Along with being an excellent teacher, Jesse Flink cares for his students, encourages and inspires, creates important relationships, and carves out time for them. He is completely dedicated to the success of his students, and it shows. “His interest in the kids as humans makes them know that they are seen, heard, and appreciated,” one admirer wrote in a nomination. “We love Flink!” The upbeat teacher believes in his students. He has fun with them, even taking time to play games and talk with them at lunchtime. “My daughter has a renewed inspiration to learn and try hard because he inspires and pushes his students,” one parent said. “He is fun, caring, and an amazing teacher. We feel so lucky our daughter has him!”

After being instrumental in launching the Spanish-English Dual-Language Immersion program at Altara Elementary four years ago, Samantha Bilbow conquered an even bigger challenge. When her partner-teacher got stuck in Peru due to COVID-19, Bilbow handled both the English and Spanish sides of her first-grade classes. Bilbow managed the huge job “with grace,” Altara Principal Nicole Svee Magann said. Bilbow is lauded by parents for her positive and regular communication. Colleagues consider her a “master teacher.” She also oversees the school’s website, makes sure the Kittyhawks are in compliance with state School Community Council guidelines, and assists Altara’s social committee. Bilbow, Svee Magann added, “is always looking for a way to make the school a more positive place for the staff.”

Tamara Coombs’ first-grade classroom has a warm, safe culture with high standards of learning tailored to students’ needs. She sparks a passion for reading, even above their grade level. “Mrs. Coombs had such a positive influence on my daughter and helped her develop her love of reading,” a parent said. She is a loyal friend, a respected colleague, cares about each of the staff, and cheers everyone on. “When she is asked to take on additional tasks, she does it with a smile and determination to succeed,” a co-worker said. “If she ever has a bad day, no one would ever know.” Principal Eric Gardner is inspired when watching her classroom through a shared window. “It truly has been a window to watch an artist create a learning masterpiece.”

For 19 years, Kathy Smith has arrived at Brookwood Elementary every day with a determination to make a difference in the lives of her fourth-grade students. With Smith’s guidance, Principal Corrie Barrett says the fourth-grade team finds areas for improvement and ways to better reach all students. Smith, known for being patient, kind, and respectful, also is committed to bolstering the entire school community. She’s served on the School Community Council, Building Leadership Team, District Report Card Committee, and the PTA Board. One parent credited Smith for taking their two children where they were and challenging them in different ways to rise higher. “She gave them great options for increasing their academic capabilities. She is a terrific teacher!”

Gretchen Givone, a French dual-language immersion teacher, has high expectations for herself and her students. “Her exceptional work ethic and attention to detail is an example to her students and to us all,” Principal Jeff Nalwalker said. She goes the extra mile to translate and prepare materials, and freely shares the thoughtful, creative, and engaging products of her hard work with DLI teachers around Utah. Colleagues say her students know she loves them and wants them to thrive — and they love her. When Givone returned from a recent extended medical leave, shouts of joy were heard throughout the building upon when students saw her. “Mme. Givone is not just an exemplary and outstanding French teacher,” Nalwalker said. “She is a master teacher worthy of high accolades in any circle of educators.”

For the past three years, Becky has been spreading what Principal Kierstin Draper describes as “full-day kinder magic” at Canyon View. “She is full of sparkle!” the administrator said. “Not only does she look like a Disney princess; we believe she is one by heart as well. Her smile wins over students as she works hard to help her students reach their potential as scholars and citizens as well.” Parents laud Carpenter’s welcoming classroom atmosphere, her fun routines, engaging lessons, and creative projects. “She IS joy!” one grateful parent said. The positive and patient Carpenter cultivates confidence with her communication and responsiveness with parents, who know their children are being cared for academically and socially. As another admirer said, “Ms. Carpenter is an amazing kindergarten teacher!”

