Gov. Cox visits Uintah High
Gov. Spencer Cox visited Uintah High School today, speaking to three separate gatherings of students about the importance of being active in their community and supporting each other. He also answered students' questions on a number of topics.
The governor encouraged students avoid becoming cynical and to "focus on being a builder, not a destroyer."
"Build people up. If you are a builder, your life will be awesome," he said.
In response to a student's question about voting, the governor said those who are already interested in the political process should register when they turn 18 and vote. They should also talk to their friends about the importance of voting.
"Every generation has to discover their love for America and I hope you will do that," Cox said, while warning students that "demonizing" those with opposing political views is destructive.
"We can't survive as a nation or a society if we do that," Cox said.
After meeting with student body and club leadership, the governor spoke to UHS juniors and seniors in the auditorium. Before taking questions he briefly discussed his own struggles with suicide ideation as a teenager.
The governor urged students to download the
SafeUT app to help connect them with licensed counselors through a crisis chat and tip line. He also asked them to talk to their parents, a school counselor or teacher, or their friends if they needed help.
"Sometimes you may think the world would be better without you. That's not true," Cox said. "We need you. I need you here, so please, please reach out and get help.”
The governor also met briefly with members of the Uintah High Football Team at Coach Belcher Stadium. He spoke about the valuable lessons learned from coaches and the bonds built in practices and games. He also wished the team well in their game against Cedar Valley tomorrow night.
Uintah High Principal Christy Nerdin thanked the governor for visiting Uintah County "to listen and learn from our community."
"Our students had insightful and compelling questions, and I was impressed by his engagement with our kids on issues that are important to them," she said.
Nerdin also lauded her staff for their teamwork during the governor's visit.
"The way our high school community comes together to make these events a positive experience for our students is one of the things that makes Uintah High shine," she said.
To view more photos from the governor's visit go to
https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjA98P5