jasonthelerforschoolboard@gmail.com

Nurture Students – Partner with Parents – Support Educators

Jason Theler for Aspen Peaks School Board

My name is Jason Theler. As a long-time resident of American Fork and someone who has dedicated their entire professional career to education and learning, I would be honored to represent Seat 7 (see map below) in the new Aspen Peaks School District! Scroll or use the “jump links” below to learn more about:

Like and follow my campaign for Aspen Peaks School Board, Seat 7 by visiting my Facebook page!

Why I’m Running for School Board

I have a PASSION for education and for helping others generate future opportunities and options. It would be exciting to influence and elevate the future opportunities and options of countless youth and employees by helping Aspen Peaks establish a solid foundation and worthy priorities.

I have lived in American Fork for 22 years and I simply LOVE MY COMMUNITY. I love my neighbors. I love our welcoming spirit. I love how our culture of hard work is paired with a sense calm and togetherness. I love the character and creativity I see in our youth. It would be a privilege to help refine and renew these attributes through the reach of public education.

I’m a PROVEN LEADER. By working with amazing teachers and parents, the net student achievement scores at each school I supervised improved every year. Not once did the student achievement scores decline. I also opened a new school, so I understand a few of the pains and possibilities that come with creating something complex from scratch. My leadership skill can be an asset to Aspen Peaks.

I highly value and aspire to practice the IMPORTANT DISPOSITIONS of collaboration, honesty, empathy, goodwill, and moderation–qualities that are crucial for effective teamwork. Furthermore, I will do my best to avoid defensiveness, political hyperbole, or contentious debate. I will focus on student success, being a partner with parents, AF city, and its residents, and supporting all district employees.

I have TIME to dedicate to this crucial work. I recently retired from Alpine School District because I was offered a part-time job in the BYU McKay School of Education. Also, since my kids are grown, I am no longer going to their school concerts, science fairs, dance competitions, etc. Advocating for similar enrichment opportunities for the youth of my community seems like a great way to use this extra time!

You know a little bit more about me now. Keep reading below to see some guiding principles I try to live by, my experience in education, and a few goals I would have for the new school board. Then, if you believe I’d be a great board member, please consider donating to my campaign. Every donation, large or small, helps buy yard signs, maintain an online presence, and fund other campaign expenses. Thanks!

Five of My Guiding Values

FAITH

By design, our life is precious and meaningful and we are here to help one another learn and progress. This faith and belief is an important part of how I try to live my life. In principle, this means embracing values such as integrity, compassion, hope, diligence, virtue, and temperance. In practice, it means treating everyone with warmth and dignity and trying to use the time and talents I’ve been given to assist others and benefit the world around me.

I am grateful for the numerous and various opportunities I’ve had throughout my life to be engaged in good causes and serve alongside family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors–be that as a camp counselor in Upstate New York, as a missionary in Brazil, as a soccer coach for AF Recreation, as a “AF drill team dad” at competitions throughout Utah, taking youth on trekking trips in Wyoming, or as the President of the Utah Association of Elementary School Principals in Washington D.C.

FAMILY

I am so blessed to be married to my best friend, Jaime, for 29 years. She is talented, smart, patient, hard-working, and so considerate of others. She works as the Director of Creative Services for a digital marketing agency in Lehi. She loves to write as a hobby and has had two books get published. We have three awesome adult children and I am so grateful that each of them has kindness and acceptance of others as a primary characteristic and motivation.

All three of my children grew up going to ASD schools, served as “sweepers” in ASD schools as teenagers, and graduated from AFHS. My oldest son works as an Engineer in Albuquerque, my middle son is a Graphic Designer in Logan, and my daughter, the youngest, loves her job as an Aquarium Educator at the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium in Draper.

FREEDOM

I recognize how fortunate we are to live in Utah and the United States, and that we have immense freedom and opportunity to pursue happiness. It is important that we revere the civic virtues espoused by our founders: integrity, respect, self-discipline, honesty, and dialogue. It is also important to remember those, past and present, who sacrifice to protect our freedoms. Three of my four grandparents, my father, and one of my brothers have served in the Armed Forces. I have other family members and several friends that are First Responders.

As a principal, I made it a point to engage my school in a meaningful celebration every Veteran’s Day every year. For these efforts, I was humbled to receive a United States flag from the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade that was flown in combat in Afghanistan. I also regularly teamed with local police departments to host NOVA and radKIDS and with local fire departments and EMS to conduct school emergency drills and to teach fire, bike, and poison safety to students. For these efforts, I was honored to receive the Chief’s Recognition for Outstanding Service medallion from the Orem Police Department.

Personally, honoring our freedoms means being civil and respectful, seeking common ground, and participating in local government. On the more exciting side, it also means helping organize a regular neighborhood “cul-de-sac of fire” on the 4th of July and attending the American Fork Citizens Academy two years ago.

FRUGALITY

People, businesses, districts, towns, etc. should endeavor to live frugally–create a budget, set aside savings, prioritize needs, intentionally care for assets and, if necessary, borrow responsibly. Doing so not only honors the work and sacrifice that generated the income, but it also grants the opportunity to meet unexpected challenges or situations.

