Will Pettit has never been one to seek attention for the work he does in the classroom. Instead, he wants all his students to focus on enhancing their own skills and lifting others who need extra help.

Throughout his tenure at Granite Park Jr. High, Mr. Pettit has provided leadership, mentoring, and effective instruction to thousands of students. At a school where the majority of students live in poverty and more than 60 languages are spoken, his contributions have helped students and teachers take pride in their school, community, and their own accomplishments.

For his educational leadership, positive personality, and impressive results, Mr. Pettit was named by Governor Gary Herbert as the 2018 Utah Teacher of the Year. He was ultimately chosen among hundreds of nominees by a selection committee that included the State Superintendent  of Education, Deputy State Superintendent of Instruction, and State Education Advisor to Gov. Gary Herbert.

We are so proud of Mr. Pettit and the inspirational example he his for students and colleagues alike. He is a testament to the incredible things that can happen when students are given opportunities to be successful.