Living Skills

A career writer, editor and journalist, Jan began working part time at The Family Foundation School in 1986 and full time in 2000. In addition to conducting Living Skills classes, he teaches English and philosophy classes, and is the family leader of FFS Talbot House. He has also served as principal of the FFS middle school. A celebrated author of award-winning books for children and young adults, Jan has addressed audiences throughout the country and abroad on at-risk teens, addiction, and writing. He lives with his wife, Valray, and daughter, Julia, in Bethany, Pa. where he sits on the Borough Council.

A popular Living Skills teacher, Paul's primary responsibility at The Family Foundation School is choral and instrumental music instruction. Music director since 1991, Paul is credited with building the school's nationally recognized music program. Under his direction, the Family Singers have been winning accolades at the North American Music Festival for more than a dozen years, and have performed numerous concerts for local, regional, and national audiences. Paul has served as guest conductor for choral groups on many occasions, most notably the HOBY (Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership) chorus. He also served as an FFS family leader for a number of years. Paul and his wife Diane enjoy quiet country living in their home on the wooded FFS campus.

Mike, a long-time FFS Living Skills Instructor, has been associated with the program at the school for more than 20 years, and has held a variety of positions since joining the staff in 1998. Most notably, he served as chairman of the Performing Arts Department, and was family leader for a number of years. In 2005 Mike was named director-in-residence of Betton House in Scranton, Pa., a transitional program for young people leaving a structured environment and entering college and the workforce. In 2008 he returned to the school and is currently the Family and Group Counselor for the students of FFS Talbot House and a member of the Senior Floor staff. In his life outside the school, Mike is a hobbyist and collector of antique knives, and is currently enjoying the new role of grandfather.

Roxi has held multiple positions at The Family Foundation School since joining the staff in 1994, including admissions counselor, external relations director, academic coordinator, and food service manager. From 2004 to 2008, she served as director-in-residence of Betton House, an affiliate program for young adults transitioning from a structured environment to college. She is currently a family leader of Lake House and supervises library activities as well. Roxi lives in Hancock and enjoys traveling and spending time with her daughters and grandchildren.

Christine came to The Family Foundation School with a background in medical technology, and has taught biology since 1999. She was the science department chair for three years, and also taught English and science classes in the FFS middle school. In addition to her biology classes, Christine teaches Living Skills and serves as a mentor and sponsor for numerous girls. She is also the former Family Leader of Wilson House. Off campus, she enjoys traveling and motorcycle riding with her husband Joe.