


Grades K-8
Alturas
North
Alturas North is a public charter school where students grow as curious and compassionate learners. Our students investigate real-world concepts, collaborate with peers, and develop the skills needed to think critically and act responsibly in their community.
Resources
Alturas North
Academics
Alturas is a public charter network committed to rigorous, inquiry-based learning. Through multi-age classrooms and small instructional groups, we teach students at their true academic level. This fosters meaningful growth, strong peer relationships, and a learning environment where curiosity, confidence, and critical thinking are continuously cultivated.
PRIMARY YEARS
PROGRAMME
The PYP nurtures young learners through concept-driven learning that builds curiosity, foundational skills, and meaningful connections across subjects and real-world ideas.
MIDDLE YEARS
PROGRAMME
The MYP develops creative, critical, and reflective thinkers by helping students explore big ideas, examine global perspectives, and connect their learning to real-world challenges.
Alturas North
Team
ADMINISTRATORS
Michelle Ball
Chief Executive Officer
As an educator, I deeply understand how important it is to build a strong community for students to learn in an environment that is safe, collaborative, and engaging. I believe all students have unique talents and gifts to share, and it is the sharing of those gifts that enhances their lives as well as the lives of others to create a better and more understanding world. My goal and why as an educator is to have every student embrace that life and learning are full of challenges and it is the struggles that help us grow, find, understand and appreciate each other gifts and contributions.
l have been an educator for over forty years. For twenty-two years, I taught in a multi-aged classroom where students were taught at their instructional levels in small groups. Best practices were continually researched and implemented. This program of incorporating best practices in education is the foundation of Alturas which allows students to receive instruction tailored specifically to their needs and provided them opportunities to reach their academic potential. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, our students are inspired to be lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and global citizens.
Through my educational journey I had the privilege of receiving a Fulbright to Czech Republic to explore Eastern Europe and develop curriculum for students to explore a global community mindset. I have also published a series of books. “Wake Up Brain”, is a series of 6 books with brain-stretching challenges in math, geography, and language arts. “Brown Bag Science”, is, a series of 16 books supporting grades 1 st through 6 th in exploring science through hands on learning activates.
My family is an immense support in my life. Doug, my husband of over forty years, and I enjoy cross country skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, running, and biking. Our dogs, Ellie and Rosie, love to go on all our sport adventures. We are the proud parents of three children, Conrad, Rebecca, and Patrick who all have master’s degrees. Our family is even more enhanced by their spouses, Melissa, Tim, and Priya. Our four grandchildren Jameson, Gavin, Emma Michelle, and Kira are tremendous joy beyond words in our life.
Jennifer Bishop
Principal
jennifer.bishop@alturasacademy.org
Jennifer Bishop serves as an Administrator at Alturas Academy North. She brings years of experience in education and has been with Alturas since it opened. Before teaching, she mentored under Michelle Ball, developing a strong foundation in student-centered instruction. Her professional interests include creating engaging learning environments and supporting teachers in their professional growth. She is passionate about helping students discover that they can achieve greatness through hard work and perseverance. Mrs. Bishop holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Charter Administrator endorsement. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and soaking up the sun.
Julie Schiner
Vice Principal
julie.schiner@alturasacademy.org
Julie Schiner was born and raised in northwest Iowa. She moved to Idaho Falls in August 2021. She lives with her husband, Brit, daughter, Elsie, and their two dogs, Cherry and Belle. In her free time she enjoys being outdoors running, biking, hiking, and rafting. Before moving she was a coach for Girls on the Run and enjoyed hosting and participating in local fun runs.
Julie graduated from Buena Vista University in 2005 with a degree in Physical Education and coaching. She added her early childhood PK-K endorsement in 2013. She has been an early childhood director and preschool teacher at the Spencer YMCA for over 13 years.
Julie’s goal as an educator is to create a space where children feel secure to explore their own curiosity, imagination, and creativity. She strives to build a classroom community that embraces personal strengths while also celebrating individual differences. She is excited to be a part of the Alturas Academy North team and she is looking forward to meeting and connecting with the students and families as well as the surrounding community.
Sarah Browning
Director of Special Education
Sarah Browning is the Special Education Director at Alturas Academy, bringing 19 years of experience supporting students across K–12. A Shelley, Idaho native, she studied Exceptional Child Education at Idaho State University. She also spent over 15 years volunteering with the Girl Scouts of Silver Sage, shaping her practical, community-focused approach to helping kids and families. She and her husband, Jerod, are proud parents of two college-aged daughters pursuing big dreams. Off the clock, she’s reading, listening to indie music, grabbing tacos, catching a movie, or heading outdoors to camp, fish, or watch baseball.
