INTERMOUNTAIN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL BLOG
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.
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.
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.
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.
April 2025 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s April 2025 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Caleb, the April ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Caleb Pletcher (5th), our April ICS Elementary Student of the Month! Caleb demonstrates exceptional leadership as a two-time member of the Elementary School Leadership Team (ESLT). He also contributes his musical talents to the elementary school worship team as a drummer, working alongside Mrs. Sophia Lee. Through his dedication to both leadership and music, Caleb helps make our school community stronger. We are proud to have him as part of our 5th grade class!
Congratulations to David, the April ICS Middle School Student of the Month!
Congratulations to David Gonzalez (7th), our April Middle School Student of the Month! David has shown remarkable growth this year through his contributions to The ICS Times, our middle school newspaper. His creative writing and artistic talents shine through in his comics and articles, while his kind and thoughtful nature makes him a valued classmate. We are proud of David's achievements!
Congratulations to Audrey, the April ICS High School Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Audrey Cole, our April High School Student of the Month! Audrey has demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication through her contributions to both the state debate team and the school production of Emma. Her encouraging attitude and strong work ethic have made a significant impact on her fellow students and our school community. We are proud of Audrey's accomplishments!
March 2025 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s March 2024 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Merrick, the March ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Merrick exemplifies working hard, playing hard, and following Jesus. He is all in with everything he does. Merrick is an enthusiastic student who is always looking for ways to help his peers and help around the classroom. In particular, he loves being an order-discoverer. Merrick enjoys learning about how things work and he really likes math. When he makes a mistake with his classwork or with a classmate, he works hard to make it right. It is a joy to have Merrick in class.
Congratulations to Oliver, the March ICS Middle School Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Oliver, our middle school student of the month for March! Oliver is an easy going guy that is a friend to all he encounters. He is always kind and helpful to his classmates and teacher alike. He stays on top of his schoolwork and loves to have fun, especially on the basketball court. We are so thankful to have Oliver in middle school!
Congratulations to Sydney, the March ICS High School Student of the Month!
As a freshman, Sydney has already made a positive impact on our school community through her dedication, joyful spirit, and unwavering encouragement to those around her. Sydney consistently approaches each day with a smile and a heart to serve others. She goes above and beyond to make those around her feel supported and valued. Her positive attitude is truly contagious. In addition to her servant heart, Sydney excels in her classes, maintaining excellent grades and demonstrating a strong work ethic. Congratulations, Sydney– your hard work and heart for others do not go unnoticed!
February 2025 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s February 2024 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Ellarina, the February ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Ellarina (1st grade), our February ICS Elementary Student of the Month! Ellarina is an absolute joy to teach. She exemplifies a servant’s heart, always eager to lend a hand wherever needed. Ellarina thinks of others before herself. She beautifully reflects God’s image in all she does, showing kindness, a joyful spirit, and a dedication to both hard work and fun. Ellarina is a wonderful friend to everyone around her, and we are truly blessed to have her in our class!
Congratulations to Isabel, the February ICS Middle School Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Isabel (6th grade), our February Middle School student of the month! Isabel is known to be a hard worker and asks great questions in class. But she is best known in middle school for her kindness and being a friend to all. She works well with other students and is not afraid to stretch herself to try new things. We are thankful for Isabel and her sweet spirit in middle school!
Congratulations to Nick, the February ICS High School Student of the Month!
Nick Hansen (10th grade) has had such a positive attitude and has been an encouragement to everyone. His hard work in the classroom has not gone unnoticed by his teachers. We appreciate all the ways he has stepped up and acted as a community builder!
January 2025 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s December 2024 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Uriah, the January ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Uriah is the true embodiment of Mr. Hobbs' Deep Hope for the elementary school, "Work hard, play hard, follow Jesus!" He tackles his classwork with diligence and enthusiasm, is imaginative and competitive at recess, and has a heart for following God's word. Uriah shines in the classroom, yet is a humble and kind young man who is always willing to encourage and support his classmates. He loves Jesus and actively pursues God's ways. Thanks, Uriah, for contributing to our classroom community in so many great ways!
Congratulations to Caleb, the January ICS Middle School Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Valeska, our Middle School student of the month for January! Valeska is always willing to help, whether it be in the classroom or with the first graders during STEM class. She has such a positive attitude and participates to the fullest in whatever she is doing. We are so thankful for her willingness to go above and beyond expectations and her daily wise choices. We are so proud to have Valeska in middle school!
Congratulations to Ellie, the January ICS High School Student of the Month!
Ellie, our remarkable Student Body President, has been named Student of the Month for her exceptional leadership and dedication in the planning of what is sure to be an unforgettable Homecoming Week at ICS. Ellie has worked tirelessly to ensure that every detail of the week reflects the spirit and pride of our school. Ellie's passion and commitment to serving her peers is evident in every step of the process. Ellie’s love for ICS and her peers shines through in all she does. Her ability to listen, collaborate, and inspire others is making a lasting impact on the student body. And we love to see her reflect the heart of Jesus!
