INTERMOUNTAIN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL BLOG
America's 250th Should Not Be Controversial
By Dr. Toby A. Travis, Head of School, Intermountain Christian School
Note: This expanded commentary responds to Christine Cooke Fairbanks' Sutherland Institute article, Teaching America's 250th shouldn't be controversial. Good public policy can help. See https://sutherlandinstitute.org/teaching-americas-250th-shouldnt-be-controversial-good-public-policy-can-help.
Sutherland Institute is right to argue that teaching the United States' 250th anniversary should not be controversial. In fact, it should be one of the most natural and necessary responsibilities of our schools. The semiquincentennial of the Declaration of Independence is not merely a commemorative date on the calendar. It is a rare instructional moment: an invitation to help students understand the ideas, sacrifices, failures, reforms, and responsibilities that have shaped the American experiment.
That opportunity arrives at a time when schools, parents, and civic institutions cannot afford to be passive. The latest National Assessment of Educational Progress results show a troubling decline in civic and historical understanding. In 2022, only 22 percent of eighth-grade students scored at or above NAEP Proficient in civics, and 31 percent were below NAEP Basic. U.S. history results were even more sobering: only 13 percent of eighth-grade students scored at or above NAEP Proficient, while 40 percent were below NAEP Basic. These are not merely test-score concerns. They are formation concerns.
Students cannot inherit what they have not been taught to understand. They cannot steward what they have never been invited to examine. And they cannot improve what they have been trained only to dismiss or defend without knowledge, humility, and context.
The moment before us
The 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence offers schools a remarkable opportunity precisely because civic knowledge is scarce, public trust is fragile, and many young people are uncertain about the meaning and responsibilities of citizenship. We do not serve students well by avoiding the complexity of our national story. Nor do we serve them well by reducing that story to either uncritical celebration or cynical condemnation.
Good education does not ask students to ignore America's failures, contradictions, or unfinished work. It asks them to study those realities honestly, in context, and alongside the founding principles that have made reform, liberty, self-government, and human dignity possible. A mature approach to America's 250th can hold together both gratitude and repentance, celebration and correction, patriotism and truth-telling.
This is why Fairbanks' emphasis on primary sources is so important. Students need to encounter the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Federalist Papers, the Northwest Ordinance, Washington's Farewell Address, Lincoln's Second Inaugural, Frederick Douglass' speeches, the Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments, the Gettysburg Address, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Letter from Birmingham Jail, and the writings and speeches of reformers, presidents, abolitionists, civil rights leaders, veterans, immigrants, and ordinary citizens who helped shape the American story. The point is not to curate a simplistic national myth. The point is to place students in direct conversation with the ideas, arguments, aspirations, and moral tensions that formed the nation.
Research points to a civic-learning gap
The research base strengthens the urgency of this work. NAEP's 2022 results documented the first decline in eighth-grade civics performance since the assessment began in 1998. The National Assessment Governing Board reported that only 22 percent of eighth graders reached NAEP Proficient in civics, while only 13 percent did so in U.S. history. Those numbers suggest that many students are leaving middle school without a strong grasp of the basic knowledge needed to understand constitutional democracy, civic participation, historical change, or the responsibilities of citizenship.
Adult civic knowledge is uneven as well. The Annenberg Constitution Day Civics Survey has shown modest improvement in recent years, but its findings continue to reveal important gaps. In the 2025 survey, 70 percent of U.S. adults could name all three branches of government, up from 65 percent in 2024. Yet fewer than half could name most First Amendment freedoms beyond speech: 48 percent named freedom of religion, and 40 percent named freedom of the press. These findings should encourage schools to do more than teach students to repeat a few familiar phrases. They need students to understand constitutional principles well enough to apply them wisely.
Youth civic engagement research points in the same direction. CIRCLE at Tufts University argues that schools and communities must prepare young people for civic life long before they reach voting age. Its Growing Voters framework calls for sustained civic learning ecosystems, including deep civic content knowledge, classroom discussion of current and controversial issues, media literacy, service learning, and opportunities for student voice. Civic education works best when it is not a single course, event, assembly, or anniversary activity, but a coherent habit of school life.
Recent work from RAND and the Center on Reinventing Public Education also underscores the challenge. Districts are trying to define and support civic learning in an era of polarization, uneven state support, and competing instructional priorities. That reality makes clarity essential. Schools should not retreat from civics because the topic is sensitive. They should teach it with greater transparency, stronger materials, and a clearer philosophy of formation.
A better frame: honesty, context, humility, and trust
The question is not whether schools will shape students' civic imagination. They will. The question is whether that formation will be intentional, truthful, and trustworthy. The most constructive path is neither triumphalism nor cynicism. It is honesty, context, humility, and trust.
Honesty means students should learn the ideals articulated in the Declaration of Independence and the ways those ideals have been honored, violated, contested, and expanded in American history. Context means students should understand historical actors and events in their own time while also asking enduring moral questions. Humility means recognizing that the American story is larger than any one party, ideology, region, textbook, or generation. Trust means schools must be clear with parents and communities about what is being taught, why it is being taught, and how it contributes to the formation of wise, informed, and responsible citizens.
Transparency does not weaken education; it strengthens it. When parents understand the purpose and content of civics instruction, they are far more likely to support it. Schools can build that trust by publishing unit questions, primary-source lists, essential standards, discussion norms, and culminating projects. They can invite parents to see that the goal is not political indoctrination, but disciplined learning, civic literacy, moral reasoning, and constructive engagement.
What should schools do now?
First, schools should anchor the 250th in primary sources. Students should read the founding documents and the words of those who challenged the nation to live up to them. Primary sources reduce the risk of caricature because they require students to engage directly with the text, context, and argument.
Second, schools should teach civic knowledge and civic virtue together. Students need to know how government works, but they also need to practice the dispositions that make self-government possible: truthfulness, courage, patience, respect, gratitude, prudence, and love of neighbor. Knowledge without virtue can become manipulation. Virtue without knowledge can become sentimentality. Civic education requires both.
Third, schools should create structured opportunities for civil discourse. Students need guided practice in listening carefully, asking better questions, supporting claims with evidence, disagreeing charitably, and changing their minds when the evidence warrants it. The C3 Framework's emphasis on inquiry, evidence, deliberation, and civic action is helpful here. The classroom should become a place where students learn that disagreement is not a threat to learning; rightly ordered, it is often one of learning's most powerful tools.
Fourth, schools should include local and personal connections. Students should learn the national story, but they should also discover how their community, state, school, church, family, and local institutions fit within that story. The 250th becomes more meaningful when students can see themselves not as spectators of history, but as participants in an ongoing civic inheritance.
Finally, school leaders should communicate proactively. A trustworthy approach to America's 250th will not surprise parents. It will explain the why, identify the sources, name the learning goals, and invite families into the conversation.
For Christian schools: liberty as moral responsibility
For Christian schools, the opportunity is even deeper. We should help students understand that liberty is not merely political freedom, but moral responsibility. Rights are inseparable from duties. Citizenship is not only about knowing how government works, but about cultivating virtue, truthfulness, humility, courage, gratitude, and love of neighbor.
Christian education should resist both national idolatry and national cynicism. We should teach students to love their country rightly - not as an ultimate allegiance, but as a providential context in which they are called to seek the welfare of their neighbor, pursue justice, steward freedom, and serve faithfully. The Christian school can help students see that gratitude for civic blessings and grief over civic failures are not opposites. They are both part of faithful moral formation.
America's 250th should therefore be an opportunity for both discipleship and civics. Students can ask, "What does it mean to be free?" What kinds of people are capable of sustaining freedom? How do truth, virtue, sacrifice, and neighbor-love shape public life? How should Christians participate in civic life without confusing the kingdom of God with any earthly nation? These are not side questions. They are central to the formation of graduates who are wise, humble, courageous, and prepared to serve.
A classroom moment, not a cultural battleground
America's 250th should not become another battleground in our cultural divisions. It should become a classroom moment - one that invites students to read deeply, think carefully, discuss respectfully, and consider how they might contribute faithfully to the next chapter of our national story.