TEACHERS
Kelsee Dalling
Grades 4-6 Teacher
kelsee.dalling@alturasacademy.org
Mrs. Dalling is thrilled to join the Alturas International Academy community and bring her passion for education and connection into the classroom. She is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inspiring environment where every student feels seen, supported, and motivated to grow.
Mrs. Dalling earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Western Governors University. Through her experiences, she has developed strong skills in organization, communication, and building meaningful relationships with students and families. She loves guiding children as they explore, ask questions, and develop confidence in their abilities.
Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Dalling treasures her family above all, they are her greatest source of joy and inspiration. She also enjoys cooking, tending her garden, and staying active through CrossFit, which helps her stay energized and focused.
Mrs. Dalling is especially excited to be part of a school that puts students at the center of learning, where they are encouraged to ask thoughtful questions, consider diverse perspectives, and apply what they learn to real-world situations. She looks forward to collaborating with fellow educators, supporting her students’ growth, and contributing to a positive, dynamic, and inspiring school community.
Krystina Garrido-Cotrina
Grades 1-3 Teacher
krystina.garrido-cotrina@alturasacademy.org
Krystina is a creative and busy mom who loves photography, the outdoors and getting lost in a good book. She especially enjoys taking pictures of her kids and capturing the fun, chaotic, and memorable moments that come with family life and youth sports.
Most of her free time revolves around her kids and their activities. Krystina is a dedicated sports mom who is always on the go, taking her kids to hockey, gymnastics, instrument lessons, and rodeos. Whether she’s cheering from the stands or snapping photos to remember the moment, she loves being part of the journey and supporting the things her kids are passionate about.
Krystina has spent over 10 years teaching, with most of that time in a Kindergarten Spanish Immersion classroom. She has always loved working with young learners and helping them build confidence while discovering the joy of learning and language.
After many years in the classroom, Krystina took a break from teaching to homeschool her children and spend more time supporting their learning and busy activity schedules. She is excited to join Alturas Academy and looks forward to returning to the classroom, connecting with students and families, and being part of a supportive school community.
Camden McCrite
Grades 1-3 Teacher
camden.mccrite@alturasacademy.org
Camden McCrite graduated from Brigham Young University–Idaho with a degree in Early Childhood and Special Education. As a first-year teacher, she is excited to begin her career helping students discover the joy of learning, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love of education. Growing up in a family of educators, she developed a deep appreciation for the meaningful impact teachers can have on students’ lives and futures.
Originally from Alabama, Mrs. McCrite brings a strong sense of care, encouragement, and community into her classroom. She believes every student has unique strengths and abilities and is passionate about helping children recognize their potential and continue pursuing it throughout their education. With her background in both early childhood and special education, she values creating an inclusive classroom where all students feel supported and empowered to succeed. She strives to foster a learning environment where students feel safe, valued, and excited to grow.
Mrs. McCrite is especially excited to be part of the Alturas community and looks forward to building strong relationships with students, families, and colleagues. Outside of school, she enjoys cooking, baking, and reading. She also loves spending time with family and friends and recently married her wonderful husband. Mrs. McCrite is grateful for the opportunity to begin her teaching career at Alturas and is excited to help her students learn, grow, and discover just how capable they truly are.
Katelyn Portner
Grades 1-3 Teacher
katelyn.portner@alturasacademy.org
Mrs. Portner grew up in Colorado and moved to Idaho two years ago, where she has loved building a life and community. She recently graduated from Brigham Young University–Idaho with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and is excited to join the Alturas North team as a 1–3 teacher.
Mrs. Portner has always wanted to be a teacher because she loves supporting students as they discover their strengths and reach their full potential. She is passionate about creating a classroom where students feel safe, supported, and excited to learn each day. She believes strong relationships are at the heart of learning and enjoys getting to know each student so she can meet their individual needs and help them grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Portner enjoys running, spending time with family and friends, and working on house projects. She also enjoys staying active and finding new ways to be creative in her everyday life.
She is excited to begin this new adventure at
Alturas North and looks forward to learning and growing alongside her students this year.
Sophia Schmidt
Kindergarten Teacher
sophia.schmidt@alturasacademy.org
Sophia is a passionate and dedicated kindergarten teacher who brings warmth, patience, and joy into her classroom each day. As the youngest of twelve siblings, with over forty nieces and nephews, she has been surrounded by children her entire life. Growing up in such a large, lively family gave her countless opportunities to nurture, guide, and care for little ones long before she began her professional career in education. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Marriage and Family Studies, where she developed a strong foundation in child development, family relationships, and emotional well-being. She spent one year teaching preschool, building her skills in early childhood education, and has now been teaching kindergarten for five years. Her classroom is a place where curiosity is encouraged, creativity is celebrated, and every child feels valued and supported. Last year, Sophia experienced the joy of welcoming her miracle baby, an experience that deepened her empathy and love for children even more. Becoming a mother has further strengthened her passion for helping young learners grow academically, socially, and emotionally. She has a cheerful personality and loves the simple things that bring happiness—pineapples, fresh flowers, and a cold Dr Pepper are just a few of her favorites. Above all, Sophia is truly excited about teaching kindergarten and feels grateful every day to play a small but meaningful role in shaping young hearts and minds.
