| Five-Star Award Winners The Jordan Board of Education is pleased to announce the winners of this year’s  annual Five-Star Awards. The awards honor 10 outstanding employees and two schools for the exceptional contributions they make to the District. This year’s winners receive $2,500 and will be honored at a recognition banquet Nov. 3.Year-round Elementary Teacher Timothy Strebel, fourth-grade, South Jordan A co-worker writes that Timothy Strebel is “an outstanding example of a caring, energetic and child-centered teacher.” His “capacity to acquire new skills and apply them in a classroom has made his class a model of inquiry, exploration and creativity.” Traditional Elementary Teacher Naomi Damron, fifth-grade, Quail Hollow “Namoi Damron believes that attitudes are contagious, and she tries to make her attitude worth catching,” wrote a parent. “She approaches each day with enthusiasm and hope, to develop within each student a love for and enjoyment of the subjects they study.” Middle School Teacher Eva Belliston, language arts, Crescent View Eva Belliston’s principal shared the experience of a former student who, after serving in Iraq, returned to thank Mrs. Belliston because “lessons he had learned in her drama class…had saved his life and helped him to be instrumental in saving the lives of some of his companions.” High School Teacher Kim Searle, psychology, Copper Hills One of Kim Searle’s students wrote that “as a teacher and coach, Ms. Searle exemplifies the absolute mentor…Anyone can be a teacher, but it is her ability to inspire action that separates (her) from the rest.” Certificated At-Large Eunice Chen, occupational therapist, Jordan Resource Center A teacher who works with Eunice Chen wrote that she is an amazing therapist who “has made a difference in many, many students’ lives…Helping students develop more independence is a byproduct of much of the training (she) offers.” Administrator Sharon Okumura, principal, Canyon View Elementary A patron wrote that Sharon Okumura was a great addition to the school because of her “open and enthusiastic personality, genuine love for children, teaching skills and charming way of interacting with youngsters and their families.” Classified Employees Jim Belmont, graphics technician, Printing Services A department director wrote that Jim Belmont “knows and values the importance of communicating effectively and working well under pressure…He is forward thinking and thrives on finding innovative ways to do things.” Joyce Guenon, Native American outreach, Alternative Language Services A co-worker describes Joyce Guenon as “a role model that has had a positive impact on the lives of many minority… students. (She) knows the reward of giving of oneself…to enable students and families to overcome their challenges and move onward with hope and determination.” Michelle Nelson, administrative secretary, Auxiliary Services Michelle Nelson is “a walking database,” according to one supervisor. “She has a mind and memory that is ready in an instant to retrieve accurate information critical to the operation of the office and the school district.” Shane Smith, head custodian, Brookwood Elementary A group of students signed one of Shane Smith’s nomination letters. They wrote that Mr. Smith “works hard to keep our school bright and clean. Kids like to help him because he makes work fun. Sometimes he even stops working to shoot hoops with kids.” School Public Relations Midvale Middle During the past school year, Midvale Middle sought to improve communication with the community through mailings, a re-designed Web site and open houses. A former principal reported that building media relationships resulted in at least 16 articles in local newspapers. Jordan Applied Technology Center, West Jordan Campus A parent praised JATC, West Jordan Campus, classes: “Keeping students involved in a program that will help them attain their future career sooner keeps students in school and encourages them to continue with their education after high school.” |
| Oct. 31, 2006 |
School Psychology Awareness Week
Nov. 6-10 is National School Psychology Awareness Week. The school psychologists in Jordan District provide a range of services related to students’ academic achievement and well-being including crisis management, psychological testing, and collaboration and consultation with teachers, parents, and school personnel. This year, school psychologists are highlighting the importance of students’ mental health and its link to learning, behavior and social/emotional wellness. Research suggests that students who receive social-emotional and mental health support do better academically and have fewer behavior problems. School psychologists contribute to creating a positive school climate and foster students’ sense of connectedness and well-being.
Utah Teacher of the Year Runner-Up
Kim Searle, psychology teacher at Copper Hills High (West Jordan) and this year’s Jordan District Teacher of the Year, was named second runner-up for Utah Teacher of the Year. The award, which comes with $3,000, was presented at a dinner Oct. 27.
Math Honors
The Utah Council of Teachers of Mathematics recognized Joleigh Honey, secondary mathematics specialist in the Curriculum Department, with the Muffet Reeves Award for Teachers Teaching Teachers. The award was presented in recognition of her work in mathematics professional development. The Council also named Tami Bird, sixth-grade teacher at Hayden Peak Elementary (West Jordan), as one of three state finalists for the Presidential Award in Mathematics.
Outstanding Paraeducator
Joyce Gambill, District paraprofessional, was named an Outstanding Paraeducator in the area of elementary resource. Candidates are nominated by their peers based on efficiency and initiative, significant accomplishments, improvement on the image of paraeducators throughout the state and significant impact on students. The award will be presented during the Utah Paraeducator Conference Nov. 10-11 in Ogden.
