Are you ready to Outwit, Outlast, and Outplay this school year?
Join us for IncludEd in Schools 2026, hosted by IncludEd United, as we turn the challenges of education into a Survivor-style adventure in resilience, teamwork, and innovation.
This year’s theme — SURVIVOR — brings the island to the classroom, reminding educators that thriving in today’s environment takes courage, creativity, and community. From hidden immunity idols (coping strategies) to tribal alliances (your support networks), you’ll leave equipped with tools to navigate stress, spark collaboration, and reignite your purpose in teaching.
Featuring a POWERFUL keynote from the Queen of Survivor, Parvati Shallow, a panel from Survivor China Winner: Todd Herzog and Survivor player Leslie Nease, and breakout sessions from Classroom teachers and Educational Leaders across Utah, this day of inspiration, professional learning, and connection will challenge you to reflect, rebuild, and rise together.
You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you’ll rediscover why you’re still standing strong — torch in hand, heart on fire, and ready for whatever comes next.
If you have any questions about IncludEd in Schools, please email: [email protected].
Join us for IncludEd in Schools 2026, hosted by IncludEd United, as we turn the challenges of education into a Survivor-style adventure in resilience, teamwork, and innovation.
This year’s theme — SURVIVOR — brings the island to the classroom, reminding educators that thriving in today’s environment takes courage, creativity, and community. From hidden immunity idols (coping strategies) to tribal alliances (your support networks), you’ll leave equipped with tools to navigate stress, spark collaboration, and reignite your purpose in teaching.
Featuring a POWERFUL keynote from the Queen of Survivor, Parvati Shallow, a panel from Survivor China Winner: Todd Herzog and Survivor player Leslie Nease, and breakout sessions from Classroom teachers and Educational Leaders across Utah, this day of inspiration, professional learning, and connection will challenge you to reflect, rebuild, and rise together.
You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you’ll rediscover why you’re still standing strong — torch in hand, heart on fire, and ready for whatever comes next.
If you have any questions about IncludEd in Schools, please email: [email protected].
Location
Westminster University
1840 S 1300 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
1840 S 1300 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Date & Time
January 10, 2026, 8:00 AM
Schedule
8:00 AM
Registration Opens - Coffee and Conversation with Community Partners
9:00 AM
Rekindling the Flame Panel
10:00 AM
Todd Herzog and Leslie Nease
11:15 AM
Breakout Sessions #1
12:15 PM
Lunch
1:15 PM
Breakout Sessions #2
2:30 PM
Breakout Sessions #3
4:00 PM
Keynote: Parvati Shallow
5:00 PM
Final Tribal Council: Educational Equity Champions Awards
5:15 PM
After Conference Reception
Breakout Sessions + Mini Immunity Challenges
Outwit Stress: Sip and Spill Tea
Tribal Council — The Power of Reflective Conversations
Alliances That Last — Building Supportive Teacher Communities
Immunity Idol — Protecting Your Boundaries
Survivor Challenges — Problem-Solving Under Pressure
The Reward Challenge — Prioritizing Self-Care
Surviving Misinformation — Guiding Educators Through Confusion
Outlast the Storm — Coping with Demoralization
The Merge — Partnering with Families and Communities
The Reale Challenge: Surviving Engagement Fatigue
Tribal Council — The Power of Reflective Conversations
Alliances That Last — Building Supportive Teacher Communities
Immunity Idol — Protecting Your Boundaries
Survivor Challenges — Problem-Solving Under Pressure
The Reward Challenge — Prioritizing Self-Care
Surviving Misinformation — Guiding Educators Through Confusion
Outlast the Storm — Coping with Demoralization
The Merge — Partnering with Families and Communities
The Reale Challenge: Surviving Engagement Fatigue
Speakers
Parvati Shallow
Parvati Shallow
Parvati Shallow is a cultural icon, mother, and one of the most influential figures in reality television. Best known as a five-time competitor on the hit series Survivor and breakout star of The Traitors on Peacock, Parvati is widely recognized for her gameplay, charisma, and ability to connect with audiences. What sets her apart is not just her legacy in competition-based television, but her evolution beyond it into a storyteller, healer, and now, author.
