May 7 – RISE Nominations

“Elizabeth Ludwig stands out against the crowds by continuing to set the standard for what it looks like to be an incredible teacher AND colleague. She goes above and beyond to create a theatre space where students grow in confidence and compassion for others. She showcases what makes Lakeridge truly amazing. She also takes on roles to support staff so we feel advocated for and supported. She’s that person that lifts you up and makes you want to be better for whoever you interact with. If sunshine could be a person, it would be Ludwig.“

Nominated by: Shayanne O’Day, district employee

“Our Media Center is truly incredible, thanks to the dedication and hard work of these two! They tirelessly strive to create an engaging, welcoming, and peaceful environment that draws students and staff alike. Through their efforts, the Media Center has become a safe and inclusive space for all. They actively reach out to teachers, offering support and resources to enhance classroom success. Their creativity and unique talents are nothing short of awe-inspiring—whether it’s the breathtaking window art or other thoughtful touches that add to the space. They have a major impact on Frontier.“

Nominated by: Kyle Teuscher, district employee

“Our Counseling Department is truly second to none. Their contributions to the success and well-being of our school are immeasurable, and the impact they have on students and staff alike is profound. They handle an incredible range of responsibilities. The counselors are deeply loved and respected by both students and staff, and they play a critical role in helping me fulfill my purpose as a teacher. They navigate challenging and complex situations, offering guidance to students as they address emotional, social, and even physical well-being.“

Nominated by: Kyle Teuscher, district employee

“Amy has gone above and beyond to help create a fun and uplifting culture in our school. She has worked many extra hours and used her own funds to help create team building and school uplifting social activities. These activities have helped unite and bring joy to our school faculty and staff. EVES is lucky to have her!“

Nominated by: Erin Druce, district employee

“Heather Buckles is an exemplary candidate for the RISE award, embodying the qualities of being Remarkable, Inspiring, Selfless, and Encouraging. As a Wellness Room aide and Jr. Hope Squad advisor at Belmont Elementary, Heather’s dedication is unwavering. She loves the students and teachers, consistently giving her time and effort to support them. Thanks to Heather’s creativity, organizational skills, and communication, Belmont’s Hope Squad runs smoothly. Heather goes above and beyond, not only in her professional role but also personally.“

Nominated by: Wendy Parker, district employee

“Mr. Nathan Kenner is a miracle worker! He has a gift for connecting and communicating with his special ed students. He sets high standards for them, and they respond to his expectations because they know he sincerely cares for them. He is always upbeat and funny and puts all his energy into giving his best each day to his students. Thank you, Mr. Nathan!“

Nominated by: David Larsen, parent

“Being a SpEd teacher in and of itself deserves this award, but Miss Avery is a SpEd pre school teacher! Taking our sweetest little ones, with wide open loving arms in their first experience with school! Her kindness and endless patience go far beyond any teacher I’ve had with my kids in 13 years! My son LOVES to go to school, running into class. There is no truer testament than that!“

Nominated by: Britney Littledike, parent

“Our 3 year old likes to go to school finds comfort in knowing that Miss Avery will be there. His behavior has been improving since being in Miss Avery’s class. We can tell she does a great job.”

Nominated by: Isha Kadu, parent

“Ben is always a positive person, he is always going the extra mile to help his students, and is beloved by both students and teachers. He has helped me when I needed help and has always been a very trustworthy and hardworking person. He is always willing to lend an ear and be encouraging, he is a great listener and is always offering helpful professional advice when I need it. I could not think of anyone other than him that is most deserving of this award.“

Nominated by: Jaime Linares, district employee

“Mr. Platt is always smiling and helping students smile, I only had him for one year but I wish that I had taken ASL before my freshman year so that I could’ve had him for longer; he has always been supportive and encouraging about his student’s choices and career pathways, he’s always made me and my friends laugh as well as his classes. He has always been one of my favorite teachers, and will always be. He has helped me and many other students grow and learn; my last year of junior high wouldn’t have been the same without him.”

Nominated by: Kara Andrew, student

“I had Mr. Platt for ASL for every year of middle school, and my time in his class was amazing every day! He is so funny and friendly with all his students. He does such a good job at teaching not only sign language, but essential life lessons that I still think about.”

