🍎 Teachers Matter: Honoring Those Who Shape Us

Teachers Matter

Everyone can recall their favorite teacher—someone who taught a skill, inspired growth, or believed in them when they didn’t believe in themselves.

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For me, it was Mary Neiman at Olympus High School in Salt Lake City. I had Mrs. Neiman for College English as a junior and AP English as a senior. I can’t pinpoint exactly how she worked her magic, but I still smile at her memory and use the skills she so patiently taught me.

Lessons That Last a Lifetime

Writing didn’t come easily to me. I may hold the unofficial record for most cross-outs on a paper! I graduated in 1976—long before personal computers—and we wrote essays with paper and pencil. I remember frantically scribbling in the margins of my timed essays as the clock ticked down. Somehow, Mrs. Neiman made sense of it all and left thoughtful red-inked comments that encouraged me to improve.

The first time I earned a “4” on an AP essay, she was nearly as excited as I was. Her belief in me changed the trajectory of my confidence. Even today, I silently thank her every time I write—though my delete key has seen far more use than my pencil ever did.

Gratitude That Endures

In 1994, I brought my youngest daughter to Olympus High to thank Mrs. Neiman in person. My daughter, then four, tugged at my arm, letting me know I was talking too long. But I had to express my gratitude. Mrs. Neiman passed away in 2007, but her legacy lives on.

Full Circle: From Student to Teacher

When I retired from teaching in May 2024, I saw firsthand how impactful educators can be. Former students came to say goodbye, and I was flooded with appreciation. The love and joy I experienced was overwhelming. What people may not realize is that the impact flows both ways. I gave to my students—but I received even more in return.

This 40-second video of me and my students singing our goodbye song captures that emotion perfectly:

Envisioning the Aspen Peaks School District

I imagine a school district where teachers are empowered to thrive—not just survive. Every child deserves a favorite teacher who helps change their life for the better. That requires leadership that understands the classroom and fights for it.

Join Me in Building Something Remarkable

This isn’t just a campaign. It’s a commitment.

If you believe in classroom-first leadership and a school system that values parents and empowers educators, I ask for your support.

Vote Diane Knight for School Board Seat 1.
Let’s build a district where every child has the chance to shine.