Teaching America's founding is not controversial when it is done with honesty, context, humility, and trust. It is essential. The 250th anniversary gives schools a rare chance to recover the civic purpose of education: not merely to produce graduates, but to form persons capable of truth-seeking, responsible freedom, thoughtful citizenship, and service to others.
That work will not be accomplished by avoiding hard conversations. It will be accomplished by leading them well.
A practical checklist for school leaders
Clarify the purpose: Define why the school is commemorating America's 250th and how it connects to the school's mission, graduate profile, and formation goals.
Publish the sources: Share the primary documents, guiding questions, and core resources students will study.
Prepare teachers: Equip faculty to facilitate civil discourse, handle contested questions, and keep instruction anchored in evidence and mission.
Invite parents: Communicate early and transparently. Consider a family resource night, parent preview, or curated reading list.
Assess formation: Use essays, speeches, discussions, projects, and service-learning reflections to assess understanding, not merely memorization.
About the Author
Dr. Toby A. Travis is an educator, school leader, consultant, and author of the award-winning TrustED®: The Bridge to School Improvement. His work focuses on trusted leadership, school improvement, mission-centered governance, and the formation of healthy school cultures. He serves as the Head of School for Intermountain Christian School in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Endnotes
1. Christine Cooke Fairbanks, 'Teaching America's 250th shouldn't be controversial. Good public policy can help,' Sutherland Institute, May 5, 2026, https://sutherlandinstitute.org/teaching-americas-250th-shouldnt-be-controversial-good-public-policy-can-help/.
2. National Assessment Governing Board, 'Trends and Research in U.S. History and Civics,' 2022 NAEP results, https://www.nagb.gov/naep/understanding-nations-report-card-2022-trends-research/civics-and-us-history.html.
3. National Center for Education Statistics, The Nation's Report Card: 2022 NAEP Civics Assessment, https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/civics/.
4. Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania, 'Americans' Knowledge of Civics Increases, Annenberg Constitution Day Civics Survey Finds,' September 2025, https://www.asc.upenn.edu/news-events/news/americans-knowledge-civics-increases-annenberg-constitution-day-civics-survey-finds.
5. CIRCLE, Tufts University, Growing Voters framework, https://circle.tufts.edu/circlegrowingvoters; see also CIRCLE, 'Equitable Civic Learning for All: How K-12 Schools Can Grow Voters,' https://circle.tufts.edu/latest-research/equitable-civic-learning-all-how-k-12-schools-can-grow-voters.
6. Maddy Sims, Lisa Chu, AK Keskin, Lydia Rainey, and Melissa Kay Diliberti, 'What Counts as Civics? A Look at How Districts Define and Facilitate Civic Learning,' RAND Corporation and Center on Reinventing Public Education, 2025, summarized at https://crpe.org/beyond-the-headlines-what-civics-education-looks-like-right-now/.
7. Educating for American Democracy, The Roadmap to Educating for American Democracy, https://www.educatingforamericandemocracy.org/the-roadmap/.
8. National Council for the Social Studies, College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework for Social Studies State Standards, 2013, https://www.socialstudies.org/sites/default/files/c3/C3-Framework-for-Social-Studies.pdf.
© 2026 Toby A. Travis. All rights reserved.
Highlights from Our Parent and Employee Survey
Dr. Toby Travis shares highlights from our Parent and Employee Survey
Welcoming our new Administrative Support Team
A message from Dr. Travis
A Message from Dr. Travis, Head of School
Jacob Bonesteel, Operations and Finance Director
Jacob Bonesteel joins ICS as our Operations and Finance Director, bringing nine years of accounting, bookkeeping, and operations experience. His background includes financial reporting, ledger reconciliation, compliance support, process improvement, and operations consulting. Jacob’s analytical strengths, attention to detail, and commitment to clear communication will help support the school’s financial systems, operational effectiveness, and long-term sustainability.
Ryan Wittstock, Community Relations Director
Ryan has served the school in the classroom for four years, as the high school history teacher and speech and debate coach. He joins the team as someone passionate about the school’s mission to excited to continue to push that mission forward in Salt Lake City by helping new families get involved at the school, working on strategic planning, and building an Alumni network.
Jennifer Torres, Finance and Human Resources Coordinator
Jennifer Torres joins ICS as our Finance and Human Resources Coordinator, bringing extensive experience in operations management, team leadership, workflow systems, compliance, staffing, billing, documentation, and organizational support. Her background includes leading administrative and clinical teams, managing HR-related functions, supporting audits and compliance processes, and improving operational efficiency. Jennifer’s leadership, problem-solving skills, and eye for systems will be a valuable support to ICS faculty, staff, and school operations.
Nehi Quiroa, Communications and Design Coordinator; Elementary STEM Teacher; Secondary Yearbook Teacher
Nehi Quiroa joins ICS in a creative and multifaceted role as Communications and Design Coordinator, Elementary STEM Teacher, and Secondary Yearbook Teacher. She brings experience in classroom instruction, art education, STEM-based camp design, nature programming, graphic design, and communications. With a background in environmental design and experience using tools such as Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp, and FACTS, Nehi will help strengthen ICS communications while inspiring students through hands-on learning, creativity, design, and storytelling.
Brooke Jeffrey, Registrar
Brooke Jeffrey joins ICS as our Registrar, bringing experience in education, ministry, administration, event coordination, and stakeholder communication. She has served as a kindergarten teacher’s aide, campus ministry worker, onboarding coordinator, and volunteer program coordinator. Brooke’s strengths in organization, communication, student support, and community care will serve ICS families well as she helps manage student records, enrollment processes, and school office systems.
Lana Porter, Administrative Assistant
Lana Porter joins ICS as our Administrative Assistant, bringing a strong background in office administration, client relations, scheduling, records management, and team support. Her experience includes serving as an executive office manager and office administrator in settings that required both operational excellence and compassionate communication. Lana’s people-first approach, organizational skills, and attention to detail will help create a welcoming and well-supported experience for students, parents, staff, and guests.
Dr. Toby Travis, Head of School
Dr. Toby Travis joins ICS as Head of School, bringing extensive experience in Christian school leadership, accreditation, governance, strategic planning, enrollment growth, school revitalization, and leadership development. He has served schools in the United States and internationally as a Head of School, interim school leader, consultant, board advisor, author, and leadership coach. Dr. Travis is passionate about Christ-centered education, trusted leadership, and building healthy school communities where students are equipped and inspired to thrive in God’s world.
May 2026 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s May 2026 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Michael, the May ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Michael consistently exhibits patience and kindness to his teachers and classmates. He can often be found creating beauty in music class and discovering God's creation through song. He is orderly and respectful. Congrats, Michael!
Congratulations to Josiah, the March ICS Middle/High School Student of the Month!
Even though it’s only his first year at ICS, he has jumped right in and become a true leader in the classroom. Josiah is always the first to offer a helping hand to a classmate and treats everyone, both teachers and students, with genuine respect. His positive attitude makes our school a better place, and we are so glad he’s part of our community!
How ICS Compares to State-Wide Reading Trends
For families looking for a private Christian school near Salt Lake City, Intermountain Christian School is known for an intentional culture of literacy across grade levels. From early phonics and fluency to upper-elementary comprehension, writing, and speaking, we help students become confident readers within a Christ-centered environment. At ICS, students are taught to meet—and often exceed—the Utah Core Standards.
Intermountain Christian School Elementary Reading Program
For families looking for a private Christian school near Salt Lake City, Intermountain Christian School is known for an intentional culture of literacy across grade levels. From early phonics and fluency to upper-elementary comprehension, writing, and speaking, we help students become confident readers within a Christ-centered environment. At ICS, students are taught to meet—and often exceed—the Utah Core Standards.
Utah Reading Benchmarks and Trends
Across Utah's public-school system, the reading picture is mixed. In the state's official early literacy reporting, 46.5% of students were reading on grade level, and 68.2% were making typical or better progress. At the same time, the Utah State Board of Education reported that Utah's 2024 eighth-grade NAEP reading score fell four points from 2022, while fourth-grade reading remained unchanged, showing that reading growth remains a statewide challenge.
Utah public education leaders are actively trying to improve these results. The state says it is expanding resources for reading programs, emphasizing evidence-based literacy practices, providing targeted training, and tracking progress more closely through efforts outlined in the USBE release and Utah's P-12 Literacy Framework.
