INTERMOUNTAIN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL BLOG
Meet Coach Taylor!
Meet Coach Taylor, ICS new high school golf coach!
Meet Coach Taylor!
What’s your new ICS position?
I am the new head golf coach!
Where are you from?
I am from La Habra Heights, California. I was born in Idaho Falls and lived in La Habra Heights from 7-17 years old. I graduated from the University of Utah! After college, I worked for a major airline in Los Angeles. Though, I always wanted to move back to Salt Lake City. After many years in L.A., we found a beautiful place in Draper and moved back to the Wasatch Front in 2016.
Where do you go to church?
We attend Corner Canyon Church in Draper.
Tell us about your family!
I got married in 1992 to the beautiful Suzanne Marie. We have two children: London (24) and Suzie (21). Suzanne loves theatre, commercial theatre, and helping others. Suzie "Q" (we call her) goes to school on-line at Arizona State University and works full-time in Studio City at Beverly Glen Deli. She has a ball there and will finish college in May! London went to college in England and graduated in 2019 in International Relations. He is very successful working for two international corporations, one in Canada and one in England.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
Our family loves to travel. We postponed our travelling during the pandemic; but have made up for it this year with trips to Panama, Hilo Hawaii, Germany, Wisconsin, Mexico, and Orlando. Phew! That's a lot of places in one year!
What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS?
I am looking forward to helping our ICS students strive to develop strong Christian character through sports (especially through the sport of golf)!
What else would you like for the ICS community to know about you? Fun fact?
I love western movies, the mountain west, Yellowstone, and Zion. I love the outdoors! I think that is why I love golf so much!
Meet the Glenn Family
The Glenn family came to ICS fall 2022 in search of a school for their daughter, Eliana.
Meet the Glenn Family!
The Glenn family came to ICS fall 2022 in search of a school for their daughter, Eliana. The Glenns desired to send their daughter to a school that would challenge her academically, and also reinforce (as opposed to compete with) the biblical worldview she learns at home and at church. After evaluating the options for Christian education, ICS became the clear choice for the Glenns!
Part of what solidified the choice for the Glenn family were the smaller class sizes and an intentional Jesus-centered learning environment. Since attending ICS, Eliana has become excited about learning. She enjoys reading and loves sharing with her parents all the fun things she learns in science.
Thank you for trusting ICS with the early stages of Eliana’s education, Glenn family! We are privileged to partner with you.
Adding Up the Math Department
Brewster Christiansen originally walked the halls of ICS as a student, graduating in 2002. Mr. Christiansen returns to Intermountain Christian School as the K-12 Math Department chair with decades of mathematical instruction experience.
Adding Up the Math Department
By Jennifer Adema, ICS admissions director
Mr. Christiansen and students
Brewster Christiansen originally walked the halls of ICS as a student, graduating in 2002. Mr. Christiansen returns to Intermountain Christian School as the K-12 Math Department chair with decades of mathematical instruction experience. Mr. Christiansen is taking a holistic approach to math and will be involved to some extent with math in all grades at ICS. He will work through a process called vertical teaming, partnering with teachers from all grades to assure seamless transitions from grade to grade in the study of math.
Mr. Christiansen hopes to see an interest in math grow all the way up through 12th grade. Elementary teachers can look for gaps in mathematical comprehension and work to bridge those gaps, improving the student body’s fluency in math skills. An ICS education allows differentiation for math beginning in 8th grade. Students can choose to take Math 8 or Algebra I during their 8th grade year. This allows students to be challenged and develop a deeper understanding of math facts and concepts, preparing them for their high school years. As students continue through each grade level at ICS, he hopes that more high school students will choose to push beyond Utah state standards and take a math course their senior year.
Mr. Christiansen has set goals for the Math Department which can be measured over time through increase standardized test scores, both on the national and local levels. He says that math is an important part of life — because beyond learning facts, math can extend into other areas of learning. Math requires critical thinking, problem solving, and logical thinking. All areas of academia require these skills. A strong Math Department will lead to a strong Science Department, and so on.
Mr. Christiansen is already showing his dedication to providing excellence in Christian education at ICS through mathematics. ICS is confident that the Math Department will challenge and encourage students to look beyond the calculator and understand the importance of math — in and out of the classroom!
