Herriman council honors retiring Principal Todd Kornberg; he recalls a Special Olympics moment

At the outset of its May 14 meeting the Herriman City Council invited retiring Herriman High School principal Todd Kornberg to the podium to recognize his 35 years in education and his seven years leading Herriman High. Kornberg thanked councilmembers and recounted a formative experience at a Special Olympics Unified Soccer Tournament in which a student with autism grabbed his hand and would not let go. "I chose to hold on," Kornberg said, adding that the gesture taught him "the power of tenderness and humanity" and shaped how he interacts with students.

Councilmembers from across the dais praised Kornberg’s leadership during difficult moments at the high school, including his response after a suicide contagion and his day-to-day engagement with students and families. Jared said Kornberg’s support had helped the community and families through "rock bottoms," and multiple council members thanked him for building partnerships with local schools, public safety and community organizations.

Kornberg said he will remain nearby and expressed gratitude for the partnership with the city. The council used the recognition as an opportunity to thank other retiring principals in the area, noting Mike Kacheever at Mountain Ridge is also retiring this year.

The council proceeded to regular business after the tribute; staff and councilmembers said they appreciated Kornberg’s service and wished him well in his next assignment in Juab County.