Academic Administration
Chris Crowder
Head of School
Pastor Chris Crowder is a seasoned executive leader, pastor, and community advocate with over two decades of experience in operations, education, and public administration. As Head of School at Layton Christian Academy and Associate Pastor at Christian Life Center Church, he oversees a dynamic community of over 600 students from more than 50 nations, helping shape a campus that reflects global diversity, academic excellence, and a deep commitment to Christ-centered education.
Chris oversees over $25 million in assets and a $10 million annual budget, leading more than 100 employees with a passion for empowering both staff and students to live with purpose and impact. His commitment to public service includes appointments by Governor Gary Herbert to the Utah Board of Juvenile Justice and service on the Layton City Planning Commission and interfaith committee.
Chris holds a Master of Public Administration from California State University, and a B.S. in Communications from Weber State University.
He is married to Kathleen Tesori-Crowder and is the proud father of three children. Chris is known for his strategic vision, his heart for the next generation, and his belief that Christian education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming families and communities.
He has never met a challenge he didn’t want to outwork. But give him a Red Bull, a prayer, and a deadline? Consider it done.
Chris oversees over $25 million in assets and a $10 million annual budget, leading more than 100 employees with a passion for empowering both staff and students to live with purpose and impact. His commitment to public service includes appointments by Governor Gary Herbert to the Utah Board of Juvenile Justice and service on the Layton City Planning Commission and interfaith committee.
Chris holds a Master of Public Administration from California State University, and a B.S. in Communications from Weber State University.
He is married to Kathleen Tesori-Crowder and is the proud father of three children. Chris is known for his strategic vision, his heart for the next generation, and his belief that Christian education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming families and communities.
He has never met a challenge he didn’t want to outwork. But give him a Red Bull, a prayer, and a deadline? Consider it done.
Gabe Pethtel
High School Principal | Athletic Director
Gabe Pethtel brings over two decades of leadership in Christian education to his role as High School Principal at LCA. After previously serving as K–8 Principal and Athletic Director, Gabe now leads a thriving high school community known for its academic rigor, athletic excellence, and spiritual growth.
With a background in school administration, teaching, and pastoral ministry, Gabe is passionate about creating a culture where students thrive spiritually, academically, and socially. Under his leadership, LCA has launched a new college and career readiness program, expanded guidance services, and strengthened student support.
What makes Gabe’s approach unique is his heart for diversity and discipleship. “LCA is one of the most amazing schools in the world,” he says, “because of its global student body and its unwavering commitment to Christ.” Gabe’s warm leadership style, paired with his high standards for excellence, make him a beloved figure among students and faculty alike.
His favorite part of the job? Building a high school culture where students feel seen, supported, and inspired to lead with purpose.
His favorite Dad joke? "Why did God create man before woman? ... Because everyone needs a rough draft."
With a background in school administration, teaching, and pastoral ministry, Gabe is passionate about creating a culture where students thrive spiritually, academically, and socially. Under his leadership, LCA has launched a new college and career readiness program, expanded guidance services, and strengthened student support.
What makes Gabe’s approach unique is his heart for diversity and discipleship. “LCA is one of the most amazing schools in the world,” he says, “because of its global student body and its unwavering commitment to Christ.” Gabe’s warm leadership style, paired with his high standards for excellence, make him a beloved figure among students and faculty alike.
His favorite part of the job? Building a high school culture where students feel seen, supported, and inspired to lead with purpose.
His favorite Dad joke? "Why did God create man before woman? ... Because everyone needs a rough draft."
Kelsey Mills
K-8 Principal
Kelsey Mills serves as the PK–8 principal at Layton Christian Academy, bringing nine years of experience in education and a passion for helping students, teachers, and schools reach their full potential.
Kelsey holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education (K–6), a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction design, and a master’s degree in instructional leadership and administration (P–12). Seven of her nine years in education have been spent at the elementary level, where she taught grades 4–6. Her experience also includes teaching high school literature and serving as a high school guidance counselor before stepping into school leadership.
Kelsey is passionate about creating a school culture where students are known, challenged, supported, and encouraged to grow both academically and personally. She believes strong schools are built through high expectations, intentional instruction, meaningful relationships, and a shared commitment among students, families, and educators.
As principal, Kelsey looks forward to helping shape the future of LCA and leading the PK–8 program on a path toward high performance and continued growth while remaining grounded in the Christian values and community that make LCA special.
Kelsey holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education (K–6), a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction design, and a master’s degree in instructional leadership and administration (P–12). Seven of her nine years in education have been spent at the elementary level, where she taught grades 4–6. Her experience also includes teaching high school literature and serving as a high school guidance counselor before stepping into school leadership.
Kelsey is passionate about creating a school culture where students are known, challenged, supported, and encouraged to grow both academically and personally. She believes strong schools are built through high expectations, intentional instruction, meaningful relationships, and a shared commitment among students, families, and educators.
As principal, Kelsey looks forward to helping shape the future of LCA and leading the PK–8 program on a path toward high performance and continued growth while remaining grounded in the Christian values and community that make LCA special.