That public-school context matters. Utah's P-12 Literacy Framework says only 46% of Utah's third graders and 42% of eighth graders score proficient in reading, and it calls literacy "the most fundamental skill and the gateway to knowledge and lifelong learning."
Recent Deseret News reporting on Utah K-3 literacy adds more public-school context: in 2025, 53.3% of kindergarteners, 48.2% of first graders, 48.7% of second graders, and 50.3% of third graders met grade-level expectations, underscoring why strong early instruction and intervention matter so much.
Against that statewide public-school backdrop, ICS students already meet and often exceed Utah standards while also cultivating a genuine love of reading through strong instruction, intervention, and joyful literacy experiences.
The following article, written by ICS first-grade teacher Darah Doty, comes from our 2026 Lionheart Spring Newsletter.
How ICS Cultivates a Culture of Literacy at ICS
Reading is the bedrock of all other instruction. It has been said that reading is a discipline in search of content. Reading skills and strategies are required across content areas. When students read, the world becomes an open book, and our teachers ensure our students have the skills to discern what it is saying.
We love reading at ICS! Through all of the instruction and state standards, it is important to maintain the joy of reading. We want to impart the joy of reading. That’s something that cannot be taught, but is cultivated after years of instruction, amounting confidence, and community support. You can see the love of reading being imparted every day at ICS. Often, you’ll see students getting reading help in our halls, with their reading buddies, or begging our librarian for a book they heard in their classroom read-aloud. They share their library books when they get back to the classroom after checking them out as a “library celebration.” Reading is not just academic; it is fun!
We recognize the urgency and significance of reading instruction as central to our mission of equipping and inspiring students to thrive in God’s world. While our test scores show we are continually making gains and are well above state standards, we do not “teach the test”. We use the data from standardized testing to drive instruction, but we focus on incorporating best practices and our passion for learning into our instruction.
At ICS, we love literacy. Reading and writing are gifts, and we love to share them with our students. As Dr. Seuss says, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” Our prayer is that our students will go all over the world, equipped and inspired to thrive in God’s world.
Progression of Reading Across Elementary Grade Levels
Each upper elementary grade level has an opportunity for an in-depth project where students showcase literacy skills learned over the years, allowing them to read, write, and speak about their topic. (see timeline graphic)
PreK Celebrates literacy with a Little Lions reading hour each week and incorporates hands-on activities to increase comprehension of stories.
Focus: building decoding, fluency, comprehension, and writing skills.
K-2nd graders use multisensory techniques to reinforce skills, and are complemented with targeted instruction, both in the classroom and with our reading interventionist. We enjoy community support with parents regularly practicing fluency with our students.
Focus: phonics and phonemic awareness, and students are expected to write in all content areas
3rd graders research a historical figure, and the class creates a wax museum. They write out the information and then dress up like that person. As the community walks through, students tell museum visitors about their person.
4th graders research a state and then decorate a cookie that displays important landmarks and locations within that state. Students then present their information and answer questions from other grade levels as they walk through the stations, stopping at each one.
5th graders complete several projects throughout the year, including informational writing on the Revolutionary War and a science fair project that requires experimentation, writing, reading, and interpreting graphs, before presenting their findings to the class.
Focus: In 3rd-5th grade, the focus shifts from learning to read to reading to learn, increasing student vocabulary through grade-level texts, morphology instruction, and focusing on comprehension skills such as point of view, sequencing, theme, and cause and effect, which gives students the tools to interpret information.
Want Your Child to be a Lifelong Reader? Schedule a Tour Today!
If you're looking for a school where literacy is foundational to long-term academic growth, we'd love to show you what that looks like in person. Schedule an in-person or virtual campus tour to meet teachers, see classrooms in action, and learn how ICS helps students grow in reading, writing, and confidence.
The Lasting Value of Youth Group Involvement
For many middle- and high school-aged Christians, a key part of their early faith development happens at Church, but not only on Sundays … at Youth Group.
What happens every day in the halls of ICS is wonderful, and we don’t need to understate the opportunities for discipleship at ICS to also highlight the unique role a Youth Group can play in a young Christian’s spiritual and social growth.
3 Reasons to Get Involved in a Youth Group
Intermountain Christian School (ICS) is a Christ-centered learning community composed of Christians from a variety of denominations. Though we’re a community of Christians, ICS does not aim to replace church involvement.
For many middle- and high school-aged Christians, a key part of their early faith development happens at Church, but not only on Sundays … at Youth Group.
What happens every day in the halls of ICS is wonderful, and we don’t need to understate the opportunities for discipleship at ICS to also highlight the unique role a Youth Group can play in a young Christian’s spiritual and social growth.
We asked the Youth Minister at Risen Life Church for his perspective on the lasting benefits of youth ministry involvement, and this is what he shared:
The most important thing for Christians to be involved in is the local church. Today, it is common for some to neglect the church or feel that it’s not needed or useful, especially if it isn't serving us the way we want it to. The Bible says quite the opposite (1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 10:23-25).
This is true for both adults and kids alike. As a middle school minister in Salt Lake, I am honored to care for the youth in this valley. The goal is simple: share Jesus with the kids through intentional discipleship, friendship, and the Word. Our team of adult volunteers, with varying backgrounds and ages, works hard to provide a space where kids hear the Word of God clearly, build relationships, feel safe expressing themselves, share their struggles, ask tough questions, and be discipled. It is my genuine belief that youth group is the most important thing for teens to be involved in over anything else. Here are three reasons why:
Iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). Part of being a teenager is struggling with identity. It’s asking the question “who am I and where do I belong?” Prioritizing youth group means you are putting them in a space where Jesus is being preached at their level. It’s a place where they can process life through a biblical lens with Christian friends and adult leaders and hear the Bible being explained in ways that make sense to them. Students will even have conflicts within the youth group, and then learn how to resolve them.
It’s their space. It is the parents’ job to raise their kids in the faith, but part of growing up is deciding whether or not you want to follow in the footsteps of your parents. Youth group gives kids the opportunity to work through their faith away from their parents, with the guidance and wisdom of other trusted adults. At this age, kids begin to be more influenced by non-family members. Put them around good influences. Balancing sports, jobs, and academic load is a reality for high school students, but active involvement and belonging to a church body have lifelong effects and lasting fruits.
It’s fun! Youth group is focused on sharing Jesus, and part of that is having fun with each other! Some of the best memories from my childhood are from youth group. Whether it’s mission trips, camp, activity nights, or just Wednesday night games, youth group consistently creates lifelong memories that kids will cherish and associate with Jesus!
It’s my hope that parents will prioritize youth group and work with their churches so we can serve our kids and raise up the next generation of Christians well.
Want to Learn More About Intermountain Christian School?
The best way to get to know ICS is to experience our community firsthand. Schedule a campus tour to meet our teachers, see students in action, and learn how a Christ-centered education can help your child thrive. We would love to welcome you to campus and help you explore whether Intermountain Christian School is the right fit for your family.
Get to Know Dr. Toby Travis
Back in January, we sat down with Dr. Toby Travis, the incoming Head of School for Intermountain Christian School for the 2026-2027 school year. In the interview with Dr. Travis, it became clear: his heart for Jesus, his passion for Christian education, and the breadth and depth of his experience.
Get to Know Dr. Toby Travis, The ICS Incoming Head of School for 2026-2027
Back in January, we sat down with Dr. Toby Travis, the incoming Head of School for Intermountain Christian School for the 2026-2027 school year. In the interview with Dr. Travis, it became clear: his heart for Jesus, his passion for Christian education, and the breadth and depth of his experience.
Intermountain Christian School is richer to have him, and we are hopeful for the trajectory of our school community going forward. Read the quotations below, and you’ll quickly get a sense of his passionate heart, impressive background, and gentle countenance.
About Dr. Toby Travis
Dr. Toby A. Travis is an experienced educational leader, author, and consultant with a distinguished career in both Christian and international education. Over the past decades, he has served as Head of School, interim executive, and leadership consultant for numerous Christian schools and organizations across the United States and abroad, guiding institutions toward greater mission alignment, academic excellence, and organizational trust.
