the two spoken primarily in Accra.)

Isaac holds a Diploma in Electricals from Accra Poly Technical School in Ghana. In addition, he has mastered multiple languages. Languages include: Awosa, Ewe, Fante, French, Ga, Spanish, and Twi. Furthermore, Isaac loves to travel. Some countries he has visited are Belgium, England, France, and Germany. Isaac, who now lives in Delta, Utah has been married for over ten years and has five children. Isaac's personal philosophy statement: "Use experiences to love life!"

Jesse Haslam: Support Staff

Jesse Haslam has been a Support Staff member of White River Academy since December of 2009. He is responsible for respectfully working with the boys before and after bed. To assure a safe environment, he performs security checks and head counts. On a consistent basis, he provides feedback to the boys in a positive peer culture form of communication. He is a consistent member of the graveyard shift with high work ethic standards.

At Dixie State College, in Utah, Jesse completed several drafting courses. He also holds a Diploma from Hurricane High School, in Utah focusing in General Education. To further advance his skills, during high school, Jesse received Certifications of Achievements in Auto Body and Engine Repair. Prior to working at White River Academy, Jesse's vocation was building custom cabinets and working on special effects stage lights. Jesse's has a beautiful daughter and he cherishes his time with her. His hobbies include fishing, hunting, and softball. Jesse is interested in computers, gadgets, and technology. Jesse's personal philosophy statement: "He likes watching the transformation change in students from the beginning of their White River Academy journey to what they gradually become at the end of their crossing."

Jodi Thompson: Support Staff

Jodi Thompson has been a Support Staff member at White River Academy since March of 2011. She is responsible for providing a safe environment for all students. She is accountable to make sure teens are following appropriate schedules. Jodi embraces and adheres to White River Academy's discipline guidelines. She holds teens accountable for their actions through positive peer culture and strong communication skills.

Jodi received a Certificate of Achievement from Hill Air Force Base, in Utah specializing in painting. She further developed her career by receiving a Certificate of Achievement from Applied Technology Center (ATC), in Utah, which focused on Advanced Material Handling. Jodi's hobbies include camping, hunting, and riding horses. Jodi's personal philosophy statement: "Treat people the way you want to be treated."

Jon Lister: Support Staff

Jon Lister has been a Support Staff at White River Academy since February of 2010. He is responsible to guide the boys in making positive choices. In addition, he encourages them to become accountable for their daily routines by following basic structure. Jon's discipline approach is for them to receive learning moments and personal responsibility. This supports White River Academy's positive peer culture and values.

Jon is currently serving in the National Guard and holds a General Education Diploma from Delta High School, in Utah. Prior to working at White River Academy, Jon's vocation was in construction specializing with industrial painting. Jon's hobbies include all outdoor activities, four wheeling, hiking, and shooting. Jon's personal philosophy statement: "Always do the right thing to become the men you want to be."

Kirt Allredge: Support Staff

Kirt Alldredge has been a Support Staff Member at White River Academy since May of 2011. He encourages the students to become accountable and utilizes positive peer culture for them to receive learning moments and personal responsibility. Kirt tries to be a good example to the students and help them with their positive self-image.

Kirt currently has a Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Certification. He has taken Project Management courses through ITT Technical schools towards his applied Bachelor of Science Degree. Prior to working at White River Academy, his vocation was in sales. In addition, his former positions were in construction as a heavy equipment operator, skilled plumber, carpenter, and as a cabinetry maker. Lastly, for over fourteen years, he owned several pizza and video stores.

Kirt served a two year honorable mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This included serving in New Mexico and even on a Navaho Indian Reservation area. Kirt enjoys spending time with his beautiful wife and three children. His hobbies include cooking and gardening. With his adventurous love for the outdoors, he also takes pleasure in camping, fishing, gunning, and hunting. His other passion is being a softball coach and playing softball. Kirt's personal philosophy statement: "Always have high ethical standards in being honest and in treating your fellow-men well."

Loren Pence: Support Staff

Loren Pence has been a Support Staff member at White River Academy since January of 2007. He is responsible for monitoring the boy's schedules for adherence and teaches them discipline and understanding through positive peer culture. His accomplishments include being a volunteer coach working with mentally disabled individuals during the Special Olympics of Utah. In addition, Loren also worked with mentally and physically handicapped adults in Delta, Utah. His compassion and experience has helped White River Academy team be successful to students' daily life management skills.

In 2004, Loren received a General Education Degree from Delta High School, Utah. He is still pursuing a Bachelor Degree in Behavioral Science. To further expand his skills, he also is pursuing a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Certification.

His adventurous hobbies include back packing, camping, and fishing. He also enjoys working on vehicles and lending a helping hand to whomever stands in need. Loren married his high school sweetheart and has a beautiful daughter. Loren's personal philosophy statement: "Study the behaviors of others to broaden your own awareness and compassion towards humanity."

Sabreanna Park: Support Staff

Sabreanna Park has been a Support Staff member at White River Academy since April of 2010. She is responsible for monitoring and assisting teens with their daily routine schedules. At White River Academy, she possesses an abundance of patience and communicates respectfully to the boys in a kind and caring manner. She takes great pride in not judging them and is an avid supporter of positive peer culture.

Sabreanna is still pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice with an emphasis on Law Enforcement from Utah Valley University. Prior to working at White River Academy, she also worked with youth as a staff member in Provo, Utah. Sabreanna is married and is a proud mother of two beautiful children. She loves to spend quality time with her family doing outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and four wheeling. Sabreanna's personal philosophy statement: "Do not judge others."

Theresa Smith: Support Staff

Theresa Smith has been a Support Staff member of White River Academy since May of 2011. She is responsible and accountable for guiding, directing, and monitoring the students. Theresa supports White River Academy's mission statement when she uses her positive peer culture skills to respectfully communicate back to the boys..

Theresa graduated from Manti High School in Utah. Prior to working for White River Academy, she was a residential coach at another youth center. Theresa has over twelve years of parenting skills and devotes her life raising her five beautiful children. Theresa enjoys being outdoors doing a variety of activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, and rock hounding. Her personal philosophy statement "I strive to be a role model to our students and make a difference in their lives to help them have a better life."

Tina Wittern: Support Staff

Tina Wittern has been a Support Staff member of White River Academy since April of 2011. She is responsible and accountable for guiding, directing, and monitoring teens. Tina uses positive peer culture to respectfully communicate back to the boys in her discipline approach.

Tina received a Heavy Equipment Operating Certificate from Las Vegas, Nevada. She also holds a Diploma in General Education at Hurricane High School, in Utah. Furthermore, she is pursuing being a BodyTalk Practitioner. Prior to working at White River Academy, Tina's occupation was being a truck driver for the Nevada mining industry. Tina enjoys studying BodyTalk, which is a journey to self health. Tina's personal philosophy statement: "Whatever the mind is able to conceive, it knows how to achieve".