Athlos Academy of Utah hires school leader

Athlos Academy of Utah hires school leader

Herriman- Athlos Academy of Utah is pleased to announce the hiring of Esther Thompson as the new charter’s school leader.  Thompson previously served as the assistant director of Pacific Heritage Academy in Salt Lake City.

“I am personally committed to and believe in the power of the Athlos Performance Character traits, knowing the necessity of having grit, perseverance, and optimism when facing a challenging task,” Thompson said. “I feel strongly that I am able to model these traits and move employees, families, and students towards a bright future with Athlos.”

Prior to her work at Pacific Heritage Academy (2012-2016), Thompson was both the administrative intern (2011-2012) and a secondary teacher (2007-2012) for Liberty Academy in Salem, director of Odyssey School (2003-2006) in Genola, elementary classroom teacher at Mountain Valley Private School (1997-1999) in Bluffdale, and elementary teaching aide at Avon School District in the United Kingdom (1991-1993).

Thompson earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of Utah, a Certificate in Secondary Education at the Utah Higher Education System Office, and a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Western Governors University.

Thompson resides in Draper.  She is the mother of four children and enjoys the outdoors and being physically active.

“The Board of Athlos Academy of Utah is excited to welcome a school leader with not only the first-hand experience of opening a new school, but also an educational perspective that mirrors the innovative Athlos model. Her passion for focusing on Performance Character traits in order to develop well-rounded students directly aligns with what Athlos is all about.” said Andy Lavin, Athlos Academy of Utah board chair. “Ms. Thompson is going to be a vital member of our team and essential to the success of our school and students.”

Athlos Academy provides a new and unique approach to teaching and learning in the Herriman area.  Its mission is to provide high quality educational opportunities for the whole child built on the three foundational pillars: Prepared Mind, Healthy Body, and Performance Character.  Students will participate in four scientifically developed physical activity sessions each week, performance character is integrated into the culture of the school, and high academic achievement is an expectation for all students.

Athlos Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school.  Enrollment is now open.  For more information, including enrollment forms, please visit www.athlosutah.org.