Her debut memoir, Nice Girls Don’t Win: How I Burned It All Down to Reclaim My Power, was published on July 8 by The Dial Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House. In this raw and deeply personal book, Parvati traces her journey from early fame at 25 as the $1 million winner of Survivor: Micronesia – Fans vs. Favorites, through the emotional aftermath of fame, trauma, and grief. She opens up about losing her younger brother, enduring a difficult divorce, and confronting the shadows of her past in order to reclaim her strength and identity. The book also chronicles her unconventional upbringing in a Florida commune, her early career hustle in LA casting rooms, and the intense landscapes of Survivor, where she built, and sometimes battled, her public persona.
Parvati’s television career began on Survivor: Cook Islands in 2006, where she quickly became a standout for her charm and competitive spirit. She solidified her place in reality TV history with her win on Micronesia – Fans vs. Favorites, and continued to earn acclaim in Heroes vs. Villains and Winners at War. Her recent appearance in Season Two of The Traitors US brought her to a new generation of fans, showcasing the same social savvy and strategy that made her a fan favorite.
This year, Parvati became a 2x Survivor winner on the highly celebrated Survivor Australia v The World. She recently placed fourth on NBC’s Deal or No Deal Island, bringing her charm to a new format that merges high-stakes decision-making with tropical intrigue. Fans were also excited to see her return to The Traitors' castle for a surprise appearance in the series’ third season.
In addition to her illustrious career in reality television, Parvati holds advanced certifications in yoga, meditation, and breathwork, and is a passionate student of healing and therapeutic practices. Her training spans structural integration, Somatic Experiencing, acupuncture, nutrition, sound healing, hypnotherapy, IRF, and IFS. This commitment to holistic wellness is a central part of her life and voice today.
Her debut memoir, Nice Girls Don’t Win: How I Burned It All Down to Reclaim My Power, was published on July 8 by The Dial Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House. In this raw and deeply personal book, Parvati traces her journey from early fame at 25 as the $1 million winner of Survivor: Micronesia – Fans vs. Favorites, through the emotional aftermath of fame, trauma, and grief. She opens up about losing her younger brother, enduring a difficult divorce, and confronting the shadows of her past in order to reclaim her strength and identity. The book also chronicles her unconventional upbringing in a Florida commune, her early career hustle in LA casting rooms, and the intense landscapes of Survivor, where she built, and sometimes battled, her public persona.
Parvati’s television career began on Survivor: Cook Islands in 2006, where she quickly became a standout for her charm and competitive spirit. She solidified her place in reality TV history with her win on Micronesia – Fans vs. Favorites, and continued to earn acclaim in Heroes vs. Villains and Winners at War. Her recent appearance in Season Two of The Traitors US brought her to a new generation of fans, showcasing the same social savvy and strategy that made her a fan favorite.
This year, Parvati became a 2x Survivor winner on the highly celebrated Survivor Australia v The World. She recently placed fourth on NBC’s Deal or No Deal Island, bringing her charm to a new format that merges high-stakes decision-making with tropical intrigue. Fans were also excited to see her return to The Traitors' castle for a surprise appearance in the series’ third season.
In addition to her illustrious career in reality television, Parvati holds advanced certifications in yoga, meditation, and breathwork, and is a passionate student of healing and therapeutic practices. Her training spans structural integration, Somatic Experiencing, acupuncture, nutrition, sound healing, hypnotherapy, IRF, and IFS. This commitment to holistic wellness is a central part of her life and voice today.
Todd Herzog
Survivor China
Todd Herzog is best known as the winner of Survivor China (Season 15), where his sharp strategy, authenticity, and emotional intelligence earned him the title of Sole Survivor and a $1 million prize. A native of Utah and former flight attendant, Todd’s story extends far beyond reality TV. After facing and overcoming personal challenges with addiction, he has become an inspiring voice for resilience, self-discovery, and redemption. Today, Todd speaks with honesty, humor, and heart about what it means to rebuild your life, embrace vulnerability, and live authentically. Todd is also the Co-Host of Beyond the Torch with his fellow tribe-mate, Leslie Nease, where they chat with former castaways of Survivor about their lives, experiences, and what the show taught them about their lives.
