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Provo superintendent named to NSPRA 'Superintendents to Watch'; district presents Provo Way awards

Provo City School Board of Education · January 14, 2026

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Summary

Superintendent Wendy Dowell was recognized by the National School Public Relations Association as one of 30 'Superintendents to Watch.' The board presented Dowell with a gift and several district employees and a student were honored with Provo Way awards at the Jan. 13 meeting.

The Provo City School Board opened its Jan. 13 meeting by recognizing Superintendent Wendy Dowell as one of 30 nationwide recipients of NSPRA’s "Superintendents to Watch" honor. Board President Jennifer Partridge noted the award recognizes school district leaders with fewer than five years as superintendent who demonstrate dynamic leadership and strong communication.

"She has been recognized by the NSPRA, which I believe is the National School Public Relations Association, as one of their superintendents to watch," Partridge said during opening remarks. Communications staff Caleb Price and Shauna Sprunger spoke about the district’s nomination and the board presented Dowell with a gift and cake; Dowell will attend the NSPRA national conference in July to receive the recognition.

Following the award presentation, Deputy Superintendent Jason Cox led the Provo Way awards recognizing district personnel and students, including Rebecca Larson (Provo Peaks Title I coordinator), Sean Edwards (Centennial principal), Jay Porter and Brooke Burge (Spring Creek principal and assistant principal), Carolyn Herz (special education teacher at Amelia Earhart), Kennedy Cook (Shoreline teacher), and a student of the month from Timpview High School. Board members invited recipients to the front of the room to thank them publicly.

The recognitions were followed by routine business and policy discussions. The board noted appreciation for the district communications team and for the work of honored staff members.