A safe harbor for learning.
✨ Alpine Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
Why was the math book sad? Because it had too many problems!
Luckily, Mr. Casey Hyde is here to help solve them! Meet Alpine Academy’s new 7th Grade Math teacher, who is bringing his love of math, science, baseball, and plenty of dad jokes to the classroom!
This is Mr. Hyde’s first year teaching, and after spending several years in a different career, he can’t wait to begin his teaching journey.
Mr. Hyde is looking forward to helping students reach their goals, discover their potential, and see how they can be mathematicians in the real world. His favorite subjects from college included analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, calculus, and biochemistry/molecular biology, so it’s safe to say he loves learning!
Outside the classroom, Mr. Hyde enjoys coaching youth baseball, playing adult softball, camping, hiking, fishing, and going on adventures with his wife, Kelsee, and their four kids. When it comes to movies, Mr. Hyde is all about the “popcorn flicks”—give him some action, adventure, and comedy, and he’s happy! He’s also proudly admitted to being a bit of a Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, and Marvel nerd. When it comes to reading, Mr. Hyde usually sticks with nonfiction. However, his family recently convinced him to step outside his usual reading territory and listen to the Harry Potter audiobooks for the very first time. To his surprise, he has to admit…he’s actually having a lot of fun with them!
One of Mr. Hyde’s biggest inspirations is baseball legend Ken Griffey Jr. Growing up watching Griffey play, he admired his integrity, loyalty, and work ethic—qualities Mr. Hyde hopes to bring into his own classroom and life.
One thing students can definitely expect in Mr. Hyde’s classroom? Plenty of well-timed, groan-worthy dad jokes. He loves a good pun almost as much as he loves a good scientific article or baseball game!
Help us give Mr. Casey Hyde a warm Alpine welcome! We’re excited to have him on the team and can’t wait to see the impact he makes this year!
Why was the math book sad? Because it had too many problems!
Luckily, Mr. Casey Hyde is here to help solve them! Meet Alpine Academy’s new 7th Grade Math teacher, who is bringing his love of math, science, baseball, and plenty of dad jokes to the classroom!
This is Mr. Hyde’s first year teaching, and after spending several years in a different career, he can’t wait to begin his teaching journey.
Mr. Hyde is looking forward to helping students reach their goals, discover their potential, and see how they can be mathematicians in the real world. His favorite subjects from college included analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, calculus, and biochemistry/molecular biology, so it’s safe to say he loves learning!
Outside the classroom, Mr. Hyde enjoys coaching youth baseball, playing adult softball, camping, hiking, fishing, and going on adventures with his wife, Kelsee, and their four kids. When it comes to movies, Mr. Hyde is all about the “popcorn flicks”—give him some action, adventure, and comedy, and he’s happy! He’s also proudly admitted to being a bit of a Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, and Marvel nerd. When it comes to reading, Mr. Hyde usually sticks with nonfiction. However, his family recently convinced him to step outside his usual reading territory and listen to the Harry Potter audiobooks for the very first time. To his surprise, he has to admit…he’s actually having a lot of fun with them!
One of Mr. Hyde’s biggest inspirations is baseball legend Ken Griffey Jr. Growing up watching Griffey play, he admired his integrity, loyalty, and work ethic—qualities Mr. Hyde hopes to bring into his own classroom and life.
One thing students can definitely expect in Mr. Hyde’s classroom? Plenty of well-timed, groan-worthy dad jokes. He loves a good pun almost as much as he loves a good scientific article or baseball game!
Help us give Mr. Casey Hyde a warm Alpine welcome! We’re excited to have him on the team and can’t wait to see the impact he makes this year!
✨ Alpine Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
Helping students reach their goals one step at a time—meet Mrs. Chandler, our dedicated 6–8 Learning Services teacher at Connor Academy, supporting growth in reading, math, and study strategies!
Mrs. Chandler has been teaching for 14 years, with 7 of those years at Connor/Alpine and 7 years previously at Pocatello High School. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about building strong connections with students and celebrating their growth over time.
Her favorite part of teaching is getting to know each student individually and watching them grow in confidence and ability. She enjoys teaching both math and reading, though math is her favorite subject to teach. As a student, her favorite subject was English.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Chandler enjoys cooking, reading, writing poetry and short stories, taking walks with her dog, playing games, and practicing martial arts. At home, she shares life with her husband, two children, a cat, and a dog.
Her favorite movie is Fried Green Tomatoes, and she draws inspiration from authors such as Stephen King, Edgar Allan Poe, and Charles Dickens.
In her classroom, Mrs. Chandler values hard work, creativity, and personal growth. Students can expect to set goals, work toward exceeding them, and enjoy the learning process along the way.
Mrs. Chandler shares:
“In my class, we work hard, set goals, and have fun learning while growing into our best selves.”