Leslie Nease
Survivor: China
Leslie Nease is a former Survivor: China castaway who is now a Life & Faith Transitions Coach, author, and podcast host. After decades in evangelical spaces as a Christian Radio Host, Speaker and writer, Leslie embarked on a transformative season of deconstruction, where she began to question her beliefs and figure out what felt real to her. Leslie now helps others navigate spiritual and personal transitions with compassion, curiosity, and courage. She is the author of Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian and host of Honoring the Journey Podcast and the co-host of Beyond the Torch Podcast. Through her coaching, writing, and speaking, Leslie empowers others to release fear, rediscover freedom, and find peace in who they’re becoming.
Rep. John Arthur
John Arthur is a National Board Certified Teacher, the 2021 Utah Teacher of the Year, a National Teacher of the Year Finalist, and the author of The Digital Projects Playbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Empowering Students as Creators. He is also the Co-Director of the Teacher Fellows, a nonprofit dedicated to developing the next generation of Utah teacher leaders, as well as Director of Candidate Recruitment for the Utah National Board Coalition. John Arthur serves on the Board of Directors for IncludEd United, the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, WestEd, SpyHop, and Voices for Utah Children. John is a new member of the Utah House of Representatives serving District 41.
Anna Bessesen
Anna Bessesen (they/them) started their now fourteen-year teaching career as a junior high math teacher in Granite School District. After eight years at the junior high, they moved on to teach high school math before transitioning to teaching computer science. Anna was a Pat Kelly scholar at their undergraduate institution of Pomona College where they graduated in 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics. They were also a University of Utah SMART Fellow and graduated with a Master of Science in Mathematics Education in 2015. They believe that their job as an educator is to create an environment that supports students in achieving their goals by respecting the backgrounds, knowledge, and capacities that students and other educators bring to the educational system. Education only improves when we work together to evolve.
Tabitha Bishop
Tabitha brings extensive experience in the K–12 space, having worked in both public education and the nonprofit sector to design and implement programs that support students, educators, and school systems. Her background includes leading collaborative initiatives, managing education-focused grants, and building strong community partnerships. She has nearly two decades of teacher leadership experience as a special education teacher, mentor, nonprofit leader, and working for the USBE.
Yvette Romero Coronado
Yvette Romero Coronado (she/her) is the granddaughter and daughter of Mexican migrants, farmworkers, dreamers, home remedy makers, and people who talk to their plants. She draws on the wisdom of her ancestors to become a good ancestor and to be a loving and responsible guest on the enduring lands of the Eastern Shoshone, Goshute, Piute, and Ute peoples. She loves tea, spending time with loved ones sharing stories, and being in nature.
Yvette is a bilingual (Spanish/English) and multicultural Licensed Clinical Social Worker. For over 20 years, Yvette has worked alongside communities to build systems and programs that prioritize access, belonging, equity, and well-being.
Yvette is a bilingual (Spanish/English) and multicultural Licensed Clinical Social Worker. For over 20 years, Yvette has worked alongside communities to build systems and programs that prioritize access, belonging, equity, and well-being.
Amanda Darrow
Amanda Darrow (she/her) is the Executive Director of IncludEd United, where she leads statewide efforts to spark inclusive, equitable, and empowering learning environments for every student and educator. With a background in both elementary and higher education, Amanda brings both heart and expertise to her work that is driven by her research on how classroom climates impact LGBTQ+ students and her passion for ensuring all young people can see themselves reflected in their schools.
Amanda works alongside educators, schools, organizations, and community partners across Utah and beyond to fuel real change through dynamic professional learning, inclusion training, and advocacy. Her impact has been recognized with Westminster College’s 2023 Martin Luther King Jr. Unsung Hero Alumni Award and her induction into the Utah Nonprofit Association’s Hall of Fame. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy at the University of Utah.
Amanda works alongside educators, schools, organizations, and community partners across Utah and beyond to fuel real change through dynamic professional learning, inclusion training, and advocacy. Her impact has been recognized with Westminster College’s 2023 Martin Luther King Jr. Unsung Hero Alumni Award and her induction into the Utah Nonprofit Association’s Hall of Fame. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy at the University of Utah.
