Read a few words from Head of School, Chris Harmon, Ed.D.
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STEAM IN THE CLASSROOM
Preparing students for the jobs of the future begins today.
IN THE MIDDLE
Fine Arts programs help students discover new passions.
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HORTICULTURE GARDEN
Upper School students build on knowledge from the classroom.
OUR SCHOOL
Stay updated on the latest at Mount Pisgah.
PRESCHOOL AND 8TH GRADE
Learn more about this partnership that grows students’ faith.
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PATRIOT BASKETBALL
Our varsity teams are shooting for the stars this season.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS
From the stage to the track, our students’ talents shine.
MASTER TEACHERS
Congratulations to these teachers recognized for their expertise.
ALUMNI
Catch up with our alumni and stay connected.
Dear Mount Pisgah Christian School,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the latest edition of our school magazine. As always, our team has put together a fantastic collection of articles, stories, and visuals that are sure to keep you engaged and informed.
At Mount Pisgah, we believe in the power of knowledge, creativity, and growth. That’s why we have worked tirelessly to bring you this issue, packed with insightful content that showcases the talents and achievements of our students, faculty, and staff.
As we look back on the first half of this school year, we have so much to be proud of. Our students have excelled in academics, sports, and the arts. We’ve seen countless examples of compassion, leadership, and teamwork within our community. From older students mentoring younger ones to our volleyball team winning a state championship, our community is achieving our core value of Aspiring to Distinction.
Of course, none of this would be possible without the support of our families, alumni, and friends. Your continued commitment to our school is what makes all of these achievements possible, and we are truly grateful for your support.
In Christ,
Chris Harmon, Ed.D.
HEAD OF SCHOOL
MOUNT PISGAH LEADERSHIP
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
Jennifer Aliff
Assistant to Head of School
Chris Harmon, Ed.D.
Head of School
Shannon Heotaky
Director of Teaching and Learning
Mark Jennings, Ph.D.
Assistant Head of School for Advancement
Becky Knight, Ed.D.
Lower School Principal
Dana Ridenour
Assistant Head of School for Finance and Operations
David Rogers
Middle School Principal
Marie Woods
Upper School Principal/Associate Head of School
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Kelly Burns
Lisa Dworkin
Joe Gaynor, Chairman
Flint Geier
Jim Gilvin
David Hailey
Chris Hornsby
Nneka Medebem
Brian Ranck
Grant Thomas
Reverend Steve Wood
(Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics)
In Mount Pisgah’s dynamic and innovative STEAM classrooms, students are not just learners — they are explorers and creators.
In Lower and Middle School, WozEd Pathways put student exploration and discovery at the forefront. Designed by Apple’s Steve Wozniak, the program offers curriculum plans that immerse students in engineering, coding, animation, and more.
Students develop a mindset essential for future tech roles while honing soft skills that prepare them for success in life. Collaboration, problem solving, and critical thinking are central to every WozEd pathway, laying a strong foundation for success in fields set for exponential growth.
Hands-On Learning
Kindergarten: Our youngest tech enthusiasts are stepping into the realm of STOP-MOTION ANIMATION. Using Play-Doh, they create engaging videos and turn abstract concepts into tangible learning experiences.
Third Grade: The curious minds in the third grade are delving into the world of 3D PRINTING They’re learning the mechanics behind these printers and designing their own creations using Chromebooks.
Fifth Grade: Fifth graders embark on a journey through PROGRAMMING and logical thinking. They learn the intricacies of binary commands and the importance of detailed planning in programming for Ozobots. By programming each step, students learn the value of patience and thoroughness.
STEAM
Sixth Grade: Students model the process of ANIMATION, from brainstorming to storyboarding to designing a prototype to crafting a final product. This hands-on approach not only nurtures new skills, but also instills a sense of pride as students share their creative endeavors with others.
Seventh and Eighth Grade: In the middle school engineering elective, students learn block coding, text coding, and manual control through drawing and movement. In class, they use Sphero Mini robot balls to navigate mazes, signal for communication, and simulate games like mini golf.
