r The Nebo School Board of Education appointed Keith Richards as the Assistant Principal of Spanish Fork High for Nebo School District.
Keith earned his bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education from Utah Valley University and his master’s degree in Education Administration from Southern Utah University.
Mr. Richards was the Assistant Principal at Mapleton Junior for the past three years and also served as the Dean of Students. He taught mathematics at Salem Hills High for two years and at Diamond Fork Junior for four years.
Some of Mr. Richards’ awards include: Teacher of the Year for Salem Hills High in 2015 and Nebo District PEAK Award Winner in 2018.
An administrator said, “Keith creates a positive, warm culture at Mapleton Junior High. He builds relationships with our students, teachers, parents and staff members. He effectively communicates our school vision and ensures that our members have a voice in developing a school improvement plan. He is a thoughtful listener and shares great ideas. When students do not follow school rules, he helps them replace negative behavior with positive behavior. His patient, calming influence works magic on the most difficult situations.”
“I have had many mentors in my life, beginning with my family who has been a huge support to me in all that I do, followed by many teachers and administrators that have really shaped and made me a better educator,” stated Keith. “I have cherished friends that I have loved working and learning from over my entire career at the different schools that I have been blessed to work.”
One of Mr. Richards’ favorite quotes is by Paul “Bear” Bryant, “It’s not the will to win that matters – everyone has that. It’s the will to prepare to win that matters.”
Keith said, “In this competitive world, students need to be prepared and have the drive to win in whatever their dreams may be in life.”
“I have absolutely loved working with the staff and students at Mapleton Junior High the last four years. I have learned so much from them as they have helped shape who I am today. There are some great things happening at Mapleton Junior High, and I am confident that the faculty and staff will continue to make great things happen,” stated Keith. “I am now super excited to work in Spanish Fork at the high school. My wife and all of her family attended this high school, and now I am excited to be a part of the many great traditions at Spanish Fork High.”
Keith loves camping, hunting, and being outdoors with his family. He enjoys watching and playing sports as a family. He is married to Jamie, and they have four children.
