I want to express heartfelt gratitude to all of you and your staff for your extraordinary commitment to students and learning. Your dedication extends far beyond the school day—through the countless hours spent analyzing student data and helping in refining instruction to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed. You invest deeply in improving your practice, responding thoughtfully to assessment results, and providing meaningful feedback that guides students toward growth. As Mike Mattos reminds us, “The question is not, ‘Did I teach it?’ but rather, ‘Did they learn it?’” —and your daily work reflects that spirit of responsibility and care. Whether through grading, collaboration with colleagues, or adapting instruction based on evidence of learning, your work embodies both professionalism and compassion. Thank you for the care, skill, and time you devote each day to ensuring that teaching and learning in our schools are truly excellent.

This week, we’re happy to highlight Kim Babka, principal of South Kearns Elementary. Here’s what some of her teachers had to say about her:

“Kim is one of the most thoughtful administrators in the district, welcoming visitors in the building and offering her time and support to teachers, students and staff. Kim is fabulous at building relationships. She is dedicated to our South Kearns community. She shows her appreciation to faculty and staff with birthday gift cards, a snack cart and delicious dinners during conferences as well as her famous “you are cerealously the best” milk and cereal breakfast treats several times during the year. She hosts a Back to School BBQ and Holiday Party at her beautiful home. Our students love Ms. Babka. She is visible before and after school and regularly stops by classrooms to say Good Morning. She started the tradition of cheerleading to our school song every Friday morning. We are fortunate to have Kim as our administrator here at South Kearns.”

“Kim brings an energy to South Kearns that is unlike any I have ever seen. Kids are elated to see her and run to give her the biggest hugs. As a staff member, I know that I can count on Kim to bring a smile anywhere she goes. She is a principal that will drop anything to help anyone around her. Kim truly makes an impact on every child, teacher, and family that she interacts with. We are so lucky to have her here at SK!”