In WozEd’s innovative environment, students are not just preparing for the future; they are actively shaping it. Through these diverse and engaging pathways, they are growing into capable, creative individuals ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow’s tech-driven world.
The thrill of picking up a violin bow or blowing into a trumpet for the very first time often marks the beginning of a student’s journey through middle school.
There’s something special about this time of exploration — something that the fine arts program at Mount Pisgah acknowledges as crucial, not only for building the skills of future artists, but also to the development of students’ creative potential.
Although most schools’ programs lock students into their arts elective choice early, at MPCS, fifth grade students rotate through band, orchestra, and voice classes; they have the chance to experience each discipline without the pressure of making a choice that has to last through 12th grade.
“Fifth grade is very young to make a lasting decision about the future of your middle school arts career,” explains Band Director Anisha Lewis. “Giving students the opportunity to ‘try on’ each of the different arts programs affords them a hands-on experience that can help them make an educated decision about longer commitments.”
The following year, in sixth grade, students are encouraged to switch disciplines at the start of the spring semester. Their choices expand to include drama, art, and select STEAM electives.
Arts education is associated with academic success in math, critical thinking, reading comprehension, and more. During these developmentally critical years, students experience the joy of connecting with others and the world through art.
As students progress into seventh and eighth grade, their choices continue to expand. They can decide whether to commit to a full year or just a single semester with the flexibility to tailor courses to their evolving passions.
The Middle School’s fine arts faculty are not just arts educators; they are an integral part of the Middle School.
“Our faculty are all highly qualified, and they’re also a central part of the life of the Middle,” says Daniel Hilton, director of fine arts. “They’re on grade level teams, and these kids see their fine arts teachers in the halls, homeroom, chapel, and even during lunch.”
Because faculty teach both Middle and Upper School, students have the opportunity to be in the class of a teacher from the time they enter fifth grade until they walk across the stage at graduation.
“We are intentional about making sure that those teachers are just as present and valued members of the team as any other teacher. That’s a deliberate choice,” Hilton emphasizes.
TEACHING CREATIVITY AS A UNIVERSAL FORM OF INTELLIGENCE
The department strives to teach creativity as a form of intelligence accessible to all students, not just those who exhibit visible talent. This shift towards a more inclusive approach has positioned fine arts as a central pillar of the school community, highlighting its importance alongside core subjects.
“Fine arts is a discipline. Creativity is a type of intelligence. It’s a way of understanding the world, and the best way of coming up with new ideas. It comes from the idea of a creative God. That’s why we want to make art. It is a mirror of the divine,” Hilton says.
In the busy halls of the Middle School, creativity flourishes, fostering a community where the arts are celebrated as a reflection of our creator and central to education.
There’s a garden oasis where Upper School students build on knowledge from the classroom with hands-on learning in the fresh air.
In the garden next to Geier Hall, students tend to four garden beds with a diverse mix of flowers, vegetables, and fruit. The garden also features a chicken coop and a greenhouse.
Rather than exclusively teaching from textbooks and lab experiments, the class emphasizes learning by doing. The daily to-do list includes watering, pruning, harvesting plants, and collecting eggs.
Citing the horticulture class as a chance to reset their batteries during a packed day, students praise the course as an opportunity to learn gardening skills and see science lessons and experiments come to life.
Students enjoy the responsibility of maintaining and caring for the garden and chickens, as well as gaining an understanding of food production, agricultural stewardship, and a deeper appreciation for the world around them.
Horticulture teacher Codie Edgar `11 expects the program to continue to grow with the success of the outdoor horticulture space and class.
“Many of my students aspire to improve and enlarge the chicken coop and expand the garden space,” she says. Students look forward to developing more environmentally-conscious projects that can be shared with the entire community.
Edgar recommends any and all Upper School students sign up for the horticulture elective. “The course is one that many students don’t have access to until they go to college or university.”
