History of the
Kenneth Burdett School of the Deaf
Compiled & Written by Jodi Christel Becker
Published in 2011
Updated in 2026
Published in 2011
Updated in 2026
Author's Note
Being part of the school naming process in 2011 was a memorable experience that celebrated Kenneth C. Burdett, affectionately known as "KB," and his significant contributions to the Utah School for the Deaf. I want to express my gratitude to Trena Roueche, the former Associate Superintendent, for her excellent leadership in managing the naming process and organizing the ceremony in KB's honor. I also want to thank Dr. Michelle Tanner, a teacher at the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf at that time, for connecting me with Trena regarding name recommendations. I appreciate the teamwork from everyone involved in this important initiative. Their commitment to honoring KB's legacy will have a lasting impact on the community.
My personal connection to KB makes this tribute even more special. I had the privilege of meeting him once at my wedding reception in 1999. The stories shared by my father-in-law, Kenneth L. Kinner, a former student of KB, and by Ronald C. Burdett, KB's son and my college instructor, truly moved me. Meeting KB before his passing in 2000 is a moment I will always cherish. The decision to name the school in his honor is even more meaningful.
We will always remember KB's remarkable dedication and long service to the Utah School for the Deaf, both as a student and as a staff member. His significant impact on our community is something we all celebrate and honor. KB’s passion for education and steadfast support for his peers inspired many. His spirit will guide us as we strive to embody his values. Moving forward, we commit to keeping KB's legacy alive in the hearts and minds of future generations.
Thank you!
Jodi Christel Becker
My personal connection to KB makes this tribute even more special. I had the privilege of meeting him once at my wedding reception in 1999. The stories shared by my father-in-law, Kenneth L. Kinner, a former student of KB, and by Ronald C. Burdett, KB's son and my college instructor, truly moved me. Meeting KB before his passing in 2000 is a moment I will always cherish. The decision to name the school in his honor is even more meaningful.
We will always remember KB's remarkable dedication and long service to the Utah School for the Deaf, both as a student and as a staff member. His significant impact on our community is something we all celebrate and honor. KB’s passion for education and steadfast support for his peers inspired many. His spirit will guide us as we strive to embody his values. Moving forward, we commit to keeping KB's legacy alive in the hearts and minds of future generations.
Thank you!
Jodi Christel Becker
Kenneth C. Burdett
HONORING THE NAME OF THE SCHOOL
AFTER KENNETH C. BURDETT
AFTER KENNETH C. BURDETT
On August 23, 2011, the North Division officially renamed the ASL/English bilingual program to the Kenneth C. Burdett School of the Deaf in honor of KB. He was a pivotal figure at the Utah School for the Deaf, celebrated for his advocacy and dedication to advancing education and rights for Deaf individuals. This decision received enthusiastic support from Trena Roueche, the Associate Superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf at that time, as well as from the school community. This renaming aimed to foster students' connections to Deaf culture and identity. Those involved believed that naming the school after a Deaf individual, such as KB, would help students connect with Deaf culture and community, ultimately strengthening their sense of identity as members of the Deaf community. The renaming ceremony was a significant event that promoted a sense of ownership and belonging among students while reinforcing the importance of their cultural heritage.
The idea to name the school after Kenneth C. Burdett came from my father-in-law, Kenneth L. Kinner, known as "Ken," whose favorite teacher was KB. At that time, Dr. Michelle Tanner, a teacher at the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf, connected me with Trena to help compile biographies of notable Deaf individuals in Utah. I shared this information with Ken, a former student of KB, and he enthusiastically suggested, "Why not Kenneth C. Burdett?"
Inspired by this idea, I encouraged Trena to include KB's name on the ballot for consideration. Following the nomination process, the Utah School for the Deaf community voted on three names: Kenneth C. Burdett, Henry C. White, and Elizabeth Mary Wood. These individuals were selected for their significant contributions to the education of Deaf students in Utah. Ultimately, KB received the most votes, demonstrating the community's respect and admiration for him.
