Nebo Credit Union recently honored five teachers from Nebo School District for their "Commitment to the Future." Principals from all Nebo School District schools were asked to nominate one teacher from their school that they felt was committed to the future.

Sandy Sutton has taught at Art City Elementary for years and truly loves what she does.¬ Principal Dave Rowe lauded her dedication and said "Sandy exemplifies the expression 'Actions speak louder than words.' Her daily acts of kindness and love have spoken so loudly to her students that years down the road they still come back to visit her."¬ Sandy not only teaches the first graders, she has also spent many hours mentoring¬  cohorts, student teachers and interns.

Gayle Ware has a passion for teaching and seeing students succeed.¬ "She has a strong lassroom presence and possess a wealth of knowledge." stated Kaye Isakson, principal of Mt. Nebo Junior High.¬ "Gayle always goes the extra mile.¬ On just one occasion she took a young man from failing to a 'C' by tutoring him and helping him complete work that he had failed to do previously." Gayle also serves on several school committees and mentors new teachers.

Jen Bellows has had a banner year!¬ She was chosen teacher of the year by her colleagues at Orchard Hills Elementary and was nominated by her principal as a "Committed to the Future" teacher.¬ "All of Jen's students have special needs." said Principal Kim Barlow, "She does an excellent job of recognizing that all students can learn and that every child has positive qualities and attributes that they can contribute."¬ Jen's motto comes from Dr. Seuss' Horton the elephant, "I believe in you all.¬ A person's a person no matter how small."

Shane Waters teaches science to students at Spanish Fork Junior High and if that isn't enough, he makes it exciting! "When you walk into his classroom, you immediately notice things are different," explained Principal Scott Carson.¬ "Shane spent considerable time researching classroom environments so that he can be sure he is creating an atmosphere conducive to learning.¬  tudents take pride and ownership on each others' learning and that is a rare thing in a junior high school."¬ 

Sarah Blackhurst, first grade teacher at Spanish Oaks Elementary, was nominated by Principal RaShel Tingey who said,¬ "Sarah is an excellent role model for her peers and students.¬ Her willingness to go the extra miles to ensure enthusiasm for teaching is transferred to a love of learning in her students."¬ Sarah spends countless hours adapting lessons to the needs of her students and uses a variety of teaching methods.

Nebo Credit Union congratulates all of the nominees and thanks them for their outstanding contributions to the future of our society. Each of the winners received a check for $250 to help with their classroom needs, a certificate announcing their achievement and an invitation to ride in their school's hometown parade during the 2008 summer season.¬ Please watch for these wonderful teachers in the parades and cheer them on for their dedication to the students in our area.