We regret the following supporters were not included in the 2022-23 Annual Report printed in the fall issue of our magazine. To see a full list of donors, visit: wearepisgah.org/Fall23magazine
David & Natalie Crabtree
David & Jill Garver
Jason & Brooke Gray
Maggie He & Fanqi Xu
Mike & Sarah Kim
Josh & Savannah Kimberlin
Edith Lopez & Fernando Trujillo
Jay & Tracy O’Brien
Matthew & Kelly Pugh
Chris & Jane Pullaro
David & Denise Russell
Keith and Marcy Williams
Please note: these additional names are also members of the 1986 Society for the 2022-2023 year.
Tripp & Katie Duesenberg
Cyrus & Elizabeth Commissariat
A.J. & Miranda Green
Thomas Korte & Theresa Jarmuz
Matt & Amy Whitley
Doug Williams
Marie & Rodney Woods
WE ARE PISGAH
MISSION
Mount Pisgah Christian School provides an outstanding college preparatory education grounded in Christian faith and values.
VISION
To teach foundational truth in an ever-changing world, empowering students to think critically and creatively and to act with courage and compassion.
CORE VALUES
Demonstrate Faithfulness, Educate with Intention, Nurture Community, Foster Innovation, Aspire to Distinction
FROM A MOUNT PISGAH FAMILY:
Saba and Suzy Karadsheh, P`28
We’ve always known that our daughter was a bright young student, but we found she was being left behind at public school due to the sheer size of each classroom. We knew she didn’t get the attention she needed to thrive and grow as a student, so we started looking at various private school options.
When we came to Mount Pisgah for a tour, we instantly fell in love with the warm and inviting nature of the staff. The teacher to student ratio was very important to us and we felt Mount Pisgah offered the optimal ratio for our daughter to succeed as a student.
Since enrolling her 3 years ago, our daughter has excelled in all her subjects and most importantly, she has found a safe and loving home at Mount Pisgah. We couldn’t be happier!
Mount Pisgah Christian School eighth graders are enjoying a partnership with the Murray Academy and serving our Preschool 3s and 4s.
For preschoolers, every day in the classroom is filled with wonder and discovery. But the days our eighth grade students visit bring even more excitement.
Each preschool classroom welcomes eighth graders who visit during their Bible class throughout the school year. This regular interaction allows the older students to immerse themselves in the classroom, learning the names of each child, assisting the teachers, and fostering lasting bonds with the youngest members of our school community.
For Middle School students, the experience means that they have a portion of their day devoted to the care of others, learning how to put Christ’s love into action through rubber stamping with paint, jumping for Jesus in chapel, or taking part in a make-believe dinner in the play kitchen. These interactions may seem insignificant at first, but every heart in the room can feel their weight.
“The best part is watching an eighth grader, who is already navigating their own complex world, reconnect with the simplicity of childhood,” observes Emily Harrington, an eighth grade Bible teacher. “It’s a reminder that wisdom doesn’t always stem from age; sometimes, it’s the childlike faith that leads us to profound truths. In this blend of maturity and simplicity, our students find unexpected insights.”
REFLECTIONS
As part of their class, eighth graders reflect on their experience serving the preschool students.
The moment the “big kids” enter, the preschoolers’ eyes light up with excitement, eagerly engaging in play, song, dance, or storytime with their newfound friends. The preschoolers’ affection is openly displayed through high-fives, hugs, and earnest inquiries about their next visit.
The eighth grade Bible class curriculum focuses on worldview and leadership. Students explore diverse perspectives and delve into the traits of leadership as described by John Maxwell in 21 Qualities of Leaders in the Bible
Complementing their study, they also conduct biographical studies of current or historical leaders who embody godly character and a biblical worldview. This partnership with the Murray Academy serves as a practical extension of their leadership training, aligning with our school’s commitment to intentional education and nurturing community spirit.
And as they learn about leadership and service, they happen to make a few new friends along the way.
BE GIVE DO MORE
PATRIOT BASKETBALL
Slam dunks and buzzer beaters: it’s an exciting time for Patriot basketball fans.
The Varsity Boys and Girls Basketball programs look to build on their recent success after both teams made deep playoff runs last year, with the boys finishing runner-up in a hard-fought state championship game.
