Salem News

APA is celebrating a decade of excellence at American Preparatory Academy's Salem, Utah campus!

Salem celebrated its 10-year anniversary last month, ending a fantastic school year and a decade of successful student education. Since APA began serving the Salem community in 2013, we have enjoyed strong community support and growing enrollments. Starting with less than 300 students, APA built the enrollment to over 500 and is at capacity with a wait list now. With a rigorous academic curriculum and a focus on character development, APA Salem has been transforming students' lives and enriching their educational experiences.

APA-Salem began as Liberty Academy in 2005. In 2012  Dee Henderson, a concerned parent and Governing Board Chairman, was concerned with the school's struggling enrollment numbers and knew if the downward trend continued, the school would be in danger of no longer being solvent. Mr. Henderson took action leading a research initiative with his board to find an academic partner that could help Liberty Academy improve operations, academic results, and increase enrollment. The team visited several successful charter schools, including American Prep. The Liberty board decided to partner with American Preparatory Schools (APS) to bring their effective school model to Liberty students. In the first year, APS operated on a contract with the Liberty Board and increased enrollment to above 400 students. In year two, the Liberty Board voted to dissolve their charter and come under APA's charter, with Mr. Henderson moving to the APA Governing Board. This was a fantastic change for the Salem community and was primarily led by the courageous parents on Liberty's Board, led by Mr. Henderson. Mr. Henderson continued as an APA Governing Board member for over a decade after the transition and has poured his heart and soul into our American Prep community.

We thank Dee Henderson for his courage and vision in leading the way in charter school education for so many students and for so many years!

Leadership Changes at APA-Salem:

Saying Goodbye to our Director and CDD; Hello to New Leaders

Our distinguished School Director, Richard Fillerup, and esteemed Character Development Director, Lisa Denning, are moving on from American Prep after over a decade of service to pursue new and exciting endeavors.  

Richard Fillerup has been in education for over 20 years, starting in Idaho as a teacher and taking on several positions in education in Utah before coming to American Preparatory Academy in 2009. Mr. Fillerup was instrumental in the launch of our West Valley 2 campus in 2011 and in the success of growing our APA Salem campus over the past ten years. Mr. Fillerup will be remembered as a strong leader with an infectious sense of humor, a positive mentor, and a great friend to many.

Lisa Denning embodies the spirit of American Prep values. She began her efforts at Liberty Academy in 2005 as a parent volunteer. Lisa was instrumental in supporting our campus staff and students throughout the transition to American Preparatory Academy in 2013. In addition to her role as Character Development Director, Lisa has held many important roles, including interim school director, second-grade teacher, and secondary teacher. Her love for American Prep and our students and families is evident in the many programs and traditions she has built at the school. Her influence has been enormous.

Mr. Fillerup and Mrs. Denning's service to our school is immeasurable, and their absence will be felt by everyone. It is with joy and gratitude that we wish them the very best in their new adventures. 

The strength of an organization can be seen in its transitions. With the departure of two of our amazing staff, we have the opportunity to welcome a new School Director, Emily Peery, and our new Character Development Director, Whitney Hilliard, as well as a change for Mr. O'Brien and new responsibilities for Mrs. Barton, Mrs. Short, and Mrs. Elmer.

Emily Peery - Secondary Director has been an integral part of American Prep since 2011 and became a full-time project manager in 2017, where she tackled the challenges of implementing the Draper 2/3 bus program, converting the district to online enrollment, and supervised numerous capital improvement projects.

Mrs. Peery became an Administrative Director for the Draper 2 campus and enjoyed working with the students, staff, and families in that community for two years. In 2021, her co-workers honored her efforts by nominating her for APA's Builder of the Year Award. For the past two years Mrs. Peery has been functioning as the district Food Service Director. She has revolutionized the APA school lunch program by establishing and running a central kitchen that prepares food for all campuses. 

Mrs. Peery is married with two children and enjoys supporting her husband and son as musicians, taking daily bike rides, and spending time with family. Her love for learning has extended to square-foot gardening, web design/blogging, and, most recently, she developed a class to teach biblical Hebrew. 

Whitney Hillyard - Character Development Director - We are thrilled to introduce Mrs. Whitney Hillyard as our new Character Development Director at American Prep Salem. Mrs. Hillyard's journey at APA began as a dedicated parent volunteer shortly after transferring her oldest son to APA for second grade. In 2022, she joined our team as a full-time fourth-grade instructor, bringing her passion for education and willingness to nurture student growth to our Salem classrooms. 

