My Scoliosis Journey

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!

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!

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

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!

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

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

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!

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!

Meet Coach Heckman!

Meet Coach Heckman!

What’s your new ICS position?

​I am the new High School Cross Country Head Coach.

Where are you from?

My husband and I are from Nashville, TN.  We moved our family out here 6 years ago, following my husband's job in Lehi.

Where do you go to church?

Our family attends Prince of Peace Lutheran in Taylorsville, and Good News Lutheran in Lehi.

Tell us about your family!

My husband, Tom, is the Head of Treasury for Atlas Renewable Energy, an international solar company.  We have 4 children: Elizabeth and Katherine, our 21 year old twins who attend Lee University in Cleveland, TN, and NAU in Flagstaff, AZ, respectively.  Both have been running since middle school, and Elizabeth runs on the Lee University cross country and track teams. Our nine year old daughter, Tyler, loves horses and riding. Our eight year old son, Walker, loves hiking and exploring, and enjoys horseback riding as well.  Both attend Prince of Peace Lutheran School in Taylorsville.  I have a Masters in Music Composition, and I write, arrange, and teach music when I'm not coaching running.  Our family truly enjoys being outdoors in God's creation.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I'm fairly level-headed in an emergency, but unexpected questions from my children, especially when they were younger, tend to throw me off or fluster me! They have stories of parent fails when I couldn't think of a good explanation fast enough for their little brains.

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS?

​I am looking forward to seeing how each of the athletes develop over the season, as young athletes as well as young Christians. It's fun to look back and see where you've come from to where you are now, and reflect on all of the challenges that brought you there.

What else would you like for the ICS community to know about you? Fun fact?

I couldn't come up with anything; my brain is still in summer mode and that's a lot of work to think of an answer to apparently!

Meet Coach Lusk!

Meet Coach Lusk!

What’s your new ICS position?

I am the new High School Girls Basketball Coach.

Where are you from?

I am originally from Jackson, Missouri. I went to college in Rolla, Missouri and met my husband Braden. After college, we lived in Cleveland, Ohio; Hutchinson, Kansas; Lexington, Kentucky; and returned to Rolla, Missouri in 2016. In 2018, Braden accepted a position at Dyno Nobel which is headquartered in Salt Lake City.  We made the move to Utah in 2020.

Where do you go to church?

My family attends Grace Lutheran in Sandy, UT.

Tell us about your family!

As mentioned above, my husband is Braden and he works for Dyno Nobel which is an explosives manufacturer.  Braden has a PhD in Mining Engineering with an emphasis in explosives engineering.  We have been married for 21 years.  We have been blessed with two amazing daughters Kendrick and Gillian.  Kendrick and Gillian both attend ICS.  Kendrick will be a freshman this year, and Gillian will be in 7th grade.   The final member of our family is our 10 year old goldendoodle, Thunder, who thinks he is just one of the kids.

What are you most passionate about?

As a current stay-at-home mom, most people don't know that I have a BS in Civil Engineering and a PhD in Mining Engineering. I am also a registered Professional Engineer in Kentucky.  I am a big supporter of STEM education. 

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS?

I am so excited to be a part of the ICS Athletics Team!  I am most looking forward to getting to know the girls basketball players and hope to share with them some of the life lessons/skills I learned from basketball, such as mental toughness, being a good teammate and strong competitor, setting and achieving goals, and having fun playing sports. Most importantly, I want to help the players enjoy and utilize the gifts and abilities that God has given them.  I look forward to seeing how we come together as a team and use these gifts to glorify God.

What else would you like for the ICS community to know about you? Fun fact?

My family loves boating and the lake! We boat on Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri.

Meet Coach Peek!

Meet Coach Peek!

What’s your new ICS position?

I am the new Assistant Varsity Basketball Coach.

Where are you from?

We moved out here from Colorado in 2018 because this is where Jesus wanted us to be and he made that VERY clear to us!

Where do you go to church?

We are involved at The Point Church where I serve as a fill-in preacher and help lead the men's group.

Tell us about your family!

My wife Tara and I have 5 kids: AJ, Vivy, Shaya, Arie, and Emmet; and 2 dogs, Jovie and Roo.

What are you most passionate about?

I work full-time in the printed packaging industry and host the world's largest packaging podcast along with having a decent TikTok following @packagingpastor. I have also given a TED talk!

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS?

Basketball is the only sport ever invented with the sole intent of bringing people to a saving knowledge of Jesus. I love coaching the game I've grown to love because it can reach young men some incredible life lessons and bring them closer in vertical relationship to God and horizontal relationships with their teammates, coaches, and students.

What else would you like for the ICS community to know about you? Fun fact?