Dr. Leah Davis
Dr. Leah Davis, Culture and Diversity Specialist for Jordan School District, has contributed to public education at the school, district, and university level within Utah. She holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, an M.A. in Multilingual Education, and a B.A. in Social Sciences Teaching. Currently, she serves on the IncludEd United Board and is also the President-Elect of the Utah National Association of Multicultural Education.
Dr. Sean Edwards
Sean Edwards is a passionate educator and currently serves as a middle school principal. His career in education spans multiple roles, including elementary school principal, high school vice principal, instructional coach, special education teacher, and instructional assistant. He holds a Doctorate in Education Leadership and Policy from the University of Utah, completed his Administration Certificate at Utah State University, and holds both a master’s degree and bachelor’s degree in special education from Brigham Young University. Recently, Sean competed as a castaway on Season 45 of the CBS reality television series Survivor. He is excited to join and engage with the educator community at IncludEd United!
Susie Estrada
Susie Estrada is a dynamic, humorous, and charismatic professional with over 17 years of experience in education and youth development. Susie currently works with the Utah State Board of Education as the Family and Community Engagement Specialist and has had many other roles through community work, teaching in the early childhood setting and inclusive settings, gang prevention and intervention, out-of-school time program, supervision and mentoring, policy, ELL support, curriculum development, and more! As an NAA 2020 Next Generation of Leaders award recipient, Susie has a proven track record with innovation, effective partnerships, and inclusion of all community voices.
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Jamie Valerio-Figueroa
Jamie Valerio-Figueroa Jamie Valerio-Figueroa (She/her/ella) is the proud daughter of Mexican migrants and a 1st generation college graduate. She is currently a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Colibri Counseling Center. She also teaches at the University of Utah as an associate professor in the College of Social Work. For almost 10 years, she worked in K-12 settings as a School Social Worker, Educator, Mentor, and Leader primarily with Title I schools, marginalized students and Spanish speaking families. She is well versed with all tiers of support for students, families and teachers, and believes the connection between families and schools, is key to helping the whole child. She is a fierce advocate of linguistic and diverse representation in educational institutions, and is passionate about family engagement with schools to help families reduce the stigma around mental health. She is devoted to early intervention of suicide prevention and advocates for the accessibility of mental health support in all public schools. Prior to working in K-12 schools, she worked with juvenile justice and youth gang prevention, as well as served in multiple roles supporting military families, survivors of abuse, and non-profit settings with children & teens. She is a Council on Social Work Education Minority Fellow Alumni and the recipient of the State of California Senate Recognition Award and U.S. President's Volunteer Award. She holds a Master's in Social Work from the University of Southern California and holds a Professional License and LCSW in both the states of Utah and California.
Kirsten Federico
Kirsten Federico is an experienced and passionate educator in her eighth year of teaching,
currently serving as a kindergarten teacher. Over the course of her career, she has also taught 4th
grade, 5th grade, and STEAM education, inspiring students to explore, create, and problem-solve
through hands-on, project-based learning. She is dedicated to building inclusive classroom
communities where every student feels welcomed, valued, and part of a supportive classroom
family, and she loves witnessing the incredible growth that occurs in her kinders as they develop
into confident, capable young learners throughout the year. Kirsten is pursuing her Doctorate in
Leadership and Policy at the University of Utah, focusing her research on the effects of teacher
surplus and how staffing structures impact schools, educators, and students. She is a proud
recipient of the Excel Award in Education and actively shares her expertise and passion for
teaching through conference presentations and professional learning opportunities for fellow
educators. Outside of the classroom, Kirsten enjoys spending time with her family, camping, and
exploring the outdoors, and she brings the same curiosity, joy, and energy to her teaching that she
nurtures in her students every day.
currently serving as a kindergarten teacher. Over the course of her career, she has also taught 4th
grade, 5th grade, and STEAM education, inspiring students to explore, create, and problem-solve
through hands-on, project-based learning. She is dedicated to building inclusive classroom
communities where every student feels welcomed, valued, and part of a supportive classroom
family, and she loves witnessing the incredible growth that occurs in her kinders as they develop
into confident, capable young learners throughout the year. Kirsten is pursuing her Doctorate in
Leadership and Policy at the University of Utah, focusing her research on the effects of teacher
surplus and how staffing structures impact schools, educators, and students. She is a proud
recipient of the Excel Award in Education and actively shares her expertise and passion for
teaching through conference presentations and professional learning opportunities for fellow
educators. Outside of the classroom, Kirsten enjoys spending time with her family, camping, and
exploring the outdoors, and she brings the same curiosity, joy, and energy to her teaching that she
nurtures in her students every day.