Serving an LDS mission is Brazil, marrying someone who grew up in very humble circumstances, and working as a teacher for nine years helped me see a brighter line between needs and wants. For my family, this has meant growing a garden, completing numerous online-tutored DIY projects, making charitable contributions, volunteering at Tabitha’s Way, and teaching our children about “reduce, reuse, and recycle.” (My kids would also tell you about sharing fries at restaurants, staying in budget hotels that sometimes got sketchy, keeping the house at balmy 78 degrees in the summer, creative ways to stretch a recipe, and about not getting a bucket of popcorn because “going to the movies should be good enough by itself.”)

FUN

Many of the ways I like to have fun are rooted in adventures experienced during Boy Scouts–both as a youth and a leader. Camping, cooking, hiking (especially to waterfalls) and exercising are some of my favorite pastimes. My wife and I are regular runners and we try to do a couple of races with friends every year. I also enjoy playing board games, following BYU sports and the Utah Jazz, and fitting in some travel here and there.

It’d be accurate to put me a little more on the goofy side of life, rather than serious side, and I love the chance to help people around me “enjoy the journey” by infusing some humor and play into our time together. I’m a “people person” who seeks to build relationships and grow optimistic enthusiasm, I would certainly try to bring some of that fun energy to a position on the school board.

My Experience in Education

Since asking for your vote to serve on the school board is no different than applying for a job, I’ve included below a resume of my experience in education. It outlines my qualifications and conveys that I have a solid understanding of both the big picture and granular details of how a classroom, school, and district can and should operate.

FORMAL EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education, Brigham Young University, April 1997

Master of Arts in Education, Diverse Learning, University of Phoenix, May 2001

Master of Education, K-12 Administration, Brigham Young University, June 2005

WORK EXPERIENCE

5th/6th Grade Teacher, Northridge Elementary School, Alpine School District, 1996-2002 

BYU Partnership Facilitator, Rocky Mountain Elementary School, Alpine School District, 2002-2005 

Elementary School Principal, Lindon, Thunder Ridge, and Northridge Elementary Schools, Alpine School District, 2005-2019

Director of Student Support Services, 2019-2024, District Office, Alpine School District  

Adjunct Faculty, Center for the Improvement of Teacher Education and Schooling, McKay School of Education, Brigham Young University, 2024-present

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS AND SERVICE

Saratoga Springs Communities That Care, Executive Committee Member, 2012-2015

Alpine Foundation, Charity Run Coordinator, 2014-2015

Utah Land Trust Advisory Board, Executive Committee Member, 2017-2019

Utah Governor’s Commission on Excellence, Committee Member, 2017-2019

Utah Association of Elementary School Principals (UAESP), Student Council Conference Chair, 2008-2016; Vice-president, 2016-2017; President-elect, 2017-2018; President, 2018-2019

Utah Student Services Directors Association (USSDA), Executive Secretary, 2023-2024

AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Karl G. Maeser Scholarship Recipient, Brigham Young University McKay School of Education, 1995-1997

Golden Apple Recipient, Orem Council Parent Teacher Association, 2002

Rookie Elementary Principal of the Year, Alpine School District, 2007

Rookie Elementary Principal of the Year, Utah Association of Elementary School Principals, 2007

Elementary Administrator of the Year, Alpine School District, 2010

Administrator of the Year, Utah State Parent Teacher Association, 2010

Golden Apple Recipient, Saratoga Springs Council Parent Teacher Association, 2015

Outstanding Educator, Utah State Parent Teacher Association, 2015

National Distinguished Principal Nominee, Utah Association of Elementary School Principals, 2016       

Most Outstanding District Team, Alpine School District, 2020

Hopefully, the information in this section, regarding my qualifications, experiences, and honors over the last 29 years as an educator, offers some compelling evidence about my broad knowledge base, how I’ve performed, and the kind of effort you can anticipate from me. Should I be fortunate to represent Aspen Peaks-Seat 7, I commit to continue learning, growing, and striving to excel on behalf of the students, parents, and district employees here in Northern American Fork.

My Goals for Aspen Peaks School Board

The four aspirations below are based on the “general powers and duties” of a school board as outlined in Utah Code and which can be commonly found in existing school board policies. They are also somewhat malleable since I anticipate needing to hone them based on stakeholder input. All goals must align with a relentless pursuit of academic excellence and student success.

HELP CREATE A SYNERGISTIC SCHOOL BOARD that engages in robust, respectful dialogue focused on promoting student success, partnering with parents, and supporting high-quality teaching and that models collaborative decorum for all other entities within the district.

RECEIVE AND RESPOND TO STAKEHOLDER INPUT so community values, parental expectations, teacher needs, and legislative directives are thoughtfully weaved into student-success goals and strategically aligned with district policy, budget, and curriculum decisions.

APPOINT A GREAT SUPERINTENDENT AND BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR to facilitate the effective and efficient day-to-day governance of district affairs, lead efforts to find, implement, and monitor the best educational and fiscal practices, and provide district schools and departments with sufficient training and resources to pursue stated objectives.