In 1982, my mom entered me into the the Santa Clara County Baby Pageant and I took second. The judges said I was 100% healthy and only 98% beautiful. Good things Jesus loves me 100%! Oh yeah, I have 2 hip hop songs on iTunes and I'm working on making an EP with a friend of mine as well. Stay tuned! I'm so excited to serve the ICS community, go win some basketball games, and teach people about Jesus through basketball!

Meet Coach Hubbard!

Meet Coach Hubbard!

What’s your new ICS position?

I am the new Girl’s High School Volleyball Coach.

Where are you from?

I was actually born in Salt Lake, but was raised and married in Nampa, Idaho before moving back to Salt Lake to work for a commercial building contractor in 1989.

Where do you go to church?

Rosewood Lane Church of the Nazarene in Layton, UT.

Tell us about your family!

My wife, Diane, and I are retired and are coming up on our 46th Anniversary! We have two sons, two daughters, and six grandchildren.

What are you most passionate about?

I love spending time with my family and helping with construction/maintenance projects at our Church. I also never turn down an opportunity to go on a river float trip.

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS?

I am looking forward to developing a volleyball program for middle school thru high school, that is competitive year in/year out, reflects the values of ICS, and allows student athletes the opportunity to discover their unique talents and abilities, as well as become strong lifetime disciples (on and off the volleyball court).

What else would you like for the ICS community to know about you? Fun fact?

I enjoy camping, driving in the backcountry, photography, and woodworking (though that has been more of a work than a hobby). Fun fact? I am somewhat of a real-life Mike Wazowski. I ran a pre-install door shop for 5 years before retiring.

Meet Mrs. Parker!

Meet Mrs. Parker!

What’s your new ICS title and position?

I am the new elementary librarian & teacher's aide!

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Michigan, where I still have lots of family. I've lived in South Carolina, Indiana, and Colorado. Our family moved to Utah in 2017 to be a part of Gospel Hope Church, where my husband is one of the pastors.

Where do you go to church?

Gospel Hope Church

Tell us about your family!

My husband Matt (familiar to the ICS family) and I have been married 18 years! We have an energetic red-headed son named Timothy who will attend ICS as a 1st grader this fall.

What is something most people don’t know about?

I really enjoy singing, am an avid sports fan (Michigan Wolverines Football especially), and I like to go camping and hiking with family and friends.

What are you most passionate about?

After a few years away, I'm excited to be back working in a school setting. I'm really thankful to teach children at a Christian school where we can weave God and His truth into everything we do and everything we teach.

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS?

My husband worked at ICS in a couple of roles and raved about the team and the community. I'm looking forward to getting to experience it all for myself and with our son!

Meet Mrs. Harp!

What’s your new ICS title and position?

I will be a full-time pre-k teacher.

Where are you from? 

I’m originally from Iowa. Utah is the fifth state I have lived in since being married. I have also lived in San Antonio, TX, Mandeville, LA, and various Chicago, IL areas. We moved to Utah back in 2006 when my husband’s company transferred him here for a project with Intermountain Healthcare.

Where do you go to church?

Our home church is South Mountain Community Church in Draper.

Tell us about your family!

Mike and I met in college and have been married 30 years! We have four crazy, amazing, growing and grown-up kids. Their names are Emily (28), Steven (26), Shelby (20 and attends CCU in Lakewood, CO) and Nate (17 and a senior this year). 

What is something most people don’t know about?

I love to sing and dance in my kitchen! My hobbies include singing, reading, journaling and studying my Bible. I also love the outdoors here in Utah and love getting up in the mountains! I enjoy spending time hiking, exploring and camping.

What are you most passionate about?

Having taught the 4 and 5 year old age group for 18 years, I am passionate about sharing the love of Jesus with them and exploring this beautiful world God has made! It also brings me joy to see them excited about learning something new.

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS?

I love the mission statement here at ICS and how faith is infused in all that is done here. I am looking forward to working with an age group I love alongside other teachers and families who love the Lord in this community. I am excited to begin a new season of adventure and growth!

Music Tour 2022

By Shanna Hafemann, ICS music faculty

Before August 2022, the last time I was in a school, I was a student. A nervous wreck, I entered ICS on my first day, a teacher. I handed out the syllabus to my first class and shakingly asked if there were any questions. Several hands shot up, and the question was asked, as if no other questions mattered, “Is there going to be a Tour this year?” All other hands went down.

ICS Music Tour is a long standing, dearly cherished, highly anticipated tradition at ICS. I remember answering that student with an emphatic “yes!” all the while having no idea what “Music Tour” actually meant. So I started my research. I spent a handful of class periods discussing with students their most memorable moments and their favorite traditions. I attended several meetings trying to understand the financial and schedule constraints. I looked up prior year’s plans and yet I still struggled to find a way to clearly define what ICS’s annual Music Tour actually was. So, with the little bit of knowledge I had acquired, a phenomenal co-planner, Amy Florell, and the tiniest bit of hope, we created something, having no idea if it would live up to the expectations of this beloved tradition.

