BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dr. Jacqueline
Thompson
Jacqueline Thompson is a native of Nashville, TN. She is the oldest of nine children that were born to retired TSgt. David and Margie Royston. She is married to Edward Thompson, who retired as a Contracting Supervisor at Hill Air Force Base. They have 2 sons, 2 daughter in-laws and 4 grandchildren. Dr. Thompson graduated from Highlands High School in North Highlands, CA in 1974. She received a BA in Elementary Education from Idaho State University in Pocatello, ID in 1978. In June 1997, she graduated from Weber State University in the Master of Education Program. She received her Doctorate Degree in Education from Utah State University in May 2010.
In 2018, Dr. Thompson retired from Davis School District as the Director of the Educational Equity Department. She went back in 2021 as the Assistant Superintendent
Dr. Thompson received numerous awards and national recognition. She is a community treasure and champion. When you say Dr. Jackie's name, it is met with affection and gratitude for all that she does and continues to do.
Milton Collins
I was born in a small town in Mississippi. My father died when I was seven years old so I was raised by a strong single black woman. I have been divorced for 13 years. I have three children and one granddaughter. I attended Rust College (HBCU) in Holly Springs, Mississippi on a basketball scholarship where I earned my Bachelor's degree in Health and Physical Education. I earned my Master's degree in Educational Leadership from National Louis University in Evanston, Illinois
I just completed my 33rd year in Education. I am currently the principal at Lincoln Elementary School in the Granite School District. I was selected as Elementary Principal of the Year for the 2018-19 school year in Granite School District.
It is an honor to serve on the board of Rise Academy. I promise to do all I can to help guide and mentor our young African American students here in Utah.
Jenny Rock
I'm originally from Indiana but moved to Utah after graduating from BYU-Idaho in 2004. I have taught elementary school and music education at a private school and charter school in the valley. After the birth of my 2nd child, I decided to educate my children at home. I have four children now, and we are enjoying the home school life!
Aside from home education, I volunteer at the Timpanogos Women's Prison, helping expectant inmates through their pregnancy while incarcerated. One of my dreams is to become a midwife and help minorities and their families have better birth experiences.
In 2006 I was a missionary in Switzerland, German speaking, for 18 months. I love and relate to the Swiss because they love chocolate and cheese. I've returned to Europe several times and love to travel internationally.
Performing in musicals and plays is a long-missed pastime; my favorite role was Squeak from The Color Purple. It's been many years since I've performed on stage. I am also passionate about studying Constitutional Law and hope to become more politically involved, defending American freedoms for all citizens.
Bianca Mittendorf
Mrs. Bianca has an extensive background in the nonprofit sector working with children and adults with disabilities. She also previously taught special education at the elementary and middle school levels. Advocating for social and racial justice is her passion and thus she is active in various community organizations. In her downtime, Bianca enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and reading.
Caray Long
My name is Caray Long. I am so excited to join you all in growing, learning, and thriving at Rise Virtual Academy. I received my bachelor’s degree in Health Promotion from Weber State University and my bachelor’s degree in Special Education from Utah State University. I spent the early years of my career in education at Roy Jr. High School teaching Resource Math (8th grade), Resource English (9th grade), Social Skills, and coaching track and volleyball.
As a Black educator, I have strived to use my voice to advocate for exclusivity and I participate in local social and racial justice community resource groups. Currently, I am using my voice as an Equity Compliance Officer at Davis School District. Outside of my career in education, I enjoy reading, being outdoors, learning about other cultures, and exploring everything the Earth has to offer. I look forward to learning with you and your families.