The Nebo School Board of Education is pleased to announce the appointment of Tona Graff as the new Principal of Spanish Fork High School, effective July 1, 2026.
Tona brings an extensive 32-year career within the Nebo School District to this leadership role. A veteran educator and coach, she has spent over three decades dedicated to student success and academic excellence.
Tona’s career is defined by her deep roots in the classroom and on the sidelines. She spent 23 years as a math teacher at Payson High School, where she also served as a coach for twenty years. Her transition into administration includes:
Dean of Students: Payson High School (2 years)
Assistant Principal: Springville High School (4 years)
Principal: Mapleton Junior High (3 years)
Tona holds both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Math Education from Brigham Young University, as well as a School Leadership Endorsement from Southern Utah University.
Her impact on the community has been recognized through several prestigious honors:
2005: Nebo School District Teacher of the Year
2007: Most Influential Teacher (Payson High School)
Colleagues praise Tona for her ability to balance high academic standards with genuine care for her students.
“Tona is an amazing leader... she has changed students’ lives through her ability to teach, coach, and her genuine care and concern for them," shared a colleague. "She has led Mapleton Junior High to new heights, and I know she will continue to change the world, one student at a time.”
Tona’s personal philosophy centers on the power of "collective efficacy"—the belief that all students can learn and all teachers can make a lasting impact.
Outside of her professional life, Tona is an avid outdoors enthusiast who enjoys boating, golfing, traveling, and working around the house. She finds inspiration in the words of Brené Brown:
"Imperfections are not inadequacies; they are reminders that we’re all in this together."
"I love this quote because it reminds me to look for the best in others," Tona shared. Upon her appointment, she added: "It has been a privilege to serve the community of Mapleton. I am grateful for the friendships I’ve made with the faculty, staff, and student body. Thank you for making me a part of your community."