- PO BOX 456, Lehi, Utah 84043
- (801) 653-9649
Mountain Point Academy was founded on a simple belief: Students can all reach their potential, but they don’t all get there at the same moment or in the same manner.
Mountain Point Academy (MPA) was founded in 2017 in Lehi, Utah, by Sara Busalacchi and Anjilee Ferguson. With over a decade of experience each in online education, they saw a critical need for a school that could serve students who don’t fit the traditional mold.
Whether it’s students who need flexibility, those in treatment programs, adults returning to education, or learners who simply thrive outside the traditional classroom—MPA was built for you.
Today, we serve approximately 130 students in grades 6-12 and adult learners, maintaining a student-to-teacher ratio of 16:1 that ensures personalized attention and support.
To commit to providing a student-centered academic experience by creating an environment grounded in respect, integrity, and commitment to learning. Students and staff work together as each student strives to reach their academic potential.
At Mountain Point Academy, we operate under the belief that all students can learn, but the way that happens looks different for each person. As educator William Spady says, “All students can learn and succeed, but not on the same day in the same way.”
Every student who enrolls at MPA is assigned an Academic Mentor, your personal advocate throughout your time with us. You’ll never have to wonder who to turn to when you have questions about homework, graduation status, career planning, or anything else. Your mentor contacts you regularly to report progress, check in, set goals, and assess your performance.
This human-to-human connection is what sets us apart from many other online schools.
We work with all types of students: those who love school and want to graduate early, those who have struggled in traditional settings, athletes, working students, homeschoolers, students in treatment programs, and adults ready to finish their diplomas.
If you’re looking for an alternative to brick-and-mortar education, we have you covered.
Every decision we make puts students first.
Move quickly through what you know, take time on what’s challenging.
Ongoing mentorship keeps you accountable and on track.
Learn on your schedule without breaking the bank.
Your diploma and credits are recognized nationwide.
Our team includes dedicated Academic Mentors, certified teachers, special education specialists, and support staff who are passionate about helping students succeed. Each team member brings expertise in online education, personalized learning, and student advocacy.
Every student at MPA is paired with an Academic Mentor who provides regular check-ins, goal setting, graduation planning, and ongoing support throughout their educational journey.
Mountain Point Academy’s purpose is to provide alternative education solutions for students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend school or take courses in a traditional setting. This includes adult learners, homeschool students, students needing credit recovery, and students in residential treatment centers or group homes.
We specialize in working with students who tend to fall through the cracks in traditional brick-and-mortar schools, either because they are very advanced and become bored, or because they need additional support and a slower pace.
With a lack of quality yet affordable options available, our founders knew there was a big need for a school that serves this special population of students. Mountain Point Academy was formed with the hope of cultivating a culture of respect, self-worth, and accomplishment for both students and faculty.
Registrar
Prior to joining the team at Mountain Point Academy, Jamie worked at Mountainland Technical college as a records specialist and receptionist. For many years before that, she was the Retail Manager at Kneaders where she designed gift baskets, retail displays, and organized in-store and community events. While she loves having a creative outlet, office administration is what she really loves so she is happy to be at Mountain Point Academy working with the diverse community within the online school. When not working, Jamie has a house full of instruments. She loves music, spending time with her family, camping and hiking, traveling, reading, writing, throwing a good party, and spoiling her two gorgeous Basset hounds, Ginger and Gypsy.
Graduation Specialist /
Academic Mentor
Rachel enjoys working as an academic mentor with Mountain Point Academy and has a passion for education and the positive impact it can play in an individual’s life. Rachel received her B.S. in Human Development from Brigham Young University. She began volunteering in schools in 2013 and quickly realized she enjoyed working with students, especially as she helped them overcome academic challenges. She started working in education in 2019 and went on to receive her teaching certification. She has since been employed in online education and loves to work with students and their families. She believes in meeting each student where they are at and helping them realize their goals. Rachel’s two favorite things to do are spending time with her family and exploring the outdoors (preferably both at the same time!). She loves mountain biking, alpine skiing, hiking, and backpacking. She and her family also love to participate in the musical arts.
