Welcome Letter

Dear Parent/Guardians of Life Skills Academy Students,

It is with immense excitement that I introduce myself as the new full-time principal of Life Skills Academy (LSA) for the 2025-2026 school year. My name is Stacey Nofsinger and I am deeply honored to continue my career dedicated to supporting students with disabilities, a passion that has defined my work for many years, most recently as an administrator at Jordan Valley School. Transitioning to LSA feels like a natural and thrilling next step, and I am eager to lead our school in fostering an environment where every student thrives.

At LSA, our mission is to empower our adult students by celebrating their unique strengths and interests. I am committed to getting to know each student personally, understanding their goals, and tailoring our programs to help them succeed in their transition to greater independence and what lies beyond their graduation. Whether it’s through vocational training, life skills development, or community integration, I look forward to seeing each student shine.

Partnering with you, our valued guardians, is at the heart of our comprehensive transition program. Your insights and collaboration are essential in creating individualized plans that reflect your student’s needs and aspirations. Together, we will work to ensure that our programs—aligned with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)—provide meaningful opportunities for growth, from skill-building to real-world experiences. I encourage you to reach out with your thoughts, questions, or ideas as we build this partnership.

I am also delighted to introduce our new assistant principal, Jeff Honsvick, who also brings extensive experience in special education, specifically Post-High aged students and a passion for student-centered learning. He will be an integral part of our leadership team, supporting our students, staff, and families with dedication and expertise. You’ll have the chance to meet him, along with our teachers at our upcoming Open House on August 26, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

As we approach the first day of school on August 18, 2025, I invite you to contact me via phone or email to discuss your student’s needs or share what excites them most about joining LSA.

I am beyond excited to embark on this journey with you and your student. Together, we will make this year one of growth, connection, and opportunity at Life Skills Academy!

Warmest regards,

Stacey Nofsinger
Principal, Life Skills Academy

Staff for the 2025-2026 school year:

Teachers:

• Sarah Brooke, Community Development Teacher
• McKenzi Garlitz, School Based Community Teacher
• Cherie Jones, Community Development Teacher
• Tessa Marrelli, LEAP Teacher
• Elizabeth McCleary, School Based Community Teacher
• Hailey Sorensen, Community Development Teacher

Related Service Providers:

• Krista Daynes, Nurse
• Amy Gadberry, School Counselor
• Lindsey Hardcastle, Speech Language Pathologist
• Bethany Pardo, Speech Language Pathologist
• Taylor Pelchar, School Psychologist
• Emily Stys, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
• Geraldine Marino & Britta Scullion, Jordan Valley Occupational Therapists
• Ashlin Stephens & Rick Marino, Jordan Valley Adapted PE Teachers

Educational Support Professionals (paras)