ICS Story

[My first grade teacher] took me in and dedicated more time in teaching me how to read because I was behind for my age. I want to extend the deepest of thanks to [my former teacher]. She challenged me to reach far within myself so that I could see all of the potential I had when I didn’t value much of myself. She taught me that through Christ these gifts would grow to have an impact that I wouldn’t begin recognize.

Christ has inspired me to reach those born into less fortunate instances with His love that surpasses all understanding. I hope to go into foreign countries to equip others in pursuing excellence in Christ. I admit that the journey in my faith hasn’t been one of ease because I have hit many bumps and turnovers, but I have found nothing worth more than Christ and His kingdom.

I give you this update on my life to reveal the impact [she] made as a teacher and a mentor in my life and in the life of many others through her dedication to Christ. I couldn’t think of anyone who would make as much of an impact as she did because her heart has shown much of Christ to me when I could barely read.

The rich disciplines of Bible memory and study started for me at ICS, where for 11 years my teachers faithfully repeated to me the inestimable value of that precious book. Their trust in the Bible became a means by which I would learn to likewise trust in the truth of scripture, which is now the bedrock of everything that I am and do in Christ. I'd be lost today without God's Word, so I'm grateful to ICS for giving me that eternal gift.

[At ICS] I was taught to take ownership of my own learning, and was held to some high expectations. Because of this preparation, I was taught to think critically, communicate clearly, and apply what I was learning to my own life...I believe the things I learned in high school were easily built upon the values that were instilled in me as an elementary and middle school student.

Learning to honor God with how you live your life is something that is irreplaceable and I believe hard to find anymore in today's educational system. ICS understands what it means to develop not only academically strong students, but also young Christian men and women who know how to make a difference in the lives of others. This is something that has stayed with me even after I left the hallways of ICS.

My principal at ICS, Mr. Danish, is one of the most inspirational and godly people I have had the privilege of knowing. He made the effort to know every single one of the students at Immanuel on a personal and spiritual level. He asked questions, sat to listen to interests, and greeted every student by name. I will never forget my times at lunch or outside at recess talking with him. Although, one of my fondest memories with Mr Danish was a night on the wilderness retreat during 8th grade. A group of us had gone out to look at the stars. We laid down on the ground, looked up, and I was completely in awe of what I saw. Mr. Danish pointed out constellations to us and told us stories. It was such an amazing time and reminded me of my dad who has a love for the night sky also. That trip turned out to be one of the best adventures and bonding experiences of my life. I am so thankful for the opportunity of knowing Mr. Danish and being able to spend 10 years of my life at Immanuel soaking in all of the incredible lessons the teachers and staff taught me. An ICS education is based on a love for Jesus Christ and love for others. I will always have a deep love for ICS and will feel at home the second I step inside its doors.