UAPCS Incubator Fellow Program
The UAPCS Incubator Fellow Program is designed to cultivate and support the next generation of charter school leaders in Utah. This innovative program provides aspiring administrators with hands-on experience, mentorship, and tailored training to prepare them for the unique challenges of leading a charter school. By fostering leadership growth, the program is an integral part of UAPCS’s commitment to strengthening the administrative pipeline across the state.
During the program, Fellows spend one quarter at four different site schools, gaining hands-on experience by working alongside current directors. This immersive, full-time program provides invaluable opportunities to learn about the day-to-day responsibilities of leading a charter school. UAPCS supports Fellows by providing compensation for their time and dedication throughout the program.
Find out more HERE.
2024-25 Incubator fellow
Taylor Smith
Growing up, I always knew I wanted to work in education. Initially, I was passionate about teaching special education, driven by a desire to make a difference for students with unique needs. Over time, I reflected on my own experience attending a charter school and recognized the profound impact it had on me—an experience I might not have received in a traditional public school setting. Today, I am proud to work with ThrivePoint Academy, where our mission is to support students who have not been well-served by traditional public schools, providing them with the resources and opportunities to succeed.
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2025-26 Incubator fellow
Tom Rupp
Thomas Rupp serves as Chief Financial Officer of Custom Class Charter School, where he brings over fifteen years of experience in the finance industry, specializing in credit risk and financial analysis. A dedicated advocate for educational excellence, he is deeply committed to supporting innovative learning environments that empower students and families.
Thomas has been a board member of Red Rock Hockey, a nonprofit serving approximately 400 players across St. George and Las Vegas. A passionate athlete, he has competed in hockey for thirty years, earning accolades that include a high school national championship and an amateur adult national championship in roller hockey.Above all, Thomas is a devoted family man. He and his wife, Samantha, have been married for nearly fourteen years and are the proud parents of two homeschooled children.
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2025-26 Incubator fellow
Rachel Knighton
Rachel Knighton serves as an Assistant Director at Vanguard Academy. She brings more than 14 years of experience in education, including roles as an elementary classroom teacher and teacher mentor/coach. Her expertise includes classroom management, teacher mentoring, and delivering meaningful professional development that helps educators grow in their practice.
Rachel is passionate about supporting teachers and creating structured, engaging learning environments where both educators and students can thrive. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and children, as well as biking, hiking, camping, and exploring Utah's beautiful outdoors.
2026-27 Incubator fellow
Robb Hess
Rob is grateful for the years he's spent teaching and for the opportunity to step into a new role as an administrator. Rob holds a background in biology, a teaching credential, and a Master of Education degree. He is excited to join Louisa May Alcott Community Charter School (LMACS), whose values closely align with his own. As a nature-based school with a strong academic focus, LMACS strives to create joyful learning experiences by using the community as a classroom, integrating outdoor education, and equipping students with the core skills they need to succeed in their academic journey.
Rob looks forward to contributing to an environment where every student can reach their full potential.