Governance Board Members
Board Members:
Laurie Telford - President
Hello! My name is Laurie Telford, and I’m excited to introduce myself as the School Board President for the Deeper Learning Virtual Academy (DLVA); a virtual charter school in the West Allis-West Milwaukee School District. I began my role as President in 2025. While this is my first time serving on a school board, I’m looking forward to the opportunity. As the board president, I am committed to promoting an environment that will empower educators, engage parents, and support students in reaching their full potential. As a dedicated advocate for public education, it is important to me that we have an open line of communication to ensure the voices in the community are heard and valued as DLVA continues to grow. I value the equity, inclusion and excellence in education that this school demonstrates.
I have a bachelor’s degree in business administration, with a minor in management. I’ve worked in the insurance industry since 2002, and I love what I do. Currently, I’m a licensed insurance agent at John Hillyer’s State Farm agency in New Berlin. I meet with clients from all walks of life, to help them prepare for the unexpected and protect themselves and their families. I have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in different roles over the years. I am licensed for property, casualty, life, and health. I plan to own my own agency someday.
I’m married to Ryan, a 26+ year UPS Teamster. We have three children: Hailey (2021 Hale graduate), Jacey (2025 DLVA graduate) and Bradyn (DLVA class of 2029). Jacey and Bradyn have been with DLVA since opening. Ryan and I are both WA-WM Alumni. In my free time, I enjoy the outdoors, spending time with family and reading.
My family has had a positive experience with DLVA. This school has been such a blessing as it’s provided a learning environment that my children can truly thrive in. From the dedicated teachers to the evolving changes and growth, we truly couldn’t be happier being part of the DLVA family! If you would like to share ideas, have questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected]
I look forward to serving as your board president!
Sonja Nious-Randle - Vice President
Sonja "Sonny" Y. Nious-Randle proudly serves on the school board as her way of giving back to the West Allis community that has provided so much support to her family. With over 30 years of leadership experience, Sonny brings strategic insight, problem-solving skills, and a collaborative spirit to her true calling of community service. She holds a Master of Arts in Business Communication and is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Human Services. Deeply inspired by the proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child," Sonny is committed to strengthening that village. As a parent of a student attending Deeper Learning Virtual Academy (DLVA), she understands the importance of family involvement in education. Driven by this belief, Sonny is launching "EmpowerEd," a resource designed to assist parents who face challenges helping their children academically. EmpowerEd goes beyond supporting students—it educates and empowers entire families. Outside of her community work, Sonny is a passionate musician and music producer, believing deeply that "music is the key to life." She also cherishes spending quality time playing Roblox with her son. Sonny’s love for education, music, family, and community empowerment fuels her unwavering advocacy for the success of every child and family in West Allis.
Dante Chestnut, Sr. - Treasurer
Mr. Dante T. Chestnut Sr., also known as "Donnie" is a Licensed Master Barber and owner of the “Donnie D. Stylez”™ brand. With over 30 years of experience, he is a prominent figure in music, fashion, cosmetology, and entertainment consulting. He is the CEO of D.A.M.G. ENT. LLC., founder of Don Alesante’ Fashions, and former GM of Music Powers I-Media in Atlanta, having worked with award-winning artists and contributing to over 300 million record sales. A graduate of Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC), Mr. Chestnut has received numerous awards, including the Opulence Award and the NWSDC Unsung Hero Award. He is also featured in Who’s Who of Milwaukee.
As a philanthropist, he founded The C.H.I.L.L. Program and D.A.N.T.E., two nonprofit initiatives focused on literacy and youth empowerment. He also created the Music Powers 101 program for aspiring industry professionals. Currently, he serves as a board member of DLVA, helping guide the academy's mission of deeper learning and student success.