Teachers
English Department
Jennifer Callister
English Instructor
Education: Bachelor's in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Utah
Background: I finished my schooling and choose to stay at home with my children until my my youngest child started school. My children started going to school at APA in 2010 and I started working at APA in 2020.
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family. In my spare time I run, read books, and play the piano. I love being outdoors hiking, camping, and kayaking.
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Shalane Carson
English Teacher
Education: Bachelor of the Arts
Background: I grew up in Idaho and moved to Utah to attend University. I began working at APA in 2021.
Hobbies: I love reading, being outdoors, playing piano, and traveling.
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Audra Coleman
English Teacher
Education: Bachelor of Arts: English, Minor: Visual Arts
Background: I have worked as a content writer, archivist and librarian.
Hobbies: I enjoy painting, reading (of course), and film criticism in my free time.
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Michael Christenson
English Teacher
Education: Bachelor of Arts - English Language and Literature - Weber State University
Background: "Although much of my teaching experience has been the corporate world, my first love has always been teaching writing, so I'm very pleased to have escaped to a better place at APA. For about ten years, I made a living as an illusionist, appearing primarily in the western United States. Some favorite gigs were performing with the Utah Symphony at Abravanel Hall in Salt Lake and touring for a season with Odyssey Dance Theater's ""Thriller"" program. More recently, I returned to creative writing. My first novel made it to #1 on Amazon and I have since published three more novels and a dozen short stories under the pen name Michael Darling. Because Neverland is always closer than you think."
Hobbies: Travel, reading, board gaming, and cooking
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Shirley Harr Workman
English Instructor
Education: Degree in Medical Specialties
Background: I have been a Computer Tech, a CNA, a Medical Assistant, and a College Bookstore Manager. I began working at APA in 2015 and have never looked back.
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Cami McHan
English Teacher
Education: I went to Brigham Young University. I studied history, creative writing, and classical studies with an emphasis in Latin. I graduated with a bachelor's degree in 2023.
Background: I grew up in a small town in Idaho and came to Utah in 2017 for college. I came to APA as an elementary instructor in spring 2024 and started as a secondary teacher in the fall of that year.
Hobbies: I enjoy reading (usually a classic, romance, or historical fiction), writing stories, and spending time with my friends and family.
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William McKelvey
English Teacher
Education: Bachelor’s degree and Single Subject English Teaching Credential, San Francisco State University
Background: Hip hop enthusiast, survivor, time traveler, and comedian.
Hobbies: No time for such things. I put all my energy into my professional field.
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Tommy Mier
English Teacher
Education: Bachelors in English
Background: I grew up in Los Angeles, California and moved to Utah in 2015 to attend Brigham Young University. In 2020, I was blessed enough to be a first generation college graduate. Throughout my educational journey, many mentors have helped me get to where I am today. I hope to reciprocate that service to future generations and help students pursue and reach their educational goals.
Hobbies: I LOVE BASKETBALL
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Lauren Treadwell
English Teacher
Education: B.A.
Background: I was born and raised in Salt Lake City and am an APA graduate. I graduated from BYU in Humanities with an English literature emphasis, and a minor and certificate in TESOL (teaching English to speakers of other languages).
Hobbies: I love yoga and being active, hiking, reading, writing, and meeting new people!
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Jeffrey Sorensen
English Teacher
Education: Longwood University, Farmville, Virginia
Background: I taught in Florida for five years before moving to Utah. I have been with APA since 2005.
Hobbies: Reading, writing, and Borderlands
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Colin Willoughby
English Teacher
Education: California State University, Chico
Background: Entertainment, ESL
Hobbies: Golf, reading, traveling, athletics, exercise
xHistory
Sam Hobi
History Teacher
Education: Bachelors with honors in Economics from Oberlin, College and an MBA from Columbia Business School
Background: I spent 15 years in corporate finance and banking mostly with GE Capital in Connecticut, New York and Utah before deciding to teach. I am a Utah native and have lived in Salt Lake since 2013. I am an honors graduate of Oberlin College and hold an MBA from Columbia Business School.
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Ben Horrocks
History Teacher
Education: BS in Political Science, BA in History, MA in History
Background: I attended Utah State University for both my undergraduate and graduate degrees. Afterwards, I moved down to Salt Lake.
Hobbies: I enjoy music, reading, and the outdoors.
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Shingin Lee
English Teacher
Education: Bachelor of Arts - History Education - Brigham Young University - Idaho
Background: I am from Korea. I moved to Idaho to go to school in 2017. After graduating from BYU-I in 2021, I taught in Idaho for one year before joining APA.
Hobbies: I am a big fan of baseball.
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Annaka Nay
History Teacher
Education: Bachelor's Degree in History Education from Brigham Young University; Master's Degree in International Affairs and Global Enterprise from the University of Utah
Background: I grew up in Utah and knew that I always wanted to be a teacher. I also loved history, so history teacher seemed like the perfect route for me!
