Headmaster & Executive Director

Adam Cheney leads Utah Prep Academy with a passion for creating a positive and supportive environment where students can thrive academically, athletically, and personally. Under his leadership, Utah Prep offers a wide range of programs that help students grow, achieve their goals, and prepare for bright futures.

Licensed as a Psychotherpist Adam is also an adjunct professor at Utah Tech University and a teacher for the Utah State Courts system, showcasing his lifelong commitment to education and youth development. A proud husband of over 25 years and father of three, Adam enjoys mountain biking, camping, and musical theater, and he feels fortunate to live and work in the beautiful Southern Utah region.

Admissions & Marketing Director

With extensive experience, Angie is dedicated to helping students and families discover the perfect educational opportunities at Utah Prep Academy. She finds joy in building lasting relationships with both national and international students, creating a welcoming community that nurtures academic and athletic success. Angie oversees admissions and marketing with a warm and supportive approach, ensuring every family feels at ease during the enrollment process.

As a lifelong resident of southern Utah, Angie is deeply connected to her community and passionate about guiding students toward a positive educational journey. Her adventurous spirit shines through in both her personal and professional life, including completing the St. George Half Ironman with her husband. Angie’s commitment and enthusiasm make her a valued part of the Utah Prep family.

COO & Founder

Shane Hayden is the dedicated Athletic Director at Utah Prep Academy, where he plays a pivotal role in founding and shaping the school's basketball programs. With a 15-year track record of helping young men and women earn college scholarships, Shane is both a leader and a cornerstone of the Utah Prep community. His background as a licensed engineer, specializing in dams, hydropower, and construction for government and consulting firms, brings a unique and valuable perspective to his work. Shane deeply appreciates the region’s natural beauty and treasures time spent with his family. His commitment to excellence and community shines through in everything he does at Utah Prep.

Director of Finance

As the Director of Finance of Utah Prep Academy, Angie is responsible for managing the financial aspects of the school.  Angie’s broad background in accounting and business management allows her to help the school’s administration, maintain financial stability to support both academic and extracurricular programs. 

Angie is a Utah native and has spent the past 6 years working in Zion Utah. She has a passion for travel and spends her spare time exploring new places, skiing in Utah's mountains, and spending time with her family. Through raising her 6 children, she has learned the value of a strong education. She is fulfilled seeing students find success at Utah Prep Academy through mentorships and academics.

HR Director

As HR Director at Utah Prep Academy, Jason plays a pivotal role in supporting the institution's mission of nurturing student growth through academics, athletics, and leadership programs. He is dedicated to fostering a positive, inclusive environment that aligns with the school's commitment to developing well-rounded individuals.

Born and raised in Utah, Jason has a strong connection to his community and values. His family is central to his life, shaping his priorities and guiding his decisions. With extensive experience in administration, he excels in managing responsibilities efficiently, streamlining processes with a keen attention to detail. A passionate sports enthusiast, Jason values the teamwork and spirit of competition and is deeply committed to mentoring and advocating for youth development.

Maintenance and Security

Bruce Fink brings a wealth of experience to Utah Prep. With a background as a Union Electrician, Police Officer, Private Investigator, and Safety Manager, Bruce combines technical expertise with a keen eye for safety and security. Outside of work, he enjoys spending quality time with his wife and family, riding his Harley Davidson, and cruising the open roads with his wife. His diverse skills and dedication make him an invaluable asset to the academy.

Academic Director

Wayne Briggs brings a wealth of experience in both academics and athletics. At Utah Prep, Wayne oversees the school's business, leadership, and athletic programs, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education. With over 20 years of coaching experience, including 12 years coaching high school and 8 years coaching college wrestling, Wayne was honored as the 2018 NCWA Head Coach of the Year.

Born in Naples, Italy, and raised in California, Wayne's diverse background includes being a state-level wrestler, earning a scholarship to UCLA, and serving a Spanish-speaking mission in Florida. Before transitioning to education, Wayne thrived in the auto industry as a General Sales Manager and later built a successful mortgage business with his wife. Wayne holds degrees in Business, Spanish, and Athletic Administration and is completing his Master's in Education Administration. Prior to joining Utah Prep, he was the Dean of Students and Athletic Director at Beaver Dam High School.

English and Science Teacher, Coach

Kyle Spencer is an integral part of Utah Prep, where he leads the school’s English and AP Language programs, helping students excel in both writing and critical thinking. With over a decade of teaching experience, Kyle brings a wealth of knowledge in AP Language and Composition, Honors English, and college-level English Composition. His diverse background also includes coaching various sports, enriching the overall student experience at Utah Prep.

Kyle graduated from Colorado State University - Pueblo in 2010 with a bachelor's degree in English and holds master’s degrees in Sports Management and Ministry. Throughout his career, he has taught and coached in Southern Colorado, Nebraska, Montana, and Kansas. Kyle and his wife, Whitney, have been married since 2015, and together they have three children: Scarlett, Alice, and Sawyer. The Spencer family is excited to be part of the Utah Prep community.