On September 29, 2011, a plaque-hanging ceremony took place at the Utah School for the Deaf to honor KB's memory (Becker-Kinner, UAD Bulletin, December 2011). His son, Ronald, along with his wife, Joyanne, and KB's daughter, JoAnn, shared personal anecdotes about his dedication to the Deaf community. A plaque and portrait of KB now serve as reminders of his lasting influence, prominently displayed in the school hallway and symbolizing the community's recognition of his contributions. The emotional ceremony highlighted how one individual's efforts can inspire future generations and showcased the ongoing legacy of Kenneth C. Burdett within the Utah Deaf community.
The idea to name the school after Kenneth C. Burdett came from my father-in-law, Kenneth L. Kinner, known as "Ken," whose favorite teacher was KB. At that time, Dr. Michelle Tanner, a teacher at the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf, connected me with Trena to help compile biographies of notable Deaf individuals in Utah. I shared this information with Ken, a former student of KB, and he enthusiastically suggested, "Why not Kenneth C. Burdett?"
Inspired by this idea, I encouraged Trena to include KB's name on the ballot for consideration. Following the nomination process, the Utah School for the Deaf community voted on three names: Kenneth C. Burdett, Henry C. White, and Elizabeth Mary Wood. These individuals were selected for their significant contributions to the education of Deaf students in Utah. Ultimately, KB received the most votes, demonstrating the community's respect and admiration for him.
On September 29, 2011, a plaque-hanging ceremony took place at the Utah School for the Deaf to honor KB's memory (Becker-Kinner, UAD Bulletin, December 2011). His son, Ronald, along with his wife, Joyanne, and KB's daughter, JoAnn, shared personal anecdotes about his dedication to the Deaf community. A plaque and portrait of KB now serve as reminders of his lasting influence, prominently displayed in the school hallway and symbolizing the community's recognition of his contributions. The emotional ceremony highlighted how one individual's efforts can inspire future generations and showcased the ongoing legacy of Kenneth C. Burdett within the Utah Deaf community.
Kenneth C. Burdett, a 1929 Utah School for the Deaf Senior
Kenneth L. Kinner's Recommendation
to Name the ASL/English Bilingual Program
After Kenneth C. Burdett, a Long-Time Teacher
at the Utah School for the Deaf
to Name the ASL/English Bilingual Program
After Kenneth C. Burdett, a Long-Time Teacher
at the Utah School for the Deaf
Kenneth L. Kinner, a 1954 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, is known for his thoughtful suggestion to rename the school in honor of KB. KB devoted his life to the institution from 1934 to 1974. His remarkable career showcased a deep commitment to education and the community. As a former student, Ken, who passed away in 2019, greatly admired KB for his teaching ability and inspirational leadership among young people.
Kenneth L. Kinner
Kenneth's Devotion to the
Utah School for the Deaf and the
Utah Deaf Community Throughout His Life
Utah School for the Deaf and the
Utah Deaf Community Throughout His Life
At the 25th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association for the Deaf in 1973, Dr. Jay J. Campbell, Deputy Superintendent of the Utah State Office of Education and a strong advocate for the Deaf community in Utah, delivered a keynote address titled "Humanizing Education." In his speech, he emphasized the importance of fostering a warm, personal atmosphere in the educational process (UAD Bulletin, June 1973; Ronald & Joyanne Burdett, personal communication, October 27, 2011). KB's former students, who attended the convention, recognized the relevance of Dr. Campbell's message. KB has consistently embodied this concept throughout its history, positively impacting generations of students.
Throughout his career, KB has demonstrated a strong commitment to the philosophy of humanizing education. His dedication has inspired countless educators and advocates to prioritize students' individual needs. As a result, his impact continues to flourish within the community, driving efforts toward greater educational access for everyone and instilling hope for the future.
Throughout his career, KB has demonstrated a strong commitment to the philosophy of humanizing education. His dedication has inspired countless educators and advocates to prioritize students' individual needs. As a result, his impact continues to flourish within the community, driving efforts toward greater educational access for everyone and instilling hope for the future.
