Kara Busath, Monte Vista Elementary
Feb 4, 2026, 12:16 PM | Updated: Feb 17, 2026, 2:54 pm
“I would like to nominate my son’s elementary teacher for being truly exceptional. This year she has been given one of the most challenging classes, with students who often struggle with respect toward one another and toward her. Despite this, she has shown remarkable patience, grace and leadership every single day.
Rather than responding with frustration, she has focused on teaching kindness and accountability. One of the most meaningful things she implemented was a “kindness committee” thoughtfully inviting students who were struggling with unkind behavior to be part of the solution – helping them to do better without shaming or singling them out. It speaks volumes about her compassion and wisdom as an educator.
She consistently notices students who may be struggling emotionally or socially and advocates for them, and stands up for what is right, even when it is difficult. She creates a classroom environment rooted in empathy, growth and integrity, and she does all of this while handling an incredibly demanding situation with professionalism and heart.
Her impact goes far beyond academics. She is shaping character, teaching empathy and modeling what it means to lead with kindness. Our school and students are incredibly lucky to have her.”
-Jenny Olofson
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.
