He has created the program "Desired Results for Student Learning," supported by "Knights Quest," a behavior initiative designed in collaboration with BYU. Classes are taught weekly to encourage respect, leadership, honor and excellence. Teachers work to recognize positive student behavior.

"Hopefully, people are starting to see the good things in public education ... and our efforts to reach students and help them become successful learners," Kelepolo said.

Nebo Superintendent Chris Sorensen praises Kelepolo's abilities to organize and communicate, Park reports. "His commitment to students, staff and programs has made him very popular among both faculty and students."

• Brad Sorensen works hard to keep teachers in the business — one of the biggest issues he says faces public education — through "Whine & Cheese" and "Early Years Academy" programs, which offer forums, promote professional practices and help teachers connect.

"Brad is organized, reliable, and has the ability to relate with all groups that he works with," Park said. "I would be lost without him."

The Riverton High assistant principal started his career as a Jordan High English and Japanese teacher, and was named the Utah High School Activities Association's Mens Swim Coach of the Year in 1999 and 2000, Park reported.

Sorensen is humbled by the principals association award. He says he enjoys the challenges of the job, the greatest being helping students who have difficult home situations understand their worth.

"It's the reason we're all in education — to help kids change direction in their lives and help them become successful contributors to society," he said.

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E-mail: jtcook@desnews.com