We simply could not accomplish all we do in education without them and today is a day to say thank you! Governor Gary Herbert has designated Wednesday, Nov. 14 as Education Support Professionals Day in Utah. Join us as we recognize these amazing employees who make a big difference in the lives of students, staff, parents and patrons in and outside of our schools and classrooms. Your devotion to the job, education and all those we serve is valued and appreciated every single day.

It was an assembly filled with song and signs of patriotism from students, teachers and staff at Herriman Elementary School. Each grade did a special performance to let veterans know their sacrifices are recognized and appreciated.

One student’s father, Ron Beckstrom, who is currently a soldier serving in Afghanistan spoke to everyone via Skype. He encouraged students to achieve in school and be involved in service to others. Mr. Beckstrom said it is not always easy to be so far from home, but he said his service to country is one small way of making a difference. The students cheered and applauded in thanks to Mr. Beckstrom for his service.

Herriman City Police Lt. Cody Stromberg and Herriman Mayor David Watts also addressed students and staff. Thank you for being part of this moving assembly.

As people around the country take time to observe Veterans Day, we wanted to thank and honor some of the ‘Heroes Among Us’ right here in Jordan School District.

We have spent several days profiling a number of JSD veterans, today we honor middle school teacher Sean McKinney. He is the 8th-grade health teacher at Sunset Ridge Middle School and has been with Jordan School District for five years.

Mr. McKinney served in the United States Navy for 9 1/2 years as a Hospital Corpsman. He had several peacetime deployments to the Western Pacific with the U.S. Marines. In 2006 Shawn McKinney deployed to Fallujah, Iraq as a combat medic.

Thank you for your service, Mr. McKinney.

As people around the country take time today to observe Veterans Day, we wanted to thank and honor some of the ‘Heroes Among Us’ right here in Jordan School District.

Over the next several days we will profile a number of JSD veterans, today we honor high school teachers Tim Pollock and Jay Hales.

Tim Pollock served two years in the United States Navy as an Ensign. Mr. Pollock is a first-year Biology, Marine Biology teacher and Swim Coach at West Jordan High School.

Jay Hales served from 1991-1999 as a Utah Army Nation Guard reservist as a light wheel mechanic for the 222nd Field Artillery Headquarters Battalion. He is currently the Automotive Teacher at Riverton High School.

Thank you for your service, Mr. Pollock and Mr. Hales.

As people around the country take time on Sunday to observe Veterans Day, we wanted to thank and honor some of the ‘Heroes Among Us’ right here in Jordan School District.

Over the next several days we will profile a number of JSD veterans, today we honor four Jordan District transportation employees; Scott Fullmer, Doug Shivers, Richard Birrell, and Scott Greer. Combined these men have over 44 years of military service behind them.

Scott Fullmer served 21 years with the Army in Radio Communications. He has spent the last 21 years at Jordan School District as a parts supervisor.

Doug Shivers served six years in the Air Force fixing damaged aircraft. He has been with the district five years as a school bus driver.

Scott Greer served four years with the Army in Military Police Division. He has been with Jordan District 21 years as a Mechanic.

Richard Birrell served in the United States Marine Corps. as a Helicopter Crew Chief for 13 years. Richard has spent the past five years as Shop Foreman for transportation division.

Thank you for your service!

As people around the country take time on Sunday to observe Veterans Day, we wanted to thank and honor some of the ‘Heroes Among Us’ right here in Jordan School District.

Over the next several days we will profile a number of JSD veterans, starting with Eastlake Elementary school teacher and military veteran, Kerry Simi.

Mrs. Simi served 22 years in the Navy as Chief Petty Officer. She recently shared her military medals with students in her 5th-grade class and discussed the importance of service to the country. Mrs. Simi also has two sons who have served in the Marine Corps with one currently on active duty.

Thank you for your service, Mrs. Simi!

Congratulations to students and staff at West Jordan High School. The Jaguars entered a video in the 6A classification of the Utah High School Activity Association’s (UHSAA) Sportsmanship Video Competition, and they won!

The competition is part of UHSAA’s ‘Raise the Bar’ program, which encourages positive sportsmanship promoting a fun, exciting and supportive environment at all athletic events.

Here is West Jordan High’s winning video. WATCH and enjoy!