UCET Outstanding Leader Award
This award recognizes and honors a leader (principal, superintendent, school or district technology staff, regional technology trainer, etc.) who has demonstrated outstanding achievement and leadership in implementing technology to improve education.
UCET24 Outstanding Leader – Melanie Durfee
Achievement Specialist on the DT&L team at USBE
Nominated by: Jim Stewart, Rick Gaisford, and Cory Stokes
Melanie stands out as an exceptional leader in the field of educational technology. Over the past two decades, her dedication and expertise have significantly impacted how technology is used to enhance learning in Utah classrooms. Her journey began as a successful training specialist, teacher, and currently as an Achievement Specialist. Melanie possesses a deep understanding of educational technology and a remarkable ability to translate complex subjects into clear and accessible knowledge for educators. Her decisions are driven by a genuine passion for the success of public education.
Melanie’s leadership extends far beyond the classroom. She played a pivotal role in the development of the Regional Technology Trainer program, ensuring its continued success for years to come. Additionally, she led the state-wide CyberCorps program, providing vital technology training to high school students. Furthermore, Melanie actively promotes the Certified Educational Technology Leader Certification (CETL), both by obtaining the certification herself and by supporting others in achieving it. Melanie’s tireless work ethic and exceptional knowledge inspire all those who collaborate with her. She is a true champion for advancing the effective use of technology in Utah’s educational landscape.
Melanie has many strengths. Two of her amazing abilities stand out. First, she constantly demonstrates the ability to bring people together to collaborate in furthering education through the infusion of technology in the classroom. For example, she has developed and led field trips and student technology fairs across multiple districts in the state for teachers and students to share, collaborate, and experience best practices for technology in the classroom. She always collaborates with students, teachers, and administrators across the state.
A second amazing strength is her ability to analyze each situation with an understanding of how individuals are impacted. She is then frequently able to provide counseling and help to those she is working with. Through this ability and her willingness to engage, many of us have been positively influenced by her.
UCET Outstanding Coach Award
This award recognizes and honors an educational technology coach, library technology coach, instructional coach, or curriculum coach who has demonstrated outstanding coaching and leadership in implementing technology to support teachers to effectively use technology with students to engage them in learning, enhance learning with options that aren’t possible without the use of technology, and extend learning in ways that relate to the student’s real world and effectively meet their unique needs.
UCET24 Outstanding Coach – Toni Blattman
Library Technology Coach, Granite School District, Kearns Jr. High
Nominated by: Tricia Fenton, and Emma Sturdevant
Toni’s dedication to teacher and student success is woven throughout the fabric of Kearns Junior High. She tirelessly fulfills multiple roles: acting as a coach, mentor, and tech champion.
As a coach, Toni observes classrooms, providing feedback on instruction, technology integration, and behavior management. She further supports teachers by facilitating data reflection in Professional Learning Communities and actively encouraging teachers to set goals and find solutions. Her commitment to coaching extends to mentoring first-year teachers, guiding them through school policies and various platforms.
Toni spearheads the “Granite Champions Technology Challenge,” a program where she personally works with every teacher to establish technology goals, co-plan lessons, and observe implementation. She fosters collaboration by hosting “Coaches Corner” at faculty meetings and actively shares resources through a monthly newsletter. Her passion for technology extends to modeling its effective use for student engagement and learning assessment. Toni’s unwavering support and innovative spirit make her a true asset to the Kearns Junior High community.
UCET Cache Valley Electric Jack Erickson Excellence in Technology Services Award
This award recognizes and honors a network technician, administrator, engineer, or systems operations specialist – someone who is essential to the education system, but is rarely seen or known about.
UCET24 Cache Valley Electric Jack Erickson Excellence in Technology Services Award – Scott Harpster
Systems Engineer, Southwest Educational Development Center
Nominated by: Clint Stephens, UCET Past President
Scott Harpster exemplifies excellence in leveraging technology to transform education, leaving a significant and positive impact on educational communities across local, regional, and statewide levels. As the engineer behind the implementation and maintenance of the open-source Library Management System, Koha, Scott has revolutionized the landscape of educational resource management in the Southwest Educational Development Center (SEDC) region, benefiting over 60,000 students across more than 100 Local Education Agencies (LEAs).