December 2022 Students of the Month
Congratulations to our December 2022 Students of the Month!
December 2022 Students of the Month
Congratulations to Penelope Lan (2nd), the December ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Penelope is an exceptional student and friend to everyone! She is kind, patient, and we often see her inviting and including others. She is quick to notice when there is a need and is always willing to help. Penelope comes to school ready and eager to learn. She listens closely, shows a positive attitude, and perseveres through challenges. Penelope is creative and especially shines in her artwork and writing! It is a blessing to have Penelope at ICS!
Congratulations to Jane Rudd (7th), the December ICS Middle School Student of the Month!
From her performance in Into the Woods, to her role in the dance program, Jane is known as a great encourager who takes what she does seriously. She is quick with a smile and a kind word to those around her, and she loves to interact with her classmates. Jane is a wonderful part of what makes our middle school community great!
Congratulations to Grace Heiple (9th), the December ICS High School Student of the Month!
Grace has a servant's heart. She was an enthusiastic participant in our school fundraiser for Holding Out H.E.L.P. as well as a diligent and hard worker during the theater performance of Into the Woods. Grace also uses her artistic gifts to create beautiful works of art in her classes. She is a blessing to ICS!
December 2022 Employee Spotlight
Congratulations, Mrs. Stoddard, ICS December 2022 Employee Spotlight!
ICS December 2022 Employee Spotlight
Congratulations, Mrs. Stoddard, ICS Operations Coordinator!
How long have you been at ICS and what do you do?
This is my 7th year at ICS. I am the Operations Coordinator. I wear many hats in my position!
What brought you to ICS?
Upon moving back to Utah, 11 years ago, we knew we desired Christian education for our kids. We had been homeschooling our children in Washington and after moving we wanted to get plugged into ICS for our kids and our family. I began subbing, then worked the front desk, and now I serve in my current position as the Operations Coordinator.
What is one encouraging thing that has happened at school recently that you'd like to share?
Participating in the first Parents in Prayer (PIP) gathering. Coming together as parents to pray over the lives and hearts of those within these walls was beyond encouraging. What a gift to lift this place and these kids up in prayer. The meeting was such a reminder to me of why we chose Christian education for our kids. Sidenote....anyone is welcome so come join PIP the first Tuesday of every month!
What is your Deep Hope for your students and/or our school this year?
My deep hope is for our students to be rooted and grounded in love so they may have strength to comprehend how wide, long, high, and deep the love of Christ is. That our students, by knowing this love, would be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. That we as a community and school would know that God is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.
TFT continues at ICS!
For the past several years, we have been preparing to bring Teaching for Transformation (TfT) to our school. We began by testing the waters of this program theoretically; then we invited some teachers to try it out as our early adopters…
TfT Continues at ICS!
By ICS Director of Curriculum and Instruction Denise Buckley
Mrs. Banta (1st grade teacher) teaches in front of her Deep Hope.
This summer, I was asked to speak at one of our alumni events, and it was such a challenge to decide what to share! I have so many great memories of ICS, from a variety of perspectives. As a parent, I am incredibly grateful that my kids have attended (or still attend!) ICS; to have them at a place with excellent teachers who also pray for them has been priceless. As an employee, I have loved working at ICS. As the guidance counselor I basked in the joys of helping kids make plans for their futures — both the years when the graduating class was 10 and the years when we had big classes of 26. Each one was special. As an administrator, I have been blessed to lead an excellent team of teachers. I am in awe of the gifted, committed professionals God brings to our staff.
After pondering so many excellent memories, I decided that what best sums up my memories is my Deep Hope for Intermountain Christian School.
For the past several years, we have been preparing to bring Teaching for Transformation (TfT) to our school. We began by testing the waters of this program theoretically; then we invited some teachers to try it out as our early adopters. This year, all of our faculty will be involved with TfT. In a nutshell, TfT combines intentional biblical integration with educational best practices. In full transparency, I started as a skeptic: I have been an educator for 20+ years and have seen so many programs come and go. I am no longer apt to trust the latest new idea. But I have become a huge fan of TfT; it is rich with biblical integration and strong educational protocols. TfT is going to add great things to our school.
