Retired Pocatello Educator Donates Scholarship to Shoshone-Bannock Jr./Sr. High School Students

Born and raised in Pocatello, Christiansen graduated from Pocatello High School in 1959 and went on to earn three degrees from Idaho State University: a dual bachelor’s in history and political science with an additional educational certificate, a master’s in education, and an education specialist degree.

Christiansen taught in classrooms at Highland High School for eleven years before transitioning into an administrative role for the next twenty years. “I enjoyed teaching at the high school level to seniors,” Christiansen said. “Primarily in the political science and government areas. I thought it was very interesting in the classroom where we were talking about a lot of current events and political happenings.”

When asked about his twenty years of experience as a vice principal, Christiansen highlighted many years of pleasantries and support he had gained from his fellow administrators. “I had great assistance from my administrator principal and vice principal, Lionel Bowser and John Evans.”

Christiansen's decision to develop this scholarship stemmed from his experience as an administrative advisor for the Indian Club at Highland High School. When asked about his hopes for the scholarship, he said, “I hope to support new teachers who will be able to help their students and improve their educational opportunities.” Christiansen’s scholarship is geared toward graduates of Shoshone Bannock High School who are enrolled in teaching and education studies programs. These graduates must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher to receive this award.

During his time as an educator and administrator, Christiansen enjoyed participating in various extracurricular activities around Southern Idaho, such as hiking, fishing, and traveling. He also enjoyed backpacking with friends and fellow teachers during the summer. In his retirement, Christiansen traveled across the country in a small RV with his wife, Jean Ravsten, and hiked to various high points in multiple states.

Christiansen was inspired to start his scholarship by his fellow administrator, Bob Myers, who he worked with at School District #25. He hopes that this scholarship will aid in getting excellent teachers into educational institutions. Idaho is currently facing a teacher shortage, so with scholarships like this, Christiansen and the College of Education aim to support educators in their endeavors to make a difference in the classroom.

To learn more about scholarships at the College of Education, please visit isu.edu/education/students/scholarships.