Elementary Principals Appointed for 2012-13

Submitted by lana.hiskey on

Daryl Fluckiger – Wilson Principal
The Nebo School Board of Education appointed Daryl Fluckiger as the principal for Wilson Elementary. Daryl received his Bachelor’s of Education from Brigham Young University Idaho and his Master’s of Educational Leadership from Brigham Young University. He has worked in Nebo School District for four years and in another district for two years.

Mr. Fluckiger taught fourth grade at Jefferson Elementary in Rigby Idaho for two years, fifth grade at Art City for two years, and fifth grade at Hobble Creek for two years. Mr. Fluckiger’s fifth-grade team was acknowledged as “Peak Performers” in Nebo School District.

Principal Dave Rowe said, “I have known Daryl for the last four years in my role as principal. I appreciate his mature perspective, his knowledge of effective collaboration, and his skills as a team player and leader. Daryl understands the big picture and the principles of PLCs. He adds incredible value to the organization. Daryl sees others’ strengths and helps them maximize their potential. He will make an excellent instructional leader and principal.”

Daryl said, “I have been blessed to work at two exceptional schools in Nebo School District. The people I have associated with have been remarkable. A big thank you to my grade-level teams, especially Tammy Strunk who knows what education is all about and gives her heart to the children and school. Also, I want to thank my current principal, David Rowe, who has mentored me and given me a true understanding of how to implement positive change within a school. They have both been remarkable examples to me.”

Daryl enjoys sports, building construction, motorcycles, and cars.

Ryan Murray – Orchard Hills Principal
The Nebo School Board of Education appointed Ryan Murray as the principal of Orchard Hills Elementary in Santaquin. Ryan received his Bachelor’s of Business Management from Brigham Young University, his Master’s of Educational Leadership from Brigham Young University, and his Master’s of Elementary Education from University of Phoenix. He has worked in Nebo School District for eight years. He taught at Rees and Brockbank Elementary and Springville High School.

Mr. Murray was selected as Teacher of the Year for Brockbank Elementary by the PTA. He has served as building computer specialist and member of the School Community Council as well as team leader for the sixth-grade team and the second-grade team. Mr. Murray worked with the Utah State Office of Education and Utah State University to create lesson plans. He trained teachers throughout Utah in the subjects of science and mathematics. He is ESL endorsed.

Principal Alison Hansen said, “I have been impressed with Ryan’s dedication and enthusiasm for the education profession.  Foremost, Ryan is an outstanding teacher which will enable him to become an equally strong instructional leader. He is willing to extend himself professionally. Many, many teachers have expressed their sincere appreciation for Ryan helping them with their computers. He is willing to voice his opinion as well as accept suggestions and feedback. Ryan positively impacts whatever team he is on. He has a well-deserved reputation of being motivating, honest, cheerful, and fun.”           

Mr. Murray’s motto comes from Randy Pausch, “The brick walls are not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something.” He also stated, “I want to thank Rick Nielsen, Julie Warren, and the Nebo School District Board of Education.”

Ryan enjoys golfing, fishing, camping with family, and going to Disneyland. He is married to Julia, and they have three children.

Lynette DeGraffenried – Goshen Principal
The Nebo School Board of Education appointed Lynette DeGraffenried as the principal of Goshen Elementary. Lynette received her Bachelor’s of Science from Utah Valley State College and her Master’s of Educational Leadership from Brigham Young University. Mrs. DeGraffenried was Wilson’s Teacher of the Year and selected by Nebo’s Reading Council as Reading Teacher of the Year. She has served as a Cradled in Literacy Instructor.

Principal Chad Argyle said, “Lynette is a person of integrity. She demonstrates dedication and a passion for learning. She takes the initiate to involve, inform, and train parents of students who struggle. Lynette’s commitment to education, genuine concern for others, and the ability to collaborate with a school community truly make her a remarkable leader.”

Mrs. DeGraffenried’s motto includes: “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” William Butler Yeats said, “I love to see a child’s eyes light up when he is learning new things. It opens the doors to life-long learning.” Lynette said, “I am thankful for all of my mentors throughout my years in Nebo School District. With each new opportunity, I have learned from each of them how to be a better teacher and a better person. My husband, John, and my children have been my biggest supporters. They have always encouraged me in my goals. I am excited to be a part of the Goshen Elementary Family. It will be a wonderful journey as we work together to ensure all students achieve at high levels.”

Lynette loves spending time with my family, especially by grandchildren. She loves to read and is exciting to start a new quilting class and learn this new skill. Lynette is married to John, and they have four children and six grandchildren.

Mike Duncan – Cherry Creek Principal
The Nebo School Board of Education appointed Mike Duncan as the principal of Cherry Creek in Springville. Mike received his Bachelor’s of Education from Utah Valley University and his Master’s of Education and Administrative Endorsement from Southern Utah University.

Mr. Duncan has worked in Nebo District for eight years. He taught fourth grade and fifth grade for three years, both at Sage Creek. He was staff developer at Park Elementary for two years. Mr. Duncan coaches youth athletics. He was selected as Sage Creek’s Crystal Apple Recipient in 2007-08.

Principal Natalie Call said, “Mike is innovative, people-oriented, and seeks to learn from others. He is a talented individual with the ability to overcome obstacles and look for positive solutions to problems that would thwart a less determined person. Mike is successful in establishing a genuine and positive relationship with those he teaches and with those he works. He consistently shows exceptional management techniques with some of our most difficult students.”

Mike’s motto is “I will. I can. I am.” He thanked Natalie Call for giving him the chance as a young educator. Mike said, “I am thrilled to be a part of the Cherry Creek family. I look forward to working with the parents, teachers, students, and staff at Cherry Creek.