As part of Teaching for Transformation, each person on staff is asked to construct a written Deep Hope for our work at ICS. This Deep Hope is our guiding principle of sorts — the “why” of what we do. Our Deep Hope represents why we each followed the call to work in a Christian school.
My Deep Hope for ICS is to be a school where — in all areas — learners are challenged to see themselves as part of God’s Great Story. May we, as the ICS community, see our own part in that story and know deeply how much He cares for, equips, and calls us to His purpose.
Mrs. Heile (high school science teacher) with her Deep Hope
Though written for this coming school year, these lines represent what I have always desired for ICS: to be a place where seeking God’s purpose and plan is paramount. As a parent, and as an educator, I want ICS to be strong in what we offer academically and equally as strong in what we offer spiritually. We need to be a place where — in addition to math, science, and humanities — students learn about God, His story, and how each of us fits into His grand, purposeful plans.
God’s Great Story involves creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. Over the past 40 years our school has seen evidence of each of these steps. ICS was created with a dream and a vision and God’s blessing. Through the years we have experienced moments of “falling,” then relying on Christ’s redemption to restore us. Over and over again, we embrace that cycle — trusting in His forgiveness, His presence, and His gracious reminder that we are indeed a part of His story.
So, as I look back and look forward, my Deep Hope for ICS remains the same. In a fallen world where confusion reigns, may we be a place where our students can know that God is real and that He has called each of them to be a part of His Great Story. Here’s to another 40 years, ICS!
ICS Partners with Holding Out HELP
Throughout the month of October, ICS’s entire student body participated in a service project benefiting Holding out HELP.
ICS Partners with Holding Out H.E.L.P
Written by ICS Admissions Director Jennifer Adema
Students prepare to deliver donated items to HOH
Throughout the month of October, our entire student body participated in a service project benefiting Holding out H.E.L.P (HOH). The school levels participated in a friendly competition, with ultimately the elementary students winning! The students were charged with bringing in much needed items including paper towels, toilet paper, Gatorade, and more. Altogether, PreK-12th grade collected 249 packages of items. The elementary prize for the grade that brought in the most items is a coveted extra recess. Congratulations, elementary students, for donating the most resources (156 packaged items) to HOH!
ICS has partnered with HOH for many years. This partnership is a unique opportunity for ministry here in the Salt Lake Valley. When looking through the ICS throughlines, this service project was a tangible way for the entire student body to act as justice seekers. Students in all 14 grades on campus sought to bring “wholeness where there is brokenness” by providing these necessities to the families working with HOH. The youngest students through the class of ‘23 were able to “Do justice and love mercy” through this service project. (Micah 6:8).
The donation drop off team at HOH
ICS mom Ronda Edmunds has this to say about HOH: “God greatly impacted our family through the work of HOH. Because of their aid to those leaving a polygamous cult, we were blessed with the adoption of our oldest son. I’m so thankful the ICS community understands the sufferings of these real people with real needs right here in our valley. The generous giving of the ICS community will help HOH continue to provide the love and support those leaving polygamy need.”
ICS hopes the completion of this service project encourages students and families to look for other ways to continually be justice seekers in God’s world.
November 2022 Students of the Month
Congratulations to our November 2022 Students of the Month!
November 2022 Students of the Month
Congratulations to Reed Gutzwiller (5th), the November ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Reed Gutzwiller (5th), the November ICS Elementary Student of the Month! Reed consistently exudes the Fruit of the Spirit! He is always polite, humble, kind, joyful, and helpful. He comes to school ready to learn, and he has a good attitude no matter what is happening around him. Reed is not afraid of making mistakes and trying again. It is evident that he loves Jesus, his family, and his classmates. It is such a joy to have Reed at ICS!
Congratulations to Lydia Pham (7th), the November ICS Middle School Student of the Month!
Lydia has stood out in how she cares for her classmates and peers. She is empathetic and encouraging to everyone around her. She is always willing to lend a hand when it is needed. In her short time here at ICS she has made a huge impact on the students and teachers who interact with her daily. Lydia has been a blessing to the ICS community!
