Larsen Elementary’s “Heart” Celebrated for Creating a Culture of Kindness and Wonder
In the bustling front office of Larsen Elementary, there is a feeling that hits you the moment you walk through the doors. It’s more than just organization or efficiency—though those are present in spades. It is a sense of belonging, warmth, and genuine care. At the center of that atmosphere is Kim Head, who was recently honored as a finalist for the Nebo School District Secretary of the Year.
When Kim first stepped into her role as school secretary, she arrived with a clear mission: to ensure every student, parent, and staff member felt welcomed, seen, and comfortable. According to those who work alongside her, she hasn't just met that goal—she has surpassed it.
“Kim contributes to the positive culture and welcoming environment of our building in ways that are impossible to fully measure,” her nomination said. “She truly would do anything for the students, staff, and community at Larsen.”
A school secretary’s job is a complex balancing act of logistics, and Kim is described as being incredibly attentive to the smallest details that keep the school running smoothly. Yet, her coworkers note that she never loses sight of what matters most: the people.
Her ability to combine professional excellence with deep compassion has made the front office at Larsen more than just an administrative hub. It has become a place where students and former employees alike find themselves drawn back, simply because of the way Kim makes them feel.
Perhaps the most legendary example of Kim’s dedication is the annual Halloween transformation at Larsen. While many see it as a one-day event, for Kim, it is a year-long labor of love.
Each year, she spends hundreds of hours shopping, inventing, and planning a "secret theme." The night before Halloween, the staff stays late to transform the entire building into a magical world. When students arrive the next morning, the surprise and wonder on their faces provide the "magic" that defines the Larsen experience.
The event also brings the community together, as parents and neighbors are invited into the building for a special trick-or-treat experience with their children. When asked why she pours so much of her personal time and resources into the project, Kim’s answer is always the same: seeing the joy on the students' faces makes every minute worth it.
The nomination summed up Kim’s impact perfectly: “Kim doesn’t just work at Larsen—she helps create the magic that makes it feel like home.”
Nebo School District is proud to recognize Kim Head for her tireless dedication, her attention to detail, and, most importantly, the heart she brings to her school community every single day. Congratulations, Kim, on being a Secretary of the Year finalist!