Education is often described as the backbone of a community, but in the Murray City School District, it is the heartbeat. This week, the district proudly unveiled its annual award winners, recognizing a select group of educators and professionals who have gone above and beyond to foster an environment of growth, safety, and inspiration for Murray’s students and families.

These awards represent more than just professional milestones; they are a testament to the late nights spent grading, the emotional support offered during difficult lessons, and the seamless behind-the-scenes operations that keep our schools running. Whether it is a teacher sparking a lifelong love of learning or an Education Support Professional (ESP) ensuring a student feels seen and valued, these individuals embody the dedication that defines our district.

A Legacy of Dedication

From the halls of Grant Elementary to the classrooms of Murray High School (MHS), this year’s honorees were selected for their profound impact as colleagues and mentors. Winners were celebrated not just for their technical skills, but for their ability to build bridges between the classroom and the home, ensuring that every Murray family feels like a critical piece of our student’s education journey.

Our educators and staff are the foundation of everything we achieve. To see such a diverse range of talent—from licensed professionals to our essential support staff—highlights the collaborative spirit that makes Murray City School District a truly special place to work and learn.

2026 Award Winners

We invite the community to join us in congratulating these outstanding individuals for their magnificent contributions to our schools:

• Kayti Graham (Grant), Teacher of the Year

• Aaron Allsop-Hofmeister (Grant), Licensed Professional of the Year

• Shanda Echohawk (Grant), Education Support Professional of the Year

• Gabe Smith (Hillcrest), Teacher of the Year

• Haley Binggeli (Hillcrest), Licensed Professional of the Year

• Sarah Wilcken-Zito (Hillcrest), Education Support Professional of the Year

• Sara Fernández (Horizon), Teacher of the Year

• Whitney Dial (Horizon), Education Support Professional of the Year

• Rylie Nay (Liberty), Teacher of the Year

• Kelly Clements (Liberty), Licensed Professional of the Year

• Rachel Eyre (Liberty), Education Support Professional of the Year

• Jai-Dee Riches (Longview), Teacher of the Year

• Topher Riordan (Longview), Licensed Professional of the Year

• Keira Van Beekum (McMillan), Teacher of the Year

• Corey Peterson (McMillan), Education Support Professional of the Year

• Breanna Tomlinson (MHS), Teacher of the Year

• Carolyn Martinez Ross (MHS), Licensed Professional of the Year

• Kadee Fandaco (MHS), Education Support Professional of the Year

• Cami Palmer (Parkside), Teacher of the Year

• Merissa Graves (Parkside), Licensed Professional of the Year

• Lauri Aloi (Parkside), Education Support Professional of the Year

• Megan Baker (Riverview), Teacher of the Year

• Candice Wihongi (Riverview), Education Support Professional of the Year

• Susie Routledge (Viewmont), Teacher of the Year

• Emilee Barnett (Viewmont), Education Support Professional of the Year