Liahona Preparatory Academy

Wonderful school that really understands what the Gospel of Jesus Christ is about. To love God with all your heart might mind and strength and to love your neighbor as yourself. They teach their students to be kind to others and you can feel a difference when your there. I’m also so grateful for their approach to Restoration Education that allow students to see the hand of God in the subjects they are learning especially in classes that’s involved History.

The reason behind the 1 star rating comes from the experience I had from the years 2006-2008. I was 12 years old at the time and was sent here because I had tried smoke cannabis twice. My parents believed that sending me here would help me with my "drug" problem and get the therapy I needed for issues that they didn't want to handle. I was in for 1 year exactly and during that time I experienced and witnessed abuse, neglect, lack of education from the staff that was met with aggressive behavior, isolation, and lack of professionalism. One experience that has stuck with me is when I went back in 2008. I was in a group therapy and Clay AhQuin Jr (the owner) confronted me with a question with the intent to shame me. He broke my confidentiality with a question that related to my mom. It should have been done during a private session. So I unintentionally scoffed at it. That scoff was met with Clay AhQuin Jr telling me that I need to fight other boys with boxing gloves to see who's the strongest. I didn't want to fight and said I wouldn't hit him back. Then he instructed the other boy to hit me to teach me a lesson of, "you're not that tough.". I didn't fight back and Clay Sr. praised me for not giving in when I was provoked. Other incidents I've experienced or witnessed: •broken my hand due to other boys bullying me •a boy attempting suicide by slicing his wrists •a boy got ripped out of the top bunk because he didn't want to get out •inappropriate staff members who didn't have to go through that much background checks would share sexual stories •the one senior therapist I had that would sleep during my sessions In 2016, I bumped into the Owner of Liahona and he was surprised of my personal growth in life. At the end of the conversation, he gave me a job offer and I was initially excited that I could possibly contribute to helping kids that are in Liahona now. I told him I don't agree with previous treatments while I was there and he told me that things have changed. New staff, new rules. So I went in for my interview with Parker Haslam (Program Director). Everything was going great until a staff member told Parker there was a boy who wouldn't clear his books from the table after school ended. Parker excused himself politely. He stepped out but left the door open. I watched him go directly to that student, lifted him by the neck, carried him down the hall to his room, and yelled at him. I was in disbelief that this abusive behavior is still happening and being tolerated. I declined their job offer to their surprise. Those are just a few traumatic experiences I and other kids had to go through. I hope that this review will help you think about the decision you'll be making for your child. I can honestly say I didn't learn any good coping skills. I learned more inappropriate behaviors and about drugs. I am still experiencing PTSD from being sent here from ages 12-14. I wouldn't recommend Liahona to anyone who truly cares for the well-being and physical safety of their child.

Our children started taking Distance Education classes several years ago. Our youngest is now enrolled, and is also able to be a part of the Theatre class on campus. It has been a wonderful experience! Such a blessing to have the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ integrated into the curriculum. We so appreciate the good atmosphere! And the teachers are phenomenal! Its rare to see such dedication and commitment, as well as knowledge of their subjects. So much creativity, and care. Our daughter feels their sincere love and concern for her! My 11 year old daughter says: "It's the BEST SCHOOL EVER!!!"

If you want freedom as a parent, and a place where your child is wanted and loved, come here! Its a nurturing environment, small classes and parents are honored and have control over their child's education. Liahona has a fantastic theatre program that uplifts and bonds the student body. The school hours are tailored to give you more family time and the ability to add whatever you want to your child's education equaling more balance for you! The school week is always Monday through Thursday and generally more time off at holidays. They live stream classes so you can be on vacation or out sick and still participate and or view past classes. We love this school!!!

This is our second year at Liahona. Our kids love it here! The teachers and staff are amazing! My high school student loves all of his classes and teachers. All of them! How often does that happen? My elementary aged son loves his teacher and has learned so much here! The students are so nice and friendly, and I haven't seen any bullying issues. Why? Because it isn't allowed. I would encourage parents who want their students to have a good education, which doesn't eliminate God, to check out Liahona. While it is an extra cost for our family because we are still forced to pay taxes for the other schools (I hope that will change one day), it is totally worth it.