“Warm.” “Kind!” “Patient.” “Beautiful.” “Awesome.” Megan Tanner’s students and colleagues described her using these words. Tanner is Cache High’s 2024 Teacher of the Year and is beloved by those fortunate enough to work with her. “She is well-educated,” Cache High principal Sheri Hansen said, “and is also respectful and kind with students. She never raises her voice with students, and I can see that they, in turn, respect her and listen.”

Tanner received her teaching degree in Math Education from Utah State University and has been teaching for nearly 20 years. She demonstrates her passion for STEM daily by showing students how math and science are applied in everyday life, conducting interactive experiments, and creating opportunities for them to experience success and satisfaction in their learning process.

“My favorite part of teaching is watching my students accomplish things they never thought they could,” Tanner said. “Their pride when they succeed and overcome difficult situations inspires me.” For their part, it is evident that students admire and respect her. “They truly enjoy her company,” Hansen said. “Students will visit with her during lunchtime and after school.” Tanner’s classroom walls are covered with student artwork and graduation announcements, and her whiteboards are filled with doodles and notes from current and former students. 

“I believe in building strong connections with my students,” Tanner said. “I want to create an environment where they feel comfortable, supported, and empowered. I hope to show them they are capable of anything they want to do.”