Principals of the year named in Utah

SALT LAKE CITY — Principals in Utah's smaller school districts received top honors Wednesday from the Utah Association of Secondary School Principals.

Rick Robbins, principal of Juab High, was named Utah high school principal of the year for his efforts over the last three years.

"He's able to lead the school in a direction that's outstanding for students," said Juab School District Superintendent Jim Shank.

Math scores at the school have increased 30 percent since Robbins has been at the helm, Shank said, a fact Robbins attributes to dedicated teachers.

"It really is a reflection of our entire school district," Robbins said. "It's just a great place for kids to learn."

Mapleton Junior High Principal Suzanne Kimball was recognized by the UASSP as Utah middle school principal of year.

"Mrs. Kimball truly shines as a principal. She has been a leader in our district in implementing professional learning communities, data driven assessments and curriculum development," said PTA member Kristen Betts in a prepared statement. "As a principal, she genuinely cares for the students under her direction and wants each one of them to be successful."

Dana McConnell was recognized as the state's assistant principal of the year. She's been at Pine View Middle in St. George since 2010, and has coached in addition to working as an athletic director.

"I'm used to the work, not the limelight," McConnell said Wednesday. "I look at Pine View as our family. … We work hard together."

Shaw said it was great to see employees at smaller districts recognized for their contributions.

"I think that small school districts in small cities are some of the best places for learning," he said.

State Superintendent Larry Shumway applauded them for their successes, saying secondary schools can be particularly difficult to lead as there are so many distractions that take away from the real focus, which should be on learning.

"If anyone tells you it's something different, just remember one thing," he said. "The bottom line … is providing high-quality instruction."

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