An inspiration to both students and colleagues, Mrs. Hillyard finds motivation in individuals who step up and give their best effort. She admires the power of persistence and the willingness to try again, recognizing the impact it can have on personal growth. 

Outside of her role at APA, Mrs. Hillyard leads a fulfilling life as a wife and a mother to three energetic boys. As a family, they enjoy quality time playing board games, fostering bonds, and creating cherished memories. Furthermore, Mrs. Hillyard is excited to take on a new challenge as she participates in the inaugural American Prep Spartan Race team this July in Huntsville, Utah.

We invite you to join us in extending a warm welcome to Mrs. Peery and Mrs. Hillyard. We know they will be exceptional additions to our Salem team, and our students will benefit from their leadership and guidance. 

Jessica Barton - Elementary Director

Erin Short - Assistant Elementary Director

This dynamic duo will join forces to oversee all things Elementary School at the APA Salem campus. Mrs. Barton was previously the K-3 Director, and Mrs. Short has fulfilled multiple roles at the school.

Keri Elmer - Administrative Director

Mrs. Elmer will assume the role of Administrative Director, assisting Mrs. Peery in many aspects of school operations.

Cody O'Brien - District Coach

Mr. O'Brien will take his skills and talents to all the APA campuses and focus on instilling our Classical Education focus in our elementary schools.

Salem Campus Legacy Students (a Legacy Student has attended the school since Kindergarten)

The enduring success of APA Salem stands as a testament to the dedication of its exceptional teachers and the support of families who entrust us with their children's education. We take immense pride in witnessing our students successfully complete their educational journey at APA, confirming that our program provides an enriching and nurturing environment for every child. This summer marked yet another remarkable milestone as we bid farewell and congratulated three students who attended APA Salem from grades K-9: (left to right) Madison Henderson, Cooper Gallegos, and Eliana Anderson.

Madison Henderson has excelled in her academic pursuits. Her commitment to her studies is exemplary, and she effortlessly balances her academic achievements with her passion for dance. Madison's infectious smile and welcoming personality brighten the lives of those around her, making her a cherished member of our community.

“I will always remember watching Madison at APA Salem's very first Veterans Day Assembly.  I think Maddy sang the chorus of "Thank You Soldiers" with louder enthusiasm than any other student in the auditorium that day.  I loved seeing her energy and whole-hearted participation!  She has continuously brought that enthusiasm with her all of these years!” - Lori Truman, Kindergarten Teacher

Cooper Gallegos, an exceptional student, has consistently showcased his brilliance in the Latin Exam by ranking nationally each year. This past year, Cooper assumed the role of Ambassador General, demonstrating his leadership qualities and dedication to serving others. With a deep love for music and a profound appreciation for his family, Cooper embodies the values instilled within our APA community.

“APA has set Cooper on an academic trajectory that is unmatched! I honestly don’t know where his academics would be without APA, and I’m so excited to watch what he will accomplish throughout his life because of the amazing foundation APA has given him.” - From Mrs. Gallegos, Cooper’s mom 

Eliana Anderson, an enthusiastic individual, has exemplified a well-rounded approach to academics and personal endeavors. She shines on stage, displaying her talent for theater while actively engaging in community service and thriving in creative pursuits. Eliana's remarkable spirit was showcased this year when she designed her dress for the ball, a testament to her artistic abilities and her mother's talent in bringing her creation to life.  

“APA has prepared Ellie for the future in many ways. She knows how to work hard, keep trying and she learned how to interact with adults and peers in various settings.

Ellie has a strong sense of self-confidence and is secure in who she is because of her principles and the support from her family, teachers, and friends at American Prep.” - From Mrs. Anderson, Eliana’s mom

We congratulate Madison, Cooper, and Eliana for their exceptional achievements and commendable leadership. Their accomplishments serve as an inspiration to current and future students, and we are honored to have played a part in their educational journey. 

As APA Salem celebrates its 10th anniversary, there's a lot to be proud of.  From academic achievements to personal growth, this campus has helped shape the lives of countless students over the years.  

Happy 10th Anniversary, APA Salem!  Congratulations on ten incredible years.

APA Salem Student, Rowan Meagher, wins first ever Miss Utah Volunteer Princess title

May 2023 - Erin Short, Academic Coach

Rowan Meagher, a 7th grade student at American Preparatory Salem Campus, won the title of Miss Utah's Beehive Volunteer Princess. This competition, held for girls ages 8-12 years old, is associated with the Miss Utah Volunteer pageant, and she is the first young woman to hold the title.

