Mike Otufangavalu

Mike’s blend of professionalism and genuine compassion, coupled with his amiable personality, endears him to both colleagues and parents alike.  A pivotal touchpoint for parents during enrollment and for the first few weeks afterward, Mike coaches them through the myriad of emotions and logistics of having a child in residential care.  He also teaches a virtual parenting class, sharing the helpful skills outlined in the Teaching-Family Model, which is the well-supported and evidence-based modality used at Alpine Academy.  As students prepare to return home, Mike is involved in that stage of the journey as well and remains in contact with our valued alumni.

Along with his personal experiences raising his own children, Mike’s 21 years in residential care gives him the experience to share knowledge and compassion with parents.  He has 11 years of direct care and 10 years in administrative and leadership roles, beginning his career as a behavioral coach for Alpine Academy’s parent company, Utah Youth Village. He was a live-in Family Teacher at Alpine Academy for three years along with his wife, Monique. Mike has been certified through the Teaching-Family Association five times and has worked as an instructor for Non-violent Crisis Intervention through the Crisis Prevention Institute.

Mike gives generously of his time to help others outside of Alpine Academy as well. He spends time volunteering at homeless shelters, women and family support centers, food banks, and with the youth of his church. He has many hobbies and enjoys staying active.