The Canyons School District has found its latest holiday cheer in the form of a vibrant ski resort-inspired artwork, courtesy of Eastmont Middle School student Bryntee Melchior. The eighth grader's passion for skiing, inherited from lessons with her grandfather who learned from ski pioneer Alf Engen, is palpable in her colorful rendition of a directional sign from Utah's snowy slopes, chosen to grace the 2025 District holiday card. Melchior's artwork, recognized from approximately 200 entries, embodies the spirit of the holidays with a nod to Utah's ski resort heritage, featuring the iconic colors of the state's beloved ski destinations—Alta, Brighton, Deer Valley, and Snowbird—on the cover.
According to Canyons School District, Melchior engaged in the creative process with a belief that skiing is about more than just a sport—it's about family and community. "There is value in our heritage in skiing, and I love that everyone can come together on the mountain and just be friends and have a great time," she told the publication. Beyond her prowess on the slopes, Melchior has shown dedication in the classroom as well, standing out as a committed Patriot at Eastmont, which has been lauded as a National AVID Demonstration School for its student achievement and emphasis on college and career-readiness.
Bryntee's teachers have nothing but admiration for her, with social studies teacher Heather Reavy describing her as one who "takes initiative, figures out what she needs to do and does it." According to the Canyons School District. Reavy recognized Bryntee's ability to take charge and her willingness to seek assistance when necessary—a sentiment echoed by CTE teacher Jamison Morrison, who regards her as "the epitome of Canyons School District." The Melchior family's participation in school activities is highlighted by Shannon Melchior's role as Eastmont's PTA President, indicating a family deeply embedded in the spirit of their educational community.
While Melchior's present is rich with accolades, and her love for the mountains is profound, her gaze is set on the future, with aspirations to study marine biology. Yet, amidst academic goals and holiday festivities, Melchior remains content to bask in the wonder of Utah's mountains; her holiday card creation, according to Canyons School District, is a tangible bridge connecting her to this landscape she adores. For twelve years, Canyons School District has featured student art on its holiday cards, mailed to a host of prominent figures, including local mayors, legislators, the governor's office, and even the Office of the First Lady at the White House, spreading a touch of student-infused joy to its major supporters and beyond.