December 2024 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s December 2024 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Page, the December ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Page Buckner works hard at every task in front of him. He is generally the first one to follow directions at circle time and tries very hard to be a good listener. As a community-builder, Page tries to include all of the children in play time, and loves to work alongside them in the writing center. Acting as an exemplary earth-keeper, Page helps pick-up our playground unprompted. Because he has worked so hard, Page sets a good example for the other children, and has shown so much growth since the beginning of the year. Congratulations to Page for being our December Student-of-the-Month!
Congratulations to Caleb, the December ICS Middle School Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Caleb Swank (6th) our middle school student of the month for December! Caleb’s enthusiasm is contagious and he has such a positive attitude in class, and a consistent excitement. He loves to learn new things, whether it be in theater or in math. He is always willing to help out his classmates and teachers. We are thankful for Caleb and the spark of joy he brings to middle school.
Congratulations to Cristen, the December ICS High School Student of the Month!
Cristen worked hard as the stage manager for our recent theater production, making sure that her peers had what they needed. Cristen balances her theater commitment with high achievement in her classes, and she is an encouragement to her peers in and out of the classroom.
November 2024 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s November 2024 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Quinn, the November ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Quinn (5th grade) is seen as a servant worker and community builder in her classroom. She regularly offers a helping hand to her classmates and teachers. Quinn has a positive attitude and approaches each task with diligence and care. She remains focused on her assignments and is respectful to others. Quinn’s hard work and dedication earned her this month’s recognition.
Congratulations to Ellington, the November ICS Middle School Student of the Month!
Ellington (8th grade) goes out of her way to include others to help them feel more comfortable and connected. She is an encouragement to younger students in middle school and is a role model for many. As a student, Ellington is conscientious in her work. It is Ellington’s first year at ICS, and she has adjusted quickly and has stepped up as a valuable leader in her class.
Congratulations to Noah, the November ICS High School Student of the Month!
Noah (12th grade) continually works hard in each of his classes, and remains energetic and motivated throughout his senior year. He is influential among his peers in positive ways, and is consistently recognized as a peacemaker. Noah was a valued member of the baseball team, and will play basketball again next season.
October 2024 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s October 2024 Students of the Month!
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Stella, the October ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Stella (kindergarten) is an excellent student. She takes an initiative to help her table, her class, and her teachers. She has a servant heart and works to show God’s love to others continually. She works diligently in all her subjects and excels in them. Stella loves to draw and color and make the world around her more beautiful. She is a sweet presence in the kindergarten classroom.
Congratulations to Lincoln, the October ICS Middle School Student of the Month!
Congratulations to our Middle School Student of the Month, Lincoln (6th)! In the short time Lincoln has been in middle school, he has managed to make friends in every grade. He has proven to be focused in class as well as able to have fun with his peers. His teachers say that he is a leader in the classroom and respectful to teachers and peers alike. Way to go, Lincoln!
Congratulations to Matthew, the October ICS High School Student of the Month!
Matthew (9th) is new to ICS this year and has wasted no time getting plugged into the ICS community. He is a hard worker and a friend to all. He is always jumping in to help whenever and wherever he is needed. His positive attitude is contagious in the classroom and on the cross country course. Matthew is consistently respectful to his teachers and his peers, and he is a joy to be around!
September 2024 Students of the Month
Congratulations to ICS’s September 2024 Students of the Month!
ICS September 2024 Students of the Month
Celebrate these students with us!
Congratulations to Charlie, the September ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Our Elementary School Student of the Month is Charlie. Charlie is an exceptional young man who always speaks with kindness and is the first one to lend a helping hand. He is a community builder, seeking to meet the needs of those around him and celebrate his friends' victories. Charlie leads by example as he strives for excellence in his academics and in his actions. We are blessed to have him in our class this year!
Congratulations to Landon, the September ICS Middle School Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Landon, our September Middle School Student of the Month! From the lacrosse field to the classroom, Landon consistently shows up, ready to tackle anything that comes his way. What has stood out to his teachers most this month is his willingness to help, even without being told to do so. He is always willing to assist a fellow student in Math class and even cleaned up the cafeteria after chapel on his own. Landon's kindness and respect for others is a shining light in middle school!
Congratulations to Molly, the September ICS High School Student of the Month!
Our High School Student of the Month is Molly. Molly is a hard-working member of Student Council and worked alongside her peers this summer to plan the high school retreat. She leads with humility and patience. Molly has also stepped up to be the yearbook editor this year. Molly is also a diligent student and leads her peers by example in her classes each day.