Thank you, Mrs. Chandler, for supporting students with patience, encouragement, and a belief in their potential every day. Connor Academy is grateful for you!
Helping students reach their goals one step at a time—meet Mrs. Chandler, our dedicated 6–8 Learning Services teacher at Connor Academy, supporting growth in reading, math, and study strategies!
Mrs. Chandler has been teaching for 14 years, with 7 of those years at Connor/Alpine and 7 years previously at Pocatello High School. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about building strong connections with students and celebrating their growth over time.
Her favorite part of teaching is getting to know each student individually and watching them grow in confidence and ability. She enjoys teaching both math and reading, though math is her favorite subject to teach. As a student, her favorite subject was English.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Chandler enjoys cooking, reading, writing poetry and short stories, taking walks with her dog, playing games, and practicing martial arts. At home, she shares life with her husband, two children, a cat, and a dog.
Her favorite movie is Fried Green Tomatoes, and she draws inspiration from authors such as Stephen King, Edgar Allan Poe, and Charles Dickens.
In her classroom, Mrs. Chandler values hard work, creativity, and personal growth. Students can expect to set goals, work toward exceeding them, and enjoy the learning process along the way.
Mrs. Chandler shares:
“In my class, we work hard, set goals, and have fun learning while growing into our best selves.”
Thank you, Mrs. Chandler, for supporting students with patience, encouragement, and a belief in their potential every day. Connor Academy is grateful for you!
✨ Connor Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
Let's turn the page to a new Teacher Spotlight and meet Mrs. Stirling, one of our amazing 4th grade teachers at Connor! This upcoming school year marks her 15th year of teaching, 12 of those right here at Connor, and her 6th year in 4th grade.
One of Mrs. Stirling’s favorite parts of teaching is creating lessons. She loves finding the best ways to explain concepts and making learning fun and meaningful for her students. While math is her favorite subject to teach, she actually loved English most as a student, inspired by a great teacher and her passion for writing.
Family is at the heart of everything she does. She and her husband have four daughters and three granddaughters, and by the end of the year, all of their daughters will be married, bringing their total to five grandchildren!
When she’s not in the classroom, Mrs. Stirling loves planning her next travel adventure. She has a goal of visiting all 50 U.S. National Parks and has already explored 24! She also enjoys biking, camping, kayaking, swimming, reading, and doing puzzles. Her favorite books are historical fiction, she loves learning something new while getting lost in a great story.
Her message to students:
“Fourth grade is the best! Be ready to work hard, support each other, and try lots of new things!”
Thank you, Mrs. Stirling, for inspiring students to work hard, try new things, and discover the joy of learning every day!
Let's turn the page to a new Teacher Spotlight and meet Mrs. Stirling, one of our amazing 4th grade teachers at Connor! This upcoming school year marks her 15th year of teaching, 12 of those right here at Connor, and her 6th year in 4th grade.
One of Mrs. Stirling’s favorite parts of teaching is creating lessons. She loves finding the best ways to explain concepts and making learning fun and meaningful for her students. While math is her favorite subject to teach, she actually loved English most as a student, inspired by a great teacher and her passion for writing.
Family is at the heart of everything she does. She and her husband have four daughters and three granddaughters, and by the end of the year, all of their daughters will be married, bringing their total to five grandchildren!
When she’s not in the classroom, Mrs. Stirling loves planning her next travel adventure. She has a goal of visiting all 50 U.S. National Parks and has already explored 24! She also enjoys biking, camping, kayaking, swimming, reading, and doing puzzles. Her favorite books are historical fiction, she loves learning something new while getting lost in a great story.
Her message to students:
“Fourth grade is the best! Be ready to work hard, support each other, and try lots of new things!”
Thank you, Mrs. Stirling, for inspiring students to work hard, try new things, and discover the joy of learning every day!
✨ Connor Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
Teaching from the heart comes naturally to Mrs. Isabell Rascon! We're excited to shine the spotlight on our wonderful 1st Grade teacher.
Mrs. Rascon has been teaching for 13 years total—11 years at Connor Academy and 2 years in Head Start at Fort Hall. One of her favorite parts of teaching is those unforgettable “light bulb” moments when everything clicks for her students. She also loves helping children develop a genuine joy and love for learning.
While she enjoys teaching all subjects, math is her favorite. It was also her favorite subject growing up, which makes it especially meaningful for her to share that passion with her students.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Rascon describes life as wonderfully busy and full of love. At one point, she had four children under the age of three—and even three in diapers at the same time—which she proudly survived! Her home is filled with laughter, chaos, and lots of names starting with “I” and “J,” which keeps things interesting. Most importantly, her family means everything to her.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading books, watching movies, and being outdoors. Some of her favorites include the Goosebumps books, the movie A Goofy Movie, and the TV series Yellowstone.
