Monte Vista Teacher Achieves National Board Certification

Congratulations to Monte Vista Elementary fourth-grade teacher Dionne Tarpenning, who has achieved National Board Certification. Becoming a National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT) is a rigorous process that reinforces high standards, a commitment to excellence in teaching, and elevates the teaching profession. This is the most respected professional certification in K-12 education and represents a dedication to her craft.

Ms. Tarpenning, along with her 2026 cohort educators from across Utah who earned certification, were honored at the Utah State Capitol by the House and Senate for their amazing accomplishment.

Great work Dionne! Thank you for your commitment to our students and the teaching profession.

Copper Canyon Elementary Lip Sync Assembly Shows that Coyotes Rock

There was a sold-out crowd, popular songs, flashing lights, and costume changes, all without any Ticketmaster fees at the second annual Copper Canyon lip sync assembly. Students performed choreographed dances and songs to fan-favorite sing-alongs like Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off” and the Baha Men’s “Who Let the Dogs Out?” Even the faculty got into the action as the office staff performed with the kindergarteners and the nutrition staff brought the house down with “It’s Raining Tacos.” The show was so popular that it even included a special guest appearance from Ed Sheeran (or was it custodian Skyler Campbell?).

Rock on, Copper Canyon!

Students Sing Their Way into Hearts of Senior Citizens and Many Others in Amazing Performances

They are talented and have big hearts as well. Recently a select group of West Hills Middle School students attended the Jordan School District Solo & Ensemble Festival, performing small group songs and solos with other exceptional middle school singers in the District.

After the festival, the students and Choir Director Michael Draut, stopped to sing for and visit with their resident friends at Summit Senior Living in West Jordan. It was an act of kindness and beautiful singing that brought smiles to the faces of seniors.

In addition, congratulations to students representing West Hills at the Utah Music Educators Association’s, (UMEA) Jr. High All-State Choir. They rehearsed with the best middle school singers in the state under the baton of Dr. Erin Bailey, BYU, and then performing at the singular Abravanel Hall.

Keep up the great work West Hills, singing your way into the hearts of everyone you cross paths with in your performances.

Feb. 24 Board Meeting Update

You are invited to a meeting of the Board of Education of Jordan School District on Tuesday, Feb. 24 at the JATC South Campus, 12723 S. Park Avenue, Riverton, Utah. The study session begins at 4 p.m. The Regular Board Meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. Patrons may view the general session online at boardmeeting.jordandistrict.org.

The Feb. 24 Board meeting agenda is now available on our Board meetings page. Administrative policies that will be discussed include AA414 Student Overnight Travel. You can also use the following links to the printed and detailed agendas.

South Valley Students Throw Dance Party to Celebrate Creation of Hope Squad

It was a week of smiles and fun at South Valley School as students celebrated the creation of their first Hope Squad. Activities throughout the week included a soda bar, friendship bracelet making, and an epic lunchtime dance party.

Hope Squad is a peer-to-peer program that fosters connection, community, and hope inside schools to promote mental health and suicide prevention. School psychologist Sarah Robbins and counselor Melisa Swapp worked as sponsors of the club and helped organize the week of activities.

Congratulations, South Valley students! Keep smiling and lifting each other up!