Maximillian (Max) Gonzales
Maximillian (Max) Gonzales is an IT Project Manager at the Utah Education Network with a strong passion for digital access, usability, and inclusive learning environments. With a background that spans both creative design and systems leadership, Max brings clarity and alignment to complex technology initiatives, always focused on the people behind the screens. As a founding board member of IncludEd United, he is deeply committed to the mission of building inclusive, equitable, and respectful educational spaces for all.
Dr. Madeline Hafner
Madeline Hafner is a clinical faculty member in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at the University of Utah. Dr. Hafner brings over 30 years of teaching, research, leadership, service, and advocacy to her role as the Director of the department’s K12 EdD Program. Prior to her current position, Dr. Hafner was an Associate Scientist at the Wisconsin Center for Education Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she served as the director of a national research-practice partnership focused on reducing racial inequality in U.S. schools. In addition to designing and implementing high quality research studies, she coached, advised, and provided technical assistance to superintendents and other senior-level school leaders in many of the nation’s highest performing school districts. Dr. Hafner has served as a regional and national consultant with organizations such as the American Institutes of Research and the Strategic Education Research Partnership (SERP) where she collaborated with researchers and practitioners to translate social science research into practical solutions in support of a shared vision of equity and inclusion across PK16 educational settings. Dr. Hafner holds an M.S. in Special Education and Ph.D. in Educational Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Rep. Sahara Hayes
Representative Sahara Hayes is a lifelong Utahn who has the pleasure of growing up in the district where she now serves. After graduating from Westminster College she earned her Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Utah, where she developed a taste for public policy and a desire to help change Utah for the better.
After seeing the debates in Utah’s legislature on reproductive healthcare and the treatment of transgender youth, Sahara was driven to run for office. Her top priorities include increasing access to mental health resources for students, protecting the environment, and advocating for LGBTQ+ youth and their families. Her guiding principle is ensuring that constituent’s voices are heard and represented on Capitol Hill.
Outside of politics Sahara is a grant writer who works in the local government and nonprofit sectors. She previously served on the Millcreek Community Council and the Board of Directors for the Utah Cultural Celebration Center Foundation. She is an avid reader, hiker, and knitter, and she enjoys taking aerial arts classes. She resides in Millcreek with her partner, Lily, and a small pack of beloved pets.
After seeing the debates in Utah’s legislature on reproductive healthcare and the treatment of transgender youth, Sahara was driven to run for office. Her top priorities include increasing access to mental health resources for students, protecting the environment, and advocating for LGBTQ+ youth and their families. Her guiding principle is ensuring that constituent’s voices are heard and represented on Capitol Hill.
Outside of politics Sahara is a grant writer who works in the local government and nonprofit sectors. She previously served on the Millcreek Community Council and the Board of Directors for the Utah Cultural Celebration Center Foundation. She is an avid reader, hiker, and knitter, and she enjoys taking aerial arts classes. She resides in Millcreek with her partner, Lily, and a small pack of beloved pets.
Lindsay Hinkins
Bringing over a decade of experience in rural Carbon County, Lindsay Hinkins is currently the district's Digital Learning Specialist, having previously taught grades 1-8. Her academic foundation includes a BA in Elementary Education (GCU), an MA of Learning and Technology (WGU), and a Certificate of Educational Administration (UVU). Lindsay's true passion lies in teacher empowerment and retention; she is deeply committed to fostering meaningful connections and providing essential support, ensuring educators feel seen, appreciated, and successful in their vital roles. She's particularly excited to help and witness the innovative ways teachers and students are engaging and thriving in this new age of technology and AI.
Dr. Alli Martin
Alli (she, her, hers) works for Salt Lake City School District as the Director of Social-Emotional Learning and Prevention Services. She earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Utah where she focused her research on how K-12 school leaders navigate barriers to provide inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ students.