Scott’s commitment extends beyond technical prowess; he actively involves the community in his initiatives, fostering partnerships with stakeholders to advance the integration of technology in education. In addition to his many other projects and initiatives, his collaboration with librarians to update and overhaul Koha demonstrates a profound understanding of the evolving needs within educational settings, resulting in improved access for students, streamlined workflows for librarians, and compliance with legislative mandates.
Under Scott’s stewardship, the quality of education and work experience within educational institutions has been significantly elevated. With SEDC providing Koha’s services at no additional cost, as well as coordinating several cooperative consortium purchases, Scott has helped save districts and charter schools thousands of dollars annually, enabling them to allocate resources more effectively towards enhancing the learning experience for students.
Scott’s dedication to professional development is evident through his active participation in conferences, seminars, and workshops. He shares his expertise generously, presenting at events such as Saintcon, TCC, Southern Utah Media Specialists (SUMS) Conference, and leading our monthly technology director’s group. His contributions extend statewide, where initiatives like Eduroam, Aspire & SIS integration, and efforts to improve broadband connectivity have catalyzed progress in education technology.
Scott Harpster’s tireless dedication and innovative approach to technology integration have left an indelible mark on education, enriching the lives of students and educators alike. He certainly flies under the radar most of the time, which he prefers, but he is completely deserving of this award. His unwavering commitment to excellence and community engagement make him a deserving candidate for recognition.
ISTE Making It Happen Award
This award is given to a Utah educator, who over time has made a significant and broad impact on the vision and practice of Digital Teaching and Learning in the state of Utah.
Award recipients are educators who move forward and don’t look back, see students as real people, use technology in innovative ways to support learning goals, teach through relationships – inspiring, encouraging and nurturing. These educators also recognize that further change is necessary, but understand that it’s a process, realize that teacher empowerment is key to transforming learning, motivate through awareness and access to information, and expect success.
UCET24 ISTE Making It Happen – Pam Turley
Department Lead and Digital Coach, Nebo School District
Nominated by: Charles Hanosek, Digital Coach, Nebo School District
Nominating Pam Turley for this esteemed award is a privilege, as her illustrious career spanning 17 years within the Nebo School District has left an indelible mark on the landscape of educational technology. Initially embarking on her journey as a Science teacher in California, Pam faced formidable challenges without textbooks or conventional resources. Undeterred by the absence of modern aids like the internet or AI, she displayed unparalleled creativity, seamlessly integrating real-world experiences into her curriculum. Her ability to adapt and innovate, transforming impromptu encounters with critters into valuable learning opportunities, exemplifies her dedication to education.
Despite taking a hiatus to fulfill her role as a devoted mother, Pam’s passion for teaching and technology remained undiminished. Upon returning to the classroom, she pursued a master’s degree in instructional design, emphasizing technology—a testament to her unwavering commitment to professional growth and excellence. Joining the Nebo School District as a Technology Curriculum Specialist in 2007, Pam embarked on a pioneering journey alongside Cory Little, crafting a vision for technology integration where none existed before.
Together, they navigated uncharted territory, pioneering initiatives to equip classrooms with cutting-edge technology and empower educators with essential skills. Through collaborative efforts, Pam facilitated the procurement of grants and resources, revolutionizing teaching practices and enriching learning experiences across the district. Her instrumental role in introducing groundbreaking tools like document cameras, projectors, and laptops underscores her visionary leadership and foresight.
Beyond the confines of her district, Pam’s influence extended statewide, fostering partnerships and alliances to advance educational technology in Utah. Her contributions to professional development, curriculum design, and technology integration have been recognized and sought after, earning her accolades as a respected educator and leader in her field.
As an educator, Pam’s impact transcends traditional boundaries, extending to higher education institutions like UVU, where she imparts her expertise to aspiring educators. Her dedication to nurturing the next generation of technologically proficient teachers is exemplified by her tireless efforts in mentoring and coaching digital coaches within the Nebo School District.
Pam’s commitment to advancing educational technology is further evidenced by her active involvement in professional associations like UCET, where she has served in various capacities, including president. Her unwavering dedication to lifelong learning and knowledge sharing is exemplified by her regular participation in conferences like ISTE, where she continues to stay abreast of the latest trends and innovations.
