Ethnic Minority Seat / Delegate to the NEA RA
Stephen Lerma
|
|
|
At Large Seat / Delegate to the NEA RA
Nathaniel Eschler
|
|
Hello,
My name is Dr. Nathaniel Eschler. I am a BTS music teacher, and the current BTS AR; I teach at Olene Walker. Currently, I serve on the board of Sinfonia Salt Lake; Have been a past Community Council president and past President of the Board - Mundi Project. I have a PhD in music from Brandeis University. And am a proud graduate of Churchill JH. I am running for Board Membership to continue my advocacy for the collective union we all so proudly represent. During my time as AR, the BTS have begun a partnership with PE to advance common interests. We have worked with district and GEA leadership to ratify our protocols and procedures to better serve BTS teachers. Also, I coauthored a paper and presented to the Granite Board of Education advocating for extra, and very necessary, BTS planning time. I look forward to continuing my service. |
Jaden Ford
|
|
My name is Jaden Ford and I am a fifth-year teacher at Churchill Junior High School. I’ve been a GEA member since my first year of teaching, and I am now running for reelection for the At-Large seat. I have been an active union member at both our local level and at the state level for almost that entire time, and I pride myself on the work that we have been able to accomplish.
In my time with GEA, I have gotten to serve and represent you at the negotiating table to make sure that our day to day was slightly easier and more respected. I have had conversations with state legislators both “in our camp” and outside of it to make your voice heard. As I was specially elected in an AR meeting, my term was shorter than I’d have liked. With your support, I hope to continue the fight for your voice, and your rights, for another go-around. |
Shannon Garner
|
|
I value education. The passion, concern, ideas, and roles that come with it are because the smartest person in a room, is the room. We grow and make a difference by using our collective knowledge.
My voice as an educator has grown because of GEA. I joined in 2010, and started an AR journey my second year of teaching. I have represented members by sitting on the GEA SPED committee, GEA Political Action Committee, attending board meetings, participating in public comments to represent GEA members, working with GEA and UEA on professional learning opportunities, attending Day on the Hill, and standing with GEA members at board meetings for resolutions and pay increase for hourly employees. Take a chance on me to serve as your “bridge.” You will have someone who listens, shares your concerns and doesn’t stop until action has taken place. Your voice matters. Together we are the good. |
Delegate to the NEA Representative Assembly
Brady Arnold-Diaz
|
|
My name is Brady Arnold-Diaz, and I have been a special education teacher in Granite School District for 6 years and a member of GEA for 5 years. I had the opportunity to participate in the UEA Policy Ambassador program, where I learned more about the legislative process and how what happens on Capitol Hill greatly impacts our professional lives. I attended Educator Day on the Hill, where I saw numerous UEA representatives spending most of their working days during the legislative session advocating for educators like me. I walked away from that experience with a greater sense of pride and appreciation for being a GEA member, and suddenly my monthly dues seemed well worth it. I am currently part of the professional agreement negotiations committee, and I am excited to learn more about this process as we consider broader membership concerns. I would like to continue learning more about GEA and increase my GEA involvement. This is why I would like to be considered for a delegate position to the NEA Representative Assembly 2026.
|
Yevgeny Pevzner
|
|
As a science teacher at Kearns Junior High, I believe now more than ever we must actively engage with our union and support its continued growth. Public education is facing complex challenges, and strong collaboration through the NEA ensures that educators have a unified voice. With over 20 years of experience serving as an Association Representative at my school, I have worked closely with colleagues, administration, and district leaders to advocate for professional respect, equitable resources, and student-centered policies.
I understand the daily realities educators face in the classroom, particularly in a diverse and high-needs community. My experience has prepared me to listen carefully, communicate effectively, and represent the voices of my fellow educators with integrity and professionalism. I am committed to strengthening our union, supporting fellow members, and advancing policies that empower teachers and improve student outcomes. I would be honored to serve as an NEA Delegate and represent my state and district with dedication and purpose. |
Porter Sagers
|
|
I am running for the NEA Representative Assembly Delegate because I believe the classroom deserves a strong and informed voice at every level. As a severe SPED teacher I advocate daily for students who require intensive support and for the educators who work tirelessly to meet the complex needs. I currently serve as the GEA SPED Committee Chair. In this role I collaborate with educators across the district and address their concerns and advocate for needed resources.
I have seen firsthand the challenges of staffing shortages, compliance demands, safety concerns, and the importance of adequate resources for all educators. I want to ensure that we are treated as professionals and have the respect we have earned. If elected I will represent GEA and the fellow educators of our union and serve with integrity. I am committed to thoughtful decision-making and collaboration to help make teaching sustainable for all of us. |