Carrying on a memorable tradition, Young Kia surprised Viewmont High School teacher Andru Jones — who won Davis School District’s teacher of the year award — with an all-expenses paid, one-year lease on a new 2024 Kia Seltos on May 15.
“This honestly is one of the most amazing things in my life,” Jones said. “There’s so many great people, great teachers in our district and [they’re] all deserving. Hopefully I can make them proud.”
Assistant superintendent Logan Toone delivered the news while the Unified Sports team Jones’ coaches was being recognized. Following the announcement, the educator was joined by friends and family on stage, including NFL defensive end Hunter Dimick — a player he coached at Syracuse High School. It was soon after that Young Kia’s general manager Dallin Breshears was given the mic to tell Jones about his prize.
“May’s always one of our favorite months of the year and it’s because of this giveaway,” Breshears said. “We’re grateful for moments like this to award people like Jones who’ve helped uplift our communities.”
Along with the Seltos, Jones received vehicle insurance for a year, courtesy of Goldenwest Credit Union, as well as a $500 Maverik Gas Card.
A special education teacher and football coach, Jones has been teaching since 2008. He is known for promoting character development and community involvement, according to a statement from the Davis Education Foundation. The morning before the ceremony, Jones had members of the school’s football team clean up Centerville’s cemetery as a service project.
Held in partnership with the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation and the Davis Education Foundation, Young Kia first began the giveaway tradition in 2016. Last year’s winner, English teacher Carly Maloney, was also at Viewmont High School. Maloney not only received the district accolade and vehicle, but the statewide teacher of the year award as well. During Young Powersports XL Centerville’s grand opening ceremony on Oct. 27, Maloney was awarded a free Honda scooter from the dealership for her achievement.
“It’s the perfect example in my mind of a community partnership that’s founded on goodwill that results in something amazing,” Toone said. “Huge gratitude to our foundation and our industry partners in particular: Young Automotive Group and Goldenwest Credit Union. This wouldn’t happen without them.”
Jones’ teacher of the year celebration coincides with the Young Automotive Group’s 100 year anniversary. Founded in 1924 by Seldon “Jack” Olsen, the company has over 30 automotive and powersports related operations across Utah, Idaho and Montana.
“I just gave [my team] a lecture about how you’ve got to give back,” Jones said. “Young Automotive Group does that and Goldenwest does that and they’re the greatest people to work with in our community, so we appreciate them and we love them.”
