Riverton High has one of the largest student populations in Utah and it can be scary for new sophomores.

So Park helped create the PASS program — Program After School for Sophomores. Students entering the program with low grade-point averages can study core course material in smaller classes later in the day and receive more individualized instruction. Struggling students have raised their grades and are also improving their records of tardiness or attendance problems.

"I guess my philosophy is I take it personally when kids are not successful at school," Park said. "I want every person who comes here to school to graduate and have every opportunity to learn — if that doesn't happen, I feel personally responsible."

Park also established the Early Years Academy that provides regular mentor support on classroom management, motivation and reflective teaching for new teachers.

The program involves release time when teachers can observe their peers and meet together to discuss what they have learned. Early Years teachers also benefit from the "Whine and Cheese" meetings, where new staff are clued into the traditions and procedures at the school.

Jeff Arbogast

English teacher/athletic coach

Bingham High School

Jordan District

Jeff Arbogast goes after the academic underdogs and helps them come out on top.

As a coach, his day usually starts at 4 a.m., and as an English and remedial English teacher, he teaches those students lowest in language skills — some have been mainstreamed from special education classes and some have a history of behavior problems.

But his custom-designed curriculum has helped launch previous underachievers into college preparatory-level work.

He also developed a Performance Psychology curriculum that is used around the nation, helping students work through athletic issues, performance and test anxiety and socialization difficulties.

After hours Arbogast coaches both cross country and track and field. He was the only National Coach of the Year in two sports back-to-back. He also coordinates annual Sub for Santa projects and is chairman of the National Federation Coaches' Council.

"I feel the same way now as 26 years ago — I don't feel old because they (students) give you back a perennial youth," Arbogast said. "Every day is different, a new kid with a new problem — you can inspire, admonish and you never really know what is going to come — you always have that element of surprise every day, and I think that has kept me fresh."

Laine Hall

First-grade teacher

Rosamond Elementary School

Jordan District