By Syndication 
March 19 – RISE Nominations
“It is an honor to nominate Ms. Clark for the Rise Award. Ms. Clark has transformed my daughter’s view of school, making it a place she loves and thrives in. Through positive reinforcement, Ms. Clark fosters a nurturing, supportive environment that not only inspires my daughter to try her hardest every day, but also motivates her to reach for her full potential. She never wants to miss school because of the safe, encouraging atmosphere Ms. Clark has created. Her dedication and ability to bring out the best in her students make her truly deserving of this recognition.“
Nominated by: Haley Tuthill, parent
“Mrs. McLerran will and always will have a special place in my heart! I came to her classroom as a shy little 7th grader who didn’t understand ASL or its impact on the world and me. I developed a love and passion for the language through her. Many of the concepts she taught me have stuck with me. I loved the laughable moments and the memories I had been given. I learned about different stories, how to interpret songs, and how to sword fight with pool noodle swords. She helped me in so many ways! She truly is a fantastic person and teacher! Thank you Mrs. McLerran!“
Nominated by: Rylinn Levie, student
“I am thrilled to nominate Ms. Pendleton for the Rise Award. She has completely transformed my daughter’s relationship with math. My daughter used to dislike math and doubted her abilities, but Ms. Pendleton’s patient guidance, creative lessons, and constant encouragement changed everything. Now, she loves math, looks forward to class, and is more confident in herself. Ms. Pendleton has a special gift for making learning fun and inspiring her students to believe in their potential. Her dedication and passion make her truly deserving of this recognition.“
Nominated by: Haley Tuthill, parent
“I am thrilled to nominate Ms. Stanley for the Rise Award. Her impact on my daughter has been profound. My daughter now practices yoga daily, finding joy and a healthy outlet for stress. She looks forward to class and wishes she could attend yoga every day. Ms. Stanley’s teaching has given her invaluable skills to relax, focus, and build confidence. The positive, empowering environment she creates has left a lasting mark on my daughter’s well-being. I am deeply grateful for Ms. Stanley’s dedication and the difference she has made in my daughter’s life.“
Nominated by: Haley Tuthill, parent
“Natasha goes above and beyond to create a loving and supportive environment for her students, making each one feel valued and capable. Her dedication is unwavering—she works tirelessly, overcoming challenges with perseverance and grace. She is deeply invested in the success of all her students, consistently finding ways to help them grow academically and personally. Natasha is an amazing asset to Vineyard Elementary and her 5th grade team.“
Nominated by: Megan Rodriguez, district employee
“I would like to nominate Mrs. Harris for the Alpine District RISE Award. Her dedication to working with special education students is truly remarkable. She consistently goes above and beyond to support her students, serving as a positive role model within the school and the broader community. Her compassion, patience, and commitment to making a difference have an incredible impact on both her students and colleagues. Mrs. Harris exemplifies what it means to inspire and uplift those around her.“
Nominated by: Monica Jobes, parent
“For the first time, my daughter is so excited to go to school and not just for her friends, but for Ms. Wells. She talks about her all of the time, and wants to make her some surprises because she enjoys learning from her, so much! The first week of school she expressed how she thinks her teacher is the best teacher ever and is so funny and makes her laugh all of the time. It is a joy and makes my heart sing when I hear her talk about Ms. Wells like this. This is what teachers are all about, and I’m thrilled to have such a wonderful teacher for her.”
Nominated by: Christina Beebe, parent
“Ana is one of our newest sweepers and has only been with us for a few weeks now but our school has never looked better! Her attention to detail is wonderful. Anna has a wonderful smile and is very welcoming to the students, faculty and staff.“
Nominated by: Rebecca Greenland, district employee
“Mrs. Anderson has created an incredible safe haven of security and belonging within her drama program at Vista Heights. Not only does she have the gift of teaching drama and directing absolutely incredible shows, she also excels in unifying her students from many different backgrounds and life experiences. She is a beloved teacher who has touched the lives of thousands of students. I am just one of MANY who are so thankful for the time, humor, care, and passion she so freely models and gives to help her students rise up and to recognize their great potential.“
Nominated by: Andrea Salvania, parent
“Emily is not only a hard-worker, but has the biggest heart. She watches out for EVERY student and makes sure that their needs are met at school, and at home if she can help. She is always looking to offer a personal touch to brighten students’ day and even handmade crocheted beanies for our special education classes as a thoughtful Christmas present! She is one-of-a-kind. It’s an honor to have her at our school.“
Nominated by: April Felix, district employee
“Mr. Collier is one of the best math teachers at AFHS, He loves teaching the students math and working with the staff so this is why he should deserve the award, Also when students don’t understand the assignment he is always helping them understand it.“
Nominated by: Nathan Kunze, student
“Mr. Frangia is one of the coolest history teachers and he loves helping students and is always a kind and nice teacher.“
Nominated by: Nathan Kunze, student
“Mr. Derbridge makes math fun for his students. He combines things like Harry Potter with math to make it more interesting and fun. We need more teachers like him!“
Nominated by: Sina Penrod, parent
“Vicki embodies the qualities of a dedicated educator and team player, making her highly deserving of the RISE award. She consistently goes above and beyond to support her students, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment where they can thrive. Her kindness and encouragement extend to her colleagues, always offering a helping hand and uplifting those around her. Dedicated and passionate about teaching, Vicki leads by example, inspiring both her students and team to strive for excellence. Her commitment to education and her supportive nature make her an invaluable asset!“
Nominated by: Rebecca Mitchell, district employee
“Mandy Hunt may be small in stature, but she has a huge heart and is a powerful force at Orem High School. She works tirelessly to make sure our school is safe, she is always recognizing faculty, staff and students for their amazing work, and she stands up for what is best for students. Mandy always has a smile and a kind word, and she never shies away from a difficult project or assignment.”