Madison Cushing is a terrific teacher who cares deeply about her students. She shows support in many ways, including by taking the time to help struggling kids one by one. “She is constantly building relationships with students and thinking of new ways to support her students,” a co-worker said. She collaborates well with colleagues, who certainly agree with the congratulatory message on the school’s Facebook page, which declared, “We think you’re amazing. Thanks for all you do to support our students, families, and school. Copperview Cougars are lucky to have you, we’ll wear Maddie Cushing T-shirts any day of the week!”

Amanda Dee has a wonderful talent of being able to teach effectively while also making learning a fun experience. Her energy makes kids feel enthusiastic about learning. “My son struggles enjoying school and has done amazing in Mrs. Dee’s class,” a grateful parent said. “She understands his needs and what he needs to succeed.” She excels at meeting kids where they are at. Dee challenges kids who are excelling and provides extra help to those in need. She’s also a great teammate. As a colleague shared, “Amanda always has a positive attitude. She’s a caring teacher, leader, and co-worker.” Parents describe her as being “so fantastic” and “amazing!” with their children. One parent echoed the feelings of many by proclaiming, “We love Mrs. Dee!”

Yao Yuanbin was described as “the perfect candidate” to be honored as his school’s Teacher of the Year. Not only is Yao an excellent teacher who strives to help students grow and learn, but he’s also enrolled in two educational programs to improve his practice and gain leadership skills. He builds positive and respectful relationships with his students and uses explicit instruction to ensure that each one understands concepts to mastery. His inclusive classroom fosters learning and fun, and students love being there. It’s no wonder why Yao is one of the most-loved faculty members at Draper.

There’s a ripple effect when it comes to Rachel Teasley’s positive impact, bright ideas, ambition, and thoughtfulness. The spreadsheet she designed to monitor her students’ typical growth in reading and math has been adopted by the entire school. She created East Midvale’s Science Committee. She’s also the lead teacher for second grade and is involved with piloting and providing feedback in other areas. She also excels at building relationships, meeting with each student weekly to track progress, and helps children from a wide variety of backgrounds succeed at learning and life. “Rachel is incredibly passionate and thoughtful with her students and co-workers,” a colleague said. “I can’t think of anyone more deserving.”

The shadow of a great teacher has a long reach, and that is readily apparent in the 2023 Teacher of the Year nominations submitted for the Mustangs’ award winner. “Courtney Martin was honestly one of the best teachers I have ever had,” said one former student who passed through Courtney’s classroom. “Even though it was almost a decade ago, I really do believe she has had a great impact on my life.” Martin’s classroom is considered a safe space for all. Through her diligence and compassion, Martin sets her students up for success in a positive environment that’s suited for learning.

It seems fitting that Sarah Turner, who teaches kiddos in their first year of schooling, is Glacier Hills’ first-ever Teacher of the Year. Multiple parents turned in nominations for Turner, who communicates clearly and often with her kindergarteners’ families. “Ms. Turner has been the best kindergarten teacher we could possibly imagine for our child,” one parent said. “She is warm, accepting, and incredibly kind. She encourages our child to work hard. She’s built him up and has made the most fantastic introduction to school.” She’s also been credited with being well prepared, having a sweet soul, using a caring approach and being attentive. As another parent put it, “Ms. Turner has shown time and again how she loves each of the kids in her classroom.”

When people call someone a great collaborator, extraordinary, and a fantastic kindergarten teacher — not to forget kind and caring — you know they’re doing a lot of things right. That’s Brittany Fenton for you. Her passion for teaching radiates amongst her students and the school community. One parent said she’ll “always be grateful” for how Fenton inspires a love for learning within her child. The growth-friendly environment she’s created helps students get off to a wonderful start to their educational journey. “It has been amazing to see my children thriving in their first year of school,” another parent said. “The love and care that she provides sets them for a life of success.”