Educators of the Month
The Sandy Area Chamber of Commerce and Jordan Credit Union honored Patricia Boswell, fourth-grade teacher at Quail Hollow Elementary (Sandy), and James Nielson, science teacher at Albion Middle (Sandy) as Educators of the Month for October. The awards were presented at a luncheon Oct. 27.
Ribbon Month Activities
Students at Butler Elementary (Cottonwood Heights) celebrated Ribbon Month with a variety of activities aimed at helping students understand the harmful effects of using tobacco and abusing drugs. Jeff, the Mad Scientist, showed students during an assembly what happens to the body when a person uses tobacco. McGruff the Crime Dog greeted students as they came to school and briefly visited students in their classrooms. Students were also educated (and entertained) by a representative from the State Office of Education who presented an assembly about being a "jaw breaker" and not a "marshmallow" when it comes to peer pressure and drug use.
Safe School Ambassador Program
In an effort to maintain a positive school climate, Willow Canyon Elementary (Sandy) is implementing a Safe School Ambassador Program. The program is a student-centered model that trains diverse student leaders to intervene with friends and classmates when they see teasing, exclusion, bullying and other forms of mistreatment. The program is designed to be effective in diffusing potential incidents. After initial training, program participants hold regular small group meetings where they discuss and record interventions, practice skills, and receive support for their efforts.
Scuba Training
On Nov. 1, four diving instructors are volunteering their time and equipment to give 72 Butler Middle (Cottonwood Heights) students an introduction to the sport of scuba diving. Students will be taught how to use the equipment and then will have time to experience diving in the Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center pools. The activity is part of the school’s commitment to encourage lifelong fitness.
Halloween Learning
At Oakdale Elementary (Sandy), fifth- and sixth-grade students did not arrive in standard Halloween costumes today. Instead, fifth-grade students each chose a famous American and sixth-grade students picked a mythological character. The students learned about their character, wrote a report and came dressed as the individual. Parents were invited to visit the “Wax Museum” where they could walk up to the characters and “bring them to life.”
Pumpkins from Prisoners
For the past 25 years, prisoners at the Utah State Prison have grown pumpkins in the prison gardens and delivered them to Jordan Valley School (Midvale) prior to Halloween. Each student chose one or two to take home. In addition, the DECA Club from Brighton High (Cottonwood Heights) transformed one of Jordan Valley's hallways into a spook alley today. The Brighton students make the spook alley a sensory experience for all to enjoy. Students at Jordan Valley, ages 2-22, have severe multiple disabilities, many are non-verbal and unable to walk.
PTSO Membership Drive
On Oct 26, Jordan Resource Center (Midvale) held its first membership drive to kick off a new Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO). The evening included a spaghetti dinner for students and their families and carnival games run by staff members. About 100 people attended and many parents, family members and students joined the PTSO.
Students to Present Musical
The Performing Arts Department at Hillcrest High (Midvale) will present the musical “West Side Story” Nov. 15-18 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at the school’s main office for $6 or at the show for $7.
Service-Learning Grants
Just a reminder that an information open house will be held Nov 1, 3:30-5 p.m., at Hillcrest High, Room B-110, for anyone interested in obtaining a service-learning mini-grant. The grants, available through the Student Intervention Services Department, will be funded at a minimum of $200. Grant applications will be accepted all year as long as projects are completed by May 5, 2007. Grant applications can be obtained at the meeting, by calling Jeani Mulliner, (801) 412-2953, or by e-mailing jeani.mulliner@jordan.k12.ut.us.
Reminder on Phone Messages
If you are dialing extensions within the District phone system, you may not be automatically routed to voicemail. You can access the voicemail messaging system, however, by dialing 5555. You will be prompted for the extension and may record a message. If you are transferring a call to voicemail, the instructions are the same. Any questions about the phone system can be directed to Energy Services, (801) 567-8772.
| Oct. 24, 2006 |
Environmental Design Award
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) awarded Jordan School District and Kennecott Land a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver rating for Daybreak Elementary (South Jordan) and the attached Community Center. The USGBC’s Green Building Rating System awards points to buildings that take preventative measures to lessen their impact on the environment. Such measures include the use of recycled materials, increased use of daylight, reduced water and energy consumption and innovative design. Daybreak is consistently one of the District’s most energy-efficient buildings. The award was presented during a ceremony Oct. 24.
Educator of the Month
Trish Boswell, fourth-grade teacher at Quail Hollow Elementary (Sandy), was selected as Educator of the Month for October by the Sandy Area Chamber of Commerce. She has been with Jordan District since 1999.
City Choice Award
LeAnna Willmore, music teacher at Riverton High, received a Riverton City Choice Award. The award was presented during a Riverton City Council meeting earlier this month.
Reality Town
Ninth-grade students at South Hills Middle (Riverton) were recently issued checks and debit cards. They were also assigned careers based on their eighth-grade GPA. It was all part of the school’s Reality Town, organized by teachers and staff. Ten lucky students earned cash for being the best dressed students. Mountain America Credit Union sent representatives to science classes to teach students how to use a check register, a debit card and keep a balance. Zions Bank donated check registers and Wal-mart donated used gift cards for use as debit cards.