Dr. Travis serves as an executive consultant and international trainer, working with schools worldwide. He is the developer of the TrustED framework for school improvement and the TrustED School Leader 360, utilized by schools around the world. The framework is based on his award-winning book, TrustED: The Bridge to School Improvement, and he was recently named one of Elite Education Magazine’s Top 10 Influential Education Leaders for 2025. His work has been widely recognized for helping schools strengthen leadership capacity, improve student achievement, and cultivate cultures of trust and excellence.
A long-standing member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), Dr. Travis has served as a conference speaker, leadership trainer, and accreditation review team member, evaluating Christian schools throughout the Americas. His passion is to see Christian schools thrive as communities where Christ is honored, students are discipled, and excellence is pursued in every dimension of school life.
Toby and his wife, Tannia, have deep roots in both U.S. and international Christian education, having served in leadership roles in schools in Ecuador, Arizona, North Carolina, New York, and Virginia. They are the proud parents of their daughter, Emma (13) and share a calling to equip the next generation of Christian leaders through faith-based education.
Click below to watch the full interview
What is your background, and what drew you into Christian education?
“I’ve really been in some form of ministry nearly my entire adult life… and that transitioned into Christian education a little less than 20 years ago, and it changed my life.”
“I had been in parachurch ministry, had been in international missions, had a short stint in church ministry as an assistant pastor. But the opportunity for discipleship that I see happening in Christian schools is like no other form of ministry.”
“When I got into the classroom situation and I’ve got these kids all day, five days a week… the opportunity for speaking into their lives, walking through life with them — transformational.”
“What makes Christian education so amazing is its opportunity for discipling students for Jesus Christ.”
Where have you served in education?
“My teaching and even admin, and subsequently consulting… all began in international settings. We were missionaries in Ecuador… so it all began in Ecuador as part of our ministry and missions there.”
“From there, I’ve led schools — multiple schools there in Ecuador — but then also in Arizona and North Carolina, most recently in rural western New York.”
What teacher and leadership roles have you held?
“I was a music ed guy… a vocal teacher in the secondary level… and I was a Bible teacher.”
“Roles have included classroom teacher, primarily in the secondary level… middle school coordinator, kind of like a vice principal… secondary school principal… academic director… and then head of school or superintendent.”
“I’ve also been very, very privileged to serve as a mentor to other school leaders and as a consultant for school boards, school administrators, private school owners.”
“You learn through others’ success and mistakes — and it helps you lead your own school.”
What made you choose ICS?
“I was here for this conference last summer and I remember walking the street downtown just admiring the environment and the place and the spirit of it, and I was like, ‘God, you could call me here and I would be very okay with that.’”
“What you have to look at and really pray about is fit. What is the school’s need fit with my competencies, my skill sets?”
“I looked at what are the needs of ICS and what am I skilled and passionate to do? I think there’s a really good fit here.”
“I think I can do a lot to help ICS… develop from being a good school to a great school.”
“There are so many good things happening here already. Let’s just keep supporting what’s good and let’s push us and lead us to great.”
Tell us about your family.
“Tannia is the most brilliant, godliest lady I’ve ever known.”
“Her primary calling and passion is just to love on folks for Jesus, and she does it so well.”
“Emma is the joy of our lives… she has a real gift and skill for art, and she’s funny and she’s beautiful.”
Is there anything you’d like to say to the ICS community?
“Just our gratefulness to God for bringing us here, our anticipation and joy at the opportunity, humbled but also excited.”
“I’m not here to change anything necessarily. I’m not here like I’ve got some alternative plan for ICS. It really is about seeking the Lord about how do we continually move ICS to a place of greater ministry fulfillment.”
“It’s supporting kids well, it’s supporting parents well, it’s supporting our faculty and our staff very well.”
“One of my philosophies is the teachers are the essence of the school, and so you really need to protect and support your teachers well. When you do that kids thrive, and when kids are happy parents are happy.”
“Just thrilled to be here to serve and lead as God provides, and watch and see what God will do.”
Welcome, Dr. Travis, to the ICS Community!
What Is Intermountain Christian School? Not just an excellent place to learn, but a place to be discipled
We created a new video with interviews from teachers and administrators, sharing from the heart, so you can get to know ICS. The video is meant to give you a look into the classroom, display our teacher’s passion for Christian education and prayerful preparation for each school year, and help families decide if Intermountain Christian School is the best fit for their students.
What Is Intermountain Christian School?
Not just an excellent place to learn, but a place to be discipled—this is what Intermountain Christian School is all about. Watch our new brand video to learn how ICS, the top private Christian school near Salt Lake City, Utah, offers a strong education built on a Christ-centered worldview.
The Unique Value of Intermountain Christian School
We created a new video with interviews from teachers and administrators, sharing from the heart, so you can get to know ICS. The video is meant to give you a look into the classroom, display our teachers’ passion for Christian education and prayerful preparation for each school year, and help families decide if Intermountain Christian School is the best fit for their students.
“We teach all of those core subjects, and we teach them excellently, but we take educational best practices and biblical integration, and we meld them together in a way that just makes sense and becomes real to our students.”
“I appreciate my time here so much more, seeing the efforts that teachers go to to make this not only an excellent place to learn but a place to be discipled.”
Watch the video here:
What Is Intermountain Christian School (ICS) All About?
Here are some key messages from the video I’d like to highlight:
As a private Christian school near Salt Lake City, Utah, we're able to offer our students a powerful and one-of-a-kind educational experience.
Does ICS Have Strong Academics? Or Just Christian Values?
A unique value of ICS is that we're well-equipped to offer a high-quality, appropriately challenging education, with honors-level academics and exceptionally talented teachers. But what makes ICS special is the lens we teach our classes through ... really, the lens we see the world through.
“We’re not just a Christian school. We’re a school, and we’re really good at it.”
ICS Is a Christian School—In Belief and Practice
A school is made up of a Christian community (followers of Jesus). ICS is a non-profit private education organization that is centered on Christian belief, doctrine, and values, and is led by Christians from a wide variety of denominational backgrounds and beliefs, but we are all united on the truth of the biblical gospel.
We are a Christian school in name and belief, but most notably, in practice. Everything we do and teach is through a biblical lens—from biology to Bible to PE class.
“All truth is God’s truth.”
For Christian families in the Salt Lake area, this is a compelling combination, where they know that when they drop off their students at school, their students are going to be in a safe, caring, Christ-centered environment. What they learn at school is high quality, enriching, and prepares them to thrive beyond graduation, AND is in alignment with what they learn at home and at church.
ICS Faculty and Staff Represented
Though our faculty is rich with dozens of passionate Christian educators who could speak to the unique work we do at ICS, in this video, you hear from:
Dean of Elementary School, Andrew Hobbs
High School Lead Teacher, Becky Schumacher
Art Teacher and Dance Instructor, JeQuita Lee
Elementary Stem Teacher, Kelsie Larkin
Schedule a Campus Tour
If this is the kind of education you want to give your student, schedule an in-person or virtual campus tour.
You’ll have the chance to meet teachers, see classrooms in action, tour the facility, and ask all your questions. When you tour, you can learn how to apply, learn about tuition assistance, and really determine if ICS is the right fit for your student and your family.
April 2026 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s April 2026 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Paul, the March ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Paul exhibits TfT Throughlines in our classroom everyday! He is a community builder by including others during playtime and helping solve social problems. He is a servant worker by being helpful during clean up time and having a positive attitude when I ask him to do something. He seeks justice by playing fairly and by the rules. He is intentional to create beauty in his artwork. He puts others before himself and worships God through song and scripture memory. Thank you for leading by example, Paul! Congratulations!
Congratulations to Stratton, the March ICS Middle/High School Student of the Month!
Stratton has been working hard all year. In classes he is helpful and goes out of his way to include others. He persevered with diligence through hybrid learning and had solid attendance when preparing for the theater production. He is a great member of our high school and we are proud of him!
Middle Schoolers Learning Lessons For Life In the Classroom & on the Field
At Intermountain Christian School, middle school students are learning lessons for life through strong academics, Christ-centered mentorship, and growth on the field and in the classroom.