Hobbies: I love traveling and experiencing new cultures. I play the violin & the viola and enjoy dancing. I love to read just about any genre.
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Ellie Taylor
History Teacher
Education: BS - Social Studies Education, emphasis in Political Science, Brigham Young University - Idaho
Background: I was born and raised in Idaho and learned about hard work at a young age on my family's potato farm. I have also lived in Arizona and served an LDS mission that brought me to Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee. I am a proud big sister to 5 siblings and married to my best friend since 2017.
Hobbies: I love listening to podcasts or audiobooks about history, politics and true crime. I love going on road trips, spending time with family and board games. I LOVE trivia. Learning about random trivia or playing trivia games and watching shows like Jeopardy is a lot of fun to me.
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Latin Department
Cassandra Ball-Coleman
Latin Teacher
Education: BA: Classical Studies
Background: I graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in Classical Studies, focusing on Ancient Greek and Latin philology with a minor in Anthropology. As a student, I was selected for a competitive Mentoring Environments Grant, a BYU ORCA Grant, and the prestigious Wheatley Foundation scholarship. I have a diverse background in Classical Studies. Prior to beginning my secondary teaching career, I worked as an academic researcher, translating previously-unpublished Hellenistic Greek papyri. I spent two summers in Petra, Jordan, excavating a Roman archaeological site and teaching pottery analysis for archaeologists. Between archaeological seasons, I was also a curatorial researcher for the Bethlehem Museum, specializing in traditional textiles. Her personal research focuses on personhood and identity in Augustan Rome. I came to APA in 2017, teaching secondary Latin at the Draper 3 campus before joining the West Valley 2 team.
Hobbies: Classical & Modern Languages, Reading (especially Victorian Gothic literature), Going to Museums
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Travis Coleman
Latin Teacher
Education: Bachelor’s degree in ancient civilizations, University of Iowa
Background: For six exciting months, I worked at Walt Disney World in Florida. My roles there included cooking thousands of turkey legs a day and performing in the evening parades as Goofy. Most of my working years were spent in a grocery store back in Iowa, where I eventually became a chef.
Hobbies: My favorite hobby is hiking. When I'm not in the mountains, I enjoy reading, cooking, and writing.
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Meaghan Nielson-Brown
Latin Teacher
Education: Bachelor of Arts in History from Utah State University; Master's Degree in Classics with an emphasis on Latin Pedagogy from The University of Arizona
Background: For over ten years, I have taught Latin to 5th graders, university students, and everyone in between. I have spent most of those years with 7th-12th grade students. I have been blessed to study and work with some of the most renowned classicists and Latin teachers in the country.
Hobbies: My husband and I spend most of our free time cooking our favorite recipes and trying new restaurants.
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Colin Robertson
Latin Teacher
Education: I have a Bachelors degree for History teaching with minors in Spanish teaching and Classical Civilizations
Background: I am from originally from Utah County. I have two older sisters and a younger brother. I attended Utah State University in Logan where I studied History, Spanish, and Latin. I began teaching at APA in 2023.
Hobbies: I enjoy reading, playing board games and Dungeons and Dragons, and kayaking
Hobbies: When I'm not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, writing, fitness, cooking/baking, crocheting and knitting, camping, hiking, and doing puzzles.
xMath Department
Tanner Bennett
Math Teacher
Education: Bachelors in Chemical Engineering
Background: Im originally from Michigan, served an LDS mission in Mexico City, and graduated from BYU.
Hobbies: Piano, Swimming, Board Games, and Arts & Crafts
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Tania Dimitrova
Math Teacher
Education: I graduate from San Jose State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics (Preparation for Teaching).
Background: I was born and raised in Bulgaria and can speak, read, and write in Bulgarian. In 2004, my family and I moved to California where I finished my K-12 education, attended community college and university. I graduated from San Jose State University in 2018. Two days after graduation, I packed up and moved to Utah. I have been working at APA since 2018. I worked as an elementary instructor for 3 years before moving to secondary.
Hobbies: I love playing video games and board/card games with friends, watching baseball, and attending concerts and hockey games. On the weekends, I enjoy bowling, cross-stitching while listening to music, and watching tv. I have also become very fond of fountain pens.
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Patti Hatton
Math Teacher
Education: Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering, Brigham Young University; licensed secondary teacher, Utah State University
Background: My first job out of college was as an environmental engineer at US Steel. After that, I was a real estate broker for 15 years in California, taught Real Estate and Finance for eight years at College of the Canyons, and even taught high school at the Utah State prison for a year. Raising my four children also took some time.
Hobbies - I live on a tiny farm and spend my summers and weekends weeding the garden, thinning the orchard, and tending the chickens. I'm hoping to add bees to the farm next year. I also love hanging out with my three grandchildren, playing with my dog, Toby, and sitting by the ocean whenever I get the chance.