Two new program directors, Coach Jay Slone and Coach Erin Cox, join the Mount Pisgah community with a wealth of experience developing student-athletes.
A Journey Toward ‘More’
This season, the overarching theme is “More.” More effort, more skill, more teamwork. Coach Slone explains, “It’s about watching our players reach new heights, doing things they never imagined possible, he says. “Everyone needs to be, give, and do more than they have ever expected.”
Athletic Director Ryan Livezey is enthusiastic about the season for both teams and looks forward to seeing the new coaches lead their teams.“Their passion for investing in relationships will be an asset to our program and school.”
Mount Pisgah’s basketball programs aim to enhance athletic skills and foster personal growth and leadership qualities in its athletes. The focus is on creating well-rounded individuals who excel on and off the court.
Coaches Cox and Slone are dedicated to creating an environment where players thrive under pressure, learn from their challenges, and celebrate their successes together.
Guiding the Patriots to New Heights
Coach Cox comes to Mount Pisgah after coaching at Wesleyan and Hebron Christian. Her Wesleyan team most recently finished as the 2023 Region Champions. Prior to Wesleyan, she was part of the two-time state championship coaching staff at Hebron Christian.
This year she joins a Girls Varsity Basketball program that finished with a 17-7 overall record and made it to the second round of the state playoffs last year — the furthest finish in program history. She is most excited about having the opportunity to “pour confidence and purpose into each student-athlete on this team, just as my high school coaches poured into me.”
Coach Slone comes to Mount Pisgah Christian School after spending time with The Skill-Factory National Prep High School and Northern Kentucky University.
The returning boys are excited to write their own story. After an impressive 23-9 record and appearance in the state championship game, the team is looking to develop an identity and work towards achieving their own goals.
“What excites me most about this group is that we are going to see some kids do things that they did not know they were capable of, and watching things finally click for players,” says Coach Slone.
Charlotte Jeong `28 lets her love for music speak for itself. An already accomplished violinist, she is currently finishing up eighth gra
Her talent has been recognized state-wide and beyond. She earned Concertmaster for All-State Orchestra, the top honor for a middle school violinist, determined by two rounds of state-wide auditions. Last year as a seventh grader she performed as one of four finalists in the Samuel Fordis Young Artist Concerto Competition with the Georgia Philharmonic Orchestra.
At Mount Pisgah, Charlotte began performing as a soloist with the orchestra in the fifth grade. Those who were lucky enough to see her perform Handel’s Passacaglia in G minor at Concert Under the Stars recognize that she is a talented musician.
Charlotte began mastering her technique and control of the violin at a very young age. Starting before the age of six, she has learned under many teachers and instructors.
“I am most impressed with how humble she is,” said Orchestra Director Nicholas Wheeler. “She will perform in some of the world’s greatest concert halls and work with some of the world’s most incredible musicians. She will become a world-class musician, but she never flaunts it.”
Her academic accomplishments have earned her a place on the Dean’s List. Most importantly, Charlotte has a heart to serve the Lord and her fellow classmates as part of the chapel production team.
She displays character and faithfulness in the pursuit of excellence on and off the stage, and has been known to encourage younger students to pursue and develop their own love of music.
Charlotte is seeking to attend a top music conservatory after graduation in 2028. As she pursues this goal, she appreciates that the support from her Mount Pisgah teachers and classmates extends beyond school. “I have played at school concerts where a lot of my classmates and teachers attend and it’s so nice seeing
Charlotte Jeong performs Handel’s Passacaglia in G minor at Concert Under the Stars with Orchestra Director Nicholas Wheeler.
Max Tucker `24 has track state and national titles to his name — and isn’t done yet.
Senior Max Tucker ‘24 crossed the finish line of the final event in the Canadian National Track and Field Championship Decathlon and let out a roar — he had just become the Under-20 Champion.
It’s a moment that didn’t come overnight.