In recognition of her transformative impact on education and unwavering dedication to the advancement of educational technology, Pam Turley is eminently deserving of this prestigious award. Her visionary leadership, innovative spirit, and steadfast commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to educators everywhere, leaving an indelible legacy that will continue to shape the future of education for generations to come.
The Innovative Teaching Awards recognize teachers for facilitating student learning through innovative teaching practices using technology. Innovative Teacher submissions are by the district.
Alpine School District – Vennie Della Cioppa
10-12, Timpanogos High School, Orem
Vennie consistently demonstrates a visionary approach to instruction, fostering innovative ways to connect and facilitate learning experiences. Her involvement in the TSA Club, Robotics Club, Advanced Programming, Esports Team, CyberPatriot team, and role as the Alpine School District Advanced IT Team Lead showcases her versatile leadership skills. Vennie’s dedication to exploring new methods of instruction and her commitment to creating a collaborative learning environment for all CS/IT students in the District make her an invaluable asset to any educational setting.
Throughout the current academic year, Vennie Della Cioppa has showcased an exemplary commitment to leveraging technology for the benefit of student learning. Her role as the Alpine School District Advanced IT Team Lead speaks to her expertise in implementing innovative technological solutions. Vennie has consistently demonstrated effective use of technology in various capacities, from enhancing the learning experience in Advanced Programming to leveraging digital platforms for the Esports Team. Moreover, her creative integration of robots as teaching tools in the Robotics Club stands out as a prime example of hands-on, experiential learning. This unique approach not only makes programming more tangible and engaging for students but also instills a practical understanding of technology. Her adept integration of technology not only facilitates a more engaging and interactive learning environment but also equips students with valuable skills for the digital age. Vennie’s forward-thinking approach to education, as evidenced in her involvement with the CyberPatriot team, underscores her dedication to preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the modern technological landscape.
Beehive Science & Technology – Jimmy Newell
5th, Beehive Science & Technology-Elementary, Sandy
Jimmy is an excellent teacher who excels at creating innovative and fun project based learning for his students. His focus is Math and Science and he makes his students love to learn. He brings in so many wonderful hands-on experiences so that students learn self-efficacy and grow in large leaps.
Jimmy consistently finds and learns new technology to increase research and deeper meaning learning in his classroom. Currently, he is working on a hydroponics garden project with not only his own class, but also with 3rd and 4th grade. He is our go to for data implementation as well as training for our online Math program.
Box Elder – Brian Whitney
10, Box Elder High School, Brigham City
Brian started teaching three years ago after another successful career. Since he has been in Box Elder School District he has taught 10th grade Language Arts. Brian has brought a love and excitement to the ELA department that has created change and growth.
Brian is part of the PCBL group in Box Elder. He has found ways to give students choice in his classroom by providing self-paced lessons through the use of technology. He has also created a platform where students can show competency through individual student strengths. Brian has also learned the ins and outs of our online curriculum and now is used as a trainer in our district when other teachers have questions of how to use the curriculum.
Cache County School District – Julie Kaster
10, Sky View High School, Smithfield
Julie is a secondary ELA teacher who is also a part of our Digital Teaching and Learning team. She is a member of the Utah GEG team. Julie has been involved with utilizing technology in the classroom for several years.
Julie leads the efforts of technology integration in her school and is always looking for ways to assist other teachers. This year she has been using software that promotes creativity in her classroom so that she can improve student learning. She is always looking for creative ways to enhance her ELA curriculum.
Davis School District – Valerie Burgoyne
7-12, Davis Connect 7-12, Layton
Valerie exemplifies innovative technology use to propel student learning. A leader in this area, she champions initiatives that leverage technology to demonstrably improve educational outcomes.
Her effectiveness is rooted in her understanding of each student. Valerie tailors her tech-infused lessons to individual needs and preferences, maximizing engagement and relevance. Her high-quality content captivates students, fostering a dynamic learning environment that encourages active participation. Moreover, Valerie’s commitment to growth is evident in her pursuit of new tools and her willingness to experiment. This fearless approach keeps lessons fresh and pushes the boundaries of conventional methods, resulting in impactful learning experiences. By combining tech leadership with strong relationships, engaging content, and a growth mindset, Valerie has become a true trailblazer in digital pedagogy.