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Rachael Peay
Math Teacher
Education: BS Applied Mathematics from Weber State University
Background: I am excited to impart knowledge of a subject I am passionate about with new students each year. I have 4 kids; 2 boys and 2 girls.
Hobbies: Reading, exercising, and spending time with my children.
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Brianne Peterson
Math Teacher
Education: SLCC Associates Degree, with an emphasis on mild to moderate special education. Western Governors University, Bachelors of Education: Secondary 5-12 Mathematics.
Background: I have always loved being a teacher, I started out as a dance teacher, where I taught ballet, jazz, hip hop and tumbling. I coached for many Utah high school drill teams and dance companies over a span of 15 years. While I was coaching I attended Salt Lake Community College, where I received an associate’s degree in general studies with an emphasis on mild to moderate special education. I continued my education at Western Governors University with a focus on secondary 5-12 grade Mathematics. I have been in a secondary math classroom either as a tutor, substitute or teacher for over 10 years.
Hobbies: I love, reading, swimming, being in the sun, and spending time with my 3 kids!
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Taylor Yates
Math Teacher
Education: Bachelors Degree in Mathematics with a Minor in Computer Science, University of Utah
Background: I grew up moving between Maryland and California, but I claim Southern California as home. I ran cross country and track in high school and at the University of Texas in Austin. I transferred to the University of Utah after my first year at Texas and started teaching at APA right after graduating in 2020.
Hobbies: I like playing pickle ball on the weekends with my husband, baking chocolate desserts, going to the beach, and doing anything in the sun. On quiet evenings, I enjoy playing card games and watching Disney movies.
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Ben Wattayne
Math Teacher
Education: I graduated from Brigham Young University in 2021 with a Bachelor's Degree in Statistics, with an Emphasis in Data Sciences.
Background: After leaving a career in Data Analytics I began working at APA in October 2022.
Hobbies: I love the outdoors! I am a big time skier, hiker, and pickleball player. I love working on motorcycles, watching sports, and spending time with my family.
xScience Department
Saba Ahmad
Science Teacher
Education:Bachelor's in Biology with a chemistry minor from GOVT. College University. Faisalabad, Pakistan.
Background:I'm from Pakistan, it's a beautiful country in the heart of South East Asia. I have been in education since 2010. I started as an instructor at APA then worked my way up to be a science teacher. My passion for teaching started while I was in college and I started tutoring my siblings. I teach 7th and 8th grade and I also have one year experience of teaching chemistry to international students.
Hobbies: I love spending time with my family and friends. I like hosting dinners, cooking and making videos.
xMicheal P. Christenson
Science Teacher
Education: MS - Physics (general relativity)
Background: Prior to coming to APA in 2023, I taught college physics in Las Vegas NV for about ten years. Before that I worked for a small structural engineering firm.
Hobbies: I enjoy baking, and watching movies or TV shows with my wife.
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Irena Golon
Science Teacher
Education: Bachelors in Chemistry and Thesis Masters in Analytical Chemistry
Background: My entire family is full of different scientists, so my love for science began early as a child. I grew up in Houston, TX but spent my adult years in Pittsburgh, PA where I attended Seton Hill University and Duquesne University where I earned a Bachelors in Chemistry and a Thesis Masters in Analytical Chemistry. I developed my love for teaching while attending graduate school where I was a TA for four years. I moved to Utah in June of 2021 because my husband and I are avid skiers and am so happy to be teaching for an incredible school.
Hobbies: My favorite thing to do is spend time with my husband and my Bernese mountain dog, Pear. I also enjoy skiing, reading, and traveling.
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Jacob Lallatin
Science Teacher
Education: B.S. in Applied Physics from BYU
Background: I am from a logging community in the mountains of eastern Oregon
Hobbies: Long bike rides with podcasts, Dungeons and Dragons, and interesting conversations.
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Dipika Sharma
Science Teacher
Education: MS- Plant Science(Botany)- India MS Curriculum and Instruction/Science Education - University of Minnesota
Background: Experienced Interpreter, with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry. I am skilled in Science Education, Curriculum Development, Ecology and Science (with more focus on Biology/Life Science). I believe learning is a lifelong process that enhances our understanding of the world we live in and beyond. My passion for teaching and learning began while working as a TA at the University. Since than I have been a part of both informal as well as structural teaching-learning setting.
Hobbies: Besides reading fictions, cooking and baking is something that keeps me sane and happy. I also love camping and travelling.
xHealth and PE
Ruthanne Brinkley
Health and PE Teacher
Education: Bachelors in Psychology, Masters in Health and Human Performance, Nutrition Counseling Certificate, EMT Licensed, IV and Phlebotomy Certified
Background: I grew up in Arizona. Lived in Colorado, Virginia, Idaho, and moved to Utah in 2024. Began working at APA in 2024.