Congratulations to Sienna McNamara (10th), the November ICS High School Student of the Month!
Congratulations to Sienna McNamara (10th), the November ICS High School Student of the Month! Sienna always gives her best in the classroom. She is kind, very respectful, and is willing to help her peers if they are struggling. Sienna's love for Jesus is obvious and is reflected in her actions toward her teachers and classmates. Joy seems to emanate from her daily as she always has a smile on her face. She is a great addition to the sophomore class!
November 2022 Employee Spotlight
Congratulations, Ms. Potter, ICS November 2022 Employee Spotlight!
November 2022 Employee Spotlight
Congratulations, Ms. Potter, ICS third grade teacher!
How long have you been at ICS and what do you do?
This is my 28th year at ICS. I teach third grade and have the privilege of leading the elementary team as Lead Teacher.
What brought you to ICS?
To say that God brought me to ICS may sound cliche, but it truly is the only answer I can give. One morning in late July I received a phone call from a former principal to fill a last-minute opening he had at a school that I didn't even know existed. I even filled out the application after I had already been hired. Only God can work out a situation like that!
What is one thing that has happened at school recently that you'd like to share?
My class is highly energetic and competitive. Lately, I was able to see a softer side of many of them emerge as they cared for the needs of a hurting classmate. That transformation made my heart smile!
What is your Deep Hope for your students and/or our school this year?
My deep hope for myself and my students is that as image bearers of God we would reflect a portion of His glory as we learn, grow, and work together to discover our role in the world around us.
Meet Mr. Taylor!
Meet Mr. Taylor, ICS new middle school speech and debate teacher!
Meet Mr. Taylor!
What’s your new ICS position?
I am the new middle school speech and debate teacher!
Where are you from?
I am from Yorba Linda, California. I moved out here to be the Pastor of Corner Canyon Church in Draper, UT.
Where do you go to church?
Corner Canyon Church
Tell us about your family!
I have been married to my wife, Laura, for almost nine years! We have two kids together, Abigail (6) and Kenny (4).
What is something most people don’t know about you?
I love researching and thinking about the evidence for God's existence. I am passionate about philosophy, theology, and especially debate!
What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS?
I look forward to connecting with the students and helping them think through tough subjects so that they can be successful in speech, debate, and in life!
What else would you like for the ICS community to know about you? Fun fact?
I love comedy and humor! I love to laugh and watch movies.... and I can quote movies like you wouldn't believe! I also wrestled in high school and college. AND I really enjoy long distance running.
October 2022 Employee Spotlight
Congratulations, Mrs. Lee, ICS October 2022 Employee Spotlight!
October 2022 Employee Spotlight
Congratulations, Mrs. Lee, ICS art and dance faculty
How long have you been at ICS and what do you do?
This is my 13th year at ICS. It has been quite the journey. I first came to ICS in 2010 to teach elementary art. Through the years I have had the privilege of teaching PreK enrichment and PreK as a Lead Teacher alongside art and dance. I am currently the teacher for all art and dance classes.
What brought you to ICS?
Our oldest son was starting middle school, and we were searching for a good school for him to attend. God led us to ICS! My sister told me about an open elementary art position and I applied. Our oldest, Hunter, and I started school at ICS on the same day — student and teacher — in 2010. Tanner joined us the year after. Both of our sons attended and graduated from ICS. I am thankful for the opportunity God has given me to share Christ through the arts at ICS. When I was little, I dreamed of being an art or dance teacher. ICS has provided that opportunity!
What is one thing that has happened at school recently that you'd like to share?
This month the Upper School dance team hiked to Lake Solitude for our Fall Dance Retreat, “You Matter.” It was refreshing being up in the mountains and studying God’s word together. As we hiked we made stops along the way and talked about our identity in Christ. It was a great time of team building and community!
What is your Deep Hope for your students and/or our school this year?
My Deep Hope for my students is that they know that they are loved and that God created them for a relationship with Him. My prayer is that through exploring, discovering, and sharing the arts, they would either deepen their relationship with the Lord or come to know Him as Lord and Savior. We were created for relationships — relationships with each other and ultimately a relationship with God. Here’s my Deep Hope (posted in my classroom): “My Deep Hope is that students will Explore art and the world around them, Discover art and the artist within them and Share art through finished works as worship.”