Mrs. Rascon is inspired by Albert Einstein and his curiosity about the world. She admires his love of math and his dedication to asking questions and never stopping the pursuit of knowledge.
In her classroom, Mrs. Rascon strives to create a safe, welcoming space where every student feels comfortable, heard, and valued. She believes every child should know they belong and that their voice matters.
Connor Academy is grateful for the kindness, dedication, and encouragement Mrs. Rascon brings to her classroom every day!
Teaching from the heart comes naturally to Mrs. Isabell Rascon! We're excited to shine the spotlight on our wonderful 1st Grade teacher.
Mrs. Rascon has been teaching for 13 years total—11 years at Connor Academy and 2 years in Head Start at Fort Hall. One of her favorite parts of teaching is those unforgettable “light bulb” moments when everything clicks for her students. She also loves helping children develop a genuine joy and love for learning.
While she enjoys teaching all subjects, math is her favorite. It was also her favorite subject growing up, which makes it especially meaningful for her to share that passion with her students.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Rascon describes life as wonderfully busy and full of love. At one point, she had four children under the age of three—and even three in diapers at the same time—which she proudly survived! Her home is filled with laughter, chaos, and lots of names starting with “I” and “J,” which keeps things interesting. Most importantly, her family means everything to her.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading books, watching movies, and being outdoors. Some of her favorites include the Goosebumps books, the movie A Goofy Movie, and the TV series Yellowstone.
Mrs. Rascon is inspired by Albert Einstein and his curiosity about the world. She admires his love of math and his dedication to asking questions and never stopping the pursuit of knowledge.
In her classroom, Mrs. Rascon strives to create a safe, welcoming space where every student feels comfortable, heard, and valued. She believes every child should know they belong and that their voice matters.
Connor Academy is grateful for the kindness, dedication, and encouragement Mrs. Rascon brings to her classroom every day!
Many thanks to everyone who participated in the Chubbuck Days Parade! It was so much fun waving at many of our school families. What a way to kick off the 20th year of The Academy!
Celebrating 20 Years!
✨ Alpine Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
Get your books ready and pack your curiosity—it's time to explore new worlds and old ones! Please give a warm Alpine welcome to Ms. Kim Andersen, our new 7th Grade ELA & History teacher!
Ms. Andersen has been teaching for two years, and this will be her first year teaching at Alpine. She loves building meaningful relationships with her students and helping them learn and grow each day.
History is her favorite subject to teach, while health and chemistry were her favorite subjects when she was in school. Outside the classroom, Ms. Andersen is a wife and mom of four. She and her family live in Grace, Idaho, where they enjoy gardening, camping, and hiking together.
One of her favorite books is Wonder, and when it's time to relax, you'll likely find her watching The Office. She is inspired by Marjorie Hinckley's reminder:
"Don't wish away your days, waiting for better ones ahead. There is always, always, always something to be grateful for."
Ms. Andersen has a special message for her students:
"I am so excited to be the 7th Grade ELA and History teacher this year! I have loved getting to know all my favorite kids over the last year and a half, and I can't wait to make even more memories together. Get ready for a fun and exciting year of learning and growing!"
We're excited to welcome Ms. Andersen to the Alpine family and can't wait to see all the wonderful things she and her students accomplish this school year!
Get your books ready and pack your curiosity—it's time to explore new worlds and old ones! Please give a warm Alpine welcome to Ms. Kim Andersen, our new 7th Grade ELA & History teacher!
Ms. Andersen has been teaching for two years, and this will be her first year teaching at Alpine. She loves building meaningful relationships with her students and helping them learn and grow each day.
History is her favorite subject to teach, while health and chemistry were her favorite subjects when she was in school. Outside the classroom, Ms. Andersen is a wife and mom of four. She and her family live in Grace, Idaho, where they enjoy gardening, camping, and hiking together.
One of her favorite books is Wonder, and when it's time to relax, you'll likely find her watching The Office. She is inspired by Marjorie Hinckley's reminder:
"Don't wish away your days, waiting for better ones ahead. There is always, always, always something to be grateful for."
Ms. Andersen has a special message for her students:
"I am so excited to be the 7th Grade ELA and History teacher this year! I have loved getting to know all my favorite kids over the last year and a half, and I can't wait to make even more memories together. Get ready for a fun and exciting year of learning and growing!"
We're excited to welcome Ms. Andersen to the Alpine family and can't wait to see all the wonderful things she and her students accomplish this school year!
✨ Connor Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
With a wave of kindness and a spark of magic, Connor Academy is proud to feature Mrs. Payne, one of our wonderful Kindergarten teachers!
Mrs. Payne is going on her third year teaching at Connor, where she brings warmth, patience, and joy into her classroom each day.
