Jordan Hills Elementary fourth-grade teacher Suzanne Thompson is one of the Jordan Education Foundation’s top fifteen Outstanding Educators of the Year. The staff at Jordan Hills nominated Ms. Thompson for instilling perseverance in her classroom and embodying the identity of the school during her 20-year tenure.

Her classroom is a place where risk-taking and collaborative learning thrive. She combines data-informed insight with hands-on support, ensuring each student receives targeted guidance to move from struggle to mastery. Beyond her classroom, Suzanne empowers colleagues and shapes a culture of excellence, leaving a lasting impact on both students and the wider school community.

Congratulations, Ms. Thompson! Thank you for all you do for the students at Jordan Hills Elementary School.

Columbia Elementary fifth-grade teacher Cynthia Alvarado is one of the Jordan Education Foundation’s top fifteen Outstanding Educators of the Year. Ms. Alvarado was nominated for the award by the staff at Columbia for the care she shows to her students, fellow teachers, and the school community.

Ms. Alvarado makes complex learning engaging and accessible by connecting it to real-life experiences, empowering students to apply their knowledge with confidence. She builds strong, trusting relationships through patience, compassion, and genuine care, creating a classroom where students feel supported and inspired. 

Congratulations Ms. Alvarado! Thank you for all you do for the students at Columbia Elementary.

Foothills Elementary fourth-grade teacher Mary Brown is one of the Jordan Education Foundation’s top fifteen Outstanding Educators of the Year. Mrs. Brown was nominated for the award by the staff at Foothills for positively impacting the lives of her students and fellow teachers.

Mrs. Brown creates a classroom rooted in belonging, where every student is valued, supported, and treated like family. Through thoughtful traditions, community service, and engaging, curriculum-connected experiences, she fosters both academic growth and character development. A respected leader and lifelong learner, she inspires colleagues across her school and the District while consistently helping her students achieve remarkable success.

Congratulations Mrs. Brown! Thank you for all you do for the students at Foothills Elementary School!

Copper Hills High School mathematics teacher Jennifer Heckman is one of the Jordan Education Foundation’s top fifteen Outstanding Educators of the Year. Ms. Heckman was nominated for the award by the staff at Copper Hills for always going the extra mile for her students and colleagues. 

She bridges rigorous academics with deep empathy, consistently recognizing and meeting the often unseen needs of her students. A trusted mentor and “teacher’s teacher,” she builds the capacity of colleagues while serving as a strong, solution-focused voice connecting staff and administration. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom, driving initiatives like a successful ACT prep program and ensuring students and staff alike feel supported, heard, and empowered to succeed.

Congratulations Ms. Heckman! Thank you for all you do for the students at Copper Hills High School.

Bluffdale Elementary fourth-grade teacher Amanda Golesh is one of the Jordan Education Foundation’s top fifteen Outstanding Educators of the Year. Ms. Golesh was nominated for the award by the staff at Bluffdale for her ability to connect with students and help them achieve their goals. 

Her classroom is a highly engaged environment where students feel safe, valued, and motivated to actively participate in their learning. She fosters a culture of positivity and collaboration, ensuring every child has the support and strategies to succeed. Her dedication, compassion, and commitment to growth have created a lasting impact on her students and school community.

Congratulations Ms. Golesh! Thank you for all you do for the students at Bluffdale Elementary School.