By Dr. Kodey S. Hughes, Superintendent, Juab School District
Every day, parents throughout our community send their children through the doors of our schools, trusting that they will be welcomed, supported, challenged, and cared for. Inside those buildings are remarkable teachers and staff members who dedicate their time and talents to helping our students learn and grow. But behind every great school is someone helping bring all those people, programs, and opportunities together: a school principal.
October is National Principals Month, and before the month passes, I want to take a moment to recognize some extraordinary individuals who lead our schools here in Juab School District. Being a school principal is no small task. On any given day, a principal might be greeting students at the front doors, visiting classrooms, working with teachers, meeting with parents, addressing safety concerns, or helping a student navigate a difficult situation. And that might all happen before lunch!
Over the years, I have had the privilege of watching principals do some remarkable things. I have seen them lead schools through difficult situations, develop safety plans to protect students and staff, and stand alongside families when tragedy strikes. I have watched a principal put an arm around a teacher who had just lost a loved one, offering comfort when words simply weren't enough. These are moments that rarely make the newspaper or show up in a school report. Yet they are some of the most important things a principal does. School leadership is about much more than managing a building, it's about taking caring of people.
Here in Juab School District, we are fortunate to have some outstanding individuals leading our schools. At Juab High School, Principal Todd Quarnberg is working to strengthen school culture, bringing excitement, connection, and a renewed sense of belonging to the high school experience. his efforts are helping create opportunities for students to enjoy their high school years while preparing for the opportunities and responsibilities ahead.
At Nebo View Elementary School, Principal Marcie Keen is working with a young, enthusiastic staff to build a strong culture of literacy, writing, and student success where children love their learning journey. Her leadership is helping create a school where learning is celebrated, students are encouraged, and the hallways reflect the excitement and accomplishments taking place in classrooms.
At Juab Junior High School, Principal Kyle Francom is bringing fresh energy and vision to the building. He is empowering teachers and staff in meaningful ways, strengthening relationships, and keeping student success and well-being at the center of the JJHS mission.
At Mona Elementary School, Principal Brandi Webster is focused on something that matters deeply in education: knowing every child. Student by student, name by name, and need by need, Principal Webster is working with her teachers and staff to strengthen learning and raise student achievement. Her work reminds us that behind every test score is a child with a story, a family, and tremendous potential.
At Red Cliffs Elementary School, Principal Darren Mecham leads more than 600 elementary students each day. He and his staff continue to build a culture of possibility through innovative learning opportunities, through their STEAM education, and student goal setting, while inviting parents and grandparents into the school to celebrate student learning. His efforts remind us that some of the greatest educational partnerships begin when schools and families come together.
Each of these principals brings a different personality, leadership style, and set of strengths to their school. That is one of the wonderful things about education. There is no single way to be a great leader—but there are common qualities that make great principals stand out: they care about people, they believe in children, and they are willing to do the difficult work that comes with leading a school.
In a rural community like ours, the role of a principal often extends well beyond the school day. You will find them at ball games, concerts, community celebrations, and school activities long after the final bell has rung. They know our families, celebrate our students, and share in the successes and challenges of the communities they serve. As superintendent, I have the privilege of working alongside these individuals. I see the decisions they make, the challenges they face, and the countless hours they dedicate to supporting their teachers, staff, students, and families. And I can tell you, their work matters.
Our schools are blessed with wonderful teachers and staff members who give so much of themselves each day. They are also blessed with principals who provide direction, encouragement, and the leadership needed to bring out the very best in those around them.
So, as we recognize National Principals Month, I have a simple request. The next time you see your child's principal at school, at the grocery store, or at a community event, take a moment to say thank you. Thank them for the early mornings, the late nights, the difficult conversations, and the countless little things they do that often go unnoticed. Most importantly, thank them for caring about our kids.
Great schools don't happen by accident; great people build them, working together with children at the heart of everything they do. To our five building principals, thank you for your leadership, your dedication, and your commitment to the children and families of Juab County. It is an honor to serve alongside you.
#JuabProud
Dr. Kodey S. Hughes | Superintendent | Juab School District