Her favorite part of being a teacher is getting to know each child and their unique personalities. She especially loves teaching math and science, which also happen to be her favorite subjects from when she was a student.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Payne has been married for 20 years and is a proud mom of four amazing children—one currently at Connor, two in high school, and one heading off to college this fall. She loves reading (especially fantasy novels), traveling, and trying new foods.
Above all, Mrs. Payne shares a simple message with her students:
“I love teaching kindergarten!”
We appreciate Mrs. Payne and the care, enthusiasm, and encouragement she brings to her students each day!
With a wave of kindness and a spark of magic, Connor Academy is proud to feature Mrs. Payne, one of our wonderful Kindergarten teachers!
Mrs. Payne is going on her third year teaching at Connor, where she brings warmth, patience, and joy into her classroom each day.
Her favorite part of being a teacher is getting to know each child and their unique personalities. She especially loves teaching math and science, which also happen to be her favorite subjects from when she was a student.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Payne has been married for 20 years and is a proud mom of four amazing children—one currently at Connor, two in high school, and one heading off to college this fall. She loves reading (especially fantasy novels), traveling, and trying new foods.
Above all, Mrs. Payne shares a simple message with her students:
“I love teaching kindergarten!”
We appreciate Mrs. Payne and the care, enthusiasm, and encouragement she brings to her students each day!
✨ Connor Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
Where little learners grow and sweet moments happen every day—We are thrilled to spotlight Mrs. Michelle Crandall!
Mrs. Crandall teaches 1st grade and is in her second year as a classroom teacher at Connor Academy. Before stepping into her teaching role, she served as an Educational Assistant at Connor for 6 years. Even more special, her family has been part of the Academy community for 19 years through her six children!
One of Mrs. Crandall's favorite things about teaching is watching her students grow and hearing the funny things they say along the way. She has always loved learning and enjoyed just about every subject when she was in school.
Mrs. Crandall is married and has 6 children and 3 grandchildren. When she's not in the classroom, she enjoys taking walks, playing the piano, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
She finds inspiration in many people, including the Founding Fathers, Jesus Christ, and her parents and family, whose examples have helped shape who she is today.
Mrs. Crandall wants her students to know one simple but important thing:
"We love you!"
Thank you, Mrs. Crandall, for filling your classroom with love, laughter, and a joy for learning each day. Connor Academy is grateful for you!
Where little learners grow and sweet moments happen every day—We are thrilled to spotlight Mrs. Michelle Crandall!
Mrs. Crandall teaches 1st grade and is in her second year as a classroom teacher at Connor Academy. Before stepping into her teaching role, she served as an Educational Assistant at Connor for 6 years. Even more special, her family has been part of the Academy community for 19 years through her six children!
One of Mrs. Crandall's favorite things about teaching is watching her students grow and hearing the funny things they say along the way. She has always loved learning and enjoyed just about every subject when she was in school.
Mrs. Crandall is married and has 6 children and 3 grandchildren. When she's not in the classroom, she enjoys taking walks, playing the piano, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
She finds inspiration in many people, including the Founding Fathers, Jesus Christ, and her parents and family, whose examples have helped shape who she is today.
Mrs. Crandall wants her students to know one simple but important thing:
"We love you!"
Thank you, Mrs. Crandall, for filling your classroom with love, laughter, and a joy for learning each day. Connor Academy is grateful for you!
✨ Connor Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
Grab your pencils and put on your thinking caps—we're excited to spotlight Mrs. Atkins, one of our wonderful 2nd grade teachers! She has been teaching for 11 years, including the last 5 years here at Connor Academy!
One of her favorite parts of teaching is watching her students learn and grow throughout the year. It's no surprise that reading is both her favorite subject to teach and was her favorite subject when she was a student herself. Her favorite book is Summer of the Monkeys by Wilson Rawls.
When she's not in the classroom, Mrs. Atkins enjoys traveling with her husband to beautiful beaches around the world. She is also the proud mother of 5 adult children and grandmother to 5 grandchildren.
Mrs. Atkins draws inspiration from her 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Mattson, and from Susan B. Anthony. Their examples remind her that standing up for what's right can make a lasting difference and that one courageous voice can help change the world.
In Mrs. Atkins' classroom, students learn from one another and practice treating each other with kindness and respect by following the Golden Rule. Her students can expect to learn a lot while having plenty of fun along the way!
Mrs. Atkins has one final message for her students:
"Don't forget to read a lot during the summer!"
Thank you, Mrs. Atkins, your dedication and caring heart make a lasting difference in the lives of your students every day!
Grab your pencils and put on your thinking caps—we're excited to spotlight Mrs. Atkins, one of our wonderful 2nd grade teachers! She has been teaching for 11 years, including the last 5 years here at Connor Academy!
