Back to the basics of learning, education, enrichment and fun.
A Shared Commitment
At The Learning Academy of Teton Valley, our teachers are as diverse as our students and families—bringing a wide range of experiences, ages, backgrounds, and interests. What unites us is a shared commitment to creating a unique, engaging school environment and to making our students feel nurtured in their growth and learning. Like all members of a strong community, we take on multiple roles and support one another, making our school feel truly connected and collaborative.
Our Teachers
Nurturing Our Future
At The Learning Academy of Teton Valley we choose teachers for their passion, expertise, and commitment to fostering a nurturing and inspiring learning environment.
Dani Wilson
Founder and Lower Elementary
Dani Wilson is the founder of The Learning Academy of Teton Valley and a dedicated Lower Elementary teacher with over 25 years of experience in alternative, child-centered education. Her vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to nurturing the whole child have shaped LATV into the thriving, joyful learning community it is today.
Todd Wilson
The Man!
Todd Wilson is the invaluable man behind the scenes at The Learning Academy of Teton Valley. He thrives on bringing Dani’s big ideas to life—whether that means building a giant book for a school performance, crafting a castle wall, constructing a cabin, or helping set up a miniature farm. Todd never quite knows what project will come next, but he’s always ready to jump in with enthusiasm and skill.
Kristin Johnson
Director & Middle School Teacher
Kristin Johnson brings over 25 years of experience in education to her dual role as Director and Middle School Teacher at The Learning Academy of Teton Valley. Now entering her 21st year at the school, Kristin joins Dani in being a cornerstone of the LATV community—known for her approachable leadership and unwavering dedication to helping students develop into their best selves.
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.
Jerikah Weatherston
Preschool Teacher
Jerikah brings a deep love for early childhood development and a profound respect for each child’s inner world to her role at The Learning Academy of Teton Valley. With a background in family and child advocacy with a concentration in pre-clinical psychology, she is deeply committed to whole-child education—valuing not only intellectual growth but also affect regulation, relational attunement, and authentic self-expression.
Gina Hickey
Preschool Teacher
Gina Hickey has been working with children for as long as she can remember. A true valley native, Gina began babysitting and working as a summer camp counselor for The Learning Academy of Teton Valley around the age of 14. Since then, she has worn many hats within the LATV community—camp counselor, preschool teacher, paraprofessional, and substitute teacher. She has also worked as a nanny for local families and supported pediatric care and vaccinations at a local clinic, bringing both compassion and versatility to every role she takes on.
Jess Butcher
Preschool Staff
Jess has always enjoyed working with youth and fostering a well-rounded education. Her career has been built on the belief that children—our future—deserve the very best development and nurturing we can provide. She has dedicated herself to learning as much as possible to be an effective caregiver and educator.
Alexa Nicolaus
Preschool & Lower School Support Staff
Alexa Nicolaus brings over 16 years of experience working with children in both one-on-one and classroom settings. Her background includes teaching French Pre-K, supporting elementary students, and working closely with children with special needs. After spending the last two and a half years at home raising her son, William, Alexa is excited to begin her first year at The Learning Academy of Teton Valley.
Gentry Moore
Support Staff
Gentry Moore grew up in sunny Mesa, Arizona, and has been embracing life in the valley since 2023—cold weather and all. Before joining the Learning Academy, she spent two years working as a physical education teacher and paraprofessional, discovering how much she loves supporting students in both learning and play.
Madison Rademacher
TK- Grade 1 Teacher
Madison brings four years of teaching experience to The Learning Academy, working with students from Pre-K through fifth grade. Her passion for education is rooted in a genuine love for children and a deep commitment to helping them feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow into their best selves.
Hannah Kolehmainen
Office Manager / Physical Education Teacher
Hannah Kolehmainen has been an integral part of The Learning Academy of Teton Valley for the past eight years, wearing two important hats: Office Manager and K–8 Physical Education Teacher. With over a decade of experience working with children, she is passionate about helping students build confidence, discover their strengths, and develop a lifelong love of movement.
A Word
From Our Founder
“As the Founder of The Learning Academy of Teton Valley, I am thrilled to invite you to our vibrant learning community. Our mission is to inspire and empower students through a personalized education that fosters curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
We believe every child is unique, and our dedicated team is here to support their individual journey. Together, we can cultivate a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.
Join us as we embark on this exciting adventure!“
– Dani Wilson
Students
Animals on The Farm
Faculty
Years Established
Get In Touch
Location: 1480 S 500 W, Driggs, ID 83422
Telephone: (208) 354-7898
Email: admissions@learningacademyschool.com
School Hours: M-F: 8am – 3pm
Non-Discrimination Policy
At The Learning Academy, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all students, staff, and families. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.
We believe that every individual deserves respect and equal opportunities in all aspects of our educational programs and activities. Our commitment to diversity enriches our community and enhances the educational experience for everyone.
For any questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact admissions@thelearningacademy.org.
school hours
M-F: 8am – 3:00pm
Aftercare: 3:15pm-5:30pm
Address
1480 South 500 West
Driggs, Idaho 83422
Phone
(208) 354-7898