Nominated by: Ariana Woodbury, student

“My daughter is in Mrs. Ereth’s class and is SO excited to get to see her each day. She is so kind and positive and heavily involves the parents in each week’s curriculum and activities! This means a lot to a parent with a child in kindergarten, since it can be hard to drop off our little ones to a big school each day! I’m so grateful that my little girl is LUCKY enough to be in her class!“

Nominated by: Amber Huntsman, parent

“I nominate Mz. G because my life is very different in a good way because of her. She changed my confidence. Not only did she teach me school subjects, she also taught me life skills like standing up for myself, talking to others, and collaborating. She taught me to not give up, to be kind to others, how to have courage, how to be a good leader and a good follower. And she taught me how to teach others how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Because of her, I am more confident, hard-working, and happy.“

Nominated by: Nicole Ferrin, student

“Words from Murilo, her student: Ms. Larson treats me with great affection and love as if she were my mother. She is patient with me and when I don’t know, she teaches me.“

Nominated by: Anna Paula Cabral Guimarães Mendes, parent

“Mrs. Hinckley is an AMAZING biology teacher! She makes class extremely fun and interesting, so her students WANT to learn. She is also extremely kind and compassionate. You can tell how much she cares about her students’ well being and makes everyone feel welcome and special. There is always a safe space in Mrs. Hinckley’s classroom.”

Nominated by: Tara Kauffman, parent

“Hinckley will always help you when you need help. She is so kind and the nicest person ever! She is so compassionate and always provided us with the materials we need. She is so welcomng and always trying to get to know her students and always says hi to them. She is the best!!”

Nominated by: Addison Dell, student

“Mrs. Hinckley is deserving of this award because I always look forward to coming to her class. Her class is fun and engaging; she is always sure to count the students’ opinions. In her class, we almost always get up and do things; the labs are fun and engaging, and we never just sit around and learn from a textbook. In addition to all this, she often gives us treats to reward us for our work, and I feel confident making progress towards the upcoming AP exam.”

Nominated by: Anastas Serenko, student

“Ms. Madden has completely changed my son’s confidence in school. Without a doubt he knows that she is on his side, cares about him, and wants him to succeed. She is a great teacher with the best heart and deserves the world for how she loves and cares for teaching.“

Nominated by: Megan Hill, parent

“Mrs. Madden has been so amazing for my son! Not only is she patient and understanding, she really truly loves these kids! My son absolutely adores her! I love that not only does she teach school subjects but also very valuable life skills and lessons! Between service projects to self regulation, she really teaches the importance of being a good person!”

Nominated by: Tiffany Brereton, parent

“Mrs. Price is an extraordinary orchestra teacher who goes above and beyond to inspire and support her students. Her passion for music shines through in every lesson, fostering a love for the art in each student. With patience, dedication, and unmatched expertise, she creates a welcoming environment where students of all skill levels thrive. Her hard work and care transform the orchestra into a family, and her impact extends far beyond the classroom. Mrs. Price truly changes lives through music and deserves endless praise.“

Nominated by: Angie Vidaurre, parent

“When my daughter was sick, Mr. Leigh would text me and make sure she was ok. And that made my daughter feel special that he was thinking about her.”

Nominated by: Kailyn Yarn, parent

“Ms. Trotter is very understanding and patient with the neurodivergent kids. She works so well with the parents to do what is best for their child. She is such an amazing teacher as well. My child went from reading nothing to being able to read half way through the school year. She’s incredible!“

Nominated by: Rebecca Winters, parent

“Ms. Pease has been a transformative influence in my daughter’s life. She was the first to truly recognize and believe in my daughter’s potential, offering encouragement that has made a lasting impact. Her dedication has not only fostered my daughter’s confidence but also instilled a deep love of reading. Through Ms. Pease’s enthusiasm, my daughter discovered a passion for books, particularly the magical world of Harry Potter. This nurturing and inspiring approach has made Ms. Pease an unforgettable figure in her educational journey.“

Nominated by: Rachel Hughes, parent

“Señora Jimenez is an amazing DLI Spanish teacher at our school, and she has been such a happy and positive member to the 3rd grade team. She works especially hard at helping students feel excited and proud of their progress. She builds student confidence in their own learning, encouraging them to extend and find ways to improve their individual skills. She works so hard and cares so deeply about her students! She has the biggest heart and smiles for her students, the parents, and faculty at Windsor. Sra Jimenez is a dedicated teacher and we are so blessed to have her at Windsor Elementary.“

Nominated by: Sarah Twitchell, parent

“Mrs. Mohlman is always willing to give my student the extra help she needs in math. This has included staying after school for my child to retake quizzes and tests for daughter to raise her grade to the point that she can stay in the advanced math class. She is continually cheering her on in her learning and work and strives to help my child succeed.“

Nominated by: Valerie Reeves, parent

“I am honored to nominate Ms. Leslie Mohlman for her dedication to her students, especially those in math competitions. She goes above and beyond, generously giving her time to coach, mentor, and inspire. Her passion for math fosters confidence and a deeper understanding in her students. Under her guidance, students have achieved impressive results and developed a true love for problem-solving. Ms. Mohlman is a remarkable educator who has made a lasting impact, and I sincerely recommend her for this well-deserved recognition.”

