Garrett Spalka, John F Kennedy Jr High School

“Mr. Spalka has always been an outstanding teacher. He truly cares about each of his students and gives 110% every day in order to help them achieve the level of excellence that many others don’t even give the opportunity to achieve, let alone the support necessary along the way. He works tirelessly to create and maintain a safe environment for his students and coworkers alike and is a fierce advocate for change.

When Mr. Spalka identifies an area for improvement, whether that’s equitable representation, acquiring new resources, increasing efficiency and effectiveness, or simply having a conversation with someone to manage behavior and attitude, he does not shy away from the issue. Mr. Spalka gets involved and finds a way to personally be a part of the solution. He knows that he is an integral part of not only a child’s education but also their character development; therefore, he models integrity, accountability, and initiative to help provide the best experiences for the kids in our community. He does not let others’ stigma or prejudices affect his perception of his students, and he prioritizes nurturing their sense of identity.

Mr. Spalka’s music programs continue to flourish not because he can teach music the best (although he has proved to be pretty fantastic), but because he teaches his students how to be passionate about their art, how be part of a team, and the community responds with adoration and respect for these kids that might otherwise be overlooked. Mr. Spalka is most definitely deserving of recognition for his outstanding efforts in making great music and great students in Utah!”

-Ashley S

Prior nomination, January 2024: 

“Mr. Spalka has always been an outstanding teacher. He truly cares about each of his students and gives 110% every day in order to help them achieve the level of excellence that many others don’t even give the opportunity to achieve, let alone the support necessary along the way. He works tirelessly to create and maintain a safe environment for his students and coworkers alike and is a fierce advocate for change. When Mr. Spalka identifies an area for improvement, whether that’s equitable representation, acquiring new resources, increasing efficiency and effectiveness, or simply having a conversation with someone to manage behavior and attitude, he does not shy away from the issue. Mr. Spalka gets involved and finds a way to personally be a part of the solution. He knows that he is an integral part of not only a child’s education but also their character development; therefore, he models integrity, accountability, and initiative to help provide the best experiences for the kids in our community. He does not let others’ stigma or prejudices affect his perception of his students, and he prioritizes nurturing their sense of identity. Mr. Spalka’s music programs continue to flourish not because he can teach music the best (although he has proved to be pretty fantastic), but because he teaches his students how to be passionate about their art, how be part of a team, and the community responds with adoration and respect for these kids that might otherwise be overlooked. Mr. Spalka is most definitely deserving of recognition for his outstanding efforts in making great music and great students in Utah! – Ashley

About Teacher Features on KSL NewsRadio

Teachers are the backbone of our community, and at KSL NewsRadio, we want to highlight the hard work they put in to help their students. 

Do you know a teacher that goes above and beyond? Nominate them today by letting us know how incredible they are, attach their photo, and they’ll have the chance to win a huge prize totaling over $1,000!  

Teacher Feature prizes are generously sponsored by the folks at Cyprus Credit Union, who are dedicated to honoring Utah teachers and uplifting the incredible ways that educators go above and beyond every day.

See past nominations of teachers across the state, and read the official sweepstakes rules here.