Spring Bulbs Still Available
The Jordan Resource Center (Midvale) still has premium-quality fall bulbs available in many varieties. Bulbs can be planted until the ground freezes solid. Each package of bulbs is $2, with delivery available. A listing of available bulbs, including an order form and additional information, is online at www.jordandistrict.org/bulbs. For more information, contact Beth Coleman, (801) 565-7584, JRCflowers4U@yahoo.com.
Service-Learning Grants
Service-learning mini-grants are available through the Student Intervention Services Department. The grants will be funded at a minimum of $200, subject to increase based on the number of participants and the merit of the project. Grant applications will be accepted all year as long as projects are completed by May 5, 2007. An information open house will be held Nov 1, 3:30-5 p.m., at Hillcrest High, Room B-110. Grant applications can be obtained at the meeting, by calling Jeani Mulliner, (801) 412-2953, or by e-mailing jeani.mulliner@jordan.k12.ut.us.
| Oct. 10, 2006 |
Mandatory Direct Deposit
All employees are required to have direct deposit for their payroll. If you have a problem with your account, change your account number or close the account where your payroll is deposited, you MUST contact the Payroll Department at least five working days before payday.
Excellence in Teaching Award
Michelle Griner, resource teacher at Willow Canyon Elementary (Sandy), will be honored with a 2006 Excellence in Teaching Award from William and Pat Child and the Utah Education Association. This year’s 10 award recipients, who are nominated by their peers and chosen based on their work with individual students or groups of students, will be recognized during the UEA’s annual “Superstars in Education” Banquet, Oct. 12 at the Salt Palace. Each recipient receives $1,500 and a crystal award.
No Current Next Week
Due to the UEA Recess, there will be no online issue of Current next week. The next electronic issue of Current will be sent by e-mail and available online Oct. 24. Please submit items for this issue by Oct. 20. The printed monthly summary issue will be available on payday as usual.
Pan Sale
The Nutrition Services Department is hosting a pan sale in the Auxiliary Services Building, 9150 S. 500 West. Hours for the sale are Oct. 25, noon-6 p.m., and Oct. 26-27, 2-6 p.m. A wide variety of restaurant-quality food service items are available.
Mini-Grant Applications Due
The Jordan Education Foundation’s annual Mini Grants for Teachers program funds teachers’ innovative and creative classroom projects. Any current full-time Jordan District teacher may apply for funding up to $500. Projects must meet a need and justify the amount requested. All applications must be submitted by Oct. 27. Complete Mini Grant requirements and application forms are online at www.jordandistrict.org/foundation.
Chess Tournament
Chess players in grades K-12 are invited to the 15th Annual Ogden District Scholastic Open, Nov. 4, at Ben Lomond High. Registration procedures and additional information are available at www.jordandistrict.org/general/news/chess.html.
Charitable Giving Campaign
The annual Jordan District charitable giving campaign is underway now through Nov. 10. Each principal and department director has received a packet with brochures describing the three participating federations: Community Health Charities, Community Shares and United Way. Member agencies and their goals are listed under each federation. Employees may donate to any or all federations or individual member agencies. Donations may be made by cash, check, credit card or payroll deduction. This year, payroll deductions will be accepted for up to 12 months. A separate pledge form must be used by each federation. All donations should be forwarded to the Educational Support Services Department by Nov. 10.
Shopping to Benefit Schools
South Towne Center and the Jordan Education Foundation have teamed up to host a shopping fundraiser. School groups can sell $10 tickets to an exclusive two-day discount shopping event Dec. 2-3 at South Towne Center. Ticket holders receive savings and special offers at participating stores throughout the mall. Participating schools or school organizations keep 100 percent of the ticket proceeds. Stop by the mall offices, located on the upper level near Mervyn’s to register and pick-up tickets. For more information about the Friends and Family Discount Shopping Weekend, please visit www.SouthTowneCenter.com or contact Becky Pugmire, (801) 572-1518, Becky.Pugmire@Macerich.com.
| Oct. 3, 2006 |
Band Accompanies Handcarts
A brass band with students from Copper Hills High (West Jordan) and four other area high schools performed as “The Nauvoo Brass Band” for a pioneer handcart reenactment Sept. 26. The group was directed by Jon Simpson, band director at Copper Hills High, who also created authentic musical arrangements in the style of the time period. As was done during the 1800s, the group accompanied the handcart train for the last 1.5 miles of the trip, from the historic border of Salt Lake City at Fourth South and Eighth East to the LDS Conference Center downtown.
 Students at Elk Ridge Middle created works of art in chalk during the school’s Chalk Art Festival |
Band and Orchestra Teachers Needed
Jordan District needs band and orchestra teachers for elementary school before- or after-school music programs. The salary is $18.26 per hour with a maximum of 17 hours per week. Please call Doug Allen, (801) 567-8088, or Cindy Hooper, (801) 567-8365, for information.
Employment Opportunities
See current job openings posted by the Human Resources
Department at www.jordandistrict.org/hr
To submit an item for Current, send an e-mail to Michael Kelley at michael.kelley@jordan.k12.ut.us or contact him at (801) 567-8337.