October 2022 Students of the Month
Congratulations to our October 2022 Students of the Month!
October 2022 Students of the Month
Congratulations to Gabe Pierson (K), the October ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Gabe is a wonderful student and friend. His sweet smile lights up every room he enters. He is always a good listener and is first to answer questions during our lessons. He loves his friends by playing nicely and taking turns. Gabe’s gentle spirit is a blessing to everyone he meets. He works hard and points others to do the right thing. We are so blessed to have Gabe in our kindergarten class this year!
Congratulations to CJ Barber (8th), the October ICS Middle School Student of the Month!
CJ has been exceptional in watching out for younger students and encouraging them in their learning. Whether it be helping them study or being a mature presence to help others focus, CJ has shined. Her actions of Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Gentleness and Love have promoted Peace in the classroom. Additionally, CJ's skills and great attitude appear on the court as she plays on the MS volleyball team!
Congratulations to Natalie Russell (12th), the October ICS High School Student of the Month!
Natalie continues to earn recognition for her steadfast work helping her peers! As a member of the worship team, she has volunteered her time to help new members feel comfortable. In bells, she partners with younger classmates to help develop their musical skills, and she selflessly jumps in whenever her teachers need a hand or even just encouragement. Natalie is a blessing to our high school!
My Scoliosis Journey
ICS has supported me in more ways than I could have imagined. I have grown more than I dreamed possible, like learning how to love and be patient with my body, take action for what I care about, and to lean on and trust God.
By Alia Leonard, ICS junior
My journey with scoliosis began my freshman year, when the sideways curve in my spine had progressed to 38°. I was referred to a spinal specialist at Primary Children’s Hospital and learned I needed to wear a custom-made, plastic, uncomfortable brace for 16 hours a day in an attempt to stop the curve progression as I grew (pictured right). After almost a year of bracing treatment, I was released from bracing as my curve had only progressed to 39 °. My back developed chronic pain my sophomore year from my spine pulling at muscles and nerves, but I was happy to be done with bracing. In August of this year, however, I learned my back had gotten worse, against the odds. My curve was now 49°, past the degree of recommended surgery. I would need an extensive and very painful spinal fusion which would include two metal rods, 13 screws, and two hooks to fuse my spine. This would also come with a year-long recovery. My world turned upside down at this news, and I was terrified.
I would not have been able to face my surgery if it weren’t for my friends, peers, teachers, mentors, family, and God. The prayers and letters I received from those around me reminded me that even when I do not feel strong enough for trials, He is. Recovery has been the hardest thing I have ever had to do, but it taught me that I can get through anything I put my mind to. I am confident that God can turn anything for good. For example, my scoliosis journey has inspired me to raise awareness and become passionate about implementing scoliosis screenings in schools. Screenings are vital because early detection is key to avoiding what I had to go through. The earlier scoliosis is caught, the sooner bracing or other treatment can be utilized to increase the chances of avoiding surgery and progression. I am also passionate about spreading awareness online through my scoliosis Instagram account, while also being a mentor in a program to give advice to younger girls going through bracing or surgery.
Alia confidently rocks her scar at ICS Homecoming dance.
Teachers willingly took extra time to help me stay caught up in school. Countless meals were provided for our family as I was in the hospital and recovering. Friends were always available to offer a prayer or a hug. ICS has supported me in more ways than I could have imagined. I have grown more than I dreamed possible, like learning how to love and be patient with my body, take action for what I care about, and to lean on and trust God.
You can support Alia and see more of her journey by following her Instagram account: @scoliosis_brace_sister
ICS Volleyball Wins State!
Utah high school girls’ volleyball has a new state champion. Intermountain Christian School launched an unprecedented title for their school when it won only the second high school athletic championship in the history of the institution (the first was boys’ golf in 2008).