A Story of the Middle School Experience at Intermountain Christian School
As a private Christian school in the Salt Lake City area, Intermountain Christian School helps middle school students grow through strong academics, Christ-centered discipleship, and meaningful opportunities in athletics and leadership. This archived Lionheart story highlights how ICS middle school students are learning lessons for life in the classroom and on the field.
Middle Schoolers Learning Lessons For Life — In the Classroom & on the Field
Originally published in the fall 2025 edition of Lionheart Newsletter
Middle school is a time for change, where students are growing into who they were created to be. This comes with challenges as they test boundaries, begin to think more critically, and decipher truth from lies. For ICS middle schoolers, Mr. Joel Salankat is one of the influential figures positioned to guide them through this key phase of adolescence. He does this as the middle school lead teacher and the middle school soccer head coach. In everything he does, Mr. Salankat aims to impart life lessons that help young students grow into mature, hardworking, God-fearing individuals.
“The work ethic and discipline Mr. Salankat expects on the field is the same in the classroom,” says middle school student and athlete, Reed Gutzwiller. Reed and his teammates are convinced that hard work, excellence, discipline, and respect are expected from Mr. Salankat.
Hard work is a key concept woven throughout Mr. Salankat’s lessons. On the soccer field, Mr. Salankat expects his athletes to train as they play, and play as they train. He cares more about the athletes giving their best than he does about the game’s final score. In the classroom, he’s less concerned about all A’s and more hopeful that the students apply themselves to learn, and deeply understand the concepts he teaches.
Mr. Joel Salankat often quotes Jim Elliott: “Wherever you are, be all there. Live to the hilt every situation you believe to be the will of God.” When the soccer team is at practice or in a game, there is nowhere else they need to be. Mr. Salankat expects them to LOCK IN. Nothing else matters for the minutes that they are on the field. In the classroom, he discourages distractions and expects his students to engage fully in the lectures, class discussions, and homework assignments.
Collin Reist joined the middle school soccer team in 5th grade. He was quiet and rarely talked to his teammates. Now, Collin is in 7th grade and is a leader on the team. Mr. Salankat credits Collin’s leadership with carrying the team and building excitement and unity. Students are growing into who they are created to be more and more every year under the guidance of Mr. Joel Salankat.
It’s not unusual for teachers and staff at ICS to serve in more than one area. Mr. Salankat is a strong example of utilizing his gifts for leadership, teaching, and coaching at ICS. He’s a well-loved fixture among middle schoolers. His position as lead middle school teacher provides him with the opportunity to mentor and lead the middle school team. Following the example of Mr. Salankat, the culture at ICS nurtures students into mature, well-rounded individuals.
Want to Learn More? Schedule a Tour
If you are looking for a Christian middle school in the Salt Lake City area where students are known, challenged, and encouraged, we would love to welcome you to campus. Schedule a virtual or in-person tour to meet our team, see our classrooms, and learn how Intermountain Christian School helps students grow through strong academics, a biblical worldview, and a supportive Christ-centered community.
What It Means To Earn Platinum AP School Honor Roll Recognition
Intermountain Christian School has earned Platinum AP School Honor Roll recognition from the College Board, highlighting strong college readiness, rigorous AP coursework, and outstanding support for students in the Salt Lake Valley.
What It Means To Earn Platinum AP School Honor Roll Recognition
Intermountain Christian School Earns Platinum AP School Honor Roll Recognition
We are pleased to announce that Intermountain Christian School has earned Platinum Status on the College Board’s AP School Honor Roll, the highest distinction in this national program. The College Board recognizes schools whose Advanced Placement (AP) programs achieve both high student participation and strong AP test results.
This recognition affirms our commitment to college readiness, expanded access to advanced academics, and supporting students in achieving meaningful outcomes through rigorous coursework.
National Recognition for Academic Excellence
Launched in 2023, the AP School Honor Roll includes four levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. In the 2024–25 cycle, only 36% of eligible high schools nationwide received recognition at any level, and just 8% achieved Platinum. This places ICS among the nation’s top-performing schools.
For ICS, Platinum Status demonstrates that students have access to diverse advanced coursework, strong participation rates, and the preparation needed to succeed.
Platinum benchmarks require 80% of the Class of 2025 to take at least one AP class, 50% to pass at least one AP course, and 15% to complete five or more AP classes during high school, including at least one in ninth or tenth grade. These measures reflect sustained student engagement, strong instructional support, and a culture that values both access and achievement.
How is this Connected to your Student’s Outcomes?
The College Board’s AP program enables students to pursue college-level studies while still in high school, with opportunities to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both. Through AP coursework, students develop critical thinking, analytical writing, and disciplined study habits that prepare them well for college and beyond.
Research supports these benefits. According to the College Board, students who complete their first AP Exam are three percentage points more likely to graduate from college within four years. Those who score a 3 or higher on one AP Exam are six percentage points more likely, and students who earn a 3 or higher on two AP Exams are eight percentage points more likely. Additional College Board research shows that AP Exam takers have a nine-point higher four-year graduation rate than non-AP students, regardless of AP score.
For ICS, this distinction highlights the long-term value of an academic program designed to prepare students for the next stage of their academic journeys.
Advanced Placement Courses Offered at ICS
Intermountain Christian School’s AP program demonstrates a commitment to rigorous preparation in the humanities, sciences, mathematics, and technology. Students may enroll in the following Advanced Placement courses:
AP English Language & Composition
AP Literature & Composition
AP Computer Science Principles
AP Computer Science A
AP Human Geography
AP Government
AP World History
AP Biology
AP Pre-Calculus
AP Calculus AB
AP Psychology*
These courses allow students to engage with college-level content and build the academic skills and confidence needed for future success.
Recognizing the Educators and Leaders Behind This Achievement
A strong academic program relies on dedicated educators and leaders. We honor the faculty and administrators who have built the AP program at Intermountain Christian School.
Congratulations to Pamela Smith, Dean of Middle and High School, and Anna Johnson, College and Career Guidance Counselor, for their leadership. We’d also like to recognize and thank Brewster Christiansen in mathematics, Becky Schumacher in English, Michelle Reed in science, Joe Dunbar in Computer Science, and Ryan Wittstock in high school social studies. Each of these educators contributes in meaningful ways to equipping and inspiring students to THRIVE.
Serving Families Across the Salt Lake Valley
For families across the Salt Lake Valley, this achievement reflects the broader educational experience Intermountain Christian School provides. ICS is committed to offering a learning environment that combines academic rigor, strong college and career guidance, and diverse opportunities.
Our mission is to EQUIP and INSPIRE students to THRIVE in God’s world. It's truly satisfying to see an award that reflects this mission in action.
Families looking for a Christian school in the Salt Lake Valley often seek both challenge and support. They want a school where students are known, encouraged, and stretched to reach their potential. They want challenging academics, taught with the grace of Jesus. Recognition from the Platinum AP School Honor Roll is a meaningful indicator that Intermountain Christian School is delivering on that promise.
Learn More About Intermountain Christian School
Families interested in learning how ICS supports students academically, personally, and spiritually are invited to schedule a tour and experience the school community firsthand.
Chick-fil-A for Lunch and Making Learning Fun: ICS Student Writing Samples
Students take two weekly reading tests, and if they earn two 100% scores, they get to go off campus to Chick-fil-A for lunch. While we celebrate everyone’s wins in a variety of ways, this tradition has become a special motivator that helps keep students engaged. Under the new ownership, this Chick-fil-A location has partnered with us in a different and fun way this year.
Delightful ICS student writing samples after a delicious lunch, all in the name of learning and fun.
We Help Students Become Engaged, Attentive Learners
At Intermountain Christian School, we believe that the best learning happens when students are highly engaged, build on prior knowledge, and feel connected in their community. Sometimes helping students love to learn looks like surprising them with FUN, and letting them make memories with friends. The story below is a wonderful example of how ICS makes learning engaging, meaningful, and yes, sometimes a little yummy too.
Why these Students Went to Chick-fil-A for Lunch
Students take two weekly reading tests, and if they earn two 100% scores, they get to go off campus to Chick-fil-A for lunch. While we celebrate everyone’s wins in a variety of ways, this tradition has become a special motivator that helps keep students engaged. Under the new ownership, this Chick-fil-A location has partnered with us in a different and fun way this year.