Alli is a co-founding member of Friends, Allies, and Mentors of the LGBTQ+ community (FAM) and also served as a member of the Board of Governors for the Human Rights Campaign. Alli regularly provides professional learning experiences to educators on issues of intersectionality, equity, and LGBTQ+ youth.
Alli is a co-founding member of Friends, Allies, and Mentors of the LGBTQ+ community (FAM) and also served as a member of the Board of Governors for the Human Rights Campaign. Alli regularly provides professional learning experiences to educators on issues of intersectionality, equity, and LGBTQ+ youth.
CJ Michalec
CJ Michalec (they/them) strives to be a lifelong learner and advocate. They’re learning every day what it means to be in a reciprocal relationship with the land, community, and the systems that shape us. From proud, working-class roots in Michigan, they’re currently based in Salt Lake City on the stolen lands of the Ute, Shoshone, Goshute, & Paiute peoples. CJ feels connected through nature, art, and meaningful relationships.
Acknowledging the impact of identity in their role as a therapist (CSW), CJ grounds their therapeutic approach in feminist multicultural perspectives and somatic mindfulness practice to help people reconnect with their bodies, their stories, and each other. They believe that personal and collective healing is not only survival, but an act of resistance in response to the ongoing harm of colonization and capitalism.
Acknowledging the impact of identity in their role as a therapist (CSW), CJ grounds their therapeutic approach in feminist multicultural perspectives and somatic mindfulness practice to help people reconnect with their bodies, their stories, and each other. They believe that personal and collective healing is not only survival, but an act of resistance in response to the ongoing harm of colonization and capitalism.
Joshua Palsky
Joshua Palsky has taught in alternative settings his entire career, first teaching US Government
and US History in Nebo School District before transitioning to Math and World Geography at
Independence High School in Provo City School District, where he is now in his 5th year. He has
been an Innovative Learning Specialist, a member of the STEM Education Innovators inaugural
cohort, has served on a variety of committees at both the school and district level and is a proud
member of both the Provo Education Association, where he serves as a member of the board, and
the Utah Education Association.
Joshua has made education both his profession and something of an expensive hobby, holding
degrees from Brigham Young University (B.S. Psychology/B.A. French Studies), Utah Valley
University (B.A. History and Social Studies Teaching), Western Governor’s University (M.A.
Mathematics Education, Secondary), and is currently pursuing his doctoral degree from the
University of Utah in K-12 Educational Policy and Leadership. He believes that continuous
learning is the foundation for success in every area of life.
and US History in Nebo School District before transitioning to Math and World Geography at
Independence High School in Provo City School District, where he is now in his 5th year. He has
been an Innovative Learning Specialist, a member of the STEM Education Innovators inaugural
cohort, has served on a variety of committees at both the school and district level and is a proud
member of both the Provo Education Association, where he serves as a member of the board, and
the Utah Education Association.
Joshua has made education both his profession and something of an expensive hobby, holding
degrees from Brigham Young University (B.S. Psychology/B.A. French Studies), Utah Valley
University (B.A. History and Social Studies Teaching), Western Governor’s University (M.A.
Mathematics Education, Secondary), and is currently pursuing his doctoral degree from the
University of Utah in K-12 Educational Policy and Leadership. He believes that continuous
learning is the foundation for success in every area of life.
Board Member
Sarah Reale
Sarah Reale
Utah State Board Member Sarah Reale is a Salt Lake native with a passion for advocacy, education, and a focus on action-oriented student-first strategies to help students reach their academic and career goals. She holds a master’s degree in political science from Utah State University and has spent almost two decades working in higher education, including teaching. Sarah is currently the Director of Digital Marketing and Student Experience at Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) where she manages the digital communications for the institution. She is also an adjunct professor of political science at SLCC.
Sarah has a decade of research and volunteer-based experience advocating for communities and developing creative and effective solutions that support Utahns. She serves on the SLC Library Board, SL County Mountainous Planning District Planning Commission, United Way of Salt Lake Board, and Chi Omega Advisory Board at the University of Utah.
Sarah comes from a family of educators; her mom and sister are currently both K-12 public educators in Utah. In her free time Sarah can be found on her bike exploring the incredible Wasatch Mountains.
