2007-08 Five-Star Winners
The Jordan Board of Education honored 10 employees and two schools with 2007 Five-Star Awards. The awards honor outstanding employees for the exceptional work they do throughout the District. Winners receive $2,500 and will attend a recognition banquet Nov. 2, 2007.
Year-round Elementary Teacher
Mary Barton, special education, Crescent Elementary
A parent writes, “Mrs. Barton is filled with light and high energy. Her gifts as a human being and teacher are remarkable …She is a lifesaver and has helped my son more than I can ever explain.”
Traditional Elementary Teacher
Susan Henrie, literacy facilitator, Ridgecrest Elementary
“Susan is the embodiment of a true teacher,” writes her principal. “She is a literally an encyclopedia of pedagogical knowledge and methodology, and an amazing example of genuine caring and concern for everyone.”
Middle School Teacher
Jennifer Van Haaften, U.S. history/language arts, Butler Middle
A colleague writes that students “just love being in her class and can hardly wait to get there each day. In the best of worlds, teachers like Jennifer should be in every school.”
High School Teacher
Carolyn Stevens, medical assisting, Jordan Applied Technology Center, West Jordan Campus
Her principal writes, “Carolyn has fostered quality business partnerships, offers students hands-on, real-life laboratory experiences and is respected by her students and colleagues.”
Certificated At-Large Employee
Joanne Hampton, mentor teacher specialist, Special Education Department
A peer writes, “Joanne has been the perfect person to lead the next generation of teachers. Her enthusiasm and positive attitude make all who come in contact with her feel appreciated and supported.”
Administrator
Mary Bailey, principal, Copper Hills High
“Mary has an open-door policy wherein students and staff may approach her with any concerns and/or suggestions,” writes the head secretary. “She loves the students and wants the very best for them.”
Classified Employees
Patty Christensen, user support technician, Information Systems Department
An entire department nominated Patty, noting that “technology is ever changing and we’ve been impressed with how well Patty has stayed current with the latest trends…We have no doubt she is the most requested technician in Information Systems.”
Mirsa Joosten, District translator/interpreter, Alternative Language Services
Her supervisor says Joosten’s greatest strength lies in "advocating for linguistically diverse families and children…She is not only competent and professional in her daily interactions, but is also compassionate and resourceful.”
Dyke Nelsen, lead person, Plumbing Department
“Dyke can always be relied upon to work late, work weekends, work holidays, etc…and often takes holidays and weekends for his men,” writes a colleague. “He sets a great example for his plumbers…”
Mark Nelson, head custodian, District Office
A department director wrote, “Mark cares for the District Office as if it were his own home. It's not uncommon for him to repair things on the weekends so he doesn't disrupt the day-to-day operation of the building.”
School Public Relations
Crescent Elementary
Whether it’s through a personal phone call, newsletter, e-mail or the Web site, parents appreciate the communication and excellent customer service they receive from the staff, teachers and principal.
Riverton High
Riverton High is one of the most visible high schools in the state because of its continual efforts to promote positive events and the achievements of its students and staff.