Blue Skies in Salt Lake City

Shannon and Heidi were thrilled to reconnect with former Mid-Pacific colleague Dr. Torry Montes, who returned to her hometown of Salt Lake City, Utah in 2021. Dr. Montes is now teaching at her alma mater, Rowland Hall, bringing her passion for education full circle.

During her more than 20 years at Mid-Pacific, Dr. Montes taught in both the elementary and middle school, leaving a lasting impression on countless students and families. Many alumni and parents may fondly remember her signature sign-off: “Blue skies.” Before departing Hawai‘i, she earned her doctorate in professional educational practice from UH Mānoa and co-chaired Mid-Pacific’s WASC/HAIS accreditation process.

Dr. Montes misses Hawai‘i and Mid-Pacific dearly, and the feeling is very much mutual!

Fun fact: Dr. Montes hails from the Hogle family, who founded Utah’s Hogle Zoo. The zoo recently earned a perfect score during its accreditation inspection by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Talk about a proud family legacy!