With over 17 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, Amanda is committed to empowering staff and creating a nurturing environment for students and families. As Director of Strive Academy, she focuses on staff development and building strong community relationships. Amanda’s collaborative leadership ensures every child’s needs are met while fostering a positive, growth-oriented atmosphere for both students and educators. Passionate about making a positive impact, Amanda brings her experience and dedication to Strive Academy every day.

Aila was born and raised in Boise Idaho and graduated from Capital High School in 2020. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, being in the sun, and being with friends and family.

Growing up she always knew she wanted a job where she would have a positive impact on children’s lives. It is her goal that all children are able to express their emotions and develop their personalities as individuals.

Ashley is a passionate early childhood educator originally from Washington. With nearly eight years in childcare, she has also taken college courses in Early Childhood Education to deepen her expertise. As a mom of two, Ashley values creating a nurturing and engaging environment for children. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family, capturing special moments through photography, and trying new restaurants. Her dedication and expertise make her a trusted leader and valued part of the Strive Academy team.

Alofa, lovingly known as "Lofi," is a dedicated teacher in the toddler classroom. She comes from a large Samoan family and cherishes her cultural roots. Her full name, Fetoimailelagi, means "heaven sent," while "Alofa" translates to "love," reflecting her warm and caring nature. Lofi is a licensed esthetician and continues to share her expertise with friends and family in her free time. She also has worked as a certified med tech in memory care facilities, where she developed a deep passion for providing compassionate care. Her natural ability to nurture and connect with children makes her a valued member of the Strive Academy team.

Michelle is a dedicated mom, wife, and experienced teacher with a passion for working with infants and toddlers. She strives to create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where children feel secure and confident, and parents have peace of mind. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys reading, crafting, baking, and curling up with a cozy board game under a warm blanket.

Emma was born and raised in Sacramento, California, and has been teaching for four years in both general and special education. She is passionate about creating a nurturing, engaging environment for her preschoolers and is excited to be the 3’s teacher. Outside of the classroom, Miss Emma loves to travel and spend time with her family, friends, and her dog, Baxter.

Sophie graduated high school with a specialized pathway in Early Childhood Education and holds a Seal of Biliteracy in American Sign Language (ASL). She helped run the preschool in her high school for two years and loved every second. Known for her warm and engaging approach, she loves helping young children learn and grow through play and connection. In her free time, she enjoys reading a good murder mystery, watercolor painting, and hiking with her dog, KitKat.

Victoria graduated from Kuna High School and now is going to college at Boise State for psychology. She loves activities that include hiking and playing volleyball. She played Volleyball for 6 years and 12 seasons. She loves kids and has only ever worked in childcare. She loves all ages and loves to see them develop and learn as individuals. Strive Academy has given her the opportunity to see that and help them through all that they do.

Tori grew up in Beirut, Lebanon where she learned French and Arabic. She is currently majoring in Speech-Language Pathology at Idaho State University. She has developed a strong passion for supporting children’s language and speech development and looks forward to continuing this work in the years ahead. Her childcare experience includes babysitting as well as volunteering in nursery, toddler, and preschool programs. She finds joy in watching children learn, grow, and explore in a safe and nurturing environment. In her free time, she enjoys reading, listening to music, and watching her favorite shows.

Dolly has been caring for infants, toddlers, and young children since 2021. She is dedicated to using a combination of knowledge and warmth to create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can thrive. Dolly is bilingual in Spanish and English. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with her friends and family.

Terese is committed to creating healthy, flavorful meals that support the growth and nutritional needs of children. She understands how to craft dishes that are both kid-approved and nutritionally balanced. Terese prioritizes fresh ingredients, safe preparation practices, and accommodating dietary needs. She believes that good food is a foundation for happy, active kids. When not in the kitchen, Terese enjoys fishing, camping, crafting and spending time with friends and family.