He brings out the best in his students in the classroom every single day and is a shining example of an outstanding educator. Governor Spencer Cox joined the local chapter of “Founding Forward” in honoring West Jordan Middle School social studies teacher William Shields as a hero in education. Mr. Shields received the George Washington Honor Medal from “Founding Forward” for his excellence in teaching history and civics.

This prestigious award is given to people who “exemplify civic responsibility and whose efforts bring out the best of the American spirit.”

The Utah chapter of “Founding Forward” proudly holds their Heroes Day Celebration each February, to honor outstanding citizens of Utah and to recognize the exceptional students they send to Valley Forge.

Congratulations, William Shields! Keep up the great work.

He has put his heart and soul into helping students in marketing and business as the DECA adviser at Herriman High School for the past 15 years. Now, Randy Kammerman is being recognized by Utah DECA as the “Jim Powell Adviser of the Year.”

DECA helps prepare students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and business. Over the years, Mr. Kammerman has worked with hundreds of students, helping them compete and succeed in DECA State and National conferences and competitions. Colleagues say Randy’s commitment extends beyond school hours, working one-on-one with students; coaching, and guiding them to be the very best they can be.

Former students who competed in DECA under Randy Kammerman’s guidance have become highly accomplished in business, marketing, and finance. They credit Mr. Kammerman and the Herriman High DECA experience for igniting their successful careers.

His tireless commitment to students and their futures makes Mr. Kammerman well deserving of this honor. Congratulations!

They are being honored as two of the best and brightest new teachers in Career and Technical Education. Please join us in congratulating West Jordan High School’s Nathan Shields and Mountain Ridge High’s Corie Johnson. Both teachers are recipients of the Utah Association for Career and Technical Educators (UATC) “New Teacher of the Year” awards in their respective divisions.

Nathan Shields, a CTE Auto Body teacher, won in the Skilled and Technical division. His nomination describes Nathan as someone who has demonstrated exceptional dedication and innovation in the classroom, inspiring students with his passion and creativity. His commitment to education and his students is truly commendable.

Corie Johnson, won in the Family and Consumer Science division. Her nomination said Corie has shown remarkable skill and dedication in her role, bringing fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to her teaching. Her ability to motivate and engage students is a testament to her talent and hard work.

Join us in celebrating these incredible educators and their contributions to the future of education!

They were all smiles as they took to the stage at Oquirrh Hills Middle School celebrating an accomplishment students, teachers, and staff are extremely proud of achieving. Oquirrh Hills has been named a “National Unified Champion School.”

The designation, from Utah Special Olympics, recognizes schools for an inclusive environment where there is a sense of collaboration, engagement, and respect for all. Unified Champion Schools must meet 10 national standards of excellence, involving students with and without disabilities training and competing as teammates in sports like basketball and soccer. Schools must reapply for this designation every four years.

Congratulations, Oquirrh Hills Middle School! Keep up the great work, achieving great things as a unified team.

Join us in congratulating the Mountain Ridge High School girls wrestling team, recently crowned Utah 6A State Champions. The Sentinels had a 34-point separation from Westlake in taking home their first 6A state championship.

Mountain Ridge head coach Brandon Birch said it has been a season filled with awesome times and some unexpected things, through which the team bonded together.

Mountain Ridge wrestler Olivia Merino took home an individual championship in the 145-weight class.

Mountain Ridge has had a girls’ wresting team for four years and we are very proud of their amazing accomplishments. Way to go, Sentinels!