EVANSTON — A local educator was presented with a prestigious award — one of only two in the state and 100 in the country — from the U.S. Department of Education last week, which brought Gov. Mark Gordon and Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder to Evanston.

On May 8, Judy Thornock, a special services support and behavioral coach at Aspen Elementary, was presented the 2023 Recognizing Inspirational School Employees (RISE) award.  According to the U.S. Department of Education website, the award is given to “recognize and promote the commitment and excellence exhibited by school employees who provide exemplary service to students in pre-kindergarten through high school and to inspire innovation and excellence.” 

“It found me,” Thornock told the Herald of her eight-year education career. She explained that Aspen Elementary Principal Steve Peterson nominated her for the award, unbeknownst to her. Peterson’s nomination letter described her as “a powerful force in the workplace who uses her positive attitude and tireless energy to encourage others to work hard and succeed.”

Gov. Gordon presented the award to Thornock. Along with the governor and Degenfelder, Uinta County School District No. 1 Superintendent Ryan Thomas, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Joseph Ingalls, UCSD No. 1 board chair Dan Wheeler, Mayor Kent Williams and his wife, Celia, were in attendance to support Thornock.

“It’s good to be in Tiger Nation!” said Gov. Gordon, greeting the audience after a rendition of “Mr. Golden Sun” was performed by kindergarteners and first graders.

“Teachers are invaluable, and make such a difference in our lives,” Gordon continued. “They are an outstanding example for our immediate community, and entire state. They’re somebody everybody counts on at their schools,” he said citing the passion, dedication and special brand of enthusiasm that teachers possess.

Gordon then invited Thornock to the podium to accept her award.

“I just want to thank everyone for being here,” she said. “This is for everyone. I’m thankful for my family being here. We are a team,” adding that the award is for community effort.

Degenfelder highlighted Thornock’s “Caught Ya” incentive program, in which students and teachers alike are rewarded for doing something good.

“We must continue to celebrate and honor their dedication, for it is through their passion and commitment that our schools truly flourish,” Degenfelder added in a May 9 press release acknowledging both state recipients.

Peterson said he wanted to recognize Thornock for three things in particular.  The first, he noted, was that Thornock was the school’s designated “welcome wagon,” enduring the cold, wind and snow to greet students off buses every morning with a hug. “She lets all of our students know that Aspen loves them and we’re so happy you’re here today.”

Secondly, Peterson called Thornock the “Caught Ya Queen,” adding that she happily recognizes and keeps track of everyone’s positive deeds.

“Finally, Ms. Judy is the heart of Aspen Elementary. She loves all of the students and staff. She’s someone to talk to or get a hug from. She is amazing, and we are so blessed to have you,” Peterson concluded.

Peterson then presented Gordon, Degenfelder and Thomas with mock WWE wrestling championship belts, a weekly award recognizing staff members for doing great things.

Nominations for the 2024 RISE award will open in the fall.