By Amy Florell, ICS volleyball assistant coach
Utah high school girls’ volleyball has a new state champion. Intermountain Christian School launched an unprecedented title for their school when it won only the second high school athletic championship in the history of the institution (the first was boys’ golf in 2008). There are not many things that can compare to the thrill, fanfare, and school-wide bonding that accompany winning a state championship, especially when it is a FIRST in a long time.
Although you will find much written on “what it takes” to win at this level, there is some mystery and providence involved that cannot be denied. Generally speaking, a volleyball state title involves having talented players, staying healthy, and getting a few breaks along the way. Additionally, championships are won when your team is at their best when it matters and the athletes have a special chemistry that propels them to unite: two necessities that are gifts from God and cannot be manufactured and two realities that were present for our 2021-22 girls volleyball team.
Under the leadership of a coaching staff that provided many years of experience, technical/strategic support, and valued unity, the team pushed through challenges that included two varsity starters being sidelined for serious injuries for a good portion of the front end of our season. The charge and harmony between those on the court and the bench never wavered and the chemistry that had been developing over the years amongst the seniors steadfastly held the culture of this team.
ICS won the championship game because it did to Panguitch what it did to Rich and various other schools within the tournament. With all six senior varsity starters back on the court, we were a different team which allowed for game-altering momentum and runs. The Lions found their gear and took it the distance to bring home the big WIN.
In a way, ICS won the trophy twice. The injuries that plagued the beginning of our season might have crippled a lesser team, but their fortitude, faith, and God’s providence served toward championship caliber in every respect. It was an epic end for a team that now has their names in the history books of ICS.
Happy 40th Birthday, ICS!
As ICS turns 40 this year, the school celebrates four decades of God’s faithfulness…
By Tonya Baskett, ICS development assistant
When Intermountain Christian School opened in 1982, it was a kindergarten through 9th grade school with a student body totaling 122. The second year grew to include pre-k through 11th grades. As ICS turns 40 this year, the school celebrates four decades of God’s faithfulness. This year, the student body numbers 293 and will graduate 26 seniors in May. ICS has had 30 years in a beloved school building that we moved into in 1991, a move that many alumni will remember helping with in October of that year. The school said goodbye to 10 years in the “Fortuna Flying Saucer” with its circular racetracks, otherwise known as hallways, and said hello to the new 47,000 sq. ft. building that ICS rents from Evangelical Free Church of Salt Lake City. It was the culmination of nearly seven years of prayer, planning, hoping, giving, negotiating, cajoling, sweating, and sacrificing for the future of the school. God’s grace provided and the alumni numbers now include over 600 graduates!
ICS middle and high school in 1996
When ICS opened its doors, there were high hopes to provide exemplary education in academics, athletics, fine arts, and community outreach. There have been many successes in all these areas. ICS has produced many plays over the years starting with the first ‘real’ play: “Our Town” in 1986. Other shows include “Charlotte’s Web” in 1994 and this year’s theater program will wrap up with “The Little Shop of Horrors.” Music Tour has been a long-standing tradition at ICS, leading to many memories and successful trips. Intermountain Christian School has had many students represented in the Utah All-State High School Art Show, including this year. There have also been State Tournament runs in cross country, baseball, girls volleyball, boys basketball, girls basketball, speech and debate, boys soccer, girls soccer and track. This year, the teams achieved two state championships in HS Girls Volleyball and HS Speech and Debate. ICS has always strived to be one of the highest academic achieving schools in Utah and with a current SAT average of 1280 and ACT average of 27, the standard continues to be met. Intermountain Christian School has truly built upon its foundation of God’s love.
ICS will be hosting an Alumni Weekend, August 5th and 6th. All past graduates are invited to spend the weekend reconnecting with each other and celebrating 40 years of Intermountain Christian School. There will be time for alumni to reconnect over conversation, sports, a family picnic, and a formal dinner. Special guest speakers representing the last 40 years of ICS will be on hand to entertain us with memories from their time at the school. Mr. Bob Payne fulfilled many roles on faculty and administration at our school from 1982 – 1996. Mr. Bill Postma was part of the faculty from 1995 – 2002. Mr. John Gutman and Mrs. Sally Gutman were both on faculty for periods between 1990 and 2003. Mrs. Andrea Townsend was part of the faculty between 1993 – 2005. Mrs. Denise Buckley has been part of our school’s staff since 2017 and 2003 – 2012 before that. Mrs. Becky Schumacher has been part of the faculty since 2015. You don’t want to miss this event!
