Looking Out for the Good: Wasatch Education Foundation honors 9 teachers

HEBER — Nine Wasatch County School District teachers are being recognized with the 2025 Distinguished Educator of the Year Award ahead of National Teacher Appreciation Week.The Wasatch Education Foundation organizes and funds the award, which includes a plaque for the teacher's classroom. Each teacher also received a $10,000 cash prize. The winners were chosen from over 1,500 nominations submitted by parents, staff, students, and the community. It was a way for them to say 'Thank you!' to the educators.

The 2025 Distinguished Educators are:

• Stephanie Gary, Daniels Canyon Elementary
  • Known for her high expectations, joyful spirit, and commitment to inclusive teaching, Ms. Gary creates a warm, structured environment where all students feel valued and supported.
• Monique Straughan, Heber Valley Elementary
  • With over 25 years of experience, Mrs. Straughan is celebrated for her dedication to meeting students’ unique academic, sensory, and social needs with compassion and creativity.
• Linda Villanueva, J.R. Smith Elementary
  • Mrs. Villanueva fosters a classroom filled with safety, pride, and purpose—empowering students through cultural celebration, high expectations, and emotional support.
• Mary Eckersley, Midway Elementary
  • Ms. Eckersley’s classroom is known for its joy, care, and high standards, where students are both challenged and celebrated through creative, detail-driven instruction.
• Christina De Jong, Old Mill Elementary
  • Mrs. De Jong leads with unwavering commitment to students who need extra support, offering individualized learning and emotional safety across multiple grade levels.
• Christina Cluff, Rocky Mountain Middle School
  • Ms. Cluff combines data-driven innovation with student-first teaching, leading her department and schoolwide efforts to raise student achievement.
• Seth Probst, Timpanogos Middle School
  • Mr. Probst makes hands-on learning meaningful and fun, mentoring students with humor and care while fostering real-world skills and classroom belonging.
• Gary Roberts, Wasatch High School
  • Mr. Roberts brings real-world application and deep personal investment to his teaching, particularly through CAPS and engineering-based programs.
• Emily Burr, Wasatch High School
  • Mrs. Burr creates a nurturing and empowering classroom where students feel seen, supported, and challenged to grow into confident learners.

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