Endorsements

"I was pleased to hear that Clarke Nelson is seeking re-election to the Granite School Board ofEducation. I have worked with Clarke in his various roles with Bonneville Junior High and Cottonwood High School. All three of our children attended these same schools, so we were

thrilled to see someone with Clarke's passion and credentials pick up the advocacy baton as our kids transitioned out of the community.

I was subsequently elected to serve as Mayor of The City of Holladay. This role has kept me engaged with our local public schools. Whenever there is a Community Council Meeting or event Clarke continues to be front and center. He has never shied away from engaging in issues important to the mission of our public schools. Clarke has all of the tools you would expect of an effective Board member; passion, knowledge, commitment and compassion. Our community, and the Granite School District at large would be lucky to have someone of Clarke’s stature continue on their Board. He has my full endorsement."

"I served on the Cottonwood High Community Council with Clarke Nelson during Cottonwood High’s pivotal era of grade re-alignment; with his measured input and calm, rational assessment of data, the community council made an informed decision that was student-centered and data driven. 

In subsequent years, I’ve been fortunate to work with Clarke many times in his capacity on the Granite School Board.  Clarke is an impassioned leader who champions the needs of students and educators with a tenacity that is both measured and bold.  

Clarke is whip-smart and an excellent problem solver; however, the strongest arrow in his quiver is his fundamental belief in the crucial role schools play in communities. This belief drives his relentless pursuit for equity and quality within schools for all children. If re-elected, Clarke will continue to be a tremendous asset to the Granite School Board. He is innovative and forward-thinking and will continue to strengthen our district with his unwavering commitment to building public education."

"Over the past 3 years, I have had the privilege of working with Clarke Nelson in his capacity as a school board member. I have witnessed his tireless dedication to the betterment of our community’s education system and the endless support of the Cottonwood Network. Clarke brings a wealth of experience, insight, and a genuine passion for educational excellence. He is extremely approachable and listens attentively to the concerns of parents, educators, and students and works tirelessly to address those concerns with practical and effective solutions. Clarke Nelson is highly respected and an effective advocate for our schools. I am greatly appreciative of his work and commitment to Granite School District."

"I have known Clarke Nelson for the past eight years.  He has advocated publicly for the Cottonwood Network and Cottonwood High School specifically as a citizen and now as a current member of the Granite School District Board of Education.  

Clarke advocates in a positive, professional manner in all settings.  He understands the challenges and many rewards that come with education.  He is a strong voice for our community, which includes students, parents, counselors and teachers. 

Clarke has my unqualified endorsement for re-election to the Granite School Board."

"I have had the pleasure of teaching three of Clarke's children in my AP English class at Cottonwood High. While they are all whip-smart, what impressed me most was their fierce dedication to the learning process and their boundless pride in Cottonwood High School. I watched as they advocated within Cottonwood, succeeded academically, and raised a voice for equity--even as teenagers! I quickly realized that their dedication was an echo of their father, Clarke Nelson. Beyond simply being a supportive and involved parent, Clarke has repeatedly demonstrated his willingness to commit to the institution of public schools through his involvement in athletics, academics, and community council at Cottonwood High School. He is unsatisfied with sitting on the sidelines and actively pursues solutions and action on problems facing our students and our district. He advocates for students of all backgrounds and of all walks of life--a crucial quality to serve in a district as diverse as Granite. In short, his voice as a parent and advocate are invaluable to the Granite School Board, and I am so thrilled to voice my full-throated support for him."

"I wholeheartedly endorse Clarke Nelson for the Granite School District School Board Precinct 2. His commitment to our youth and families through "The Road to 100%" initiative is commendable. Clarke's dedication to achieving 100% graduation rates and meeting basic needs showcases his true and compassionate leadership."

"A few years ago, it was great honor to serve as the principal of Cottonwood High School. It wasduring that time that I met and became acquainted with Clarke Nelson. He was a member of boththe Cottonwood Community Council but also was the chair of the Bonneville Junior High Community Council. He was also active at the elementary level. 

The first thing I noticed about Clarke was how bright, articulate, thoughtful, and kind he was. He also saw the big picture and made great efforts to see issues for what they were and how all might be impacted or benefitted by decisions or actions.

I worked directly with him as we traveled together the proposal, the acceptance, and the later the implementation of the 9th grade class into Cottonwood High. There were many concerns, worries, and advantages. Clarke spearheaded the process. He was open minded and caring of all regarding their thoughts and feelings.

Knowing that Clarke and his wife had children in school, I was very impressed that he made every effort to be informed and educated on all the issues. Yet, he was always cognizant of the bigger picture. He always moved in directions that benefitted the good of the whole.

As an educator, I loved working with him, admired him, and know that he will do a great job."