One of her favorite parts of teaching is watching her students learn and grow throughout the year. It's no surprise that reading is both her favorite subject to teach and was her favorite subject when she was a student herself. Her favorite book is Summer of the Monkeys by Wilson Rawls.
When she's not in the classroom, Mrs. Atkins enjoys traveling with her husband to beautiful beaches around the world. She is also the proud mother of 5 adult children and grandmother to 5 grandchildren.
Mrs. Atkins draws inspiration from her 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Mattson, and from Susan B. Anthony. Their examples remind her that standing up for what's right can make a lasting difference and that one courageous voice can help change the world.
In Mrs. Atkins' classroom, students learn from one another and practice treating each other with kindness and respect by following the Golden Rule. Her students can expect to learn a lot while having plenty of fun along the way!
Mrs. Atkins has one final message for her students:
"Don't forget to read a lot during the summer!"
Thank you, Mrs. Atkins, your dedication and caring heart make a lasting difference in the lives of your students every day!
✨ Connor Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
We’re casting a Lumos spell on Mrs. Jolene Hurst, one of our incredible 3rd Grade teachers at Connor Academy!
Mrs. Hurst has been teaching for 30 years, with 20 of those years dedicated to Connor Academy. Her favorite part of teaching is learning right alongside her students and experiencing new discoveries together in the classroom.
While she currently teaches 3rd grade, one of her favorite subjects to teach was Idaho History when she taught 4th grade. Growing up, her favorite subject in school was music.
Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Hurst is a proud mom of five children—two boys and three girls. She enjoys spending her time gardening and sewing when she’s not at school.
Mrs. Hurst loves the Harry Potter books and movies, and finds inspiration in those who first came to America and the sacrifices they made to secure the freedoms we enjoy today.
Thank you, Mrs. Hurst, for 20 years of dedication, learning, and encouragement at Connor Academy!
We’re casting a Lumos spell on Mrs. Jolene Hurst, one of our incredible 3rd Grade teachers at Connor Academy!
Mrs. Hurst has been teaching for 30 years, with 20 of those years dedicated to Connor Academy. Her favorite part of teaching is learning right alongside her students and experiencing new discoveries together in the classroom.
While she currently teaches 3rd grade, one of her favorite subjects to teach was Idaho History when she taught 4th grade. Growing up, her favorite subject in school was music.
Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Hurst is a proud mom of five children—two boys and three girls. She enjoys spending her time gardening and sewing when she’s not at school.
Mrs. Hurst loves the Harry Potter books and movies, and finds inspiration in those who first came to America and the sacrifices they made to secure the freedoms we enjoy today.
Thank you, Mrs. Hurst, for 20 years of dedication, learning, and encouragement at Connor Academy!
✨ Connor Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
Every great story has a remarkable teacher. Meet Mrs. Nielsen, our outstanding 5th Grade Social Studies and Spelling teacher!
Mrs. Nielsen has been teaching for 17 years, with 11 of those years spent here at The Academy. She loves to teach history, and if you’ve ever stepped into her classroom, you know she has a special talent for bringing the past to life. Her favorite subject is history, and as she likes to say, “In my class, we laugh. I love to make history come alive.” and she will add, “King George III has spoken!”
One of Mrs. Nielsen’s favorite parts of teaching is seeing the moment when a student finally understands a topic or develops a love for a subject they didn’t find interesting before.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Nielsen is a proud mom of four children—Shayla (16), Vance (14), Evan (9), and Owen (5)—and has been married to her amazing husband, Cameron, for 19 years. When she’s not teaching, she enjoys reading and working on puzzles.
Mrs. Nielsen is inspired by people throughout history who have overcome difficult circumstances and chosen kindness in the face of adversity. She especially enjoys learning about Holocaust survivors and the ordinary people whose simple acts of courage and compassion made a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Thank you, Mrs. Nielsen, for bringing history to life and inspiring curiosity in your students every day!
Every great story has a remarkable teacher. Meet Mrs. Nielsen, our outstanding 5th Grade Social Studies and Spelling teacher!
Mrs. Nielsen has been teaching for 17 years, with 11 of those years spent here at The Academy. She loves to teach history, and if you’ve ever stepped into her classroom, you know she has a special talent for bringing the past to life. Her favorite subject is history, and as she likes to say, “In my class, we laugh. I love to make history come alive.” and she will add, “King George III has spoken!”
One of Mrs. Nielsen’s favorite parts of teaching is seeing the moment when a student finally understands a topic or develops a love for a subject they didn’t find interesting before.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Nielsen is a proud mom of four children—Shayla (16), Vance (14), Evan (9), and Owen (5)—and has been married to her amazing husband, Cameron, for 19 years. When she’s not teaching, she enjoys reading and working on puzzles.
