John Winghart — school safety guardian, Brigham Academy, District 4 School-Related Employee of the Year

Administrators at Brigham Academy say Winghart has “celebrity status” at the school.

He has “amazing” rapport with students and staff, who regard him as a role model and true gentleman. Most importantly, he is fully committed to keeping the campus safe, constantly patrolling the grounds and checking gates. He also takes additional measures like escorting kindergarteners to class and staying late if he thinks a situation might warrant extra security.

Outside of his regular duties, Winghart is a divemaster who volunteers his time with programs that teach students underwater diving. He also tries to keep up at 5Ks with Brigham’s running club.

The retired shop foreman and hazmat team commander said he learned a lot in his new career as a school safety guardian.

The job “has allowed me to interact and be surprised daily with the new encounters and open sincerity children share,” Winghart says. “It has been a truly unique and rewarding opportunity. It is an honor for me.”