Nominated by: Tamara Stuart, district employee
“Lauren “Lo” Roberts is a new teacher at Orem High School and she is absolutely fantastic with our Spanish classes and LIA. She brings an energy and excitement to the classroom that encourage our students, and she loves to share cultures from around the world with OHS. Lo has the ability to unite students, regardless of cultural and language barriers and it is evident that she connects with all OHS students. She is passionate about the work she does at Orem and we love having her here!“
Nominated by: Tamara Stuart, district employee
“Stephanie is a stellar example of everything a teacher should be. She gives her all every day to make sure they are successful. My daughter loves Mrs. Edwards and has worked so hard to learn in her class. Stephanie is always great at keeping lines of communication open and keeping parents informed! I’m grateful for her and how much she loves my daughter and helps teach her in a loving and gentle manner.“
Nominated by: Cami Beacham, parent
“Monica’s knowledge and commitment to her job are outstanding, and she consistently goes above and beyond to support students, parents, and staff. Whether it’s answering questions or finding solutions, she always ensures everyone feels heard. She genuinely cares for the success of our students and helps them find every resource available to help them. Monica creates a warm, welcoming environment for new students and parents and even checks in throughout the year to ensure their success. Her care for students and dedication to her work make her truly deserving of this recognition.“
Nominated by: Jessica Green, district employee
“Miss Ashton is an amazing, caring teaching. She made my daughter feel important, understood, and completely changed her attitude about school. She finds a way to connect with her students and really teaches with her heart! She is everything good a teacher could be! We love Miss Ashton!“
Nominated by: Alyssa and Addy Twigg, parent and student
“Mrs. Cherry has been amazingly helpful helping my son adapt and feel welcome in a regular classroom with his Autism and Auditory Processing disorder. She has offered so many ideas and is just a fun teacher, constantly coming up with new and creative ways to engage the children. She has also been a huge help to me as I navigate being a parent to a kindergartener for the first time. I was so nervous about kindergarten for my son, but I know he ended up with just the right teacher for him and he will continue to thrive in her classroom. Thank you so much for being the amazing person and teacher you are.“
Nominated by: Jody Thompson, parent
“Mrs. LeClaire has been helping my son in the classroom from day one. We recently had his 504 meeting and almost everything we wrote on his plan she was already doing. She has gone above and beyond in creating projects and finding games to keep him engaged and progressing. She goes out of her way to make sure her students know they are valued and thought of on a daily basis. She is an incredible teacher!“
Nominated by: Tara and Tyler Crouch, parents
“Mrs. Rowland has made herself and other resources available to my son any time he is feeling overwhelmed or out of control. She is a support to her students and helps them have very positive interactions with administration. Even when he has been in trouble, she has always made sure that he has felt heard, validated, and cared for. She’s awesome!”
Nominated by: Tara and Tyler Crouch, parents
“Mr. Gowans es un excelente profesor.”
“Mr. Gowans is an excellent teacher.”