Garfield School District – Samie Ott
5th grade, Bryce Valley Elementary School, Tropic
Mrs. Samie Ott has effectively elevated the educational journey by seamlessly blending computer science methods with the curriculum and digital resources. Her innovative approach involves incorporating interactive simulations and cutting-edge tools, catering to diverse student needs, and enhancing the overall learning experience. Through this strategic integration of technology, Samie has made a significant and positive impact in the classroom. Students benefit from a dynamic and engaging learning environment that fosters deeper understanding and active participation. Samie’s commitment to leveraging computer science for educational advancement marks her as a pioneering educator, leaving an enduring mark on the positive influence of technology in the realm of learning.
It’s clear that Samie has demonstrated exceptional innovation in education by seamlessly integrating computer science methods and digital resources into the curriculum. Her approach, which involves incorporating interactive simulations and cutting-edge tools, shows a commitment to providing a dynamic and engaging learning environment for students. Her use of technology has positively impacted student learning by encouraging deeper understanding and active participation in the classroom.
Granite School District – Whitney Watson
4th, Academy Park Elementary, West Valley City
Whitney Watson has been teaching elementary school for 10 years, predominantly in 4th Grade. Whitney is both a grade level and a school leader. She has taken the lead of our Hydroponics Lab and has spearheaded quarterly challenges for our entire school. Whitney has a gift for organizing with the big picture in mind while taking care of all the little details that lead up to it.
Whitney Watson is a 4th Grade teacher at Academy Park Elementary in West Valley City. She excels as an educator and uses technology masterfully in her classroom. Recently, each of her students published podcasts they shared with parents and families. Whitney skillfully incorporates new tech into her everyday teaching. Students in her classroom use their chrome books regularly to engage with assignments and interact with the world around them.
She takes on new challenges and is willing to help colleagues to try new things and mentor them with other tools.
Iron County School District – Megan Meachum
5th Grade, Enoch Elementary, Enoch, UT
Megan is always looking for new and better ways to engage and empower her students. She has spent countless hours creating content in Canvas, has become a distinguished educator for Modern Classrooms and has been awarded many district micro-credentials in personalized competency based education and more. She is a rock star and I am glad we can recognize her hard work on behalf of students.
She has created self-paced units for her students on Canvas in math and science and provides mastery based assessments. She is working hard to personalize her instruction and target it to the needs of her students.
Juab School District – Kayla Goodman
9-12, Juab High School, Nephi, Utah
Kayla has taught Family and Consumer Science at Juab High School since 2015. Kayla teaches a range of CTE courses, including Foods/Culinary, Child Development, and Sewing.
She loves to work with teenagers and help them become resilient and self-sufficient. She believes that people are not their circumstances, so every student/person can learn in a way that is meaningful to them. She considers herself a “learning teacher” and is always trying to improve both inside and outside the classroom.
In 2021 Kayla became a teacher-leader, specializing in Flexible Tools and Content. Students in her classroom benefit from her use of blended learning. By using technology as a tool for everyday instruction, Kayla can move around her classes and form relationships and meet each student where they are. Kayla completed the Modern Classrooms Project micro-credential and course and is working toward her Distinguished Modern Classrooms Educator credential. She enjoys using what she has learned to help other teachers lighten their workloads and better meet the needs of students.
Jordan School District – Graham Bany
10-12, Valley High School, South Jordan
Graham Bany is an ELA/ESL teacher and digital technology coach at Valley High School in Jordan School District where he has been teaching for five years. As a classroom teacher, he has worked with students of all ability levels in almost every secondary grade level ranging from credit recovery summer school courses, honors classes, and as a Special Olympics coach.
Graham is the definition of a ‘students first’ educator. He is willing to do whatever it takes to help his students learn and succeed. He jumped at that chance to donate his time during the summer to participate in a pilot, testing out an AI program that supports teachers and students. He went beyond what was expected, and began to use the AI program to revolutionize what was being done in his classroom. He has been unyielding in his determination to use the platform to meet every student’s needs. He has developed an expertise for AI prompting and blending AI chatbots into his lesson plans. He collaborates with district leaders to support the use of AI in the district and state.