ENSURE ACCOUNTABILITY by creating reliable, but flexible, systems and structures that assess student achievement, provide fiscal oversight, maintain safe school environments, monitor adherence to district policies and legislation, and identify areas for improvement.

  • Endorsements

    SHANE FARNSWORTH, Recently Retired ASD Superintendent: “I give Jason Theler my full endorsement as a school board candidate. Jason has the vision, values, passion and experience to be an incredible board member. Jason’s commitment to students and public education runs deep. His experience as a former classroom teacher, school principal and district administrator will provide invaluable understanding of public schooling to his fellow board members. Launching a new school district is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I cannot think of a better candidate to guide this undertaking as a board member than Jason.”  

    MICHAEL KING, Former Candidate for Seat 7: “You have my full support moving forward, Jason Theler. I’m confident that with your leadership, our new district will be built on a foundation of fairness, transparency, and opportunities for all students. You’ve shown the ability to listen, lead, and make decisions that put students first, and I believe American Fork will be well represented with you on the board.”  

    PAM ENGLES, Former Candidate for Seat 7: “I am honored to throw my support behind Jason Theler’s campaign and encourage my supporters to do the same. I know he will do a great job in remembering the purpose of the school board is to make prudent and wise decisions that will result in student success.”  

    SARAH BEESON, Current ASD Board Member for American Fork: “As a member of the Alpine School Board of Education, I am pleased to endorse Jason Theler for the Aspen Peaks School Board. I had the opportunity to serve with Jason on district committees and was consistently impressed with his honesty, integrity, and his natural ability to collaborate effectively with everyone on our committee. He also brings an incredible energy to his work and genuinely enjoys connecting with people—a quality that would enhance his role on a future board.

    Jason’s experience as a former principal and district employee gives him a well-rounded perspective on the needs of students, teachers, and the broader school community. His insights, leadership, and dedication to education will make him a strong advocate for the new Aspen Peaks District.

    Please join me in supporting Jason Theler. I am confident Jason will serve with integrity, vision, and heart. I fully support his candidacy.”

    BRAD FROST, Mayor of American Fork: “Leadership is the cornerstone of any successful organization, especially in times of change. Jason brings a unique resume and skill set to guide us through this critical transition. He has devoted his entire career to working with teachers, students, and parents. As a member of this community with 11 grandchildren within its boundaries, I’m both relieved and excited to have him leading at this pivotal moment. I’m voting for Jason and believe our community will be stronger because of it.”

    DR. MARK CLEMENT, Current ASD Board Member for Lindon/PG: “I strongly endorse Jason Theler for Seat 7 in the Aspen Peaks School Board. He was an amazing principal for my children at Lindon Elementary and has shown excellence in every role he has taken in education. I know that he will play an important role as a board member in setting up the Aspen Peaks School District for success.”

    DR. GARY SEASTRAND, President of the BYU Education Society: “It is with enthusiasm that I endorse Jason Theler in his candidacy for school board in the new Aspen Peaks School District. I have known Jason for decades and worked closely with him in our roles in Alpine School District. He was a stellar educator as a teacher and administrator. His ability to build and sustain a powerful and exceptional culture will be an important asset in the development of the new district. Jason is well versed in the research of best practices and has been a strong voice for collaboration and professional development. His wisdom emanates from practical experience and having a strong sense of personal ethics. He is well prepared to help guide the development of Aspen Peaks and to enable it to thrive for years to come.”

    DR. JOHN PATTEN & DR. BARRY GRAFF, Director & Assistant Director of the Center for the Improvement of Teacher Education and School: “We have known and worked with Jason Theler for many years. His student-centered approach to education, his regard for the parents and families that send their children to our schools, and his open communication style are just what is needed in a school board member. Jason’s experience and dedication to education will help create one of the best school districts in the state. He will come into the position with no agenda in mind other than a commitment to support students in making the most of their educational journey. We are excited to give our endorsement to Jason and look forward to the great work he will perform for the children of this new school district.”

    ALPINE EDUCATION ASSOCIATION (AEA): The Alpine Education Association (AEA) said the following in an email to me: “We are pleased to inform you that the AEA Board of Directors voted to approve you as a recommended candidate in the upcoming primary election.”

    Should I be elected to the Aspen Peaks School Board, I would look forward to partnering with AEA to create a district environment and structures that help us attract and retain the best educators so our students can thrive. I am grateful for AEA’s confidence in my ability to support the educators that work diligently alongside students and families.

    Wow, you made it! That’s a lot of information to process, but I hope it helps you reflect on my candidacy. Three final things:

    #1) I would be absolutely honored to represent the good people of Aspen Peaks, Seat 7, so I humbly and warmly ask for your vote.

    #2) Send me an email (jasonthelerforschoolboard@gmail.com) if you’d like to assist with my campaign, such as posting a yard sign.

    #3) If you are willing and able, don’t forget to donate to my campaign using the QR code above. Everything helps. Thanks!