The moment you enter Ciera Davis’ classroom you can see the evidence of her excellence. Called a “queen of engagement” by her principal, Davis uses whole-brain teaching techniques to actively engage her students throughout the lesson. She uses intentional instruction, teaches and reinforces routines and procedures, and requires students to immerse themselves into the learning process. Davis develops meaningful relationships with the members of her community, especially her students. She knows each and every child, their interests, their struggles, and the students know she is there to help them grow. Colleagues also enjoy being with Davis, who has an infectious personality, a warm and welcoming persona, and a fun sense of humor.

Colleagues marvel at what Maleia Boyd has accomplished this school year while helping her special education kids despite a heavy workload. Principal Lori Reynolds heaps praise upon Boyd for doing a job that could easily be divided between 2-3 more people. “You would have never known all the stress and pressure she was under because she is passionate and kind and dedicated to you students,” Reynolds said while awarding Reynolds this honor. “You are what makes her go, go, go. We love her so much!” Other co-workers laud Boyd’s professionalism, grace, and investment in seeing kids succeed, grow and gain confidence. A colleague put it this way: “She is an advocate that all students can learn and deserve a quality education.”

Third-grade teacher Jennifer Stark received multiple nominations in this year’s selection process, including this one from a student: “She is really nice and good at making learning fun and easy to remember.” Stark positively contributes to the school’s culture, helping promote success and respect. With an admirable and tireless work ethic, she endeavors to provide everything her students need to thrive in her classroom and in life. A member of the Midvalley staff lauded Stark’s dedication in her nomination form: “Her efforts to support her students, their families, and her colleagues have led to her being a cherished and respected educator and co-worker.”

With 35 students in her class, Heather Pearce is busier than a flower shop on Valentine’s Day. There’s certainly always a lot of love in Mrs. Pearce’s class. She is welcoming and encouraging, empathetic, an amazing communicator, one who deeply cares for each of her many students and their futures, and, simply, “incredible!” As one admirer put it, “She really has a teacher’s heart.” Students thrive in her creative, fun and safe learning environment. The structure she uses helps students achieve the school’s highest-growth scores. Colleagues laud her for being a dedicated and expert teacher who fearlessly tackles obstacles. One new teacher appreciates her support and added, “She is such a pleasure to have as a coworker.”

Sacha Despain’s leadership sparkles when she tackles challenges. Her ability to support and create a strong culture of acceptance and a community is unique. She inspires students and colleagues alike. Despain tries to help the multi-language students new to Oakdale feel welcome and succeed in learning. Her students love her. Parents consider her classroom to be a safe space. She cares deeply. “Mrs. Despain shows up for these kids!” a grateful parent said. “She keeps in contact with them even after they have moved on. After my son passed away, she came to his funeral and brought gifts to our home for my other son, who was in her class. She lets him know he is worth it!” It’s no wonder why the Oakdale community feels fortunate to have Despain in their family.

Sarah Anderson excels with dealing with student behaviors and displays outstanding leadership. “She’s a great part of our team,” Principal Justin Jeffery said. Anderson is known for being one of Park Lane’s most dedicated individuals. Parents appreciate that she facilitates growth in their children in multiple subjects and laud the “amazing job” she does in assisting students to reach their highest potential. She helps students understand the importance of focusing on school work and on relationships with peers, emphasizing how they can affect positive change through kindness and teamwork. “She really cares about each and every student, and it shows,” a colleague said. “She deserves the Teacher of the Year award for 2023!”

Angie Stewart is the kind of teacher who remains in the hearts of students — and their families — long after the children leave her class. “Ms. Stewart absolutely loves her students. I am so grateful we have her as a teacher a second time,” says one Peruvian Park parents. “My kids love her. They learn so much from her.” Students, parents, and colleagues recognize that Angie is a very special person and teacher. “She brings joy and positivity to all settings,” Principal Leslie Jewkes said. One parent marveled at how “very in tune” she is with her students’ needs. Another added, “She truly cares for her students.”