Student Writing About Their Experience
Our students came back and wrote about their experience, and the quality and joy of their writing might be even more delightful than the lunch they enjoyed that day:
Penelope L. Wrote This:
When Codie, Cody, Madeline, Izzy, and I went to Chick-fil-A, we had a blast! But before we could go, we had to do one thing, well, technically two things: get two 100% on our reading test. Codie was the first to get it, then it was me (Penelope), next it was Izzy, after Izzy, it was Madeline, last it was Cody.
We went to Chick-fil-A on February 18, 2026. When we got there, we were just expecting to order our food, eat, and leave. But instead, we got a tour around the restaurant! At first, I thought we were going to just have a tour around the dining part of the restaurant, but then our fellow tour guides started to lead the six of us (including Ms. Frazee, our teacher) to the back, where the food was made! We got all excited because we weren’t expecting to go back into the kitchen. Ms. Frazee wasn’t even expecting this to happen!
Once we got to the back, our guides showed us where each kind of food was made, and they showed us the freezer rooms, too! We learned some things, like how the workers have to wear yellow aprons when working with raw meat and white aprons when working with other foods. After they finished showing us around, they told us to wash our hands because they said we were going to make our own food. Now we were really getting excited!!! So, we put on the YELLOW aprons, and then they showed us how to “bread” the meat. It was really fun.
A few minutes later, we got our chicken and fries, and we got to put our sandwiches together. We also got to put pickles on, but they couldn’t overlap each other. They usually just put two pickles, but Izzy and I managed to put 6-7 pickles on! Cody also did a lot, too (I didn’t mean to do “6-7”).
To conclude, I had an amazing time at Chick-fil-A because I was 100% not expecting anything like what happened that day. We thank Chick-fil-A, Miss Sarah, and Miss Cathi for letting us do a tour through the restaurant and letting us have an awesome time. (Thank you for the delicious sandwich, too!)
- Penelope L.
Isabelle Wrote This:
You just ate dinner, and you can smell the fresh batch of cookies that your grandmother just took out of the oven. As you take the first bite, a burst of flavor that includes nuts and the classic mouth-watering chocolate chips, you decide that you want to try to make them yourself. As you creep into the kitchen, you see that your grandmother is making another batch of cookies and has left the ingredients out on the counter. You run over to grab the recipe before she catches you, but it isn’t there, and then you realize that the recipe is in her head. Eventually, she decides to teach you the recipe, and now you help her whenever she makes cookies. That is a lot like my experience at Chick-fil-A, the secret recipe was so close, yet so far away.
As we walked through the doors, we could smell the warm, crispy fries. We were greeted by the workers, and they gave us some cow hats to wear during our visit. Then we walked over to the story that was on the wall and learned about who formed Chick-fil-A and the story behind it.
Next, we got to go into the kitchen and see how everything is made. There was an area for salads, toasting the buns, and making chicken. The workers each wear hair nets and different colored aprons and gloves depending on what they are working on, so they can prevent cross-food contamination. There are some areas where you make the food for the drive-through and take-out, and there are some areas where you make the food for the dine-in.
Then we got to make our own food! First, we had to put hair nets on, wash our hands, and get the right colored gloves and aprons. Next, we each took turns breading the chicken and, of course, taking pictures. Then we waited for the chicken to cook. Finally, we assembled our sandwiches and ate them with some fries and a drink. But the time had come, we had to say goodbye and go back to school. On the way out, they gave us some stickers, and we took our leftovers to go. That was what my experience at Chick-fil-A was like.
- Isabelle V.
Helping Students Love to Learn and Learn to Write
These two pieces give a glimpse into what makes the ICS experience special: small class sizes, attentive teachers, and unique experiences. Students are not only building strong writing skills but are also learning through memorable moments that make them eager to observe, reflect, and communicate with confidence.
Considering ICS? Come Experience the ICS Learning Environment for Yourself
If you are looking for a school where learning is engaging, meaningful, and rooted in a warm Christian community, we would love to welcome you to campus. Schedule a tour and come see the ICS experience for yourself.
March 2026 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s March 2026 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Poppy, the March ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Poppy is a shining example of what it means to lead with both heart and integrity. As a justice-seeking student, she stands up for classmates, speaks up when something isn’t fair, and strives to bring peace. With a joyful spirit and a wonderfully creative mind, Poppy brings imagination and bright ideas into our classroom every single day. She also openly shares her love for God, allowing her faith to guide her actions and inspire kindness and positivity in those around her.
Congratulations to Farrah, the March ICS Middle/High School Student of the Month!
Farrah is a very hard worker in dance. She always tries her best and shares great ideas with the class. Farrah is getting ready to compete with the MS Team, and she is also performing a solo and a duet at the Elevation Dance Competition.
We are proud of her positive attitude and the way she helps other dancers and her classmates. Farrah is a great example of what it means to work hard and be kind. Congratulations, Farrah!
January 2026 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s January 2026 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Parker, the December ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Nash is so fun to have in class. He always does his best work. He shows characteristics of servant-working every day by helping others any time he sees the need. Nash joyfully participates in everything. He is a great example of how to ROAR at ICS.
Congratulations to Eden, the January ICS Middle/High School Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Caleb, our January Middle School Student of the Month! He is a huge help to our school, whether he is cleaning the art room during his free time or helping hand out Chick-fil-A lunches. Caleb is a hard-working, respectful student who creates beautiful artwork and is always willing to lead by example. We are so proud of the positive energy he brings to our middle school!
September 2025 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s September 2025 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Madeline, the September ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
In the short time that Madeline has been at ICS, she has truly demonstrated what it means to be an ICS Lion. She is an exceptional addition to the current 5th grade class. Her servant's heart is exemplified in the classroom on a daily basis—she is always willing to help and consistently goes above and beyond expectations. She seeks to do her best in all things and approaches every task with a spirit of excellence. We are so glad to have Madeline as part of our ICS family.
Congratulations to Jovie, the September ICS Middle/High School Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Jovie (6th grade), our September Middle School Student of the Month! Jovie goes above and beyond in the classroom, helping her peers and teachers. She consistently volunteers for any activity, helps other students catch up on missed work, and was a fantastic prayer leader during the first week of school.
The Lasting Impact of High School Retreat at Big Canyon Ranch
From the Fall 2024 Lionheart Newsletter, authored by Jennifer Adema
Ellie Menning is a graduating senior who has attended ICS since PreK. This year was her last year attending the high school retreat at Big Canyon Ranch (BCR). Reflecting on her experiences there, she goes back to 8th grade and remembers the anticipation of moving up to high school and participating in the retreat at the beginning of the school year. Ellie has played volleyball for many years and had connections to some high school girls through athletics prior to starting 9th grade. However, during the retreat, Ellie and the other freshmen were more easily able to connect to the greater high school community.
The energy at BCR is welcoming, as the older high school students are genuinely excited for the freshmen to experience the high school retreat. As Ellie progressed through high school, her involvement in planning the retreat increased. Ellie and her friends worked to continue traditions such as the dance, games, “girl talk” and making sure the culture of hospitality and excitement carries on.
The worship time at the retreat sticks out to Ellie, as well as the varied speakers over the years. She says that there are barriers that fall down and an atmosphere of freedom is felt that helps the students connect with God more through worship.
The friendships and familiarity that form over the retreat at BCR continue throughout the school year. Big Canyon Ranch starts the dynamic of eating lunch outside and being able to talk to anyone from any grade. Part of the uniqueness of the ICS community is that strong relationships are built and solidified through shared experiences beyond the classrooms.
ICS dad and pastor at The Rock Church, Steele Croswhite, was this year’s speaker and worship leader. Steele spoke three times on the realities of Christ and considered it an awesome opportunity to speak to the next generation about Jesus.
Get to Know New Middle & High School Faculty & Staff
We are thrilled to welcome these talented individuals to our faculty & staff this year, each bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for Christian education. These talented educators will join us in equipping students not only with knowledge and skills to excel academically, but also with the firm foundation in understanding who God created them to be.
Meet The Newest Additions to our MS/HS Faculty & Staff
We are thrilled to welcome these talented individuals to our faculty & staff this year, each bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for Christian education. These talented educators will join us in equipping students not only with knowledge and skills to excel academically, but also with the firm foundation in understanding who God created them to be.