Academic Mentor
Nikki Jeffery is a licensed educator in the State of Utah. She received her B.A. in Elementary Education from Southern Utah University. Since then, she has taught various grade levels PreK-6th. Nikki especially enjoyed working at a Montessori Charter school where she learned to teach to the individual instead of the whole and got very good at differentiating instruction. She knows everyone learns differently and is here to support the MPA students by helping foster a positive learning experience for each student. She loves to play volleyball, teach preschool, lift weights, wakeboard, play the piano, and follow her 3 children around cheering them on in their various activities in her spare time.
Projects Specialist / Academic Mentor
Clarissa is a dedicated educator who graduated from Utah Valley University in 2020 with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. Her journey in teaching began as a K-2 teacher at a private Montessori school, where she cultivated her love for innovative teaching methods and student-centered learning. Motivated by a desire to broaden her impact, Clarissa transitioned her focus to online schooling for older students, drawn by the possibilities of leveraging technology to enhance learning experiences. Fluent in three languages, including Spanish and French, she brings a multicultural perspective to her teaching, fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment. Clarissa’s unwavering passion for education is evident in her commitment to empowering students to reach their full academic potential, making her a valued and inspiring educator in any educational setting. Outside of work, she cherishes her free time at home with her husband and her son, enjoying moments of togetherness through cooking, nature exploration, and cozy movie nights.
Academic Mentor
Anna Boshka serves as an Academic Mentor at Mountain Point Academy, bringing a rich background in education and a deep passion for literature. Studying English Literature at the University of Montana and gaining extensive teaching experience in Idaho, Montana, and Alaska, has allowed Anna to excel in tailoring educational and social emotional strategies to support every kind of learner. Her career includes roles as an Instructor of English Literature at Monarch School, where she developed innovative curricula and led enriching school trips, and as an Executive Functioning Coach. She has also taught in public schools as a 6th grade teacher, a librarian, Title 1 Director, and Child Study Team Coordinator. Anna’s certifications in the International Baccalaureate Middle Years and Diploma Years Programs, and SEL/Yoga Instruction enhance her ability to foster a holistic educational environment. In addition to her professional achievements, she is a writer and artist who enjoys creative pursuits like creative writing and painting. Her love for nature and community leads her on foraging, skiing, hiking, and kayaking adventures with her husband, Brian, and two daughters, Mae and Harper.
Academic Mentor
Katy was born and raised in Maryland and later attended BYU, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, along with a minor in Physical Education and Coaching. With over 15 years of teaching experience, she has worked in traditional, charter, and online classrooms. Katy currently lives in Utah with her husband and two daughters, and she enjoys the mountains, the low humidity, and the friendly community.
As an educator, Katy finds joy in watching her students grow and improve from the beginning to the end of the school year. Mathematics has always been her favorite subject, and she strives to instill her love for math and a passion for lifelong learning in her students. She truly believes her students are fabulous and amazing.
Outside of work, Katy enjoys spending time with her family, playing tennis, hiking, boating, and soaking up the sun.
Curriculum Specialist / Academic Mentor
Amanda graduated from Brigham Young University with her BS in Teaching Physical Science and a minor in Geology. She has been teaching physical science classes since 2019, with expertise in high school chemistry and university level geology. She loves sharing her natural curiosity with students and helping them discover how the world works.
Amanda wants her students to know that she has faced struggles of her own and understands what it feels like to doubt yourself or your dreams. Because of this, she is passionate about helping each student feel seen, valued, and capable of success— no matter their background or challenges.
In her free time, Amanda enjoys rock climbing with her husband, playing Dungeons & Dragons, spending time with her two dogs, reading, writing, doing her nails, and adding to her ever-growing crystal collection.