Sandra Jones works diligently to educate her students and keep them excited about coming to her class. She thinks outside the box, goes the extra mile to provide services and support they need, and collaborates with classroom teachers and staff to advocate for her students. She helps all kids in the school and willingly shares ideas and strategies whether they are her students or not. As a special education teacher, she values each student for their unique perspectives, and shares love and kindness. “Mrs. Jones has been a key part of the success of my student who has struggled with school since kindergarten,” one parent said. “She creates the most loving, supportive, and creative learning environment and really advocates for her students and their success!”

Colleen Lecker’s dedication to her students is apparent every time she walks into Ridgecrest Elementary. Colleagues say she works hard to create a joyful learning experience for her students, but also asks them to stretch for deeper, better learning.  Those are among the reasons students thrive in her classroom. “Colleen cares about the success of her students and builds positive relationships,” a colleague said. “She takes on new challenges eagerly and is always willing to help a colleague in need. She is positive, encouraging, and a great example of perseverance.” Principal Sara Allen says Ridgecrest families are fortunate to have Mrs. Lecker at the school. “We couldn’t be prouder to have her represent our school.”

Ms. Sara, as her students call her, has a wonderful way with children. Kindergartners in her class experience a calm, inviting classroom where they can learn and grow while also feeling loved and accepted. “She made our boy love school,” a parent said. “She does so well making sure everyone individually is learning great. She is the best!” Sams caters to each student’s academic needs and is generous with her knowledge and friendliness. “This teacher LIVES for teaching,” a colleague marveled. “She knows what her students need, whether it’s academically, physically, mentally, or emotionally. She’s passionate about student success and works tirelessly to support academic growth for ALL her students.”

If Silver Mesa teacher Sarah Smith were a superhero, chances are her name would be Ms. Above and Beyond. In her multiple nominations for the school’s Teacher of the Year award, parents and colleagues repeatedly said she “goes above and beyond” to help her students and build up a positive, welcoming, and inclusive school environment. “She always has a positive attitude and she is always encouraging the students to focus on learning and having fun in the classroom,” a parent marveled. Smith’s communication, work ethic, strong teaching acumen and the way she handles challenges while teaching an Accommodated Core Class seem, well, simply heroic. “She works with some tough behaviors and maintains her happy demeanor,” Principal Julie Fielding said. Added an admirer: “Sarah Smith is an amazing teacher.”

Her adoring students simply call her Mrs. Dean, but other admirers use descriptions like “amazing,” “one of the best” and “a phenomenal educator.” Jennifer Dean works hard to help students thrive, uses kindness, shows respect for their various abilities, confers with parents, and demonstrates through her actions and words that she cares about them individually. Wherever they are in life, Mrs. Dean has high expectations of her students, both socially and academically. As one nomination noted, “Her level of dedication to each student shows and is very much appreciated.” There are good reasons why her students love Mrs. Dean and her class.

When Barbra Winder’s students look back when they’re older, they’ll likely fondly recall how she helped shape a piece of them for the better. She truly cares about each child in her classroom as a whole person, academically and socially. Winder is an educator who lifts her students up and encourages them to do their best. She also cares about the adults in and outside of the building. She makes everyone feel welcome while holding them to high expectations. And, Principal Angela Wilkinson noted, “she does this with such a kind demeanor you leave any conversation with her feeling like the decision you just made was the best one. She is a once-in-a-lifetime teacher and has really helped our Eagles soar.”

Amy Hilton creates a learning environment that fosters an excitement for learning and compassion in her classroom. With a positive and encouraging demeanor, Hilton meets students where they are and facilitates them in rising to higher abilities and confidence. “I am amazed by her organization, preparedness, and ability to care for her students and their lifelong habits of learning,” one parent said. Hilton is one of the first to arrive at school each day with a warm greeting that welcomes colleagues and students. She goes above and beyond in working through strategies to best reach each of her students’ learning strengths. It’s clear she has a great passion for teaching and does what’s best for students. As was noted in her nomination, “She is the best!”

