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The Utah Science Teacher Association recently distributed their annual teaching awards, and four Granite educators were among those to claim top honors. Congratulations to these fantastic teachers for helping students discover the world around them.

Region 3 Elementary Teacher of the Year – Candace Collins, Copper Hills Elementary

“One reason I love teaching science is because some of my students that may struggle in reading or math are more willing to take risks and explore while they are learning science. The new SEEd standards encourage students to wonder and make sense of the world around them.”

Sixth Grade Science Teacher of the Year – Emily Lehnardt, Evergreen Jr. High

Emily first ‘gravitated’ towards the exciting world of space exploration during a high school lecture about black holes. From that moment, she has actively pursued anything space related. Most recently, she created the Utah Women Astronomical Society which focuses on STEM and astronomy outreach.

Seventh Grade Science Teacher of the Year – Deb Smith, West Lake STEM Jr. High

Before becoming a teacher in 2006, Mrs. Smith worked in advertising and marketing at national level advertising agencies and at Adobe Systems for more  than 21 years. While at Adobe, Mrs. Smith volunteered one morning a week at a San Jose, California elementary school where the teaching bug bit her.

Rookie Middle School Teacher of the Year – Hanna Hard, Granite Park Jr. High

Hanna teaches 7th grade science at Granite Park Jr High. Her favorite parts about teaching are the unique relationships that she builds with students and the hilarious things they say unexpectedly.