Utah shows appreciation for educators at annual ‘Show Up for Teachers’ conference

SANDY — Thousands of Utah teachers are feeling the love right now. They’re attending the annual “Show Up for Teachers” conference meant to show them all a little appreciation, led by Utah First Lady Abby Cox.

Over 2,000 Utah teachers and counselors showed up Thursday at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy, because Utah is showing up for them.

“It’s so empowering to be here, and all the stuff they spoil us with, it’s just so refreshing,” said second-grade teacher Halea Anderson.

“There’s a lot that goes into teaching. This is definitely a career I picked as a passion, not for pay, right? So it’s great to feel appreciated,” said Breanna Howlett a kindergarten teacher at Quail Hollow Elementary.

Each picked up free swag, school portraits, food and resources to better support them in the classroom — and provide that mental boost they need to start the school year.

“We do a lot of breakout sessions that really focus on them — their well-being, their stress management, their mental health, things like that — to really support them, to help them thrive in their profession,” said Jenni Currit, “Show Up for Teachers” organizer.

“I even told my fiancé this morning that I need that little pep talk before we start the school year, so for me it’s just kind of getting rejuvenated,” said special education teacher Seyyed Sharifi.

The fourth annual “Show Up for Teachers” conference was created by Utah First Lady Abby Cox, who sees the ripple effect this day can have statewide.

“Teachers are the bedrock of our society, they’re the ones teaching and mentoring students, and these kiddos coming up are the next leaders, the next innovators, the next problem solvers,” Cox said.

The day was packed with positive energy and opportunity.

“Connecting with different companies, we’re connecting with different educators,” said Brad Moulton, a counselor at Alpine School District.

“A lot of them are doing grants and scholarships, which is amazing because we don’t get a lot every year,” said Salem Elementary kindergarten teacher Bri Wright.

Teachers are walking away with a superhero feeling.

“Sometimes we’re the hero, and sometimes we’re the villain. So it’s nice to be a hero for the day,” said Kaylene Astin, eighth grade science teacher.

The conference is a full day affair, concluding with Utah’s first lady giving the final keynote address.