Bob Edmiston bids farewell: Reflecting on 18 years in Park City School District

PARK CITY, Utah — After nearly two decades of service in the Park City School District, Associate Principal Bob Edmiston, known to students and staff as “Mr. Ed,” is set to retire at the end of the school year. Having spent much of his career at McPolin Elementary before moving to Park City High School, Edmiston leaves behind a legacy of dedication, leadership and passion for education.

Edmiston joined the district in 2006, though not without persistence. “They made me interview three times,” he said with a laugh. “They didn’t hire me the first two times, but they hired me the third time.”

His tenure has been marked by a deep commitment to students and a belief in fostering a positive school culture. “Great schools have great cultures,” he said. “Changing and maintaining a culture where all students feel safe, supported and challenged is the biggest challenge and the greatest reward.”

Edmiston spent most of his years at McPolin Elementary, where he helped launch the district’s summer school program with the support of the Park City Education Foundation. “We started a six-week summer school program on a shoestring,” he recalled. “It began with McPolin kids, but by the second year, we invited as many students as we could afford to support. That program has since grown into a district-wide initiative.”

He also played a key role in the development of the district’s after-school program, which provides additional academic support and a safe environment for students. “Certain students benefit from extra instruction and a place to be until 5:30 p.m.,” he said. “That too is now a district-wide program, and I feel very proud of having been part of its inception.”

In 2011, Edmiston transitioned to Park City High School, serving as an assistant principal alongside Principal Bob O’Connor and fellow Assistant Principal Lindsay Huntsman. He later returned to McPolin before making his final move back to the high school three years ago. “I didn’t want to end my career at the elementary level,” he said. “I always liked the high school, and I wanted to try something new.”

While Edmiston has fond memories from his years in education, one particularly stands out—a pep rally orchestrated by then-business teacher and student council advisor Caleb Fine. “They called me up to half-court, blindfolded me, and had me take a shot for a chance to win a season pass to Deer Valley,” he said. “I barely missed. But they had the whole assembly cheer like I made it. It was all staged, but it was a blast.”

Beyond the rally, Edmiston said the most significant evolution in education has been the shift toward individualized instruction. “We used to create programs and expect students and families to adjust to them,” he said. “Now, we meet students where they are, and our ability to be flexible and responsive has made us better.”

Looking ahead, Edmiston has no plans to leave the Park City area. “This is home,” he said. “My wife and I have lived here for years. Our kids and grandkids are here, and I plan to enjoy skiing, mountain biking and everything this community has to offer.”

As for staying involved in education, he believes his time in schools has come to an end. “I’ve given it 34 years,” he said. “It’s someone else’s turn now. I’ll find other ways to give back, maybe through volunteering. But I don’t plan on working in education anymore.”

When asked what advice he would offer to educators, Edmiston emphasized service and integrity. “You better have a servant’s heart if you plan on working here,” he said. “Every decision you make has an impact, and the only thing that lasts is your word.”

Reflecting on his career, Edmiston said he hopes his legacy is simple. “I just hope that when people hear my name, they remember someone who did their best every day for kids and families.”

As he prepares to step away from his role, his message to students and staff is clear: “Kindness and love. Your life is your message. Show people who you are—don’t just tell them. And no matter what happens, we got this.”