Not only does his knowledge benefit his classroom and his students, he is eager and willing to teach any teacher about AI and how they can leverage it in their classrooms. He spends hours supporting and guiding teachers in his own building, and also drives to any school that asks to conduct training and workshops. Every teacher leaves a meeting with him feeling empowered, and excited to implement AI in new and exciting ways. He is a tech leader in his school, and a safe place for teachers to learn.
Logan City School District – Erin Dimond
4th, Wilson, Logan
Erin Dimond, a seasoned educator with Logan City School District since 2012, boasts a diverse teaching background across various grade levels. Having taught first, second, and fifth grade literacy enrichment and extension, she brings a wealth of experience to her current role as a 4th-grade teacher. Erin is well-versed in educational methodologies such as Response to Intervention, Thinking Maps, Rigorous Reading, and Engagement by Design. Her extensive teaching journey reflects a commitment to fostering enriched learning experiences and staying at the forefront of innovative pedagogical approaches.
Erin demonstrates a perfect balance of using good teaching practices and an updated and purposeful amount of technology. As she adapts to the new AI world she has grasped AI as a teacher assistant saving her time and helping her prepare lessons and as a student tutor which helps her reach each kid where they are.
Millard School District – Julianne Johnson
SPED, Fillmore Middle School, Fillmore
Julianne Johnson is a dedicated and compassionate Special Education teacher who has been busy shaping young minds at Fillmore Middle School. With a passion for inclusive education and a commitment to understanding the unique needs of each student, Julianne has become a valued member of the school. Julianne’s colleagues and students admire her for her unwavering dedication, patience, and ability to inspire. Her contribution to the field of special education extends beyond the classroom, making her a cherished educator and mentor in her community.
Julianne has demonstrated exceptional skill in harnessing technology to enhance student learning, particularly in her role as a Special Education teacher. Her innovative use of interactive and game-based applications has been a game changer in her classroom. These tools have not only made learning more engaging and fun for her students but have also been instrumental in catering to a variety of learning styles and needs. Julianne has adeptly integrated these applications into her curriculum, ensuring that each student is both challenged and supported in their learning journey. Moreover, her use of assistive technology has been pivotal in ensuring that all students, regardless of their individual needs, have equal access to learning opportunities. This has included text-to-speech software, audio books, and customized learning programs, which have significantly improved the academic experiences of her students. Her efforts reflect a deep understanding of the transformative power of technology in education, particularly in the realm of special education.
Mountain Heights Academy – Sara Layton
12th grade, Mountain Heights Academy
Sara Layton joined Mountain Heights Academy in 2010, where she created and designed multiple courses. She currently teaches English 12 and 2010, a concurrent enrollment course. She earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in English and holds a secondary teaching license. Sara has a depth and breadth of experience, including consulting with the Institute for the Study of Knowledge Management (ISKME) in Education, serving as the American Board Teacher of the Year from Utah in 2015, winning a PBIS Digital Innovator award in 2017, and a sitting as a National Humanities Center Teacher Advisory Council member in 2018.
Sara has demonstrated exceptional dedication and innovation in integrating AI into her English courses. Her pioneering efforts as one of the first teachers to pilot AI in concurrent enrollment courses have provided invaluable insights to the AI Action Research Committee. Sara’s proactive engagement and reflection showcase her commitment to enhancing AI implementation in education. Her constructive feedback contributes significantly to the ongoing improvement of AI integration on both course and school-wide levels. Additionally, her collaborative efforts in preparing a presentation for the faculty exemplify her enthusiasm to inspire and involve fellow educators in embracing AI technologies.
Nebo School District – Sam McGrath
Payson High School, Payson, Utah
Sam McGrath has a Master’s degree in education and has been teaching English in the Nebo School District for 10 years. He loves stories of any kind, whether from books, movies, podcasts, or even games, and is excited about what is happening in the world of AI right now. As a teacher, he has always tried to motivate students by making learning relevant and enjoyable, and loves trying new ideas in the classroom that will help him attain that goal.
Sam routinely looks for ways to deepen student learning by having his students create using technology. His enthusiasm and willingness to explore and try new things have inspired both students and colleagues. Sam’s pioneering spirit in integrating generative AI into the classroom has truly set him apart as a forward-thinking educator.