Mrs. Nielsen is inspired by people throughout history who have overcome difficult circumstances and chosen kindness in the face of adversity. She especially enjoys learning about Holocaust survivors and the ordinary people whose simple acts of courage and compassion made a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Thank you, Mrs. Nielsen, for bringing history to life and inspiring curiosity in your students every day!
✨ Alpine Teacher Spotlight ✨
Where math meets creativity and performance! We are thrilled to spotlight Ms. Tiffany Chandler, Alpine’s 8th Grade Math teacher, Drama teacher, and Dance Team Coach, who brings both logic and the arts to life for our students every day!
She has been part of The Academy for 10 years, and prior to teaching, she spent 4 years as an Educational Assistant in 6th grade. Her favorite part of teaching is watching students come into their own, especially in drama, where personalities truly shine!
Ms. Chandler loves the challenge of math because it helps students think logically and build strong problem-solving skills. She also has a passion for drama, which has been her favorite subject since she was young.
Outside the classroom, she enjoys paddle boarding in the summer, participating in community theatre, and spending time with her husband and two cats . Her favorite comfort shows include Criminal Minds and Bones, and for something light-hearted she turns to Parks and Recreation or The Office.
Thank you, Ms. Chandler, for helping students build confidence, express themselves, and develop strong problem-solving skills every day!
Where math meets creativity and performance! We are thrilled to spotlight Ms. Tiffany Chandler, Alpine’s 8th Grade Math teacher, Drama teacher, and Dance Team Coach, who brings both logic and the arts to life for our students every day!
She has been part of The Academy for 10 years, and prior to teaching, she spent 4 years as an Educational Assistant in 6th grade. Her favorite part of teaching is watching students come into their own, especially in drama, where personalities truly shine!
Ms. Chandler loves the challenge of math because it helps students think logically and build strong problem-solving skills. She also has a passion for drama, which has been her favorite subject since she was young.
Outside the classroom, she enjoys paddle boarding in the summer, participating in community theatre, and spending time with her husband and two cats . Her favorite comfort shows include Criminal Minds and Bones, and for something light-hearted she turns to Parks and Recreation or The Office.
Thank you, Ms. Chandler, for helping students build confidence, express themselves, and develop strong problem-solving skills every day!
✨ Connor Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
A new teacher brings new learning, new growth, and new excitement, we’re thrilled to welcome Carrie Davis, our new 4th grade teacher at Connor! With 8 years of teaching experience, Carrie brings passion, energy, and a love for learning into her classroom every day.
One of her favorite moments as a teacher is watching that spark of understanding—when students light up and say, “Oh, I get it!” Her favorite subject to teach is reading, though growing up she especially enjoyed math and P.E.
Carrie is also a proud mom of five children! Her family is full of exciting milestones—from a daughter who has completed college and been married for a year, to three kids currently working toward their degrees, and her youngest heading into 9th grade at Pocatello High School. Her husband works for UPS, and together they enjoy spending quality time as a family.
Outside the classroom, Carrie loves traveling and exploring the beautiful places, scrapbooking memories, and cheering on her kids in their activities. She’s also a fan of a wide range of books and shows—anything from Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings to comedies and documentaries, depending on her mood!
Join us in giving Carrie a warm welcome—we’re thrilled to have her at Connor!
A new teacher brings new learning, new growth, and new excitement, we’re thrilled to welcome Carrie Davis, our new 4th grade teacher at Connor! With 8 years of teaching experience, Carrie brings passion, energy, and a love for learning into her classroom every day.
One of her favorite moments as a teacher is watching that spark of understanding—when students light up and say, “Oh, I get it!” Her favorite subject to teach is reading, though growing up she especially enjoyed math and P.E.
Carrie is also a proud mom of five children! Her family is full of exciting milestones—from a daughter who has completed college and been married for a year, to three kids currently working toward their degrees, and her youngest heading into 9th grade at Pocatello High School. Her husband works for UPS, and together they enjoy spending quality time as a family.
Outside the classroom, Carrie loves traveling and exploring the beautiful places, scrapbooking memories, and cheering on her kids in their activities. She’s also a fan of a wide range of books and shows—anything from Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings to comedies and documentaries, depending on her mood!
Join us in giving Carrie a warm welcome—we’re thrilled to have her at Connor!
✨ Connor Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
Classroom fun is in session! We’re excited to feature Mrs. Watt in this Teacher Spotlight!
Ms. Watt teaches 5th grade at Connor Academy, where she helps students grow academically and build confidence as learners. She creates an engaging classroom environment that encourages curiosity, responsibility, and a love for learning.
Connor Academy is fortunate to have Ms. Watt's dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to student success. Thank you for all you do!
Classroom fun is in session! We’re excited to feature Mrs. Watt in this Teacher Spotlight!
