Hillcrest High School Assistant Principal Paul S. Kirby on Wednesday, Jan. 19 was named Assistant Principal of the Year by the Utah Association of Secondary Principals.

“It’s been said that a teacher affects eternity,” Kirby said at the ceremony in Salt Lake City during which he received his award. “Well, the same could be said of assistant principals. ”

Kirby, a Ph.D. candidate at Utah State University, began his career in public education as an advanced placement Spanish teacher in 1992. He also has served as assistant principal at West Jordan High School and Brighton High School before joining the staff at Hillcrest High School in 2010.

Kirby was instrumental in bringing a Chinese language program to Brighton High and in linking his students with students from around the world in Tony Blair’s “Face to Faith” education initiative carried out through EDNET.  

In his short remarks at the ceremony, Kirby, whose award was presented by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Larry Shumway, said his students have kept him inspired throughout the years.  His colleagues praise his dedication to encouraging students to do their best in school and beyond.

“This is a wonderful acknowledgment of Paul’s dedication to the success of his students, the schools in which he serves, and the community as a whole,” said Canyons Superintendent David S. Doty.  “Paul’s quiet leadership is appreciated and valued. He’s as trustworthy as he is collegial, and we’re proud that he’s part of our high school administrative team.”

Kirby was one of three principals honored for their leadership and dedication at the annual Secondary Principals of the Year awards.  Other winners are Robert Sonju, principal at Fossil Ridge Intermediate School in Washington District, who won Middle School Principal of the Year; and Scott Bushnell, principal of Murray High School, Murray District, who is Principal of the Year.