MEET THE STAFF

Philip G. Spiva, Ph.D.

Diplomate, American Board of Professional Psychology

Director of Valley View

        Time has certainly moved quickly since I hatched Valley View School almost 40 years ago. At the same time, it has been tremendously gratifying to look back at so many youngsters who have kept in touch with us and have become successful and well functioning adults. This is the real payoff of our job - to be able to feel that in some way we were a part of that process.
        The growth of Valley View over the years, as with the emotional development of young people, is never easy nor without periods of frustration.  However, I truly believe that we have been blessed with a high level of support and confidence on the part of those who have come to believe in what we do - referral resources, parents and most of all the boys themselves.  Without this, we would never have become what we are today.
        In spite of the clearest vision of any administrator including skills in developing attractive physical surroundings, a place is nothing without a staff of competent people.  I believe our greatest asset lies in a history of attracting and maintaining a group of highly involved, caring and committed individuals.  These great people tend to remain with us for a long time as they grow into becoming an integral part of our therapeutic milieu.
        I would welcome professionals involved in the referral process, as well as parents who believe that we might be of help, to contact Valley View in order to experience for themselves our unique environment.

Rick Bulger, MSW

Associate Director

Since 1992, the reward for me has been, and continues to be the opportunity to not only work with a great group of youngsters, but to also develop relationships with them and see them make positive changes over time. It is incredibly gratifying to get a visit or receive a phone call from a student who graduated from our program two, three, or even ten years ago and hear about what he has done since leaving, and hear him reflect on how his time at Valley View School had made such a dramatic change in his and his family's lives. Knowing that all of us at Valley View had a part in that success is what makes working with these boys worth the time and effort.

James Haupt

Coordinator for Therapeutic Services

Having worked in human services for nearly ten years, I am grateful to have found a program that stimulates and challenges me on a daily basis. Working with our students and the energy they bring to the table is an ever changing experience that thankfully keeps us on our toes! Since 2004 I have had the privilege to work with these young men in a variety of roles. I truly value the opportunity to work with our students from their initial interview, throughout the program, and ultimately to graduation. Being a part of the change these boys undergo is an experience I’ve enjoyed for the past few years and look forward to the next 30!

Jim Newland

Assistant Director for Education

        I am privileged to have had the opportunity to participate in the growth and development of Valley View School over the past thirty years.  During that time, I have enjoyed teaching History, Spanish and coaching a number of different sports.
        I also take considerable pride in our athletic program, which I initiated and developed some twenty five years ago.  The program has expanded and improved under the leadership of our current athletic director and his coaches.  Athletic participation is an important part of the Valley View experience for all students.
        Since 1992, I have been the Assistant Director for Education, working with our dedicated and talented teachers to provide a challenging educational experience with structure and lots of support.  Personally I still make time to teach Spanish each year.
        In my opinion Valley View provides an unique experience for boys to develop their peer skill and to experience success in a structured academic boarding school.

Scott Longvall

Assistant Director for Residential Services

        I've had the pleasure of leading the residential staff here at Valley View for the last twenty seven years or so, and many of my staff have a decade or more of seniority in our program.  No individuals work that long with children unless they are totally committed and love their job.  Our staff's commitments to our efforts here speaks highly both of the quality of the program and our student body.
        There really is no particular magic to our residential approach.  We've taken common sense traditional values and expectations for behavior and social interaction and made them the foundation from which we operate.  To this we add a staff comprised of committed, nurturing but uncompromising individuals who have the skill and patience to deal with setbacks and the strength to lead students beyond them.  Ultimately our students progress because we acquaint them with the experience of real success and make them want more.
        I've led this residential staff for the last twenty five years because, frankly, I can't think of a more enjoyable way to spend my days.

Melissa Rudge

Business Manager

I have already seen positive changes in the students in my relatively short time at Valley View. Though I am not on activities or in class with them, I do get my fair share of interaction as they visit my office throughout the day. I am proud to be part of a program with such a long and excellent reputation throughout the country and I look forward to contributing to its success in the future. The people I work with are remarkable and inspirational and I enjoy working in this environment.

Jen Beaudoin

School Secretary

Even though compared to some of the staff I have only been here a short time, I am thrilled to be part of such a wonderful community at Valley View. My daily interactions with the boys are always interesting and rewarding. Helping the boys and their families with daily correspondence and travel plans for their breaks keeps me busy.
I am very honored to be able to contribute to the daily functions of this highly reputable educational facility.