Ms. Watt teaches 5th grade at Connor Academy, where she helps students grow academically and build confidence as learners. She creates an engaging classroom environment that encourages curiosity, responsibility, and a love for learning.
Connor Academy is fortunate to have Ms. Watt's dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to student success. Thank you for all you do!
✨ Alpine Teacher Spotlight ✨
Striking the perfect chord of creativity and compassion, Mrs. Helmandollar brings music to life as our Music and Special Education teacher. While this is her third year at Alpine, she has spent over 22 years sharing her love of music as a private music instructor.
Her favorite thing about teaching is having fun with her students and learning alongside them. "When they are engaged and we can explore new things together, it is magic," she says. It's no surprise that music is her favorite subject to teach, as it has played a significant role in her life since childhood. As a student herself, she especially enjoyed math and science.
Family is at the heart of Mrs. Helmandollar's life. She has been married for 17 years and is the proud mother of four children. She loves living close to her extended family and cherishes the time they spend together.
When she's not teaching, you'll likely find her crafting. From crocheting and sewing to tile mosaics, painting, embroidery, and even stained glass, she's always excited to learn a new creative skill. She also enjoys relaxing with her favorite comedy shows, including Friends, Seinfeld, New Girl, Parks and Recreation, and The Office.
Mrs. Helmandollar credits her parents as her greatest inspiration. Their example, support, and guidance helped shape the person she is today.
One message she hopes her students will remember is that challenges do not define them. Having faced her own struggles growing up, she wants students to know that difficult circumstances can be overcome with perseverance, hard work, and determination. While the journey may not always be easy, she believes it is always worth it.
Mrs. Helmandollar shares that she is incredibly grateful to work with such wonderful students, families, and coworkers. Their support and inspiration make every day meaningful.
Thank you, Mrs. Helmandollar, for sharing your talents, kindness, and encouragement with our school community. Your passion for helping students learn, grow, and believe in themselves makes a lasting impact every day!
Striking the perfect chord of creativity and compassion, Mrs. Helmandollar brings music to life as our Music and Special Education teacher. While this is her third year at Alpine, she has spent over 22 years sharing her love of music as a private music instructor.
Her favorite thing about teaching is having fun with her students and learning alongside them. "When they are engaged and we can explore new things together, it is magic," she says. It's no surprise that music is her favorite subject to teach, as it has played a significant role in her life since childhood. As a student herself, she especially enjoyed math and science.
Family is at the heart of Mrs. Helmandollar's life. She has been married for 17 years and is the proud mother of four children. She loves living close to her extended family and cherishes the time they spend together.
When she's not teaching, you'll likely find her crafting. From crocheting and sewing to tile mosaics, painting, embroidery, and even stained glass, she's always excited to learn a new creative skill. She also enjoys relaxing with her favorite comedy shows, including Friends, Seinfeld, New Girl, Parks and Recreation, and The Office.
Mrs. Helmandollar credits her parents as her greatest inspiration. Their example, support, and guidance helped shape the person she is today.
One message she hopes her students will remember is that challenges do not define them. Having faced her own struggles growing up, she wants students to know that difficult circumstances can be overcome with perseverance, hard work, and determination. While the journey may not always be easy, she believes it is always worth it.
Mrs. Helmandollar shares that she is incredibly grateful to work with such wonderful students, families, and coworkers. Their support and inspiration make every day meaningful.
Thank you, Mrs. Helmandollar, for sharing your talents, kindness, and encouragement with our school community. Your passion for helping students learn, grow, and believe in themselves makes a lasting impact every day!
✨ Connor Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
In Mrs. Maynard’s 1st grade classroom, curiosity grows and confidence blooms, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on her today!
Mrs. Maynard has been teaching at Connor Academy for 3 years. She brings joy, patience, and enthusiasm into her classroom every day as she helps young learners grow and discover new things.
Her favorite thing about being a teacher is simple—her students! She loves seeing their excitement as they learn something new each day.
Reading has always been her favorite subject, both when she was a student and now as a teacher helping others fall in love with it too.
Outside of school, Mrs. Maynard has been married to her wonderful husband for 16 years and is a proud parent of two amazing children. She enjoys staying active through fitness, traveling, and reading.
Thank you, Mrs. Maynard, for making 1st grade such a joyful place to learn and grow!
In Mrs. Maynard’s 1st grade classroom, curiosity grows and confidence blooms, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on her today!
Mrs. Maynard has been teaching at Connor Academy for 3 years. She brings joy, patience, and enthusiasm into her classroom every day as she helps young learners grow and discover new things.
Her favorite thing about being a teacher is simple—her students! She loves seeing their excitement as they learn something new each day.
Reading has always been her favorite subject, both when she was a student and now as a teacher helping others fall in love with it too.
