Churchill Junior High

Academic Achievers

Science

Mrs. Kristen Billeter

Biology Teacher

Science
  • Bachelor of Science from Brigham Young University, 2005. Major: Biology Composite Teaching
  • Churchill Jr. from 2006-2009
  • Evergreen Jr. in 2021-2022
  • Churchill Jr (again, yay!) from 2022
  • Enjoys skiing, paddleboarding, swimming and spending time outdoors with her family.
  • Mrs. Billeter began her teaching career here at Churchill in 2006. She taught 7th grade Science and Biology for three years before taking time off to stay home with her 4 beautiful daughters. During that time she helped coordinate Science events at local elementary schools and served as a member of the Board of Trustees at Canyon Rim Academy, an elementary charter school in Salt Lake City. In 2021, she was persuaded to return to the classroom at Evergreen Jr., teaching 7th grade Science. In 2022, Mrs. Billeter was delighted at the chance to return to Churchill, this time teaching 6th grade Science.
Photo of Mr. Brian LeStarge

Mr. Brian LeStarge

Physical Science

Work Phone: 385-646-5144
Photo of Mrs. Laurie Pope

Mrs. Laurie Pope

Biology Teacher

Work Phone: 385-646-5144
  • 7th Grade Science Teacher
  • Education: BS Biology Education BYU 2002
  • Currently pursuing MS Earth Science
  • Endorsements: Biology, Middle School Science, Gifted and Talented
  • Mrs. Pope has taught Biology, Earth Systems, 7th and 8th grade science
  • Current Track Coach for Churchill
  • Enjoys half marathons, when trained, collecting race medals, Diet Coke, and competing in chalk art competitions.
Photo of Derek Tate

Derek Tate

- Bachelors - University of Utah 1994 - Master - University of Utah 1994 - Endorsements - Physical Education, Health, Science, Geography, Psychology - Educator since 1994 - First year at Churchill Mr. Tate began his teaching career at a residential treatment facility fr adolescents where he was a half time teacher and half time recreation therapist.  During his masters and PhD work he taught undergraduate courses at the University of Utah and University of Montana.  Upon moving back to Utah from Montana he accepted a position at Saint Joseph Catholic School in Ogden where he has taught for the past 22 years.  During his tenure at Saint Joe's he has taught Physical Education, Math and World Geography every year.  He has also taught Science, Health, Fitness, Outdoor Recreation, and US History. While at Saint Joe Derek served as the Athletic Director and Math Department Chair.  Derek loves being outdoors with his family.  You can find them mountain biking, whitewater kayaking, skiing, or running up a mountain.