Maple Mountain Art Teacher, Jethro Gillespie, Honored Utah Teacher of the Year

Submitted by lana.hiskey on

Jethro Gillespie, art teacher at Maple Mountain High, was selected as Art Teacher of the Year by the Utah Art of Education Association after many nominations from his peers.

“I feel very honored to receive this award, especially considering how many great art teachers there are in the state. I think that I couldn't be a part of such a strong program without the support of my fellow teachers, administration, and most of all, the awesome students and their willingness to work, share, and celebrate in art class,” said Mr. Gillespie.

Mr. Gillespie has passion for art and students. He goes above and beyond normal instruction. He applied for a grant through the Nebo Education Foundation for a document camera, so he could show the students beautiful works of art to the entire class at one time. Recently, he applied for another grant for a portable art gallery so the students’ art work can be viewed and enjoyed by many in various locations.

Principal Penrod said, “I feel very fortunate to have Jethro on our staff.  He is an outstanding teacher, and his passion for art is felt throughout our building and school district.  He has the magic to make everyone feel important and a natural way of getting students to share themselves through art.  Jethro's influence in art is recognized on a state and national level, as he has been invited to serve on several art committees.   We are all very proud of Jethro and his accomplishments!”

Mr. Gillespie has been instrumental in increasing enrollment in the arts. He taught two years at Springville Junior and the last three years at Maple Mountain High since its opening in 2009.

Congratulations Mr. Gillespie!

Attributions
Lana Hiskey
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