"Though Moab is a town of political, cultural, economic, social and other forms of diversity, we are all bound by the high value we place in our children and their well-being."

 Art Coach Bruce Hucko teaches at HMK Elementary in Moab, UT.  HMK is Moab’s sole elementary school.  Total enrollment in grades K-6 fluctuates around 750 with a staff of nearly 100.  There are 5 classes per grade with class size averaging 22.  HMK stands for Helen M. Knight, who was Utah’s first female superintendent.  For this and other reasons we stress quality and equality in all of our educational endeavors.

Moab, itself, is a tourism-based town with a hardrock mining and agricultural past.  The growth of tourism creates a lop-sided economy with many have-nots than haves.  Our mostly working class parents often hold 2-3 jobs to make ends meet.  Food and gas costs are 15% higher than state average.  Wages tend to be low and often seasonal.  There is a distinct low-income housing shortage.  Most of our kids and their families do not participate in the activities that have made Moab so popular.  In addition to our educational responsibilities the staff feels an obligation to also provide for student mental and physical health, safety, nourishment, and happiness through a variety of in-school and after-school programs.  Though Moab is a town of political, cultural, economic, social and other forms of diversity, we are all bound by the high value we place in our children and their well-being.