Kenneth C. Burdett at Gallaudet College, 1929-1934
KB's dedication to the Utah School for the Deaf significantly influenced both his life and career. His professional service spanned an impressive four decades, from 1934 to 1974. Throughout this time, he held various positions for a total of 52 years, including student, boys' supervisor, head basketball coach, athletic director, teacher, printing instructor, and curriculum coordinator.
His commitment went beyond the walls of the school; he was an active participant in organizations such as the Utah Association for the Deaf, the National Fraternal Society for the Deaf, and the Golden Spike Athletic Club for the Deaf. KB's dedication to student athletics was evident, as he truly cared about his students' growth and success (Ogden Standard-Examiner, May 23, 1974).
Former student Kenneth L. Kinner described KB as a strong believer in the potential for growth within every student, highlighting his qualities as an inspirational leader (Kenneth L. Kinner, personal communication, April 17, 2011).
Close friends Dr. Robert G. Sanderson and Valerie G. Kinney acknowledged KB's exceptional teaching and coaching abilities. His contributions to the Utah School for the Deaf will always be cherished by those who had the pleasure to know him (Robert G. Sanderson & Valerie G. Kinney, personal communication, July 8, 2011). KB's legacy serves as a beacon for future educators and students, inspiring them to embrace learning and strive for excellence, leaving an indelible mark through his enthusiasm for teaching.
KB passed away on June 29, 2000, at the age of 90, leaving a significant void in the hearts of students at the Utah School for the Deaf, the Utah Deaf community, and all who knew him. His remarkable talents, sense of humor, friendship, and gentlemanly nature were not just personal traits; they were the pillars of our community. We will always remember and cherish the impact he had on our lives (The Salt Lake Tribune, A13).
Included are photographs of Kenneth C. Burdett with colleagues and students from the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah. These pictures reflect the admiration students had for him as a teacher, showcasing their happiness and the strong, positive impact he made on their lives, not just academically but personally. KB's dedication is evident in these interactions, highlighting a legacy built on inspiration and support.
His commitment went beyond the walls of the school; he was an active participant in organizations such as the Utah Association for the Deaf, the National Fraternal Society for the Deaf, and the Golden Spike Athletic Club for the Deaf. KB's dedication to student athletics was evident, as he truly cared about his students' growth and success (Ogden Standard-Examiner, May 23, 1974).
Former student Kenneth L. Kinner described KB as a strong believer in the potential for growth within every student, highlighting his qualities as an inspirational leader (Kenneth L. Kinner, personal communication, April 17, 2011).
Close friends Dr. Robert G. Sanderson and Valerie G. Kinney acknowledged KB's exceptional teaching and coaching abilities. His contributions to the Utah School for the Deaf will always be cherished by those who had the pleasure to know him (Robert G. Sanderson & Valerie G. Kinney, personal communication, July 8, 2011). KB's legacy serves as a beacon for future educators and students, inspiring them to embrace learning and strive for excellence, leaving an indelible mark through his enthusiasm for teaching.
KB passed away on June 29, 2000, at the age of 90, leaving a significant void in the hearts of students at the Utah School for the Deaf, the Utah Deaf community, and all who knew him. His remarkable talents, sense of humor, friendship, and gentlemanly nature were not just personal traits; they were the pillars of our community. We will always remember and cherish the impact he had on our lives (The Salt Lake Tribune, A13).
Included are photographs of Kenneth C. Burdett with colleagues and students from the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah. These pictures reflect the admiration students had for him as a teacher, showcasing their happiness and the strong, positive impact he made on their lives, not just academically but personally. KB's dedication is evident in these interactions, highlighting a legacy built on inspiration and support.