"We have had the pleasure of working with Clarke Nelson for numerous years. We have observed him as a coach, parent, community council member, school advocate and a leader in the community. As a parent he is very proactive in his children's education and holds them to high standards. They are very active in the school program and very respectful students. He is a very good listener and problem solver. We have called him on numerous issues that we as current teachers in the Granite School District have faced. He always tries to problem solve or expresses our concerns with the district leaders and helps us find solutions and perspective. As a board member we see him at so many of our school and district wide events. Whether it is sitting at a sports event cheering on players, listening to a musical or concert and giving rave reviews and support or attending important meetings that directly affect our students and fellow teachers. We feel very supported as teachers and the amount of respect he gives to us is very appreciated. We have had some trying issues at our school recently and we have always felt comfortable to discuss them with him and seek out his wise advice. He donates many hours to help make our students feel valued and seen. He is such an amazing advocate for our very diverse student population currently at Cottonwood High School. He celebrates all of the amazing victories and achievements from all of our students no matter what background, ethnicity or culture. We love seeing Clarke at our events and our students definitely feel supported when a board member takes the time to watch them excel. We truly hope that we can continue our collaboration with Clarke on future meetings, performances, sporting events or just a phone call for advice. We would like to give our full recommendation to Clarke Nelson to serve on the Granite School Board. His time served in the past has been very productive and has helped so many teachers and students. We need strong leaders to guide us in these difficult times in the education world. Every district needs someone like Clarke on their side to build them up, support them and to lead them into victory."

"I was pleased to hear that Clarke Nelson is seeking a seat on the Granite School Board of Education. I have worked with Clarke in his various roles with Bonneville Junior High and Cottonwood High School. All three of our children attended these same schools, so we were thrilled to see someone with Clarke's passion and credentials pick up the advocacy baton as our kids transitioned out of the community.

I was subsequently elected to serve as Mayor of The City of Holladay. This new role has kept me engaged with our local public schools. Whenever there is a Community Council Meeting or event Clarke continues to be front and center. He has never shied away from engaging in issues important to the mission of our public schools. Clarke has all of the tools you would expect of an effective Board member; passion, knowledge, commitment and compassion. Our community, and the Granite School District at large would be lucky to have someone of Clarke’s stature join theirBoard. He has my full endorsement."

"Clarke Nelson has been an asset to the Granite school district for many years. He is passionate about public education and fights for what is best for all students. 

He stands up for what he believes will benefit our children, even if he stands alone. He has been an incredible school board member for the past four years. 

I have served 7 times as PTA president, and for the past last 8 years I've been a community council member. I've seen the devotion of many parents in our schools. Clarke is in the top 1% of dedicated parents. He regularly attends sporting events, school plays, concerts and volunteers in classrooms across the Cottonwood network. 

I wholeheartedly endorse him for re-election and with confidence say that he the best candidate running. 
Join me in voting for Clarke Nelson for Granite School Board!"

"I have worked with Clarke Neilson over the past few years both as a parent and as a member of the Holladay City Council. Even before he was elected, Clarke was involved in community efforts to improve the quality and reputation of our schools in the Cottonwood Network. As a member of the Granite School District, Clarke provides reasoned calm and thoughtful approaches to addressing the problems our students face. He attends multiple school’s Community Council meetings, meets with parents, teachers and administrators to gain an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in each school. I’ve watched as he has solicited input regarding the latest proposed cell phone policy and his diplomatic and sincere desire to understand all sides of this issue is exactly what we need. His only agenda is to do what is best for our students and he is eager to listen to make the most informed decision possible. I am thrilled Clarke is seeking an additional term on the Granite School Board."

"I have taught four of Clarke Nelson's children over the last many years. I have had ample opportunityto observe him as a parent and community member at school. Clarke is an advocate for all thestudents and families. He listens and collaborates, and actively seeks out the insight and experience of others so that he can understand the diverse needs of everyone in our community.His actions are well-researched, well-considered, and goal-oriented. I am a parent in our community as well as a teacher, and I trust Clarke to listen to my voice, listen to my neighbors, and make those decisions that will strengthen our children and our community."

"I have worked with Clarke on many projects in the community over the past few years. He has a deep love and concern for the students in our area and works tirelessly to help with their needs. I have seen him at PTA and Community Council meetings and school events-both during and after school hours. He works hard to make sure the voices of students, parents, and community are heard and represented. I appreciate his willingness to talk about the issues facing school and listen to the ideas other have to solve them. I know he will continue all these practices and I look forward to working with him in the future."

"I have great respect for Clarke Nelson and his dedication to students in our district. When I was principal of Granite Park, I could always count on him to look out for the students from the South Salt Lake Community, even though they were geographically separated from their peers that were part of the Cottonwood Network. I've appreciated that he views things from the broader perspective that is critical to make important decisions for our district, while always being highly involved at the local level for his precinct. I know I can't count on him as an ally for always putting kids first."

