On Wednesday, the William S. Hart Union High School District will honor a group of Sierra Vista Junior High School students whose swift actions saved a teacher’s life during an emergency. The district will also outline key initiatives focusing on student safety and wellness as part of its strategic planning agenda.
The three students are being recognized for their courageous response when history teacher Kellie Kontis began to choke on spicy edamame. Their prompt intervention was crucial in providing the help she needed. Principal Marcus Garrett of Sierra Vista Junior High has expressed strong support for the students, and their commendable actions have sparked a wave of appreciation throughout the community.
The students will be acknowledged during the opening of the governing board meeting, as documented in the meeting’s agenda. Additionally, Tara Brown, the assistant superintendent of student services, alongside Sal Frias, chief administrative officer of student services and leadership support, will present on the district’s initiatives regarding Student Services Community Partnerships for Safety and Wellness.
This presentation follows the recent Hart district Safety and Wellness discussion, which saw staff, teachers, and community members gather to address the pressing challenges students face today. The discussion centered around developing effective solutions to foster a safe and positive atmosphere in all district schools.
The presentation will cover several critical areas:
- Enhancing student and staff wellness through expanded support structures at every campus.
- Creating cohesive support systems aimed at improving student attendance, behavior, and emotional wellbeing.
- Increasing opportunities for collaborative communication between the district, students, faculty, and the broader community.
Furthermore, the board will recognize district teachers of the year, celebrating their exceptional contributions to education through personal growth, commitment, and professionalism. More than 15 educators will be acknowledged for their outstanding work, which significantly impacts their students and the district.
Among them, Nicholas Patey from Golden Valley High School has been selected as the Hart District Teacher of the Year for the 2025-26 school year. In addition to his teaching role, Patey serves as the boys’ volleyball coach. According to the agenda, Patey is highly regarded by students and colleagues alike, known for his passion, dedication, and leadership skills. “His engaging lessons inspire students, who consistently praise the knowledge and support they gain from his teaching,” the agenda highlights. “He leads with kindness, integrity, and a willingness to step up whenever help is needed. Mr. Patey is a shining example of what an educator should be and is truly deserving of the Teacher of the Year award.”
The governing board meeting is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. at the district’s administrative office, located at 21380 Centre Pointe Parkway. This event promises to be an inspiring occasion as the district celebrates the bravery of its students while laying out plans for enhanced wellness support and recognizing the outstanding contributions of its educators.
