Distinguished Educator of the Year

The 2025 Distinguished Educator Award recipients were selected from nominations submitted by community members, students, parents, fellow teachers, and administrators.

The intent of this program is to thank, award, and inspire greatness among our teachers in the Wasatch County School District, and the hope is it will be supported and cheered on by community members, fellow teachers, and staff members for many years to come!

The criteria candidates must meet includes:

• An instructor currently teaching students in the classroom. 
• Dedication to student learning and welfare. 
• “Works to Teach” and shows concern for all children in the classroom, regardless of level of learning ability, background, ethnicity, or gender. 
• Excels in knowledge of subject matter and the ability to teach it. 
• Takes continuing education courses to continually better his/her professional ability in the classroom. 
• Has a creative approach that captures kids’ attention and sparks their desire to learn. 
• Goes above and beyond to inspire and educate. 
• Is a good employee, arrives on time, and is dependable to administration, district leadership and fellow staff. 
• Works well and communicates effectively with parents. 
• Is at minimum a third-year teacher within the District and school. 
• Has not won the award in the past four years 

• Stephanie Gary, Daniels Canyon Elementary
  • Known for her high expectations, joyful spirit, and commitment to inclusive teaching, Ms. Gary creates a warm, structured environment where all students feel valued and supported.
• Monique Straughan, Heber Valley Elementary
  • With over 25 years of experience, Mrs. Straughan is celebrated for her dedication to meeting students’ unique academic, sensory, and social needs with compassion and creativity.
• Linda Villanueva, J.R. Smith Elementary
  • Mrs. Villanueva fosters a classroom filled with safety, pride, and purpose—empowering students through cultural celebration, high expectations, and emotional support.
• Mary Eckersley, Midway Elementary
  • Ms. Eckersley’s classroom is known for its joy, care, and high standards, where students are both challenged and celebrated through creative, detail-driven instruction.
• Christina De Jong, Old Mill Elementary
  • Mrs. De Jong leads with unwavering commitment to students who need extra support, offering individualized learning and emotional safety across multiple grade levels.
• Christina Cluff, Rocky Mountain Middle School
  • Ms. Cluff combines data-driven innovation with student-first teaching, leading her department and schoolwide efforts to raise student achievement.
• Seth Probst, Timpanogos Middle School
  • Mr. Probst makes hands-on learning meaningful and fun, mentoring students with humor and care while fostering real-world skills and classroom belonging.
• Gary Roberts, Wasatch High School
  • Mr. Roberts brings real-world application and deep personal investment to his teaching, particularly through CAPS and engineering-based programs.
• Emily Burr, Wasatch High School
  • Mrs. Burr creates a nurturing and empowering classroom where students feel seen, supported, and challenged to grow into confident learners.