Middle School Science and Math, Makenzie Plaisance
Makenzie is new to Utah and will also be new to the ICS community for the 25-26 school year! When she started her job search, she asked God to direct her steps, and that her placement would fill a purpose to which God had called her. The Lord gently opened the door for her to apply at ICS, and after having the opportunity to share her testimony and learn more about ICS’ biblical foundation and values, she was confident ICS was the right fit for her!
Makenzie will bring her faith into work by leading through a biblical example. She understands that teaching students the Lord’s character and heart is very important, but perhaps more so is modeling that personally. Makenzie aims to interact with students, parents and coworkers by speaking with life, love, understanding and truth. Every interaction is an opportunity to be a reflection of the Lord’s work in her life!
Makenzie joins ICS as the middle school science and 7th grade math teacher. She also teaches 6th grade Bible. She looks forward to getting to know her students and hearing from them about their lives! Makenzie loves spending time with her nieces and her family. She enjoys hiking, camping, running and never forgets to bring a book with her on her adventures!
Middle School Math and History, Hadley Anderson
Hadley Anderson joins the Middle School faculty teaching 6th and 8th grade math, as well as 6th and 7th grade social studies. She is also the 7th grade Bible teacher. When looking for a teaching position, it was the genuine nature of the ICS staff, and the attitude of wanting what’s best for the students that ultimately drew her in.
When considering how she will bring her faith into the classroom, Hadley hopes that every interaction with a student would stem from a love for God and his people. She strives to live and work in a way that recognizes and respects the dignity of each and every student as one of God’s beloved children. Her faithful approach will set the tone for her classroom.
What excites Hadley about coming to work everyday is the opportunity to cultivate meaningful experiences for her students. She knows that middle school is a very formative time and counts it both a challenge and a blessing to have influence in helping them become who God calls them to be.
Hadley loves spending time with friends outside of work. She enjoys gardening, finding new coffee shops, as well as spending time outdoors hiking, skiing, swimming and biking.
8th Grade Bible Teacher, Andrew Strang
Andrew Strang is the youth and worship minister at EVFree Church in Salt Lake City. This year, he will take on the role of 8th grade Bible teacher at ICS. He started this role during the 2024-2025 school year, and looks forward to starting the new school year in this position.
Andrew prays before and during each class for opportunities to see what God has done and for truth to be revealed to his students. He welcomes questions, and anticipates students grasping gospel truths each day. Being able to teach the Bible to these young minds excites Andrew and motivates him to bring his best efforts to work everyday.
Andrew celebrated his 14th wedding anniversary this summer, and looks forward to welcoming his 4th child soon!
Elementary and Middle School Music Teacher, Anna Brewer
Anna Brewer has a love for music and looks forward to bringing her expertise and interest in the subject to ICS as the elementary and middle school music teacher. Christ is the focal point of all of her decisions and actions.
Anna was working for former ICS music teacher Nathan Hope in Montana, who is now head of school at Manhattan Christian School. We were confident Anna would be a strong fit upon hearing Nathan’s strong recommendation.
Deciding to work at ICS and bring her love for the Lord and love for music together was seen as a God given opportunity. Anna says that the design and creativity of music is a beautiful testimony of God’s power and love.
Anna looks forward to teaching her students to explore God’s creation through the gift of song. She finds nothing more joyous than working together through music to praise the Lord.
When she’s not teaching students the fundamentals of music, Anna can be found with her husband and son. She enjoys trying new recipes, completing puzzles, or making music.
Middle and High School STEM, Joseph Dunbar
Joe Dunbar was looking to return to teaching in Christian education, after holding a job in the tech industry as a data scientist. The opportunity at ICS was a natural fit, and he looks forward to teaching middle and high school STEM classes.
Joe acknowledges his reliance on God for everything, and is grateful for the everyday sustenance he receives from Him. Joe plans on integrating his faith into this classroom through journal activities, Bible discussions, and showing that God is the giver of all things. His teaching style will look for bridges between theology and science, and show students that there’s more in common than what they might originally expect.
Joe enjoys helping people and making a difference in his work. He looks forward to sharing the skills and innate abilities that he has, and sees his job as a teacher as a way of passing the torch to the next generation.
When Joe is not teaching, he enjoys his role as father. His kids keep him busy with different activities including swimming and piano lessons.
High School Music Teacher, Shanna Hafemann
Shanna Hafemann is returning to ICS after taking some time away to adjust to life as a new mom. This will be her 4th year on staff at ICS. She looks forward to reentering her role as the High School Music Teacher.
When considering a return to ICS, Shanna looked forward to ICS' commitment to community. She states that Christians of all walks and denominations are “better when we’re together.” Coming together can refine one’s faith, and she is excited to be a part of intentional community building based on Christian faith.
Shanna will bring her faith into the classroom by helping her students slow down, be present in the moment, and not miss what God is doing right here, right now. Shanna sees God in the details, the everyday moments of life where He proves his love and faithfulness over and over again. She hopes to teach students to recognize the same, as she teaches music.
Shanna appreciates the relationships she gets to build both with her coworkers and students. This is what motivates her to come to work everyday!
In addition to music, Shanna enjoys camping, reading, organizing, and relaxing with friends and family.
Shanna is a part of Formation Church.
Guidance Counselor, Anna Johnson
Anna Johnson will be joining the ICS team as the guidance counselor. She merges her collegiate expertise with her faith and looks forward to directing students through academic and spiritual aspects of their becoming young adults. Anna has lived in the Salt Lake Valley for 20 years, and has always had proximity to ICS, relationally and geographically.
Anna considers it a huge blessing to be able to work at the same school where her daughters attend. She looks forward to working with like minded Christ following educators who genuinely care about the growth of each student. In her role, Anna reflects on 2 Thessalonians 3:5, “May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the perseverance of Christ.” She hopes to encourage the students to see God’s guidance in their lives, throughout every decision whether perceived as small or large. Through daily, consistent steps of faithfulness and obedience, Anna desires that students bind their lives in Christ and come to trust his faithfulness.
Anna anticipates seeing the spark of joy and enthusiasm from the students when she’s helping them discover their God given gifts and talents and how they will utilize them throughout their lives.
Anna enjoys reading, baking with sourdough, swimming and spending time with her husband and 2 daughters when not at work. Anna is a part of Risen Life Church.
PE Teacher, Greg Townsend
Greg joined ICS faculty halfway through the 2024-2025 school year as the PE teacher. He looks forward to returning to this role for the full 2025-2026 school year. Prior to joining the staff at ICS, Greg was working at West Jordan High School, and he continues to coach football there. He recently finished his master’s in sports administration, and was hopeful to find work as a full time teacher. The opportunity at ICS is a blessing from God as Greg enjoys the relationships that are developed everyday.
Greg brings his faith into the gym by reciting a Bible verse at the start of each class, as well as playing Christian music during PE. He frames exercise as a way to care for our bodies and reminds his student’s that they are temples of the Holy Spirit.
He enjoys spending time with his family when he’s not at work, is an anime fan and also plays video games.
High School Film Elective Teacher, Will Schumacher
ICS alum William Schumacher will join the faculty for the 2025-2026 school year as the high school film elective teacher as well as the assistant speech and debate coach. Will is looking forward to these roles and brings passion and expertise to both!
Will was a star on ICS’ own speech and debate team during his tenure as a student. In addition, appreciates bringing his knowledge of the film world to students who have a similar passion for the art form, especially in a Christ-centered environment.
Will believes it’s important for believers to be in tune with their spiritual gifts that God gives to each individual. He finds joy in his artistry and the unique opportunity it presents for Christians interested in film. He hopes to instill the next generation with a love for film and a love for He who has blessed them with the medium. Understanding how to appreciate various art forms while maintaining a fixation on the cross is something that has been a big part of Will’s journey as a Christian, and it is something that will greatly influence the way he teaches his class.
He looks forward to being able to talk about cool movies with his students. And not surprisingly, when he’s not at work or taking classes at the University of Utah, he’s watching and making films of his own!
We anticipate these new additions will advance ICS’s mission of equipping and inspiring students to thrive in God’s world!