North Sanpete School District – Bryan Holder
9-12, North Sanpete High School, Mount Pleasant
Bryan Holder is a secondary science teacher that strives to engage his students in learning through meaningful application of science practices. He teaches various subjects in science (Biology, Human Anatomy, Zoology, Genetics), but also heads up the high school’s competitive robotics club and Upward Bound programs. He has also dedicated time to improving the way the Utah Science Core is taught with other teachers across the state.
Bryan is really good at getting students to explore science concepts and ideas through the use of technology. Students express their learning through various multimedia applications. He has had students use stop motion to show molecules moving and DNA replication, video and slide presentations, and even some VR/AR interactive assignments, among others.
Ogden School District – Amber Davis
7-9, Mound Fort Jr. High, Ogden
Amber’s journey in education is as unique as her approach. After years in special education, she transitioned to a challenging yet rewarding role: teaching in a behavioral unit. Her background in animal training, coupled with immense patience and dedication, allows her to connect deeply with her students.
Technology plays a vital role in Amber’s classroom. Recognizing her students’ creativity, she utilizes tools like Canva and Adobe Express to provide a safe space for self-expression. She even introduces them to AI features, fostering a love for exploration. Furthermore, Amber embraces new resources like Sphero robots, encouraging teamwork and critical thinking through collaborative coding activities. These are just a few examples of how Amber seamlessly integrates technology to equip her students with essential life skills. Driven by a genuine passion for her students and a constant desire to empower them, Amber ensures technology becomes a tool for success, not just in the classroom, but throughout their lives.
Piute County School District – Priscilla Morgan
High School Junction, Utah
Priscilla was brought onto the teaching staff for Piute High School at the time of the pandemic. She brings an enthusiasm to the classroom that is very engaging and inspiring to her students. She graduated from Piute High School and with being an alumnus she brings the experience and knowledge needed to help the students of today learn valuable skills and techniques needed for today’s technological needs.
Priscilla is always pushing the envelope bringing new concepts and is never afraid to try something new and innovative. She is always collaborating with fellow state teachers looking for new ways to bring the technology needed to the classroom.
Salt Lake City School District – Kenan Brown
Grades 7/8, Clayton Middle, Salt Lake City
Kenan’s educational journey, spanning across the US, has ignited his passion for technology-driven learning. His commitment started with a thorough exploration of the Microsoft Office suite, enabling him to craft interactive lessons. This passion continued as he moved to Salt Lake City, where he has consistently expanded his digital classroom year after year.
A cornerstone of Kenan’s approach is the complete digitization of assignments in Canvas. This ensures uninterrupted learning even for absent students. He not only provides downloadable materials but also embeds files to prevent lost work, while features like Student Annotations allow direct document editing. Innovation extends beyond, with Kenan utilizing video platforms like Loom for model lessons and incorporating various applications like Nearpod, Newsela, and YouTube to enrich the learning experience.
The positive impact is evident. Digitizing lessons prevents students from falling behind due to absences, potentially saving them from significant grade drops. Moreover, technology-aided reading tools within Canvas and other platforms have contributed to a rise in students’ reading scores. Kenan’s dedication to digital learning empowers his students and demonstrably enhances their academic success.
South Sanpete School District – Jordann Vaha
9-12, Manti High School, Manti
Jordann boasts an impressive 11-year tenure as a Secondary Language Arts educator. A proud alumna of Manti High School, she felt a deep calling to return and contribute to the community that played a crucial role in her own learning and growth. Holding a teaching degree from Southern Utah University and a Masters from Western Governors University, Jordann exemplifies her dedication to academic excellence. Beyond her professional achievements, she is happily married and is the proud parent of three children.
Jordann is consistently driven to enhance technology integration in her classroom. Demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt lesson plans, she seamlessly incorporates a variety of resources. Her approach encourages students to unleash their creativity while completing assignments. Known for her unwavering determination, Jordann persists until solutions are found, making her a reliable problem solver in her building. As an Apple Teacher and the designated lead for Canvas in her school, she has become the go-to person for tech-related challenges, showcasing her expertise and leadership in educational technology.