History Teacher

Brandon Lewis is dedicated to helping students achieve both their academic and personal goals. With nearly a decade of experience working with youth in various roles—paraprofessional, mentor, academic supervisor, teacher, and coach—Brandon tailors his teaching approach to meet the diverse abilities and learning styles of his students.

A lifelong resident of southern Utah, Brandon has a deep connection to the community. When he’s not teaching or coaching, he enjoys spending time in the beautiful outdoors with his wife and children. His passion for education and his flexible, student-centered approach make him an invaluable asset to Utah Prep Academy.

English and FIne Arts Teacher

Nicole Hadley blends her passion for the arts with a strong emphasis on critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning. In her classroom, she encourages thoughtful debate and fosters strong writing and analytical skills, ensuring students leave with a well-rounded education. Her teaching achievements include a 100% pass rate on the Direct Writing Assessment and providing students with performance opportunities through organizations like NASCAR and Disney Performing Arts.

Nicole holds a degree in English Education and a communications degree from Southern Utah University. Before joining Utah Prep, she worked in Manhattan’s fashion district and owned All American Cloggers, a dance studio that performed internationally. Her rich background in both the arts and education continues to inspire us.

Film and Media Specialist

Jackson Stephenson plays a crucial role as the Film and Media Specialist at Utah Prep Academy, helping to create and maintain the school’s social media presence with creativity and skill. As a proud Southern Utah resident, Jackson enjoys exploring the region's scenic landscapes on his bike and has a deep appreciation for classic cars. When he’s not immersed in film editing or shaping Utah Prep’s social presence, he treasures quality time with his wife and family. Jackson’s dedication to storytelling and his positive energy make him a valued and vibrant member of the Utah Prep community.

Grounds and Maintenance

Joshua Ruesch plays a key role in maintaining the beautiful and functional campus at Utah Prep Academy, overseeing all aspects of grounds and maintenance to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for students, staff, and visitors. His dedication to the upkeep of the school's facilities reflects his commitment to providing a positive space for learning and growth.

A devoted family man from Southern Utah, Joshua treasures time spent with his wife and daughter. In addition to his work at Utah Prep, he is a musician with his band, The Peacemakers, and pursues voice-over work as a creative outlet, balancing his passions with his professional responsibilities.

Boys Basketball Head Coach

As our Head Coach at Utah Prep Academy, LJ Yazmon focuses on player development, scouting, and skill building, all while fostering strong relationships with his athletes. His expertise in cultivating talent and helping players reach their potential is a cornerstone of the basketball program at Utah Prep.

Before joining Utah Prep, LJ earned Nevada state MVP honors in high school, leading the state in scoring during his junior and senior years. He went on to play at BYU Hawaii, where he led the conference in 3-point shooting (50%), free throws (91.9%), and assist-to-turnover ratio (2.6). His extensive experience as both a player and coach makes him an invaluable asset to the Utah Prep Basketball program.

Assistant Coach

Assistant Coach
Kupa'a Harrison brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Utah Prep basketball program. As a coach, Kupa’a offers personalized skill development, game strategy, and mentorship for aspiring athletes, helping them navigate the path to collegiate and professional basketball. His diverse playing background allows him to provide unique insights and training tailored to players looking to elevate their game.

Born and raised in Kailua, Hawai’i, Kupa’a played collegiate basketball at the D3, JUCO, and D2 levels, giving him a deep understanding of the college basketball landscape. He then went on to play professionally in Europe, competing in Spain for three seasons, where he further honed his skills and understanding of the international game. His journey through various levels of basketball equips him to guide players through their own athletic development with an eye toward success both on and off the court.

Sports, Performance and Conditioning Trainer

Vaea Fiefia has a wealth of expertise in athlete development, offering specialized programs focused on mental health, speed, flexibility, and balance training. With 20 years of experience working with amateur and professional athletes, Vaea is dedicated to helping students reach their full athletic potential.

In addition to his work at Utah Prep, Vaea is the Co-Founder of One Family Athletics and a recognized youth advocate for fatherless children. A former Division I football player, he continues to inspire and mentor young athletes, providing guidance and support both on and off the field.

Public Speaking and Presentation Instructor

Drew Durrant is a dedicated and dynamic Drama and Debate instructor at Utah Prep Academy, known for his passion for teaching and his success in leading competition drama teams to multiple state championships. At Utah Prep, Drew’s energetic approach inspires students to excel in both drama and debate, fostering creativity and confidence in the classroom.

In addition to his role at Utah Prep, Drew is the owner/operator of Rattlin D on the Utah Prep campus and the Yellowstone Playhouse in Island Park, where he produces family-friendly musical spoofs during the summers. A family man and entrepreneur, Drew's hard-working and enthusiastic nature make him a fun and exciting colleague and mentor.