ACADEMIC DIRECTOR

Charnele Fonua

Laurie Trandum (née Laird), M.Ed., brings a wealth of experience to her role as Academic Director at Westridge Academy. With a distinguished career spanning 24 years, Laurie has held the position of Academic Director across various residential programs. Her journey in education began as a Secondary Education Teacher and school counselor within the public school system. Additionally, Laurie plays a pivotal role in supporting educators through the Utah Alternate Pathway to Professional Educator License (APPEL).

Laurie earned her undergraduate degree in Family and Consumer Science, Secondary Education from Brigham Young University. She furthered her education with a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Counseling from the University of Phoenix. Laurie also holds a certification in Special Education and a license in School Administration from Southern Utah University. Her extensive educational background and experience underscore her dedication to professional development and her passion for education. Laurie is enthusiastic about leveraging her expertise to enhance the academic program at Westridge Academy.