This year, Tour was designed with two priorities in mind: service and connection. The first two days of Tour were spent serving our local community. Sunday we performed for the Rescue Mission and Valley Behavioral Health, where we were able to hold an intimate, sensory-friendly concert for those who might struggle to attend a larger event. On Monday, we hosted a music therapy program where our own pre-kindergarteners and a group of individuals with various disabilities were invited to attend (pictured above). As we researched and planned the event, we discovered that there was much we did not know or understand about people living with disabilities and their families. The biggest insight we gained is that their community is grossly undeserved. Many people misunderstand or are unsure of how to interact around people with disabilities and many facilities and families lack the resources and knowledge to adequately accommodate them. As we held our event, I looked around and observed my students connecting, including, and empowering other human beings using something they loved, music. As one of my students so eloquently summarized the experience, “On Tours in the past, we would always have to leave the people we made connections with and wait a year to show love to them again. That was so painful. We don’t have to do that anymore, because the people we connected with this week are right here in our own hometown.” This community is one that I hope to continue to serve through Music Tour and other ICS music events. 

The second two days were used to explore how we could use music to connect with each other, with ourselves, and with God. We played several games that pushed us out of our comfort zone, including a musical TikTok challenge. Needless to say, I have some incriminating evidence for how hilarious these students can be. We took time to worship together and allowed a couple of local pastors to speak into our lives. But even with all these special moments, there is still one I have yet to let you in on. I challenged the kids to get vulnerable, to get honest, and to get creative in a songwriting session. Imagine with me. You are in a large cabin with big glass windows and vaulted ceilings. The snow is falling outside and a tea kettle is heating on the stove. In one corner, a girl is humming and pauses to write out a lyric. A young man is strumming the guitar on a couch, while a piano is being learned in another corner. Someone else is editing loops on their laptop, while others retreat to a secluded place to write or sing out their thoughts. The last evening, several students were brave enough to perform their work. During many of the songs, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. In just a few phrases and with a whole lot of vulnerability, we were able to glorify our God, empathize with our peers, and understand one another on a deeper level.

So, I survived my first Music Tour. How fortunate I am to lead this amazing group of students. After all this, I still can’t describe to you what it means to experience an ICS Music Tour. However, I can define why ICS’s Music Tour is so unique. Music is the tool we use, the commonality we each hold, both with our peers and our audiences. Tour is the journey God takes us on as we take the time to serve His beloved, lean into those around us, and learn what next steps He calls us to faithfully walk with Him.

Meet Mr. Christiansen!

Meet Mr. Christiansen!

What's your new ICS title and position?

I am the new high school math teacher!

Where are you from? If you're not originally from UT, how did you end up here?

I was born in Alaska, but moved to Utah when I was 4 and grew up here, attending ICS from Preschool through 12th grade.

Where do you go to Church?

I am currently attending South Mountain Community Church in South Jordan.

Tell us about your family!

I am married to my wife Leah (15 years) and have 2 daughters, Marlow (10 years old) and Bobbie (8 years old).  We also have two dogs, Miko (Border Collie/Australian Shepherd Mix) and Nala (Lab Mix).  We love to camp, hike, rock climb, ski, play basketball and softball, and hang out with friends and family.

What is something most people don't know about you? OR What are you most passionate about?

I am pretty passionate about making math a good experience for my students. The subject has gotten a bad rap over the years and so I try to work hard to make sure students enjoy learning it regardless of what kind of skills they enter the classroom with.

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS?

I am most looking for to connecting with my students and getting reconnected in the ICS community. I've been away from ICS for a long time now, but still know that the community atmosphere at the school is great and deepens the learning environment for the students and the work environment for the faculty and staff.

What else would you like the ICS community to know about you?

I kind of gave you some of this info in question 4, but I guess you could also add one more fun fact.  I was born in the Alaskan town of North Pole. It's basically Christmas all year round up there with candy cane street lights and a permanent Santa's Village. It's also one of the few cities in the U.S. that the postal service sends the Santa letters to that kids randomly drop in the mail around Christmas.

Meet Mrs. Skinner!

Meet Mrs. Skinner!

What's your new ICS title and position?

I am excited to be teaching 2nd grade at ICS this year! 

Where are you from? If you're not originally from UT, how did you end up here?

Originally, I am from West Virginia, but have called Utah home for the past 7 years. My husband and I moved here in 2015 to be involved with church planting in the valley. 

Where do you go to Church?

We attend Gospel Grace Church in Salt Lake City.

Tell us about your family!

