At the recent Board Meeting on April 9, 2025, in Utah, the spotlight shone brightly on community service and dedication to education, with two remarkable volunteers being honored for their contributions to local schools.

Holly Barker received the Volunteer of the Year award for her four years of service at Lomond View Elementary. Recognized for her invaluable support in helping struggling first and second graders with reading and math, Holly's commitment has made a significant impact on students' learning experiences. "We can't do the jobs that we do without them," said Kurt Swalberg, who presented the award. Teachers praised her ability to tailor instruction to individual student needs, noting that her efforts have led to noticeable improvements in student engagement and academic performance. "Every student that she works with makes some growth," one teacher remarked, highlighting the transformative effect of her volunteer work.

In addition to Holly, Katie Jo Christiansen was recognized for her innovative approach to addressing food insecurity among students. After noticing that some children were unable to afford lunch, Katie utilized social media to raise over $17,000, which has helped pay off negative lunch balances not only at West Haven Elementary but across several schools in the district. "She truly has that compassionate lens and looks for solutions," said Juliana Wardberry, who introduced Katie. Her initiative underscores the importance of meeting students' basic needs to enhance their educational outcomes.

Both honorees exemplify the spirit of community involvement and the critical role volunteers play in supporting education. Their stories serve as a reminder of the positive impact individuals can have on the lives of students and the broader school community.