The anticipation is palpable in Ogden, UT as the Ogden School District prepares to award this year’s Teacher of the Year. But this isn’t just another award ceremony – it’s a celebration of dedication and impact, resulting in a life-changing surprise.
To be named the recipient of this prestigious honor, a teacher must exemplify the qualities their peers and community value, as demonstrated through nominations for the annual Excellence in Teacher and Achieving Higher awards programs. These educators have a proven positive impact on students and a clear commitment to excellence in education. Any of the nearly 600 teachers in the Ogden School District are eligible to receive this award.
As part of the recognition, the selected teacher receives a one-year lease on a brand-new Mazda vehicle, gas and insurance included, thanks to the generous support of Goldenwest Credit Union, the school district, and the team at Young Mazda.
Winner's Reactions
While Teacher of the Year is now an acclaimed award in the district, when middle school teacher Levi Andersen was named the first-ever winner in 2023, he was in shock – first, for being named Teacher of the Year and then, for his new vehicle lease.
“I’m still in shock right now,” said Andersen in reflecting on his recognition. “I have three kids and it’s [his vehicle] big enough for all of them. It’s amazing.”
Kim Pickett, 2024 Teacher of the Year recipient, was equally as surprised and grateful for the recognition.
"Any support teachers can get from outside the community is so welcomed and appreciated,” said Pickett. “As long as you say, 'thank you' and that we’re appreciated, it makes our heart happy… It’s so welcome and appreciated. To have organizations actually give back is incredible. To get cars, that’s crazy.”
Schools Rally Around Their Teachers
Announcing Teacher of the Year is always a spectacle for both the teachers and the students. When Andersen was awarded and learned about his new vehicle lease, Young Mazda general manager, Ryan Albert, recalls the junior high auditorium felt more like a “rock concert” than a school. Similarly, the entire school, from kindergarteners to sixth graders, was excited when Pickett received her award.
Now, anticipation builds as the community awaits the end of the school year and the May announcement of the deserving 2025 recipient.
"Teachers don’t get the appreciation that they deserve," Albert said. "I mean, they're growing our future, right? So, how can we not support that? In some ways, they have more influence on kids' lives and how kids, you know, mature and grow.”
Regardless of who receives the award this year, Young Mazda's initiative has ignited a genuine outpouring of support and a renewed sense of appreciation for teachers within the community. This collective appreciation is a powerful testament to the value of educators and their impact on students' lives and their communities.
The 2025 Teacher of the Year award will be given in May, so stay tuned to learn more about this year’s deserving teacher.