Rowan credits her years of education at American Preparatory Academy with part of her success in winning. There was a heavy emphasis on public speaking in the pageant competition, and she was able to use the unique skills learned from APA to propel her forward.

She continues to use those public speaking, and personal interaction skills in her many appearances throughout the state as Miss Utah's Beehive Volunteer Princess. Rowan's service initiative is Literacy, and she has been working to promote the joys of reading to children of all ages.

Rowan will travel to Jackson, TN this summer to accompany Miss Utah at the Miss Volunteer America Pageant. The current Miss Volunteer America, and Miss Teen Volunteer America titleholders are from Utah!

The pageant was held in January in Taylorsville and included contestants from across the state. The 2024 pageant is currently open for those interested in registering, and areas of competition include interview, talent, party dress, and physical fitness.

You can follow Miss Utah's Beehive Princess on Instagram @missutahbeehivevol.

April 2023 - Erin Short, Salem Drama Director

Infectious excitement buzzed at American Prep's Salem campus this month as they performed a memorable production of Newsies Jr., based on the acclaimed Broadway hit NEWSIES.  APA Salem's show delivered the same ear-catching music and dance performances as the original, with a twist.  This story of a ragtag band of newsboys standing up against the most powerful publishers in New York City to demand a fair shake has become an award-winning fan favorite with unforgettable songs like Santa Fe and Seize the Day.  Our exceptional staff, students, and volunteers came together to bring vibrant performances and meticulous costumes to life on stage for YOU!

The Salem Drama Club has packed an outstanding amount of talent into this season's production.  Cast members of all ages, from fifth to ninth grade, showed off their skills and dedication to the stage.  It was especially impressive to see 9th graders take lead roles and shine.  Liam Bartholomew, who played Jack Kelly, made a splash last year when he stepped into a lead role at a moment's notice, and this year he delivered another memorable performance.  Edden Hamblin, playing Medda Larkin, had never before experienced theater, but her hard work and amazing talent impressed us all.  Elianna Anderson, who played Murial, has been in every show with us and always brings joy and comedy to the stage.  Adria Scott, who played Katherine Plumber, has a beautiful voice and incredible acting skills.  Ashton Logue played Teddy Roosevelt and was responsible for the projections and sound this year, and Tessa Nielson had loads of fun playing one of our beautiful Bowery girls and tough newsies in her first show.

Cast and Crew

In total, we had 61 members of our cast and seven members of the stage crew, all of whom worked hard to make Newsies Jr. a success.  As the program grows, we hope to continue the policy that if you are brave enough to audition, you have a part in the show.  Mrs. Short, our drama director, believes that all kids should try theater at least once.  The lessons learned by putting in the work are incredibly valuable, memorable, and fun.  Theater is good for everyone, and it is so much fun to watch shy auditioners bloom into solid and strong performers.

The APA Salem Drama Department has been performing for years, thanks to a parent volunteer who came to the school hoping to offer an after-school musical program for middle schoolers.  That parent worked with several others to put on "Singin' in the Rain" in 2018, which has now blossomed into a Spring Musical each year.  Mrs. Short partnered with Ms. Burton, APA Salem's former music director, in 2020 for "The Music Man."  After Ms. Burton was no longer able to work at the school, Mrs. Short begged and pleaded, and Ms. Burton now returns each year to volunteer. We could not do this without her efforts.

Support for Salem’s Drama Department

We are always looking for support, and the best way to support the program is to come to see the shows. Our staff and parent volunteers help sell concessions that provide funding for our programs. Every ticket and popcorn purchased helps improve student opportunities.  

Multi-Campus Support

Additionally, we would like to acknowledge the fantastic support from West Valley 2, who have given and loaned us so much of what has pulled our sets together this year. Mr. D'Agostini is a fantastic partner to have on our side! Butch and Mr. Gianfielice, APA Salem's dedicated Operations team, stepped in to help throughout the production. They are always willing to do what's best for our students, and they never say no or grumble when asked to do insane things like hanging backdrops from the ceiling or hauling the sound system on and off the stage every day for two weeks.

We are grateful to our American Prep and Salem communities for attending the shows and supporting our incredible young talent as they performed Newsies Jr.

January 2022 - Erin Short - Academic Coach

We had so many amazing classes to offer to our 7-9th graders over Winterim 2022. These included Futsol, Adulting, Awesome 80's, a Musical Theater Workshop, Dance Dance Dance, and of course, the Expedition to Monterey, California.