Sarah has a decade of research and volunteer-based experience advocating for communities and developing creative and effective solutions that support Utahns. She serves on the SLC Library Board, SL County Mountainous Planning District Planning Commission, United Way of Salt Lake Board, and Chi Omega Advisory Board at the University of Utah.
Sarah comes from a family of educators; her mom and sister are currently both K-12 public educators in Utah. In her free time Sarah can be found on her bike exploring the incredible Wasatch Mountains.
Kimberly Reale
Kimberly Reale is a dedicated educator with over 20 years of experience teaching Family and Consumer Science (FCS) and College and Career Readiness at the middle school and high school levels. Her diverse curriculum equips students with essential life skills, covering courses such as Child Development, College & Career, Culinary Arts (cooking), and Textiles/Apparel (sewing).
Known for her innovative and engaging teaching style, Kimberly is constantly recreating lessons to make them relevant and memorable. She brings the curriculum to life through high-energy, real-world projects like hosting a "Cupcake Wars" competition and a "Mock Shark Tank" lesson featuring local community member judges, and bringing in special guest speakers in a variety of careers and trades to speak to her students.
Kimberly's passion extends beyond the classroom; she genuinely cares about her students and is driven by the goal of helping them become competent, confident, and self-sufficient adults.
Known for her innovative and engaging teaching style, Kimberly is constantly recreating lessons to make them relevant and memorable. She brings the curriculum to life through high-energy, real-world projects like hosting a "Cupcake Wars" competition and a "Mock Shark Tank" lesson featuring local community member judges, and bringing in special guest speakers in a variety of careers and trades to speak to her students.
Kimberly's passion extends beyond the classroom; she genuinely cares about her students and is driven by the goal of helping them become competent, confident, and self-sufficient adults.
Dr. Caroline
Reale-Smith
Reale-Smith
With a profound love for Utah State University, Dr. Caroline Reale-Smith continued her educational journey and pursued a doctoral degree in Cultural Studies while teaching 12 years of English, ESL, and Diversity in the Cache County School District. Seeing minoritized students and their daily struggles ignited her passion for marginalized perspectives, shaping her teaching philosophy to incorporate diverse voices into her curriculum. Caroline’s research has led her toward a BIPOC queer and trans focus, and she hopes to use her privilege to change policies and procedures at the school, district, and state levels. She does research FOR queer and trans students, not on them.
Fangaafa Fataimoemanu Tu'ifua
Fangaafa Fataimoemanu Tu'ifua (Ms. Fatai) is a 5th grade teacher at East Midvale Elementary. She holds a B.A. in English from Brigham Young University–Hawai‘i and an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Weber State University. She was named East Midvale Elementary’s 2023–2024 Teacher of the Year and is both a Utah Teacher Fellow and a NAPALI (National Pacific-American Leadership Institute) Fellow. Her research on collaborative practices between school social workers and teachers in K-12 Utah schools is published in the Utah Academy of Science, Arts, and Letters (UASAL) peer-reviewed journal and the Journal of the International Society for Teacher Education (JISTE). She has presented at many education conferences such as UCET, FACE Summit, URSA, ShowUpForTeachers on community engagement and teacher leadership. She enjoys zumba, movies, and doom-scrolling on TeacherTok.
Kristin van Brunt
Kristin van Brunt began her educational journey as an English/Language Arts and Spanish teacher in the Davis School District 32 years ago. Over the years, she has discovered and developed a passion for professional learning and helping teachers continue to grow throughout their careers. She currently works as a full-time instructional coach at Mueller Park Junior High. Kristin has worked on a variety of school, district, and state educational projects, many of which relate to professional learning. She received her undergraduate degree in English and psychology from Linfield College in 1989, and her teaching credentials from the University of Utah in 1994. Kristin was a Utah Teacher Fellow from 2017-2019 and now serves as a professional learning facilitator for that same organization.
Katie Wucherpfennig
Katie Wucherpfennig is a Board Member with IncludEd United and a senior client success leader in the healthcare industry, where she partners with Fortune 500 organizations to improve employee well-being and access to care. With a background rooted in understanding social determinants of health, Katie is passionate about how access, inclusion, and environment shape people’s well-being - both in and outside of the workplace and classroom.
Join us on January 10th!