"He genuinely cares about everyone at school," teacher Tami Britt wrote in a nomination letter. "Those under his supervision really strive to do their best, not because they feel pushed or threatened, but because they really want to live up to the high expectations he has for them."

Archibald also has built a warm and respectful rapport with parents, calling them equal partners in their children's education.

"He is so deserving of recognition for the lasting positive effect he has had, not only (on) me and my children but hundreds of other parents and students as well," parent Barbara Shidler wrote.

Chad L. King, band director and student government adviser, Millcreek Junior High, Davis District

Chad King starts his school day at 6:30 a.m. with two before-school jazz bands. He ends it with an after-school student government class, evening concerts and band competitions.

The kids know the Millcreek Junior High band director and student government adviser works hard for them. And they're happy to reciprocate.

"Always, his goal is to raise the awareness of students as to their potential to achieve excellence and to make a contribution to the world," Kim and Lowry Redd wrote in nominating King for the award. "Students rise to his expectations, and the results are enlightened minds and enlarged souls."

King teaches student officers leadership skills by requiring they meet new students each week and create activities to unify peers.

The member of Utah National Guard, "Kings of Swing" and Salt Lake Symphonic Winds bands also turns shy students into confident performers.

"He sees students individually in a sea of students and somehow gives them a chance to shine," science teacher Doug Wood wrote. "He has saved some kids."

Larry K. Ward, seventh-grade science teacher, Rocky Mountain Middle, Wasatch District

Larry Ward's influence is found in students at Rocky Mountain Middle School — and the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, where a former student is a teacher and an AIDS and mad cow disease researcher.

"Without Mr. Ward, I would have missed out on one of the most important influences in my life . . . a fascination with and love of nature," wrote associate professor of preventive medicine and biometrics Samantha MaWhinney. "This amazing gift has given me incredible joy, influenced my career and research interests and my decision to live in the West."