If you have not already received any notifications regarding this weekend, please be sure to update your contact information on our alumni website: intermountainchristian.org/alumni
Alumna Spotlight: Natalie Renaud
I attended ICS for three years and graduated in 2018. I am extremely grateful for my time at ICS and how it equipped me to find purpose and meaning through God’s will for my life…
By Natalie Renaud, ICS alumna class of 2018
I attended ICS for three years and graduated in 2018. I am extremely grateful for my time at ICS and how it equipped me to find purpose and meaning through God’s will for my life.
By incorporating the Gospel into every aspect of education, ICS faculty and staff oriented my life towards God and provided a lens with which to view the world as a Christian. Small groups, chapel, fall retreats, and field studies trips were a few of the unique and influential ICS experiences that strengthened and enriched my faith. After attending a large public middle school, I was amazed by the close-knit ICS community where you can learn and grow among fellow brothers and sisters of Christ.
While at ICS, I participated in women’s soccer, where I made some of my favorite high school memories. The program’s goal is to build women of good character and create a community that values feedback, accountability, and setting the bar high. I am incredibly blessed to be a part of this legacy of strong, hard-working Christian women with our eyes set on Jesus.
The women’s soccer program is one of many examples of how my time at ICS taught me to actively cultivate my faith and place Christ at the center of my life, giving me purpose and direction.
I am currently a senior at the University of Utah, graduating with honors in May 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This spring, I have had the incredible opportunity to work as a Registered Nurse Apprentice at Primary Children’s Hospital, where I have been able to transition into practice before I plan to work as a pediatric nurse after graduation.
My Christian education helped me discover and cultivate my compassionate heart and follow the call to love and serve others through nursing. The ultimate example of caring and kindness is modeled by Jesus Christ through His life and death, and I pray that His love shines through me in everything I do. With all of the trials and uncertainties awaiting me after graduation, I am reminded of how grateful I am for my Christian education, and I can rest assured knowing that God has a plan for my life.
Harmon Highlight!
We love highlighting our amazing teachers at ICS! Read this spotlight to learn more about Mrs. Harmon, middle school math faculty!
By Jennifer Adema, ICS director of admissions
Heather Harmon is our beloved middle school math teacher. Let’s get to know her better! The Harmons moved to Salt Lake City from Houston, Texas in July of 2015. They were lured to the mountains because of a job opportunity for Bill, Heather’s husband. They moved here with their three kids: Abby, Ethan, and Lauren.
The Harmon kids had been ICS Lions for three years when a job opportunity came up that Heather describes as her “dream job.” ICS was hiring for a middle school math and science teacher. She applied, interviewed, and was so excited to receive the job offer! There was some trepidation in her acceptance as she had been out of the classroom for 10 years, but it did not take long for Heather to find her stride and confidently teach her students!
Heather’s favorite part of her classroom is connecting with the students. It can be hard to teach math, because math is not everyone’s favorite subject, but her students would agree that Heather approaches learning in a way that is captivating and she sets goals that are readily attainable.
Heather loves being a part of the middle school team. She often corroborates with Mr. Hobbs and Mrs. Smith to handle classroom management issues as well as cross-curricular goals.
Heather’s reputation among her colleagues is that she has a great rapport with middle school kids. She is funny, caring, and kind. Of course as a math teacher, it helps that she thinks math is totally cool and loves teaching it! She truly invests in her students in and out of the classroom. She’s always available for conversations, speaking into not just academic concerns for a student but social and emotional health as well.
Heather jumped in as an early adopter of TfT and initiated a unique FLEx project (see story titled, “Teaching for Transformation”) which put several students in front of the ICS School Board sharing their findings. She’s known as being a team player who is professional, prepared, and organized in all that she’s asked to do! Heather has proved herself a great asset not only to the middle school students but to all of ICS.
When Heather is not solving math problems with middle schoolers, she enjoys being outside running or skiing. Heather also has two dogs, Hunter and JJ.