A parent of one of MaKenzie Bowers’ students-to-be had a feeling she’d be a “wonderful” teacher when her former students kept enthusiastically visiting her during Back to School Night. “Ms. Bowers is amazing with the kids,” the parent said. “She’s engaging and fun, but also keeps them settled and learning.” Bowers loves teaching reading to her third-grade students. Along with teaching them to be bookworms, she also captures their attention while exploring life sciences, a subject that includes hatching chicks at school. Parents appreciate how she helps their children fall in love with learning and school. One admirer described Bowers as being “a great teacher and great light in her classroom.”

Students fortunate enough to be enrolled in Nicole Rudes’ sixth-grade math classes quickly learn something pretty neat. It has much more to do with how amazing Rudes is than math, by the way. This explains why numerous students made sure to nominate her for this award. “Mrs. Rudes has made a huge change in my life,” one student said. “As soon as I walked through the door to her classroom, it was so colorful and happy.” Students and parents love that she is patient, knows how to keep kids engaged, helps some overcome behavior challenges, and excels at teaching. She builds relationships with her sense of humor and kindness, and goes out of her way to help those in need. “She works so hard to help us learn,” another student said. “I love being in her class!”

Professional and spirited, Amy Stanton stands out for several obvious reasons.  Her instruction is student-centered, and data driven. You can often find her in her classroom working with students into the evening to ensure their success in 8th grade and beyond. She is willing to help anywhere, anytime including out on the soccer field. Stanton inspires students to do more than they thought possible. “Ms. Stanton told my daughter that grades are important, but what you learn is even more important,” one grateful parent said. A student remarked “She’s one of the best teachers I have ever had.” Principal Logan lauds Stanton’s dedication to caring for her students and improving her craft. “She is committed to being the best teacher to be the best support for students and lead them to success. She’s a GREAT Bruin!”

Students who nominated their beloved seventh-grade science teacher for Draper Park’s annual Teacher of the Year award described Mark Nuetzel as being nice, funny, very helpful, and “by far the best teacher I have ever had.” Nuetzel has developed a sure-fire way to help students take a deeper dive into science and become engaged in his classes. He explains things in ways that help them understand this complex subject like they never have before. He makes sure his students have the proper tools and understanding to learn everything they need and succeed. One pro-Nuetzel student nomination used two simple words to sum up his qualifications: “He rocks.” Another student added, “He was the best teacher I have ever had. I wanted to go to school for the first time.”

Melinda Severn embraces learning as an adult and instills the love of learning into her students. She challenges and pushes students to achieve greater things than they could imagine. An exceptional teacher, Severn Has made a significant impact on the lives of students. She is a true leader within the school community, mentoring student teachers, organizing various extracurricular activities, and volunteering time to school events. “Severn was the biggest beacon in my life,” one student said. “She created a safe place where I could ask questions and not be scolded for ‘not listening.’ I am now an honors student and this teacher’s passion has become my passion.” Colleagues are proud to have her on their team. A co-worker said it well: “Her hard work, dedication, and passion for teaching make her a true inspiration to us all.”

Maxwell Eddington, an exceptional eighth-grade math teacher, prioritizes building strong professional relationships with his students, while ensuring each one recognizes they can do math and be successful. Remarkably, 20-plus students wrote a recommendation for him. The teens credit him for making math interesting and a class they look forward to attending even though some have never liked the subject; for teaching in a unique, fun, creative, and understandable way; for helping students feel comfortable; and for making sure they know he cares. “He loves his job and what he does,” one student wrote. “He does all that he can to help and love everyone in the school. He’s the reason so many kids succeed in math and schooling, in general.” Colleagues and administrators are in awe of his abilities, collaboration, problem-solving, insight, and support.