Joe and I have been married for 8 years and have an adorable labradoodle pup named London. Some hobbies we enjoy doing together are playing disc golf, hiking, and climbing, but we are always up for learning a new sport or trying an outdoor activity. London loves to tag along, too! 

What is something most people don't know about you? OR What are you most passionate about?

One thing I am passionate about is nature! I love learning about the creation around us and how our world works. It always points me back to what an amazing Creator our God is and anchors my faith in His steadfast love and unfailing care. I am so excited to be in awe of God and His world together with my class of 2nd graders this year!

Meet Miss Reed!

Meet Miss Reed!

What's your new ICS title and position?

Middle School Science Teacher (aka Mad Scientist Extraordinaire)

Where are you from? If you're not originally from UT, how did you end up here?

I'm originally from Idaho, but I've been in Salt Lake for 12 years now (and counting!). I came to Salt Lake to complete my undergraduate training at the University of Utah.

Where do you go to Church?

I've been going to Gospel Grace Church for the last 5 years.

What is something most people don't know about you? OR What are you most passionate about?

My friends are my Salt Lake family and I couldn't ask for anyone better! God has been really good with providing me with great friends who love and support me. My passions are caring about people, seeing them grow and sharing truth. I love hiking when I'm outdoors or baking when I'm inside. I also love reading and writing fiction.

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS?

 I can't wait to enjoy God's creation by encouraging exploration, experimentation, and excitement about science with the middle schoolers! 

Meet Mrs. Gunther!

Meet Mrs. Gunther!

What's your new ICS title and position?

I am the new kindergarten teacher!

Where are you from? If you're not originally from UT, how did you end up here?

I am originally from Michigan and have lived there my whole life! I grew up hunting in the Rockies with my dad and always wanted to live out West after college. As we neared our college graduation, my husband and I began looking for jobs out West. I had some friends at Gospel Grace Church, and the Lord brought us to Salt Lake! I love the area and am so excited to continue exploring Utah! 

Where do you go to Church?

My husband and I are members at Gospel Grace Church. 

Tell us about your family!

I am the oldest of three girls. My sisters are my best friends and I love every second we spend together. I got married on January 1, 2022. My husband and I met my second week of college in South Carolina. We love exploring new places, hanging with friends, and watching our favorite shows with our kitty, Draper. 

What is something most people don't know about you? OR What are you most passionate about?

I am passionate about people and family. I think relationships are one of God’s greatest gifts to us. 

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS?

I am looking forward to meeting all of my new little friends, building friendships with my coworkers, and growing as an educator! 

What else would you like the ICS community to know about you?

I love hunting, singing, making music, planting flowers, trying new coffee shops, and running to Taco Bell!

Meet Mrs. Guy!

Meet Mrs. Guy!

What's your new ICS title and position?

I will be starting my 4th year teaching as a 1st grade teacher and also co-coaching middle school cross country.

Where are you from? If you're not originally from UT, how did you end up here?

I was born in Trujillo, Peru and moved to Gainesville, Florida in 2006. I graduated college in 2018. After, I started working as a 3rd grade teacher at a Christian school as well as running club and coaching for 2-8 grade. My now husband and I met in high school, and he went to school to be a doctor. During his last year in medical school, he applied to residency and got into the University of Utah. So we are so excited to be moving and I’m so excited to start this new adventure as a 1st grade teacher at ICS.

Tell us about your family!

My mom and dad are both from Peru and moved to the United States when I was very young. My father passed away when I was 8 years old, and my mom remarried and gave me 2 incredible siblings. The rest of my family lives in Peru. 

My husband’s name is Cameron Guy and he was born in North Carolina, but moved to Florida at 3 years old when his father started medical school. My husband and I got married on April 16th this year. We have known each other since high school and have been bestfriends since. We have a 3 year old cat named Luschka and hopefully getting another one soon! Cameron is going to the University of Utah to continue his pursuit of becoming an orthopedic surgeon. On June 16th, 2022 we packed up everything we owned and started our drive to Salt Lake City from Gainesville, FL. We are both super excited to start our new careers and journey as a family this year!

What is something most people don't know about you? OR What are you most passionate about?

Most people don’t know I am bilingual and can speak Spanish and English. Also, my 2 younger siblings are 11 years younger than me. 

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS?

I am looking forward to meeting the community, my co-workers, and students.  I’m excited to create relationships in this incredible community that has already welcomed me with open arms. I am also very eager to learn all of the new curriculum, as I can continue to better myself as a teacher. 

What else would you like the ICS community to know about you?

• I ran 50 miles in 48 hours and I want to start trail running

• I’m on the process of visiting all the U.S. national parks by 50 years old (hopefully)

• I want to run a marathon by the end of the year and move forward to longer distances later on

• I’m currently reading the Bible for the second time, which I don’t think I even understood half of it the first time. This time around I’ve been starstruck by so many things in the first 6 books.