September 2022 Employee Spotlight
Congratulations, Mrs. Skinner, ICS September 2022 Employee Spotlight!
September 2022 Employee Spotlight
Congratulations, Mrs. Skinner, ICS second grade teacher!
How long have you been at ICS and what do you do?
This is my first year at ICS and I get to teach second grade!
What brought you to ICS?
I came across the 2nd grade opening in the spring when I started looking for a new school that would be closer to my home. I knew that I wanted to continue teaching 2nd grade, and God opened that door here at ICS! I came for an interview and immediately felt welcome and excited to be a part of the team. Teaching in a school where I can openly share the love of Jesus with students, partner with parents in caring spiritually for their kids, and work alongside other believers toward the same purpose and for God's glory is a unique opportunity. I am thankful to be a part of this community!
What is one thing that has happened at school recently that you'd like to share?
One of my favorite things about teaching is seeing the lights come on for students for whatever we are learning about at that moment. I get to see kids go from frustrated or feeling defeated one moment to confident and enthusiastically telling everyone about it the next. We've had several of those moments recently, and it makes my teacher-heart excited to be on this learning adventure with them.
What is your hope for your students and/or our school this year?
My deep hope for my class is that we would delight in knowing Jesus as the Good Shepherd and live grace-filled lives as part of His flock. We have been reading an allegorical story of Psalm 23 together and noticing the ways that Jesus is our shepherd that is pictured in that Psalm. It has been so sweet for students to begin noticing that because we have a Good Shepherd, they can live grace-filled lives toward the people around them.
September 2022 Students of the Month
Congratulations to our September 2022 Students of the Month!
September 2022 Students of the Month
Congratulations to Levi Pletcher (1st), the September ICS Elementary Student of the Month!
Levi is an exceptional student. He is diligent and comes to school ready to learn every day. Even when faced with difficulties or challenges, Levi does not give up. He embodies perseverance and adaptability. Levi shows Christ-like character towards everyone he meets, whether they are his classmates or teachers. He helps his peers and is quick to comfort and show compassion to anyone who is hurting or needs help. I am proud to have Levi in my class-he’s a great example of an ICS Lion!
Congratulations to Matthew Hillaker (6th), the September ICS Middle School Student of the Month!
Matthew is new to ICS this year, but he is already fitting right into our community. He has a great attitude and a positive outlook on learning about ICS. He gives his all in the classroom, is not afraid to ask questions, and figures things out on his own. He has been a delight to have in class and displays the fruit of the Spirit through his joyful attitude.
Congratulations to Audrey Cole (9th), the September ICS High School Student of the Month!
Audrey's teachers have noticed since the first day of school how welcoming and warm she has been with our new students. Her kindness helps them feel included and a part of the ICS community. Audrey also encourages her peers daily and connects quickly with those around her. Her high school teachers and classmates appreciate her joy and are so glad she's finally in high school!
Meet Mrs. Pethtel!
Meet Mrs. Pethtel, ICS new elementary STEM coordinator!
Meet Mrs. Pethtel!
What’s your new ICS position?
My position will be elementary S.T.E.M. teacher for Pre-K through fifth grade. S.T.E.M. stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. This class will be very interactive with a focus on hands on learning. Our topics will include rockets, circuits, coding, building and architecture, chemistry, forces and motion and so much more!
Where are you from?
I grew up in the midwest and I have had the privilege of living overseas as a missionary and around the US working for Christian schools.
Where do you go to church?
Attending Hope Church!
Tell us about your family!
I have a wonderful husband and four great kids (three boys and one girl). Our oldest is a pilot in the Air Force, our next son is a senior at Baylor University and in Army ROTC, our third child is Emma who is a junior at ICS and our youngest is Hudson who is in the second grade at ICS.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
I am passionate about encouraging students to explore the wonders of God's creation in such areas of science, technology, engineering, and math.
What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS?
I am looking forward to meeting my students and their families. I love seeing student’s faces light up when they complete a challenge and learn something new.
What else would you like for the ICS community to know about you? Fun fact?
I enjoy listening to music and doing Zumba. I love water skiing and being on the water either a lake or an ocean. I am enjoying hiking and getting to know Utah!