Outside of school, Mrs. Maynard has been married to her wonderful husband for 16 years and is a proud parent of two amazing children. She enjoys staying active through fitness, traveling, and reading.
Thank you, Mrs. Maynard, for making 1st grade such a joyful place to learn and grow!
✨ Alpine Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
New equations, new discoveries, and a new teacher to celebrate, welcome to Alpine Academy, Ms. Eliana CraigSmith!
Ms. CraigSmith finished her student teaching this spring and will start at Alpine Academy this Fall. She is very excited to begin her journey here and bring her passion for learning into the classroom.
Her favorite thing about being a teacher is her students. She loves learning from them and finds them to be a constant source of inspiration.
While she enjoys teaching all areas of STEM, math and science hold a special place in her heart. When she was in school, her favorite subject was science, especially because of an inspiring teacher who sparked her love of learning.
In her free time, Ms. CraigSmith loves exploring new interests and is always trying something new. Currently, she is studying Japanese, playing classical guitar, and practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Her favorite book and movie is The Lord of the Rings trilogy, and she draws inspiration from scientists like Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose perseverance and passion for discovery continue to motivate her.
Ms. CraigSmith believes every student can succeed in her class through hard work, kindness, and curiosity. The three “variables” that always add up to success!
We are so excited to welcome Ms. CraigSmith to Alpine Academy!
New equations, new discoveries, and a new teacher to celebrate, welcome to Alpine Academy, Ms. Eliana CraigSmith!
Ms. CraigSmith finished her student teaching this spring and will start at Alpine Academy this Fall. She is very excited to begin her journey here and bring her passion for learning into the classroom.
Her favorite thing about being a teacher is her students. She loves learning from them and finds them to be a constant source of inspiration.
While she enjoys teaching all areas of STEM, math and science hold a special place in her heart. When she was in school, her favorite subject was science, especially because of an inspiring teacher who sparked her love of learning.
In her free time, Ms. CraigSmith loves exploring new interests and is always trying something new. Currently, she is studying Japanese, playing classical guitar, and practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Her favorite book and movie is The Lord of the Rings trilogy, and she draws inspiration from scientists like Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose perseverance and passion for discovery continue to motivate her.
Ms. CraigSmith believes every student can succeed in her class through hard work, kindness, and curiosity. The three “variables” that always add up to success!
We are so excited to welcome Ms. CraigSmith to Alpine Academy!
✨ Connor Academy Teacher Spotlight ✨
The stage is set for learning, kindness, and care, we’re excited to feature Ms. Andrea, one of Connor Academy’s wonderful Kindergarten teachers.
Ms. Andrea has been teaching for 13 years, including 3 years at Connor. She brings joy, creativity, and a love of learning into her kindergarten classroom every day.
Her favorite thing about being a teacher is learning from her students, they inspire her just as much as she inspires them!
When she was in school, her favorite subject was music. She participated in orchestra, band, and choir, and also loved performing in school musicals, no surprise she still enjoys being part of the stage today!
Ms. Andrea and her husband are raising three wonderful children, and they enjoy spending time together watching movies, playing games, and going on family vacations. Outside of school, she loves performing in musicals and plays and spending time with family and friends.
She enjoys reading works by Jane Austen and Sarah Eden, and finds inspiration every day in her students’ willingness to try new and challenging things.
In her classroom, Ms. Andrea reminds students "It's o.k. to make mistakes! That's how we learn. I love learning together!" She truly believes in learning together and building confidence every step of the way.
Thank you, Ms. Andrea, for bringing heart, creativity, and a little bit of stage magic to kindergarten every day!
The stage is set for learning, kindness, and care, we’re excited to feature Ms. Andrea, one of Connor Academy’s wonderful Kindergarten teachers.
Ms. Andrea has been teaching for 13 years, including 3 years at Connor. She brings joy, creativity, and a love of learning into her kindergarten classroom every day.
Her favorite thing about being a teacher is learning from her students, they inspire her just as much as she inspires them!
When she was in school, her favorite subject was music. She participated in orchestra, band, and choir, and also loved performing in school musicals, no surprise she still enjoys being part of the stage today!
Ms. Andrea and her husband are raising three wonderful children, and they enjoy spending time together watching movies, playing games, and going on family vacations. Outside of school, she loves performing in musicals and plays and spending time with family and friends.
She enjoys reading works by Jane Austen and Sarah Eden, and finds inspiration every day in her students’ willingness to try new and challenging things.
In her classroom, Ms. Andrea reminds students "It's o.k. to make mistakes! That's how we learn. I love learning together!" She truly believes in learning together and building confidence every step of the way.
Thank you, Ms. Andrea, for bringing heart, creativity, and a little bit of stage magic to kindergarten every day!