“I’ve had thoughts like, ‘When is it going to happen? Or is it ever going to happen?’ It’s hard, it’s been a journey, and I’ve been putting in the work. I’m thankful I’ve had an early taste of success, but I want to achieve so much more.”
Max has played on three Mount Pisgah varsity teams: cross country, basketball, and track and field. He holds school records in the decathlon, 400m, 800m, 4X400m relay, and 4X800m relay. He has also won 1A state titles in the decathlon, 400m, and 4X800m relay.
Track and Field Coach and Assistant Athletic Director Jordan Snellings describes Max as an extension of the coaching staff and the leader that his teammates look up to.
“Max sets the example and gives advice and encouragement when needed and always provides a good laugh. His mental toughness, ability to visualize his performances and handle adversity play a major role in the success he has had so far on and off the track,” says Coach Snellings.
His impact on the MPCS campus goes beyond athletic achievements. Max stands out in the classroom as a member of the honor roll and with performances in drama and chapel band. His teachers and classmates describe him as a joy to teach and see around campus.
“In our program, he has demonstrated commitment, responsibility, creativity, and humor — all without any trace of cynicism or negativity,” says Daniel Hilton, director of fine arts.
Max also values being a part of the Mount Pisgah community. “I’ve been at MPCS for six years. I’ve grown in maturity. Teachers like Mr. Hilton and others have helped me succeed. I’ve found a good friend group that supports each other. We are different, but understand each other’s goals and push each other towards our goals. I’m
Max has committed to run track for the University of Georgia and looks forward to pursuing success for his teams at UGA and Team Canada. He seeks to represent his family and community at future
“I was blessed enough to receive advice from my favorite athlete, Damian Warner,” Max says about the 2020 Olympic Decathlon Gold Medalist and fellow Canadian. “He told me patience is key. It will take a long time to master my events, but I’m willing to give it my all to
“It will take a long time to master my events, but I’m willing to give it my all to achieve my goals.”
- MAX TUCKER `24
MASTER TEACHERS
The Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) Master Teacher Program recognizes educators who demonstrate exceptional teaching practices and a commitment to collaborative growth. Four educators from Mount Pisgah Christian School were honored with this distinction this year.
Susan McDevitt
Middle School History and Science Years at Mount Pisgah: 9 Years of teaching experience: 39
When Mrs. McDevitt shared her expertise at Mount Pisgah’s annual professional learning conference, her presentation explored inquiry-based learning, project ideas for students, and the impact of AI in research.
“I have witnessed Susan’s incredible dedication, passion, and commitment to teaching and learning. She is constantly seeking new ways to engage and challenge her students,” says Middle School Principal David Rogers. “She not only brings her knowledge and experience to the team, but also brings a host of additional skills, including her flexibility, desire for excellence, and curious mindset.”
Clay Kelsh
Middle and Upper School Latin Years at Mount Pisgah: 7 Years of teaching experience: 23
Mr. Kelsh’s approach to teaching Latin is innovative, multi-faceted and grounded in the belief that engaging multiple senses enhances learning.
“Clay’s passion and knowledge of both Latin and Art History exudes from him and draws students to those programs,” according to Middle School Principal David Rogers. “Our Latin program exploded when Clay took the reins, and enrollment in AP Art History is always at capacity. He is engaging and relational and frequently has alumni come back to visit him. He makes a dead language come alive.”
Alexis Jalovick
Third Grade Years at Mount Pisgah: 8 Years of teaching experience: 13
In the Lower School, Alexis Jalovick creates innovative and engaging learning experiences for her class of third grade students.
She incorporates project-based learning in her lesson plans, which allows students to apply the knowledge and skills they have learned in a practical and meaningful way. Ms. Jalovick earned her Master of Arts in elementary education from Piedmont University.
“Elementary teachers are amazing to watch as they not only teach the curriculum but also sow seeds of curiosity in students,” says Lower School Principal Dr. Becky Knight. “Alexis Jalovick does both of these while also nurturing our students to be confident and kind individuals. She works hard each day to create a classroom environment where every child feels valued, encouraged, and capable. I am grateful she is on our team!”
