Codee Flores
“Codee Flores has proudly called Herriman home since 2020, but her journey spans several cities, each adding to the rich fabric of her life. Born and raised in Victoria, TX, she later moved to Utah, living in both Sandy and South Jordan before settling in Herriman. A pivotal moment in her life occurred in high school when she survived a traumatic brain injury from a car accident. This experience not only tested her physical and emotional strength but also instilled a deep sense of resilience that has guided her throughout her life. Despite the challenges, Codee pushed forward, graduating high school and pursuing her dream of becoming a teacher.
Today, Codee serves as a special education teacher, working with post-high adults aged 18-22 in the Jordan School District. Her students come from various backgrounds, each bringing unique perspectives to the classroom. Codee’s dedication to her students’ growth and success was recognized when she received the 2024 Teacher of the Year award for her school, an achievement she holds dear as it highlights her commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities. She sees teaching not just as a profession but as a calling—a way to give back and make a lasting impact on her students’ lives.
Family plays a central role in Codee’s life. She is married to John, a military veteran whose service has profoundly influenced her understanding of sacrifice, dedication, and resilience. Together, they share a love for travel, often visiting Disney for magical family trips. Their daughter, Tymber, is a constant source of joy and pride, and Codee draws daily inspiration from her parents, Bruce and Kaya, whose wisdom and encouragement have been guiding lights throughout her journey. Even her grandparents, now in their 80s, remain involved in education, volunteering in her classroom, a testament to the importance of giving back and staying active in the community.
Codee’s Native American heritage is a vital part of her identity. Although she has faced challenges due to her appearance not fitting the typical image of a Native woman, she proudly represents her culture in all aspects of her life. Her signature Native earrings are more than just an accessory—they are a symbol of her pride and connection to her roots. She strives to continually learn more about her heritage and to pass that knowledge on to her students and community.
Outside the classroom, Codee’s passions are diverse. She coaches softball, a sport that taught her valuable lessons in teamwork, leadership, and perseverance, which she now imparts to her students and players. Photography allows her to capture life’s fleeting moments, whether it’s her family’s adventures or the beauty of the natural landscapes around Herriman. Travel fuels her sense of adventure, and she loves exploring new places, both near and far, as a way to recharge and find inspiration.
One of Codee’s most rewarding efforts has been creating job opportunities for her students, connecting them with causes like animal shelters and homelessness. Through these experiences, her students not only learn valuable work skills but also develop empathy and a sense of purpose, knowing they are making a positive impact on the community.
As she looks ahead, Codee is focused on developing innovative teaching strategies to further enhance her students’ learning experiences. Her long-term goal is to advocate for better resources and support for special education programs, ensuring that every student, regardless of their abilities, has the chance to thrive. She is passionate about making a difference, not just in her students’ lives but in the broader community as well, and she remains committed to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.
For Codee Flores, life is a journey of resilience, service, and continuous learning. Whether she’s in the classroom, on the softball field, or exploring the world with her family, she is driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around her.”
