Westridge Elementary School students celebrated the unveiling of a newly renovated library on Thursday, Oct. 15, alongside BYU football players, cheerleaders, Cosmo the Cougar, and Big 12 Conference representatives. The library makeover, which provided new furniture and updated reading spaces, was made possible through a partnership between the Big 12 Conference and the College Football Playoff Foundation.
The celebration included a surprise recognition for Westridge educator Shanna Bonnett, who received $1,000 in DonorsChoose classroom resources. This award was provided through the College Football Playoff Foundation’s Extra Yard for Teachers initiative.
Big 12 Chief Impact Officer Jenn Hunter told students that elementary school work prepares them for future opportunities and emphasized the importance of reading and studying. BYU Director of Athletics Brian Santiago also spoke to students, inviting them to express gratitude to the teachers and principals who assist their learning.
Three BYU football players—Raider Damuni, Bear Bachmeier, and Cade Uluave—addressed the students during the event. Damuni spoke about his childhood dream of playing for BYU, while Bachmeier told students that knowledge is power. Uluave encouraged students to use the new library as a resource to build knowledge, noting that education benefits individuals regardless of their future interests.
The Big 12 Conference specifically requested the library makeover at Westridge ahead of an upcoming BYU football game as part of efforts to support communities near its member universities. School Specialty worked with Westridge staff to assist in designing and furnishing the renovated space. The event concluded with students reciting the school's Operation: Wildcat motto, pledging to be respectful, responsible, and safe.
The Provo City School District acknowledged the organizations and individuals that contributed to the makeover and the recognition of Westridge educators, noting that the new spaces will help students discover new interests and cultivate a love of reading.