Emily Harrington
Middle School Bible and Latin Years at Mount Pisgah: 10 Years of teaching experience: 12
Mrs. Harrington creates memorable experiences for her students and collaborates with colleagues on projects such as a Roman feast or coordinating a partnership between the eighth grade and preschool students.
She also serves as Bible Department Head and earned her Master of Divinity from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University.
“Mrs. Harrington is an exceptional Bible teacher with a talent for helping students grasp complex concepts,” says Dr. Chris Harmon. “Her creativity in the classroom has made the subject matter come alive for her students. They remain highly engaged, even when the subject matter becomes difficult.”
Grant Thomas `11 is the Deputy Commissioner at the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH).
Grant serves as Deputy Commissioner at the lead state agency for Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids®, and also oversees the State Health Benefit Plan, the Healthcare Facility Regulation Division, the Office of Health Planning, and the State Office of Rural Health.
Grant serves on Mount Pisgah Christian School’s Board of Trustees and as the Chair of the Spiritual Life Committee. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science with Honors and a master’s degree in business administration, both from the University of Georgia.
Previous roles include Director of the Governor’s Office of Health Strategy and Coordination, Director of State Relations at the University of Georgia, Legislative Liaison and Policy Advisor to Governor Brian Kemp, and Government Affairs Manager at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
“Most importantly, Mount Pisgah laid the foundation for my faith and set me on a path of pursuing the Lord. The incredible teachers and coaches at Mount Pisgah influenced me the most.”
However, his journey into the realm of politics and public policy wasn’t always clear. “When I first got to UGA as a first-year undergraduate student, I thought that I wanted to one day go to law school. However, I quickly became involved with student government and several political organizations and realized that my passions were politics, government, and public policy,” he admits.
His advice for those aspiring to follow a similar path is straightforward: get involved. “Pursue internships, study abroad, and other experiential learning opportunities. Through these experiences, you will quickly discover early on what you like and what you do not like.”
He credits his time at Mount Pisgah Christian School for preparing him for life. “The rigorous academic experience at Mount Pisgah helped prepare me for success as an undergraduate student at UGA,” he reflects. “Most importantly, Mount Pisgah laid the foundation for my faith and set me on a path of pursuing the Lord. The incredible teachers and coaches at Mount Pisgah influenced me the most.”
For current MPCS students, he emphasizes the importance of building meaningful relationships with your peers, teachers, and coaches, as relationships with mentors in your future line of work and industry are critical for your success.
Most importantly, he encourages students to enjoy the journey. “Do not be so focused on your end goals that you do not take time to enjoy the journey. You only get to be a student at Mount Pisgah and a college student once, so take the time to slow down and enjoy the experiences while you work towards achievement.”
- Grant Thomas `11
CLASS NOTES
GRANT WILLIAMSON `11 received the President’s Award from the Knoxville Bar Association (Young Lawyer’s Division)
AUSTIN AND CISSY HARPER `13 welcomed their son Henry Jamieson Harper, born June 27, 2023.
SARAH CHAPDELAINE `13 is engaged to Austin Nuttal.
RYAN TILLER `15 returned to MPCS in the role of Communications Manager in July 2023.
LINDSAY ODOM `16 graduated from Union Presbyterian Seminary in June 2023 with a Master of Divinity and Master of Arts in Christian Education. She was ordained at South Mecklenburg Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, NC.
HUNTER SHULTZ `18 married Lauren Broach in June 2023. The couple met at Auburn University in 2018.
DAVID WOODWARD `18 graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 2022. He serves as an Artillery Officer in the 101st Airbourne Division at Fort Campbell in Kentucky.
VOLLEYBALL
The Mount Pisgah Christian School Varsity Volleyball Team brought home the school’s first GHSA State Championship this fall. MPCS families, students and faculty made their presence known at the Lakepoint Sports Complex as they cheered on the Patriots to a convincing 3-1 set victory over region opponent Whitefield Academy.
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“The goal we set on day one of summer workouts finally came to fruition, and man did it feel good.”
