Gail Ballew, Bountiful Jr High

“Gail Ballew is a science teacher at Bountiful Jr High. Ranging from 2011 to 2022 all five of my children have had her for 7th grade science. I have wanted to nominate her before, but hesitated until all of my children completed her class so as not to appear disingenuous. Ms Ballew has a passion for science, but also a passion for teaching, and for student success. During Covid, she helped my then 7th grade son feel less overwhelmed with the homeschool assignments, during my oldest child’s 7th grade year she encouraged and helped her feel confident in the honors class, as well as participate in an extra-curricular team activity group. All five of my children still talk about Ms Ballew and the impact she had on them; though she may seem strict and no-nonsense at times, her passion and love for science, teaching, and her students shines through. It has been a true pleasure as a parent to have had each child go through her 7th grade science class. We are almost a year out since any family member has been in one of Ms Ballew’s class–yet she is still talked about in our home–perhaps that is what stands out the most. Gail Ballew has left an impression months and years later as a stand-out teacher in my children’s educational experience. What more could a parent ask for?”

-Tiffany Sowby