Dr. RaShel Shepherd – Director of Student Success and Education Equity
The Nebo Board of Education appointed Dr. RaShel Shepherd as the Director of Student Success and Education Equity for Nebo School District.
Dr. Shepherd graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education, her master’s degree from University of Phoenix is in Educational Counseling, and her doctorate degree in Educational Leadership from Brigham Young University.
Dr. RaShel Shepherd has served as Secondary Director for the past three years and as Principal of Payson High for three years. She also served as the Principal of Mapleton Junior for five years, as Assistant Principal of Maple Mountain for three years, and Principal of Spanish Oaks Elementary for eight years. Dr. Shepherd started her teaching career in mathematics at Spanish Fork Junior for one year and then at Spanish Fork High for four years. Dr. Shepherd then became a counselor for four years for Brockbank, Barnett, and Park View Elementary schools as well as Springville High.
Dr. Shepherd was honored with the Secondary Crystal Owl Award in 2019. She was recognized by the Utah Association of Elementary School Principals as Instructional Leader of the Year in 2007. In 1999, Springville’s PTA awarded her as the Counselor of the Year. Students at Spanish Fork High selected Dr. Shepherd as the Teacher of the Year in 1994.
A colleague said, “Dr. Shepherd has a high degree of personal knowledge about the educational process and the needs of students. RaShel genuinely cares about the people she works with and works hard to create positive relationships with students, parents, and staff. RaShel celebrates and supports others and does a great job interacting with people - whether it is colleagues, staff, parents, or students. She can effectively communicate and show a genuine interest in others' well-being. RaShel is positive and looks for ways to solve difficult issues.”
RaShel’s motto is: “Always stay humble and kind,” because “Kindness has the power to change the world,” so “Have the courage to be kind.”
She stated, “I have so much gratitude and have loved mentoring and working closely with our amazing administrators. I am passionate about educational equity and connection. Education provides us with the power to change the world.”
RaShel coached city recreation programs and was involved in city clean-ups, 4-H, and high school rodeo. She enjoys riding horses, hiking, skiing, running, boating, wake-surfing, camping, and ATV riding. RaShel is married to Trent. She has six children and four step-children, and nine grandchildren.
Ryan Kay – Coordinator of Food Services
With the retirement of Spencer Sainsbury, the Nebo School Board of Education appointed Ryan Kay as the Coordinator of Food Services for Nebo School District.
Mr. Kay has served as the Human Resources Coordinator for the past six years. He was Principal of Park Elementary for four years and taught kindergarten at Brockbank and Mapleton Elementary Schools in Nebo School District and at Foothills Elementary in Jordan School District.
Mr. Kay graduated with his bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education as well as a master’s degree in Education Administration from Southern Utah University.
A colleague said, “Ryan is a champion for his students, his school, and his community. Nobody can pull a community together like Ryan. He has an energy and positivity that is contagious that spreads throughout the building. He is a dedicated member of the Nebo community that puts people first.”
Mr. Kay currently chairs the Juab County Fair Demolition Derby. He enjoys the Utah Jazz, driving demolition derby cars, NASCAR, working in the yard, and 4-wheeling.
When asked about education, Ryan said, “I cannot think of a profession that has the potential to impact lives the way educators do.”
Ryan is married to Neeley, and they have three children.
Jim Welburn – Coordinator of Human Resources
The Nebo School Board of Education appointed Jim Welburn as Coordinator of Human Resources for Nebo School District.
Jim earned his bachelor’s degree in history from Brigham Young University and his master’s degree in Education Administration from Southern Utah University and a master’s degree in School Counseling from Utah State University.
Mr. Welburn served as Coordinator of Student Services for the past five years, Principal of Salem Elementary for eight years, and as Principal of Goshen for four years. Before entering administration, Jim taught social studies, drivers education, geography, government & law, psychology, Portuguese, and was a coach and guidance counselor.
A colleague said, “Jim has integrity and enthusiasm. He is willing to listen to others and include them in the decision making process. He is very knowledgeable about his profession and is willing to take the time to help others as they grow professionally. Jim is a good role model for students. He is open minded and desires what is best for all students.”
One of Jim’s favorite quotes is by Auggie Pullman in the book Wonder: “Be kind, for everyone is fighting a hard battle. And if you really wanna see what people are, all you have to do is look.”
Jim feels fortunate he has been able to work with so many amazing people and in a career that impacts people for good. He and his wife, Traci, have four children and three grandchildren. Jim enjoys golfing, paddle boarding, traveling to warm places, and making memories with family and friends.
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