Kenneth C. Burdett, a curriculum instructor, oversees the concurrent academic department at the Utah School for the Deaf. Source: The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1968
USD Teachers and Administrators. Source: The Utah Eagle, May 1938
Teachers, principal, and superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf assembled on the steps of the Main Building, 1947. Kenneth C. Burdett is on the right side of the second row. Source: UAD Bulletin, Summer 1969
Kenneth C. Burdett standing on the back row on the left side at the Utah School for the Deaf in the 1950s
Kenneth and his Utah School for the Deaf students, 1953-54
Kenneth teaching math at the Utah School for the Deaf in 1960
____, Kenneth Burdett, Kenneth Kinner at the Utah School for the Deaf in the 1950s
Kenneth C. Burdett with his students goofing around at the Utah School for the Deaf in the 1940s
Kenneth C. Burdett's professional life spans at the Utah School for the Deaf from 1934 to 1974
Kenneth teaching algebra at the Utah School for the Deaf in 1954
____, Eleanor Kay Kinner, Kenneth Burdett, Kenneth Kinner, ____, _____ at the Utah School for the Deaf in 1953-54
First Row L-R: Ronald Forbush, Rollin Jones, Robert Bonnell, Max Hardy. Second Row L-R: Jay Christensen, Keith Stewart, Roy Milburn, Lynn Losee, Raymond Valencia. Back Row L-R: Tommy Lewis, Von Jones, Jackie Imhoff, Kenneth Burdett, Bruce Harvey at the Utah School for the Deaf in 1955
Kenneth C. Burdett setting up the printing machine at the Utah School for the Deaf
Kenneth C. Burdett and his M-Men basketball team of the Ogden Deaf Branch, 1943-44. Coach Kenneth C. Burdett (Center). Clockwise bottom: #2 Peter Koukoutsakis, #9 Lloyd Perkins, #7 Kirk Allred, #7 Mike Pallerakis, #2 Merrill Bauer, #3 Bruce Eyre, #5 Melvin Sorensen, #4 Paul Loveland, #8 Lyle G. Mortensen, #9 Tony Jealco, and #6 Sam Judd
Students went boating with Kenneth and Afton Burdett, Deaf teachers at
Pineview Reservoir, 1953. Standing L-R: Kay Kinner, Marion Brown,
Bruce Harvey, Dixie Lee Larsen, Afton Burdett, Kenneth Burdett, Max
Hardy, Donna Mae Dekker, Leon Curtis, Von Jones, Lawana Simmons.
Sitting L-R: Kenneth Kinner and Ronald Burdett
Kenneth C. Burdett at the 1976 Utah School for the Deaf reunion
'The Utah School for the Deaf Would Like to Announce The Dedication of Our New Kenneth C. Burdett School of the Deaf.'
Ron, his wife, Joyanne and his sister, JoAnn at the dedication of the new Kenneth C. Burdett School of the Deaf
A Slideshow of Kenneth C. Burdett's
Honoring Ceremony
September 29, 2011
Honoring Ceremony
September 29, 2011
I have included photos of Kenneth C. Burdett's Honoring Ceremony, taken on September 28, 2011, in the slideshow for your convenience and enjoyment. Let's celebrate the memories captured during this special event as we honor Kenneth's contributions and legacy. Each photograph serves as a joyful reminder of the impact he had on those around him. Enjoy!
Photos taken by Jodi Christel Becker
Notes
Kenneth L. Kinner, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, April 17, 2011.
Robert Sanderson & Valerie G. Kinney, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, July 8, 2011.
Ronald & Joyanne Burdett, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, October 27, 2011.
Robert Sanderson & Valerie G. Kinney, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, July 8, 2011.
Ronald & Joyanne Burdett, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, October 27, 2011.
References
"Convention Speaker, JJ." UAD Bulletin, vol. 8, no. 3 (June 1973): 1.
Kinner (Becker), Jodi. "History of the Naming of the School." UAD Bulletin, Vol. 35.07 (December 2011): 5.
"Reception Will Honor Retiring Deaf Teacher." Ogden Standard-Examiner, 11B, May 23, 1974.
"Kenneth C. Burdett." The Salt Lake Tribune, A13. 100E9A00D3D6A04E.
Kinner (Becker), Jodi. "History of the Naming of the School." UAD Bulletin, Vol. 35.07 (December 2011): 5.
"Reception Will Honor Retiring Deaf Teacher." Ogden Standard-Examiner, 11B, May 23, 1974.
"Kenneth C. Burdett." The Salt Lake Tribune, A13. 100E9A00D3D6A04E.