Mrs. Robbins is my favorite teacher. I really love Mrs. Robbins. Her class is the class I have learned the most in because she is a great teacher. Those three statements are from three different students who have benefited from the wonderful way Andrea Robbins teaches social studies and builds rapport with her pupils. Students are intrigued by the interesting and even fun lessons she teaches. They also know she’ll help if they need it. Co-workers are also inspired by Robbins, who is a quiet, kind, and strong leader. “As a colleague, I witnessed Andrea lead her class with compassion and kindness,” one of her peers said. “She capitalizes on each learning moment, and she ensures all her students understand the concepts being taught.”

If you’re looking to learn middle-school math and laugh, myriad Mountaineers would highly recommend enrolling in James Edman’s class. “He’s a really good teacher that makes learning really fun,” a student said. “When I had him, I wanted to go to his class everyday even though it was math, which I struggled with.” Helping students understand tricky math problems is Edman’s specialty. Students appreciate that he allows for time to do work and engage with him and peers in a comfortable and productive classroom setting. He checks on students to make sure things are OK in their lives. All of that with his trademark sense of humor. “(Edman) is nice to everyone and really makes you feel welcome,” another student said. “This teacher is really funny, too.”

One colleague has been extremely impressed with Anna Dabrowska since they met a few years ago, calling her “an amazing teacher” who manages to teach and build relationships. “She is quite literally what every teacher should be,” the colleague said. The way Dabrowska fosters students’ relationship with math is admired. She builds their confidence through meaningful activities and knows how to appropriately challenge students on all academic levels to achieve. “Her care for students and tireless work are a remarkable asset at Union,” another colleague said. One student who has dyslexia appreciates that Dabrowska takes the time to read and explain while making learning fun. Her kindness, caring and patience draw her to students. As another of her pupils gushed, “I love Mrs. Dabrowska because she is always so helpful!”

For the past 16 years, Becky Rees has put her heart and soul into teaching a variety of subjects in the Hawks’ Social Studies Department — from World Religions to Humanities, U.S. Government and even Film Studies. The variety reflects the type of well-rounded person Rees is and the type she helps her students become. “Mrs. Rees was truly invested in our classes’ learning,” a student noted in a nomination. “She taught in a way that everyone could understand and wanted us to be the best people we could be. She always connected what we were learning to outside the classroom and pushed for our success.” Showing how big of a heart she has, Rees also coaches Alta’s Unified Basketball Team.

Even when Brian Wilding was battling cancer, the veteran and experienced teacher continued coming to his classroom and being actively engaged with his students. That’s how much he cares about them. “He kept fighting and is still here fighting for himself and for his students,” an admirer said. Wilding’s consistency for 20-plus years at Brighton, his way of connecting with students of all learning levels, the care he shows for ESL students, and the way he sparks growth in a safe space are greatly appreciated. “I admire his extreme work ethic to show up and give his all through tough times,” another person noted. Among the many nominations he received, this one from a Spanish student carries a common message: “Mr. Wilding, I just want to say you’ve been a great teacher this year. You inspire me to be better in many ways.”

It’s fitting that CCHS’s 2023 Teacher of the Year has been there since the school opened 10 years ago.   Jana White certainly has impacted the school’s success and culture for a decade. Her AP Psychology students are engaged in her well-planned lessons and enjoy her life stories. She’s been the Student Government advisor for 10 years and annually heads up the school’s charity month, instilling lessons of service and dedication into students. She’s represented teachers on committees and volunteers to be a faculty representative on the School Community Council. Her voice advocates for students while supporting teachers. “Jana White continues to set the standard for teachers in the District,” Principal Darrell Jensen said. A colleague added, “She dedicates every spare minute to Corner Canyon. She cares about her craft and clearly wants the best for her students.”

