Halina Hickey

Preschool Director & Teacher

Halina Hickey has been with The Learning Academy of Teton Valley since the very beginning and currently serves as the Preschool Director. With a lifelong passion for working with children, Halina brings warmth, wisdom, and dedication to every aspect of her role. She not only leads her own classroom but also provides guidance and support to the other preschool teachers, helping to foster a nurturing and engaging environment for LATV’s youngest learners.

Originally from Poland, Halina moved to the United States at the age of 25, settling in Jackson Hole, Wyoming after getting married. She began her career in childcare as a private nanny before opening her own in-home daycare while raising her two children, Luke and Gina. Over the past 20 years, Halina has called Teton Valley home, and her commitment to the local community and its children has only grown stronger with time.

Halina’s favorite part of teaching is the joy and purpose she finds in daily interactions with her students. Every school year, she pours her heart into preparing creative lesson plans and engaging activities, always striving to meet each child where they are and support their growth. Her deep care for every student as both individuals and members of a classroom community is a cornerstone of her teaching philosophy. She finds great joy in helping her students build the strong foundation they need for lifelong learning.

Outside the classroom, Halina enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, relaxing in her sunny backyard, and watching Survivor—she’s seen nearly every episode! She shares her home with her daughter Gina and their beloved three-year-old German Shepherd “grandson,” Francis.

Halina also has an incredible talent for organization and décor. She has a gift for transforming even the smallest spaces into warm, welcoming environments—a skill that shines through in all of the beautiful classroom spaces in the preschool area. The Learning Academy is deeply fortunate to have Halina’s unmatched dedication, experience, and heart as part of its early childhood education team.

2026-27 Enrollment

Welcome to The Learning Academy of Teton Valley! We are honored that you are considering our school for your child’s educational journey. Located in Driggs, Idaho, our campus serves students from preschool through eighth grade and offers a nature-based, individualized learning environment where children are encouraged to explore, create, and grow at their own pace.

At The Learning Academy, we believe every child is unique. Our educators are committed to meeting learners where they are, accommodating diverse learning styles, and providing thoughtful support so each student feels seen, valued, and capable. We strive to create a safe, nurturing space where curiosity is celebrated, creativity is encouraged, and children feel confident taking academic and personal risks.

Hands-on learning, meaningful relationships, and time spent outdoors are central to our approach. Just as important as academic growth is the development of strong character, healthy relationships, and emotional well-being. We intentionally model and teach kindness, responsibility, empathy, and respect—values that help students thrive both in and beyond the classroom.

We warmly invite you to explore our campus, experience our community, and see firsthand how The Learning Academy supports the whole child. Please reach out with any questions or to schedule a tour. We look forward to welcoming your family and partnering with you in your child’s education.