Academic Mentor
Erin Kern is an experienced educator dedicated to helping students of all ages unlock their potential. She holds a B.S. in Elementary Education, graduating cum laude from Utah Valley University. Erin has served in various teaching roles, including as a primary grade teacher, physical education instructor, and a substitute teacher, bringing a versatile skill set to her work. Beyond the classroom, Erin has actively contributed to her school community through leadership roles in School Community Councils and the PTA. She is passionate about fostering confidence and a love of learning in every child. When not teaching, Erin enjoys spending time with her family, playing pickleball, reading, playing games, and exploring the outdoors.
Academic Mentor
ValaRee’s passion for education began early and has shaped every stage of her life. After earning her degree in elementary education from Utah State University, she spent four years teaching 6th grade in Utah before pausing her career to raise her children. Even then, she stayed closely connected to schools—volunteering in classrooms, serving on the PTA, and joining her local school community council.
Five years ago, she joined her district’s Board of Education, gaining valuable insight by collaborating with educators, students, and community members. ValaRee is excited to bring that experience to MPA, where she hopes to help inspire lifelong learners and support the school’s commitment to individualized education.
Outside of her work in education, ValaRee enjoys time with her husband and three children. They love camping, boating at Lake Powell, and traveling together. She also finds joy in CrossFit, cooking, reading, gardening, and soaking up the sunshine.
Special Education
Lisa has over a decade of experience as an educator. She received her B.A. in English from Michigan State University and her M.Ed from St. Xavier University. Lisa has a passion for working one on one with students, coaching them to maximize their potential. In addition to working at Mountain Point, Lisa teaches high school Special Education in Grand Rapids, MI. When she is not working, Lisa loves to spend time with her three children and can be found on a mountain bike trail, boat, or pickleball court.
Clinical Program Integration Advisor
Kimball brings over 40 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse fields. He is a former member of the Joint Commission Youth Advisory Council and Founding President of the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP). He is known for his ability to integrate academic and therapeutic services in residential settings.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Les has nearly 30 years of experience helping both adults and children who have experienced trauma. He owns and operates Harris Counseling & Consulting Services and has provided over 20 years of counseling to individuals, groups, and families.
Business and Financial Advisor
Nate is a business executive with 6 years of experience in finance and financial advising, and has spent the last 4 years in executive leadership. He used his knowledge of finance and business to help grow a construction company from a 6-figure annual income to a multi-million dollar enterprise.
Erika Thomas
Erika is a lifelong learner who believes every child can succeed when given the opportunity. She graduated from Utah State University in Social Work and earned her M.Ed with an emphasis in global training and development. She currently works for Utah State Board of Education as an Elementary Literacy Specialist.
Co-Founder
Anjilee has over a decade of experience in the Online Education industry, working at both the high school and college levels. During those years, she has worked with numerous students, residential treatment centers, and curriculum providers to provide the highest quality of learning. Her passion for innovative and creative solutions for students led her to co-found Mountain Point Academy. Throughout her time in Online Education, she has seen the inner workings of many departments, working as a registrar, academic mentor, and enrollment counselor. Anjilee earned her BA in Journalism from Utah State University and an MS in Management and Leadership from Western Governors University. She is a published author who continues to pursue lifelong learning, inspiring that in others. She recently stepped back from a leadership role at MPA to pursue other passions but continues to be involved in advising.
Mountain Point Academy is fully accredited by Cognia, the parent organization for the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI), Northwest Accreditation Commission (NWAC), and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI).
We also offer courses approved through the University of California’s A-G program, ensuring California-based students have access to a college-prep curriculum that meets state university requirements.
Our Board of Directors and Leadership Team have over 100 combined years of experience working with students in a variety of settings, including traditional brick-and-mortar schools, residential treatment centers, homeschools, and online education.
We are passionate about providing a positive experience for students to realize their full potential, both personally and academically, so that students excel not only during their time at MPA, but after graduation and beyond.
With a lack of quality yet affordable options out there, the school founders knew there was a big need for a school that serves this special population of students. Mountain Point Academy was formed in the kitchen of a Lehi, Utah home in December of 2017, with the hope of cultivating a culture of respect, self-worth, and accomplishment to both students and faculty.
Schedule a free consultation to learn how we can support your educational journey.