Nominated by: Rachel Chen, parent

“Mandy is a new SPED teacher at our school & she is incredible. Her case load is heavy and every day she shows up with a smile on her face. She helps & serves the teachers and students every day. She is irreplaceable.“

Nominated by: Erin Druce, district employee

“Ms. Alley is a wonderful educator that is invested not only in her program, but in the dancers individually. She cares, has an open door and a listening ear. In her classroom, she inspires the dancers to be better than they are as dancers but also as humans. The masterful way she transforms movement into performance is impressive. She inspires her students to connect with their movement and show that through all they do. She helps open their minds, hearts and bodies to the music and movement. Students are better humans for having been part of her incredible program.“

Nominated by: Keenan White, parent

“I haven’t met a better teacher or mentor than Chelsea Alley. She creates a safe learning space for us as she pushes us to be the best people we can be. She implements self reflection grading to take accountability for our grade based off personal performance in the areas kind, committed, and context appropriate. She has high expectations for all students and teaches us how to take responsibility for our time and how to communicate effectively. I feel valued as a human in her classroom. I wish every student had the opportunity to have their life changed by Chelsea Alley.”

Nominated by: Katie Cutler, student

“Every time I have gone into Oak Canyon I have seen the Assistant Principal Mrs. Cynthia Burt be nothing but beyond amazing towards students and adults. She takes the time to build relationships with the students and their parents and becomes their personal advocates. She has made it to where students want to be at school and be successful. She’s easy to talk to and students know she cares. She deserves this recognition and she has my upmost respect. Thank you Mrs. Burt!“

Nominated by: Marcie Hernandez, district employee

“I’m nominating Nick as a bus attendant. He is always so attentive to the students and interacts in appropriate ways. Especially during times of stress with students. He gives attention to each one and assists the driver in communicating with parents and teachers every day. He texts every parent prior to arriving to their homes and updates them on specific questions and needs with students. His interactions with students make their ride enjoyable and calms them with their problems. His attendance is exceptional as is his attitude daily.“

Nominated by: William Mosbarger, district employee

“Mrs. Billman is beyond encouraging to my daughter! She also goes the extra mile to help my daughter succeed with 1010 and 1050 CE math. My daughter has a 504 for an eye/brain processing condition and Mrs. Billman does everything she can to support. I was especially impressed that she printed an entire packet of the homework problems for my daughter so she wouldn’t have to do them from a screen, which is difficult for her. Not to mention that Mrs. Billman makes herself available for any extra help my daughter needs.“

Nominated by: Christina Hansen, parent

“Mrs. Billman is amazing. She is super nice and understanding. If you are struggling in her class, she will help you in the most fair way she sees. She won’t just raise your grade for no effort, but she always understands and is willing to work with you to raise both your grade and your understanding of the math. I always learn a lot and enjoy coming to her class.”

Nominated by: Tyce Peterson, student

“Ms. Taylor deserves this award because of her amazing acts towards students and faculty members at our school. She has taught me many times throughout my years at Oak Canyon and never faults at making her classroom a safe space for anyone and everyone. She is a Hope Squad representative and is one of the main reasons student and teachers I know feel comfortable being themselves and striving for the best. She never misses someone in a crowd and makes everyone feel special. She helps students outs of dark places with her encouraging words and understanding.“

Nominated by: Paisley Harter, student

“Mrs. Durrant is the best kindergarten teacher. She is always kind and respectful to her students. I have come in to volunteer at least 3-4 times a month since school started, and think I see her shine brightest when the classroom is getting a little rambunctious and she calms them and brings them back to order without yelling, without getting mad and with all the love and understanding that these little kindergartners need. You can tell the children see her as a leader, respected and not feared. She deserves this nomination every day she teaches in my opinion.“

Nominated by: Megan Freckleton, parent

“Mrs Salas is a great teacher.“

Nominated by: Ezekiel Larsen, student

“Mindy is a Resource Teacher to K-3 students. She is very careful to make sure she is teaching each of them their goals. She is very organized! I love that about her! Best of all she is so KIND!“

Nominated by: Lorri Thorne, district employee

“Bob is just the best! To know Bob is to love him. The kids are always so happy to see him. One of our students wants to be a bus driver just like Bob. Bob always goes above and beyond. He buys the students treats and brings them to our class. He goes to every performance of the kids that he can. He brings the teachers homemade goodies. He makes our job easier. He is kind and understanding. And his patience with everyone is inspiring. Everyone needs a Bob in their life! We at Silver Lake Life Skills are forever grateful for his kindness and support!“