Mike enjoys hunting, fishing, sports, and movies. He is married to Kellie, and they have four children.

Keri Huntsman – Foothills Principal
The Nebo School Board of Education appointed Keri Huntsman as the principal of Foothills in Salem. Keri received her Bachelor’s of Education from University of Alaska and her Master’s of Education and Administrative Endorsement from Southern Utah University.  She has worked in Nebo District for 22 years and taught kindergarten for 3 years and first grade 11 years. She also worked as a clinical faculty associate for BYU for 4 years and as an intern coach for UVU for 3 years.

Mrs. Huntsman was selected as Walmart Teacher of the Year in 2005 and Teacher of the Year for Spanish Oaks Elementary in 2004. She has been involved with National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, Utah Music Educators Association, International Reading Association, National Association of Early Childhood Teacher Educators, and National Education Association.

Principal RaShel Anderson said, “Keri is an outstanding leader. She relates well to students, teachers, and staff. She has a vast amount of leadership experience including BYU’s and Nebo’s Early Childhood Certified Faculty Advisor. Keri provides a positive classroom culture and sets up clear expectations and has outstanding classroom management. She is an excellent mentor and an authority on balanced literacy.”

Mrs. Huntsman’s motto is: “Good is the enemy of Great!”  She also stated that Chad Argyle, principal of Santaquin Elementary, taught her to never be satisfied with good when you can be great! “Thanks Chad.”

Keri enjoys gardening, crafts, piano, and sports. She is married to Doug, and they have 6 children and 12 grandchildren.

Lisa Muirbrook – Riverview Principal
The Nebo School Board of Education appointed Lisa Muirbrook as the principal of Riverview in Spanish Fork. Lisa received her Bachelor’s of Education from Brigham Young University and her Master’s of Education and Administrative Endorsement from Southern Utah University.

Mrs. Lisa Muirbrook recently served her internship at Maple Mountain High and Park Elementary. She has taught third grade at Brockbank since 2001 where she was also the reading recovery teacher. She also had the opportunity to teach third grade at Wilson for one year, fourth and second grade at Sage Creek for three years, and fourth grade at Grant for two separate years. Lisa has served as co-facilitator for developing mathematics at BYU and is reading recovery trained and certified. She is also ESL endorsed.

Principal John Penrod said, “I found that Mrs. Muirbrook demonstrates the talent, skill, and ability to be an outstanding administrator in both elementary and secondary schools, bringing with her a rich background of knowledge and experience. She possesses a talent for working with others, helping them to feel important and relaxed, while working to create a positive learning environment for both students and teachers.”

Lisa’s motto is “I believe every student matters–whether they are a struggling student or gifted student. Each student deserves all we have to offer. Individuals matter!”

Lisa enjoys reading, cooking, and traveling to sunny beaches. She is married to Ladd, and they have four children and two grandchildren.

Michael Johnson – Hobble Creek Principal
The Nebo School Board of Education appointed Mike Johnson as the principal of Hobble Creek in Mapleton. Mike received his Bachelor’s of Education from Brigham Young University and his Master’s of Education and Administrative Endorsement from Southern Utah University. Mr. Johnson has worked for Nebo District for 18 years. He taught third grade for four years, fifth grade for eight years, and has been the principal of Larsen Elementary in Spanish Fork for six years.

Mr. Johnson was named Rookie Principal of the Year in 2009 by the Utah Association of Elementary Principals.

Curriculum Director Nedra Call said, “Michael displays great ability to organize and carry out the day-to-day operations. He can present ideas in an energetic and positive way. Michael is a leader with a vision and goals and has great rapport with his faculty and staff.”

Mr. Johnson said, “It is an honor to work for Nebo School District.  What a unique place where I am mentored by amazing colleagues, get to interact with wonderful students and parents, and work alongside dedicated adults who truly put children first.”

Mike enjoys running, traveling, music, and spending time with his family. He is married to Diana, and they have two children.

Garrett Andersen – Larsen Principal
The Nebo School Board of Education appointed Garrett Andersen as the principal of Larsen Elementary in Spanish Fork. Garrett received his Bachelor’s of Education from Brigham Young University and his Master’s of Education and Administrative Endorsement from Southern Utah University. Mr. Andersen has worked for Nebo District for seven years. He taught fourth grade for two years, sixth grade for four years, and served as a mentor facilitator for one year.

Mr. Andersen received the Crystal Apple Award. He coaches youth sports, advises 4-H, and is a Fiesta Days volunteer.

Principal Dwight Liddiard said, “Mr. Andersen is an outstanding teacher with great potential for administration.  He is a true master at whatever he undertakes. Garrett is a natural leader and works with others and motives them to do their best. Dedication and commitment describe Garrett. He is never idle and understands the big picture. He is a delight to be around and is willing to do what needs to be done.”
                                   
Mr. Andersen said, “I am grateful for the example of my parents, G. Wayne and Melanie Andersen for all their support. Thank you to my mentor and principal, Dwight Liddiard. He has given me many opportunities to lead and to learn from his leadership qualities. If is wasn’t for the support of my loving wife, Stephanie, and my children, none of this would be possible.”

Garrett enjoys playing sports, running, hunting, and spending time in the outdoors. He is married to Stephanie, and they have three children.

Garrett also said, “I grew up and have lived in Spanish Fork and Nebo School District for all my 35 years of life. I am a direct product of Nebo School District and the educational opportunities that it provides. I enjoy teaching and helping kids reach their full potential and look forward to the opportunity to work with the faculty, staff, parents, and students at Larsen Elementary.”

Attributions
Lana Hiskey