Kylie Sharp
Grades 4-6 Teacher
kylie.sharp@alturasacademy.org
Kylie Sharp is a dedicated educator and language specialist with a passion for creating inclusive, engaging, and student-centered learning environments. She holds a degree in Spanish Education, along with a minor in TESOL and a certificate in Educational Foundations, equipping her with the skills to support both native English speakers and multilingual learners. Kylie has experience teaching Spanish at the secondary level, where she focuses on building confidence through interactive and meaningful communication. She has also worked with adult English learners in community-based programs, strengthening her ability to adapt instruction and build strong, supportive relationships.
Outside of her professional life, Kylie enjoys spending time with her family, trying new recipes, and finding creative ways to bring learning to life. She has a strong appreciation for language, culture, and connection, which influences both her teaching and her personal interests.
Kylie is especially excited about the opportunity to join Alturas Academy North because of its commitment to personalized learning and whole-child development. She values a school environment that prioritizes relationships, flexibility, and meeting students where they are. Kylie is eager to contribute her passion, creativity, and dedication to a team that shares her belief that every student deserves to feel seen, supported, and inspired to succeed.
Kylie Stone
Grades 1-3 Teacher
kylie.stone@alturasacademy.org
Kylie Stone serves as a 1-3 grade teacher at Alturas Academy North. She brings 2 years of experience in a special education preschool. Before joining Alturas, she worked as an extended resource room paraprofessional. Her professional interests include reading and promoting positive social-emotional skills. She is passionate about small group instruction to meet the individual needs of each student. Mrs. Stone holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood and Special Education along with an extension on her degree to teach through 6th grade. Mrs. Stone received her degree from Brigham Young University-Idaho. Outside of work, she enjoys swimming, hiking, biking, and crafting.
Deidre Terry
Grades 1-3 Teacher
deidre.terry@alturasacademy.org
Deidre Terry serves as a 1-3 Teacher at Alturas Academy North. While her background is mainly in business, she decided it was time to pursue her passion to make a difference in children’s lives as a school teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from WGU. She enjoys learning herself and originally started her degree in biology, but also enjoys math and history! She is thrilled to join a school that values small group instruction, encourages students to take charge of their own learning, and empowers student confidence and growth.
Deidre recently moved to Idaho from Utah, where she grew up, to get married and start a new chapter of life. She has 4 children and loves exploring & hiking Idaho with her hubby and kids. She enjoys outdoor activities like paddleboarding & pickleball, gardening, and gets creative using her pottery wheel.
Natalie Wheeler
Kindergarten Teacher
natalie.wheeler@alturasacademy.org
Natalie Wheeler grew up in Idaho and has been in Eastern Idaho for the majority of her life. She is excited to be part of the Alturas Academy North team, and is ready to help the school grow and help its culture be one of support and productive learning. She graduated from Brigham Young University Idaho with a major in Elementary Education in 2025. She is passionate about literacy and loves to read in her downtime. She wants each student she interacts with to feel supported and have a curiosity about reading. She is ready to grow and become the teacher that her students will need to succeed, and is excited to meet each one of them.
Rebekah Wray
Grades 4-6 Teacher
rebekah.wray@alturasacademy.org
Rebekah Wray is an enthusiastic educator with a strong commitment to student growth and success. She earned her degree in Elementary Education from Southern Utah University, where she developed a solid foundation in instructional strategies and student-centered learning.
Rebekah began her career as a 4th grade teacher in Las Vegas, Nevada, where she gained valuable experience fostering an engaging and supportive classroom environment. Throughout her teaching career, she has focused on helping students build confidence, develop critical thinking skills, and achieve academic success. Her passion for education is rooted in her belief that every child has unique strengths and the ability to succeed when given the right support and encouragement.
She is especially excited to join Alturas Academy because of its dedication to helping students reach their full potential. Rebekah is eager to contribute to a learning environment that empowers students in the classroom so they can pursue their dreams beyond it. She values the opportunity to be part of a team that prioritizes student achievement, growth, and long-term success.
Outside of teaching, Rebekah enjoys crocheting, creating art, going on walks, cooking, and reading fantasy novels. These hobbies reflect her creativity, balance, and patience—qualities she brings into her classroom each day. She looks forward to building meaningful connections with her students and colleagues at Alturas Academy.
STAFF
Show Some School Spirit
Show your Alturas pride with school spirit apparel and accessories. From shirts and hoodies to hats, water bottles, and more—our online store has everything you need to support your student and our community.