Amy Brand and Jared Collette, two educators at Draper schools, received 2026 Honors in Education awards at a statewide gala on July 7.

Brand, a retired fourth-grade teacher at Draper Elementary School, and Collette, a social studies teacher and debate coach at Corner Canyon High School, were among 20 Utah educators recognized through First Lady Abby Cox's Show Up for Teachers Initiative. The fourth annual Honors in Education Gala took place at The Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City, as reported by the Draper Journal.

Both were nominated by parents of students.

Brand taught for 30 years before retiring. A parent whose daughter has Down syndrome nominated her for the award, citing Brand's advocacy for keeping the girl in a general education classroom when the family faced pressure to move her out.

Brand adjusted assignments to meet the student's needs while helping her build confidence and friendships with classmates. Years later, the student continued in mainstream classes at Draper Park Middle School and, as of the 2026–27 school year, at Corner Canyon High School.

"Absolutely, she belongs in here," Brand told the Draper Journal, recalling her response when the question first arose. "These are the kids she's grown up with. She loves them. They love her."

Brand said she was surprised by the nomination. She learned of it through an email from Abby Cox's office. Though retired, she plans to return regularly to Draper Elementary to coach students in reading and writing.

Collette, who teaches geography and world history at Corner Canyon, was also nominated by a parent. He moved to the high school after several years at Draper Park Middle School, seeking a chance to explore deeper content in social studies. He will teach AP geography during the 2026–27 school year while continuing to coach debate.

His father, a professor at the University of California at Berkeley, influenced his path into teaching. Collette said he aims to build a classroom where students of all abilities can participate without feeling overwhelmed.

Recipients at the gala received glass awards, gift cards and videos highlighting their work. The Deseret News reported the event was hosted by the Deseret News and presenting sponsor Ken Garff for Good and the Robert H. and Katharine B. Garff Foundation. Gov. Spencer Cox attended the ceremony.

Collette said he views the award as recognition of the teaching profession broadly, not just himself.

Brand said she plans to return regularly to Draper Elementary to coach students in reading and writing.