Hobbies: I love studying and teaching nutrition, enjoy music and dance, and teaching first aid and survival skills.
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Adam Richards
PE Teacher
Education: University of Utah Kinesiology - Teaching
Background: Graduated from Post Falls High School 2001. Graduated from Salt Lake Community College 2011. Graduated from the University of Utah Kinesiology - Teaching 2017. Inducted member of the National Honors Society of Leadership and Success University of Utah chapter 2013. I believe that effective teaching is built on strong relationships between educators and students. By fostering a supportive community, I strive to create a positive learning environment that encourages student engagement and success. My curriculum is designed not only to impart knowledge but also to promote equity in education, ensuring that all students have access to meaningful learning experiences.
Hobbies: Snowboarding, stand-up paddle boarding, spending time with loved ones, reading, and cooking
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Rodrigo Betancourth
Orchestra Teacher
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Education Science with a Major in Violin performance and Pedagogy
Background: I am from Guayaquil, Ecuador and currently live in Midvale. I am a Suzuki Certified Violin Teacher, teaching up to Book 7 and in the summer will certify up to Book 9. I have experience as a violin teacher in school with kindergarten children, and as a violin and orchestra teacher in elementary and high school from 2006 - 2013 in Ecuador. I have taught violin classes in a music Conservatory from 2010 -2013, where he graduated as a teacher in 2011. I continue to practice my profession of being a violin teacher and was also a member of the Symphonic Orchestra of Guayaquil-Ecuador from 2003 to 2013.
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David D'Agostini
Drama Teacher
Education: BFA from Brigham Young University in Music Dance Theatre. MFA in Dramatic Arts from the University of San Diego.
Background: I'm originally from Sacramento, Ca., and I have a wife and three wonderful children. I served a mission for the LDS church in Kiev, Ukraine. After my time in college, I spent many years in New York City where I worked as an actor and theatre professional. Here in Utah I work as an actor, voice-over artist, theatre company managing director, and now teacher.
Hobbies: Gardening, Model ship, car, and plane building, & Archery.
xMargaret George
Dance Teacher
Education: I graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor's Degree in French, minoring in Ballroom Dance and Nonprofit Management.
Background: I traveled and competed in college as part of the Utah Valley University Ballroom Tour Team and the Brigham Young University Showcase Company. In addition to teaching private lessons and continuing to compete individually in the professional circuit, I began working at APA in August 2021.
Hobbies: I enjoy teaching yoga and traveling. I also love to watch films that inspire me to live a more full life.
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Marielle Kreutz
Dance Teacher
Education: BA from Brigham Young University-Idaho in Contemporary Dance Choreography and Performance
Background: I am originally from Colorado and love living so close to the mountains in the Salt Lake Valley with my family. During my time in college I had the opportunity to dance with the multiple touring companies - performing across the United States, Costa Rica, Panama, and Indonesia. I have taught dance in Colorado, Washington, Idaho, and Utah and love watching my students become dance artists. I have trained in and teach modern dance, ballet, jazz, tap, ballroom, world dance, and musical theater. Currently, I rehearse and perform with several professional contemporary dance companies in the Salt Lake area and enjoy working on my own technique and movement so that I can further mentor my students.
Hobbies: Rock Climbing, Woodworking, Hiking, Painting, Listening to audio books and podcasts
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Juan Carlos Mackay
Choir Teacher
Education: Bachelor's of Music in Composition, Utah State University class of 2006, Cum Laude
Background: I was born in a military family who lived in Texas, Germany, Nevada and Utah. Singing has always been an important part of my family. I felt inspired by my choir teachers in Jr High and High school to pursue music in college. I wrote my first song in 1994 when I was about 15 years old and have loved writing music ever since. I currently sing tenor with the Tabernacle Choir on Temple Square, which I joined in 2018.
Hobbies: Attending live music and theater, playing the guitar and ukulele
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Nancy Patterson
Art Teacher
Education: Bachelors in Art Education
Background: I have been working at APA for 14 years. I have worked at all of the Draper campuses as well as West Valley 2. I worked in the High School office for a couple of years and returned to teaching Art in 2019.
Hobbies: Being a mom to my 4 kids.
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Jairo Velazquez
Band Teacher
Education: Bachelors/Masters degree in Clarinet Performance from The University of Utah School of Music
Background: I was born and raised in Las Vegas Nevada and moved to Utah after high school to study at the U. I started taking clarinet lessons in 10th grade and soon after decided I wanted to study music in college. Music has always been a big part of my life.
Hobbies: Utah has made me appreciate the outdoors so I love hiking, going to lakes, and skiing in the winter time. I also try to take any opportunity to play in community orchestras around the valley.
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