2005 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

2013 Excel Outstanding Educator, Granite School District

"I am thrilled to hear that Clarke Nelson is seeking re-election to the Granite School District Board of Education because he gets things done. When the school boundaries were changed last summer, the elementary students in my neighborhood were assigned to attend a school much farther away. As the start of the new school year drew closer, I became aware that students living in the Hidden Meadows Apartments were not bus eligible to Oakwood Elementary School. This information raised several concerns. I meet with Clarke and shared my trepidations. He directed me to the steps I needed to take. Clarke took my input to the parties involved at Granite School District. Through his guidance and efforts, the need for a bus to service the students mentioned above was reevaluated and provided. I whole heartedly endorse Clarke Nelson to represent Precinct 2 on the Granite School District Board of Education. I know Clarke will continue to work hard for our students, families, and community."

"I have known Clarke Nelson for over a decade. He is a hard worker and reaches out to our community to lift others. He is a high integrity guy and is dependable. He is an excellent family man and has always supported his children and neighbors in their educational pursuits. Clarke has been an asset to The Granite School Board and should continue in his work to keep its programs strong. I totally endorse Clarke and recommend that others also vote for him."

"I've known Clarke for more than a decade now, and I am so glad he is running for reelection to the school board. Clarke understands the issues facing students, parents, and faculty members in Grante School District. He's been open, responsive, and helpful to me as a parent. I appreciate his willingness to think outside the box and bring a business owner and parent's perspective to the board."

"I have known Clarke in the business community for two decades. He is a trusted business

advisor to Fortune 500 companies, top law  firms, universities, and state/federal governmental entities. Based on his business acumen, passion for education, integrity, and ability to

communicate effectively, I cannot imagine anyone more qualified to strengthen academic performance, maximize economic efficiencies, eliminate waste/fraud, enhance transparency and be a trusted representative for the community."

"When our elementary school was in the process of closing, Clarke was very accessible to address our concerns.  He showed up to our Community Councils and PTA meetings answering our questions and providing resources for us too. It was easy to see that Clarke has a good relationship with the people at the district and a plethora of knowledge as well. I suspect this is a result of his own children going through Granite School District and his time spent volunteering in his kids' schools, like on Community Councils.  As someone from the Cottonwood High Network, Clarke is also very familiar with some of our unique challenges within the network. Moreover, every time we see him at an event like a school sport's game, high school musical, or a network community night, I always see him greeting students and talking to families. He asks engaging questions to get to know his community better, so he knows how best to help them. My own boys know who he is and have frequently spoken with him. Clarke Nelson is a valuable piece to our community! I will not hesitate to vote for him in November. "

"I have known Clarke for many years. He has always been very passionate about making things better, and doing the right thing.  As a teacher and Coach at Cottonwood high school I have been very grateful for the support and help that Clarke has provided to make our school better. He is always willing to listen and try to come up with solutions to problems and concerns and has been a tremendous help and support for me in the classroom and on the field.  As a parent and member of the community I’ve been proud to have him be our representative on the Granite school board."

"As an educator, I have always appreciated supportive, involved parents who were willing to step up and do whatever was needed to assist in the art of learning. Clarke Nelson is that inclusive parent who saw the needs and implemented long lasting solutions not only in a class setting but also on the community council, advancing enriching programs and assisting in sporting activities in the community. I know Clarke Nelson will bring the energy, commitment, compassion and leadership to the Granite District School Board and be the difference the community needs."

Clarke Nelson is actively involved in the Cottonwood Network as both a parent and a school board member.  He understands public schools are the great equalizer in our society and advocates for all students.  He has earned my vote for re-election!

"I have known Clarke Nelson for years. His integrity, dedication to service, and kindness are just some of the words to describe an honorable person with incredible vision and drive to serve the community and those around. I have no doubt that he will be the best candidate for GraniteSchool Board."

"I have known Clarke Nelson for more than 15 years. Clarke is a man of great integrity. I worked with Clarke in Boy Scouting and watched him serve as a very dedicated Scoutmaster and Youth Leader for many years. He has also headed up our Neighborhood Watch group for the last few years. He and his wonderful wife Marci are raising five great children. I honestly can't think of any other person I know who would be better at influencing the policies that greatly affect our public school children. I wholeheartedly endorse Clarke Nelson for the Granite School Board."

"Clarke is a tremendous asset to not just his immediate community, but to the entire Granite School District. His balanced perspective, fiscal expertise, and professionalism are rarely matched in education or business circles. Our public schools need his leadership."

"I have known Clarke for the past 7 years. Clarke has been a great supporter of not only Bonneville but the entire Cottonwood network. He has a passion to do what’s right for kids. He has the unique ability to be laser focused on an issue while keeping a broad point of view with a logical, compassionate perceptive that sees all sides of the issue and the bigger picture. Clarke has always been a strong voice for our network but more importantly for the education of our students. His positive approach to education and the challenges that we face is refreshing, to say the least."

• Utah Association of Certified Public Accountants
• Granite Education Association
• Utah Parents for Teachers