Nominated by: Andrea Quinn, district employee

“Jeremy Hurl is an absolute outstanding Community Outreach Coordinator. He has gone above and beyond to support the schools in the Lehi area. For Thanksgiving and Christmas Jeremy didn’t hesitate to jump to service and support the students and families of Alpine School District to have better holidays. Jeremy recently stopped by Viewpoint Middle School and dropped off nine backpacks for two families that were in need. I cannot praise him enough for his unwavering support and investment to serve the school district and community.“

Nominated by: James Clemesha, district employee

“Mrs. Hiatt is our Life Skills teacher and she is so inspiring. She knows how to reach each of her students and does her best to give each of them engaging learning opportunities and finding ways for them to shine. Her students love her and they all know she cares so much for each of them too.“

Nominated by: Aimee Monsen, district employee

“Ms. Cook has helped me and others know that we have someone we can talk to when we need someone. She has helped those who aren’t able to eat at home. She has given them an option and has given them something they can eat.“

Nominated by: Efram Moroni Kaouk, student

“Ms. Bench is really on top of schedules and knows how to quickly solve problems! (and not just the math ones.) She pushes her students to be the best they can be, and is always willing to help. Did I mention that she’s really empathetic? She’s been in our shoes before and tells us about it as a sense of comfort or resonance. She is so unbelievably kind, supportive, patient, and really knows how to teach for any and all types of learners. Mrs. Bench is truly the best!”

Nominated by: Amanda V Garcia, student

“Mrs. Bench is always so supportive. She has gone out of her way to make her classroom very structured and a place where you can learn. She is always willing to help you if you have questions or concerns. She has come to some of my sport events to support me and cheer for me. She is really a one in a million teacher. That’s why she totally deserves this award.”

Nominated by: Brylee Jensen, student

“Mrs. Bench is always making sure homeroom is fun and involving everyone.”

Nominated by: Claire Gardner, student

“Mrs. Moulton is the best teacher ever and makes me better at math and i want her to get an award for how amazing she is and how much fun I have in her class.“

Nominated by: Fiona Emig, student

“Marylynn started working at Windsor this year as an afternoon sweeper. She does a fantastic job and always has a smile on her face. Marylynn is always super friendly. I appreciate what a hard worker she is. She helps make Windsor a better place.“

Nominated by: Melissa Burk, district employee

“Mr. Scott makes sure that every single one of his students gets the care they need. Never before have I had a teacher that has put as much effort in as him. If you seem down, he sees it and is extra caring. He cracks us up every class period, but always gets us to lock in. He’s such a great teacher, both in educating and caring. He breaks down incredibly difficult topics and makes it so we can understand. He is the only reason I’m surviving AP Calc. We love you so much Mr. Scott!!“

Nominated by: Sienna Carlsen, student

“Mrs. Rockwood is an amazing teacher…My daughter loves her so much. She is very patient and has great academic skills to teach with love to the little kids..SHE DESERVES IT!“

Nominated by: Mariana Loera, parent

“Mrs. Nelson has her students’ best interests in mind. She is kind and understanding. She encourages each student to do their best. She is strategic with her teaching and loves to have fun with her students. She loves and treats each of her students with respect and expects the same. She is everything a parent wishes their child could have each year.”

Nominated by: Stephanie Witt, parent

“Mr. Rice is a dedicated teacher who genuinely cares about each and every one of his students. With a compassionate heart, he goes above and beyond to ensure that they not only understand the material but also truly comprehend it. He is passionate about helping his students unlock their full potential and reach new heights of success.“

Nominated by: CaLeanna Schaller, parent

“Mrs. Knutti is an absolute 5 star teacher. She goes above and beyond in her role. My daughter had a tough 3rd grade year, and as she switched schools in order to participate in ALL, we were apprehensive about the 4th grade year. Mrs Knutti is not only on top of organization and communication, but she motivates her students in the most loving way so that they are excited every day to go to school and motivated to be the best they can be. She leads with kindness and compassion, and we truly couldn’t have asked for a better teacher.“

Nominated by: Cherise Hadley, parent

“Ms. Gurr has been wonderful to recognize my daughters needs and desires to excel and has been instrumental in pushing her to go farther than she thought she could. It has been wonderful to see confidence build and growth in different ways than we could influence at home.“

Nominated by: Sierra Davies, parent

“Mrs. Guerrero has gone above and beyond for my son. He has been behind in his reading and we were looking into getting him extra help and upon further investigation and meeting with some people at the school we found that my son has excelled this year and is on his way to be caught up. Not only is Mrs. Guerrero a fantastic teacher, she is so patient. My son is not one to sit still at a desk and succeed and she saw that and lets him stand for majority of the day to learn. He is always bouncing and moving and she allows it and it has paid off for him in a big way.”

Nominated by: Megan Ringer, parent

May 7 – RISE Nominations

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