Tasha Jensen was an excellent teacher when she began her career in education and hasn’t skipped a beat since returning after taking a couple of years off. “She instantly jumped back in and has changed lives,” an impressed colleague said. “She is one of the most thorough and well-prepared teachers I know and loves her students.” Students thrive thanks to her approach to teaching science. She takes time to walk around the class to make sure everybody understands each concept. The way she demonstrates respect and kindness and helps others out is appreciated by students and faculty at Hillcrest. Another colleague credited Jensen with acclimating her to the school and allowing her to become more comfortable with teaching processes by observing the way she conducts classes. It left her co-worker with one conclusion about Jensen: “She is fantastic.”

Words of admiration from a student who took her AP class show why Kaitlyn Fackrell deserves accolades. “That was one of the best decisions of this year,” the JHS student said. “She makes my favorite subject even better. I love history and the way she expands it and connects it is the best.” Fackrell understands her students’ needs and earnestly works to help them succeed. Her fun teaching style and knack for student engagement was called “phenomenal” in the nomination process. She’s welcoming and connects with students. “Mrs. Fackrell is excellent in every way,” another Jordan student said. “Not only is she an expert in what she does, but she is also a very loving and caring person. I always look forward to her class.”

Louis Sherman has made an incredible contribution to the alternative high school for five years. He’s an English teacher extraordinaire with a calm and steady presence, known for breaking down complex ideas into lessons that interest and excite students. He makes people comfortable in his class, confidently meets them where they are, and accepts them as they are. It’s clear why he’s a student favorite. “He is a quintessential team player and an all-around wonderful person,” Principal Amy Boettger said. “He embodies the best of what it means to be a teacher: He believes that every student can learn and he supports Diamond Ridge students to achieve their greatest potentials in the classroom as well as in their lives.”

Rebecca Heister takes the best instructional practices of an in-person classroom and puts them into practice at Canyons Online. Heister, the middle school English Language Arts teacher for CSD’s remote-learning school, is known for her positive attitude and an unending passion for teaching students to love to read and write. Colleagues also say Heister, who is in her first year as a Canyons Online faculty member, goes to great lengths to connect with students, even as they are separated by distance and communicate through the computer screen. She discovers their interests and then introduces related materials that sparks their creativity and imaginations. With an eye toward honing her craft as an educator, Heister attends as many professional development classes as she can. While at the classes, she’s an engaged learner, lending her thoughts and sharing ideas with her teacher peers.

Nate Hampton isn’t afraid to put on his hard hat, roll up his sleeves and get to work with his students. In fact, it’s what the former general contractor does while teaching his aspiring CTEC students how to build a house in a hands-on, real-life situation. Hampton’s classroom literally is a construction site in Midvale. Students thrive under Hampton’s supervision. He teaches them the skills and then oversees their handiwork while they build the home that will be sold later this year. Remarkably, Hampton manages to keep safety, quality craftsmanship, and education at the forefront while also building great relationships thanks to his personable demeanor. They know he cares about them, too. As multiple students proclaimed in their nominations, Hampton is the “GOAT!”

Whether she’s teaching drawing, math or English, Heidi Keefer creates a classroom environment in which students learn, are engaged, and feel welcome. Students appreciate her kind demeanor and smiles, the interest she takes in them, and her hands-on approach. One student lauded the supportive Keefer for helping her realize her potential and for instilling enough confidence in herself to continue on. She has also gained the respect of colleagues, who call her “a wonderful teacher” who goes the extra mile to prepare and to help others succeed. “She is supportive of our school and her colleagues,” an Entrada staffer noted. “She is exactly what everyone wishes a teacher would be.” 

Glenda Folkerson treats each student in her classroom like they are the only student in her classroom, which goes a long way in instilling confidence, trust, and respect. “She puts so much energy into making each day special,” an admirer said. Observers respect how she deals with challenges and makes the most out of unusual situations. This school year, for example, her class had a higher number of helpers than usual. Folkerson has taken it in stride, handling it all amazingly and without allowing it to negatively impact her students. She cares about each student and strives to do what’s best for them as they progress on their educational path thanks to her help.