In a heartwarming celebration of dedication and compassion, Natalie Nelson, a teacher at Kearns High School, was recently honored with the Granite School District’s prestigious Excel Award for her outstanding work with students with severe disabilities. Nelson, who has been a part of the Kearns educational community for several years, has made it her mission to not only educate her students but also to uplift and empower them, ensuring they feel included in the school community and prepared for life beyond graduation. In her role, Nelson teaches students who often face significant challenges in their daily lives. She believes that education is about more than just academics; it is about making a positive impact on her students’ lives. "I went into teaching wanting to be a part of making a positive difference in somebody's life and helping people who are maybe a little overlooked," Nelson shared. Her commitment to her students extends beyond the classroom, as she actively participates in extracurricular activities such as Unified Sports, which fosters inclusion and camaraderie among students of all abilities. The importance of Nelson’s work was underscored by Kearns High School Principal Danny Stirland, who stated, "Maybe the best compliment you can ever give a teacher is, if you have a special needs student, you want her as the teacher." This sentiment reflects the high regard in which Nelson is held by her colleagues and the entire school community. Her influence is evident not only in the classroom but also in the personal growth of her students, who have flourished under her guidance. The recognition of Nelson’s efforts came during a special presentation, where she received the Granite School District’s Excel Award. This accolade is given to educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication and effectiveness in their work. Following the award ceremony, the FOX 13 Dream Team, sponsored by Mountain America Credit Union, surprised Nelson with a Dream Team basket filled with thoughtful gifts, including restaurant gift cards, cozy blankets, and an assortment of chocolates. Additionally, she received a significant donation of $1,000, along with a bin of essential school supplies for her classroom. In an emotional response to her recognition, Nelson expressed, "It means a lot. It’s really overwhelming. I just love my job so much. To have a big group like that here for me, it was very unexpected." This reaction illustrates her humility and the passion she has for her role as an educator. Nelson’s work is crucial in fostering an inclusive environment at Kearns High School. She dedicates herself to ensuring her students not only learn essential life skills but also feel valued and recognized within the school community. Principal Stirland emphasized the significance of her contributions by stating, "She’s preparing them for the rest of their lives in ways you can’t even measure." This preparation includes teaching her students practical skills, social interactions, and self-advocacy, which are vital for their independence after graduation. Moreover, Nelson is keenly aware of the misconceptions surrounding students with disabilities. "I think there are a lot of assumptions about what they can and can’t do," she remarked. "A lot of times, they are kind of the underdogs. I feel like they do have a lot of abilities and capabilities. People assume they aren’t able to do things on their own, but they actually can." This insight speaks to her dedication to changing perceptions and advocating for her students’ potential. The bonds she forms with her students are a testament to her commitment. Nelson stated, "I went into this field wanting to make a difference for other people, but really it’s made a difference for me. I just care about this population so much. They are special, and they make the world better." Such reflections highlight the reciprocal nature of her relationships with her students, where both teacher and student experience growth and transformation. As the school year progresses, Nelson continues to inspire not just her students but also her colleagues and the broader Kearns community. Her recognition through the Excel Award and the Dream Team surprise serve as reminders of the profound impact dedicated educators can have on students with disabilities. In a world that often overlooks their potential, Natalie Nelson stands as a shining example of what it means to champion inclusivity and empowerment in education. Through her tireless efforts, she is not only transforming the lives of her students but also fostering a more compassionate and understanding community in Kearns, Utah.