Brabeion Academy

About Brabeion

Brabeion, from the Greek βραβεῖον meaning “prize” or “reward,” embodies the spirit of victory and perseverance. Brabeion Academy, a tuition-free, open-enrollment public charter school in Canyon County, Idaho, and surrounding areas, is dedicated to developing students as champions in academics, athletics, and personal growth. The school’s name reflects its commitment to fostering excellence, preparing students to achieve victory in all aspects of life through a robust educational program emphasizing athletic development, academic excellence, and critical thinking.

What's in a name?

Three Pillars

• Academic Excellence

• Critical Thinking

• Athletic Performance & Physical Development

Our Board

Mr. Miguel DeLuna

Miguel DeLuna, a 35-year veteran of law enforcement, began his career as a Deputy Sheriff with the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Department. He later served 11 years with the Oakland Unified School Police Services, working patrol at a high school with prevalent gang activity, followed by roles in Criminal Investigations and as a summer liaison with the Oakland Police Department’s Sex Crimes Unit. For his final six years, he was the Driver Bodyguard for the Oakland Unified School District Superintendent, gaining insights into high-level budget and educational meetings with California’s Governor’s office and Silicon Valley executives, including Salesforce founder Marc Benioff. Now retired, Miguel enjoys a happy marriage of 50 years with his beloved wife.

Mrs. Julie Dillehay, MCE, MCouns, EdS, LCPC

Julie Dillehay, a Treasure Valley native, brings extensive expertise in education and counseling to her role as a board member at Brabeion Academy. With advanced degrees in Education Leadership, School Psychology, Christian Education, and Counseling, alongside a BA in Communication, she is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. Her past certifications include Superintendent, Special Education Director, Building Administrator, School Psychologist, and School Counselor K-12. Ms. Dillehay served as a school counselor in the West Ada School District from 1990 to 2000 and as a high school counselor in the Vallivue School District from 2007 to 2020. Her comprehensive background in educational leadership and student support strengthens Brabeion Academy’s mission.

Contact Julie at julie@brabeion.org

Mr. Branden Durst, MPA, EdS

Branden Durst brings a strong background in education, policy, and leadership to his role as a board member at Brabeion Academy. As Principal Owner of Siga Strategies LLC, he has provided strategic consulting for over a decade, focusing on public policy and organizational growth. His education experience includes serving as Superintendent of West Bonner County School District, Senior Analyst for Education Policy Research at the Idaho Freedom Foundation, and Senior Policy Fellow for the Idaho Family Policy Center. Branden previously served as a member of the Idaho House of Representatives and Idaho Senate. He holds an Ed.S. in Executive Educational Leadership and an MPA in Public Policy and Administration from Boise State University, along with a BA in Political Science from Pacific Lutheran University. His credentials include certifications as an Accredited Interscholastic Coach, NFHS Coach (Levels 1-3), and Speech and Debate Credential from the National Federation of State High School Associations. His expertise supports Brabeion Academy’s mission of academic excellence and student achievement.

Contact Branden at branden@brabeion.org

Mr. Joe Russell

Joe Russell brings a wealth of entrepreneurial and financial expertise to his role as a board member at Brabeion Academy. As the Business Owner of JCR Consulting LLC since December 2021 and Co-Owner of Rocket Express LLC since June 2009, he has demonstrated strong leadership in business development. Previously, he served as President of Estate Planning Strategies Inc. from May 1989 to June 2012, working with high-net-worth individuals and earning recognition as an Accredited Estate Planner and Chartered Life Underwriter, qualifying for the Million Dollar Round Table’s Top of the Table multiple years. A Treasure Valley native, Joe studied Political Science and Government at Boise State University and furthered his education at the American College (CLU, 1989). His strategic insights and commitment to excellence support Brabeion Academy’s mission to educate and inspire.

Contact Joe at joe@brabeion.org