Nominated by: Carolina Martinez Madueno, parent
“Ms. Burgoyne stood up for her students this year when there was one challenging situation that was making the year difficult for students. She is absolutely incredible! She fought for these kids like they were her own and truly wants them to succeed. As a parent there is nothing more I could ask for!“
Nominated by: Elise Walker, parent
“Mrs. Hollingshead has been a fantastic teacher and great role model to our child. She has quickly became our child’s favorite! She’s worked with us in what has been a crazy year for us and our student and she has supported her in all things in the classroom and outside. She not only teaches subjects so patiently and clearly, she also teaches students to be good people and be helpful at home and their community. She truly cares about her students and teaching! She’s one of the reasons our child wants to be a teacher when they grow up! We couldn’t ask for better!“
Nominated by: Jason and Abbey Chamberlain, parents
“Mrs. Hoopes is our Partnership Facilitator and so much more. She deserves this nomination because she goes above and beyond on our campus for staff and students. She is truly vested in the success of our students and is a large part of why our cubs have such a great outlook on school and their future. She holds our students to a high expectation, but also brings positivity into their lives. Mrs. Hoopes represents all that Orem Elementary is and our school culture is reflective of the impact she has on us all.“
Nominated by: Keely Winemiller, district employee
“Ms. Feveryear looks for the best in my student, encouraging the good. My daughter loves her class.“
Nominated by: Aly Wilde, student
“Shauna is my son’s orchestra teacher. She works really hard to provide the kids with the best music education she can, and she is encouraging and loving with the children. She works to provide amazing opportunities for the kids as well, such as national tours for the students. She definitely goes above and beyond for these kids. With the experience my son has had in her classes, he has quite the resume for his musical career.“
Nominated by: Tori Clinton, parent
“Tracy is doing double duty supporting her classroom and another at our school. In addition, she has been helping me with challenges in my classroom. Tracy loves her students, families, and colleagues and it shows! Thanks Tracy! You have helped me so much this school year!“
Nominated by: Shannon Marie, district employee
“Lisa has gone above and beyond as a paraprofessional. She loves and treats the students as her own family. She comes to work with a smile on her face and it’s amazing to have a coworker like that!“
Nominated by: Elizabeth Powell, district employee
“Amron is truly a backbone of Riverview. He and his team do such a great job at keeping Riverview looking wonderful and functioning. He is quick to respond to whatever request is needed and makes sure the job is done well. Thank you Amron for all of your hard work!“
Nominated by: district employee
“Ms. Jacobsen deserves the RISE Award because she cares about other people a lot, is reliable, inspiring, and remarkable. Her teaching upped a lot of grades in my class. She’s reliable because she was always available when I needed her. She’s inspiring because of all of the things I have said. Plus, she’s encouraging when students are struggling.“
Nominated by: Sabrina Peel, student
“Kristal has been a great mentor to me as I was new to teaching junior high last year, but what I want to highlight about her is her role as our Girls’ Basketball Coach. I keep the book for part of the home games, and I am always so impressed with her temperament. She is so calm with her players, the refs, and the other teams. Sometimes people get really riled up at the games, and every time Kristal impresses me, just coaching her team like a cool-headed pro. I have a daughter who plays basketball, and I hope she always has coaches like Kristal.“
Nominated by: Erica Thompson, district employee
“There is no one better to teach junior high kids than Mrs. “Kris”. She goes out of her way to make kids feel seen and noticed. You can tell that this is not just a job for her- she truly cares about those she teaches and goes way above and beyond to make sure kids have a place. So grateful for her positive influence!”
Nominated by: Tricia Wood, parent
“Ms. Bayless has been an incredible teacher for my daughter. My daughter has a chronic health condition and Ms. Bayless has been so attentive, helpful and understanding. She is always willing to do whatever she can to help students feel like they belong and to help them be successful. We couldn’t have asked for a better teacher! We think Ms. Bayless is AMAZING!“
Nominated by: Amy Bartlett, parent
“Tanner cares, sums it well. He is truly student centered when helping students navigate high school academically as well as socially. Summit and Alpine School District are better because of the work he does.“
Nominated by: Reno Jones, district employee
“Mr. Barnum has given so much time and resources to help students succeed. He changes the way he teaches for each class and makes changes for individual people. The opportunities he gives all of his class and the DECA club are unbelievable. He’s truly changed my life and I can’t think of a better teacher!“
Nominated by: Drake Durfey, student
“Mrs. Holt is always there for me or anyone who needs help with anything even just to chat.“
Nominated by: Benjamin Cheek, student
“She’s a really good teacher and every time I have her class I’m actually happy to be there and am a little bummed out if there is a sub. Ms. holt will go out of her way to ask me how I’ve been doing.”
Nominated by: Saxon Gailey, student
“Mrs. Holt is an incredible teacher because of the way she helps all her students achieve the grade they want, how inclusive she is towards all her students regardless of background or knowledge, and her overall enthusiasm and dedication in what she does. I have always looked forward to coming to her class because she makes me feel cared about and I always have a positive experience in her class. I’ve never walked out of her class with any negative feelings, it has always been positive. She is really deserving of this nomination because of how hard she works to show that all her students matter.”
Nominated by: Jared Rajaratnam, student
“Mrs. Holt is one of the best teachers I have ever had. She loves teaching and is very good at it. She is very understanding and is always willing to help with anything. I believe she deserves to be recognized for all she does and for the person she is.”
Nominated by: Sasha Sauer, student
“Cheri Pitcher has gone above and beyond her professional duties by facilitating and hosting an after-school faculty art “class”. She has generously opened her classroom to colleagues, creating a welcoming space for us to gather, socialize, learn, and unwind. Through her guidance, members of our staff have had the opportunity to explore their creativity, learn new art skills, work on fun projects, and build relationships. Cheri’s efforts have not not only fostered artistic growth but have strengthened camaraderie and well-being among those who have participated.“
Nominated by: Brenda Peterson, district employee
“My son has a speech delay and really struggles. When I found out he was going to have a first year teacher for Kindergarten, I was ready to ask for a change. I’m so glad I didn’t! Wow! You’d think Mrs. Harp has been teaching for years. She knocked her first year out of the park.“
Nominated by: Rachel Dutson, parent
“Erika has come to me several times asking about specific students. I can see that she genuinely cares about her students. She really wants to know how to help. She also has amazing classroom management. I have heard several other teachers say, “I need to start doing that in my class too.” She’s an inspiration to other teachers around her. I love working with Erika.“
Nominated by: Rachel Dutson, district employee