Get to Know New ECE/ES Faculty & Staff
We are thrilled to welcome these talented individuals to our faculty & staff this year, each bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for Christian education. These talented educators will join us in equipping students not only with knowledge and skills to excel academically, but also with the firm foundation in understanding who God created them to be.
Meet The Newest Additions to our Lower School Faculty & Staff
We are thrilled to welcome these talented individuals to our faculty and staff this year, each bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for Christian education. These talented educators will join us in equipping students not only with knowledge and skills to excel academically, but also with the firm foundation in understanding who God created them to be.
PreK Teacher, Elisabeth Osborne
Elisabeth is excited to join the ICS faculty as the PreK teacher. She loves teaching four-year-olds, and when she learned of the open position, she was excited to bring prayer and her faith into the work place with like minded colleagues. She looks forward to joining the team, making new friends and training the next generation in the way of the Lord!
She will bring her faith into the classroom by teaching her students how to pray by example, as well as pointing them to Jesus through various situations in the classroom. She will show them the love and grace she’s received from Jesus, leading by example.
Seeing her students grow throughout the year and learning their personalities motivates her to come to work each day. Elisabeth looks forward to giving and receiving high fives and hugs at the beginning of each day.
When she’s not at work, Elisabeth can be found spending time with her family. They ski in the winter, camp in the summer, and are involved in their church. She loves ending a day by relaxing and enjoying the view of the Wasatch mountains!
Second Grade Teacher, Brandi Stimeling
Brandi and her family moved to Utah from Virginia a year ago. Brandi began searching for a teaching position, and after meeting several employees from ICS, she knew this was the next step for her. Brandi joins the team as the second grade teacher.
Brandi’s faith is the foundation for everything she does. It’s a blessing to be able to share her passion and love for God with her students and colleagues. She looks forward to the school year with excitement to see what God has in store for her classroom!
She considers it a privilege to work with the staff in place at ICS, working toward a common goal centered in Christ.
When Brandi is not in the classroom, she runs a small crochet business that keeps her very busy. She enjoys formula one racing and college football.
4th Grade Teacher, Logan Posthumus
Logan joined the faculty at ICS during the 2024-2025 school year as the 4th grade teacher. He returns this year in the same role and looks forward to a full school year with his students!
Logan starts everyday leading a devotional with his students and emphasizes living in biblical truths. He looks forward to the conversations he gets to have with the young minds that are forming under his teaching.
Logan is a rock climber and also enjoys disc golf. He recently got a hole in one on the golf course!
Reading Interventionist, Breanne Keck
Breanne Keck is new to ICS for the 2025-2026 school year. She will be the reading interventionist for the elementary school. Breanne holds a master’s in with an emphasis in literacy. Her dream has been to be a reading interventionist that drives students to fall in love with reading! She looks forward to incorporating her faith in the Lord with helping students strengthen their reading skills.
When considering how she will bring her faith into her workplace, she is prayerful that her love for the Lord would show through her actions and words when working with students and colleagues.
She hopes to form solid relationships within the ICS community, finding a common thread of shared faith.
When not at work, she enjoys mountain biking, pilates, reading and cooking. She also makes time for traveling and of course, spending time with family!
Elementary and Middle School Music Teacher, Anna Brewer
Anna Brewer has a love for music and looks forward to bringing her expertise and interest in the subject to ICS as the elementary and middle school music teacher. Christ is the focal point of all of her decisions and actions.
Anna was working for former ICS music teacher Nathan Hope in Montana, who is now head of school at Manhattan Christian School. We were confident Anna would be a strong fit upon hearing Nathan’s strong recommendation.
Deciding to work at ICS and bring her love for the Lord and love for music together was seen as a God given opportunity. Anna says that the design and creativity of music is a beautiful testimony of God’s power and love.
Anna looks forward to teaching her students to explore God’s creation through the gift of song. She finds nothing more joyous than working together through music to praise the Lord.
When she’s not teaching students the fundamentals of music, Anna can be found with her husband and son. She enjoys trying new recipes, completing puzzles, or making music.
Elementary STEM Teacher, Kelsie Larkin
Having attended ICS from Kindergarten through 9th grade, Kelsie is now joining the ICS faculty as the Elementary STEM Educator. Prior to accepting the STEM role, Kelsie earned a doctorate in biological sciences. Kelsie credits her position with giving her the opportunity to combine her passions for Jesus, science and teaching.
Kelsie says it’s easy to bring faith into scientific exploration when you see the beauty and intention in the living things all around us. By studying nature, students get a special glimpse into the Lord’s amazing creativity and design.
Kelsie looks forward to answering curious and fun questions from her students.
When she’s not at work, Kelsie plays with her family, hikes, paddleboards, and skis!
K-12 PE Teacher, Greg Townsend
Greg joined ICS faculty halfway through the 2024-2025 school year as the PE teacher. He looks forward to returning to this role for the full 2025-2026 school year. Prior to joining the staff at ICS, Greg was working at West Jordan High School, and he continues to coach football there. He recently finished his master’s in sports administration, and was hopeful to find work as a full time teacher. The opportunity at ICS is a blessing from God as Greg enjoys the relationships that are developed everyday.
Greg brings his faith into the gym by reciting a Bible verse at the start of each class, as well as playing Christian music during PE. He frames exercise as a way to care for our bodies and reminds his student’s that they are temples of the Holy Spirit.
He enjoys spending time with his family when he’s not at work, is an anime fan and also plays video games.
Paraeducator, Sophia Lee
Sophia Lee previously worked at ICS as the fourth grade teacher. She also worked as the elementary chapel worship leader. She returns for the 2025-2026 school year as a paraeducator, and remains the elementary chapel worship leader. She appreciates the kindness of teachers and staff, along with the close knit community found at ICS.
Sophia’s hope is for the students to develop a deeper relationship with the Lord and understand His great love for us. She doesn’t take for granted that she can pray for a student and freely profess her faith at work while inviting others into God’s great story.
The students are what motivate her to come to work everyday. She receives their joy and spunk with a smile!
Sophia enjoys visiting parks with her daughter, cooking and listening to audiobooks when not at work.
We anticipate these new additions will advance ICS’s mission of equipping and inspiring students to thrive in God’s world!
November 2025 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s November 2025 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Charlotte, the November ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Charlotte knows how to R.O.A.R. in our classroom! She is respectful to her teachers and a sweet friend to all of the boys and girls. In kindness she reaches out to play with and sit by friends who are sad or lonely, helping build community for others. She is orderly in following directions and expectations set for her, and is a good example to others. She listens well and is able to adapt to changes in our classroom. Charlotte is responsible as she cleans up after herself and helps other children as well. Congratulations to Charlotte, our Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Sam, the November ICS Middle/High School Student of the Month!
We are excited to celebrate Sam as our Middle & High School Student of the Month! Although he is new to ICS, Sam has immediately impressed his teachers with his high academic achievement and responsible work ethic in every subject. He is a truly respectful and focused young man, making him a wonderful addition to our middle school community. Congratulations, Sam!
May 2025 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s May 2025 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Ava, the May ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Ava (4th), our May ICS Elementary Student of the Month! Ava is a great example of an Earth Keeper by cleaning up trash in and out of the classroom. Ava is patient with her classmates, honest with herself and others, and is loving toward all. She demonstrates leadership by being a member of the Elementary School Leadership Team. She has helped make my transition to ICS and 4th grade easier by always being willing to learn and wanting to participate in all activities.
Congratulations to Grace, the May ICS Middle School Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Grace (6th), our middle school student of the month for May! Grace continues to impress her teachers with her drive to try new things. She always has something she is working on whether it is her notebooks designs, a crocheting project or a newspaper article. Speaking of articles, Grace created and now is the editor of the middle school newspaper club. She is a diligent student and kind to all. Nice work, Grace!
Congratulations to Carson, the May ICS High School Student of the Month!
Carson (9th) has been chosen as Student of the Month for being a quiet but powerful presence in our classroom. Always kind and respectful, he treats everyone with genuine care and consideration. His calm demeanor and positive attitude make him a joy to be around. He is also a curious learner who approaches each lesson with interest and thoughtfulness, often asking insightful questions that deepen our discussions.