Blackridge Elementary fourth-grade teacher Dena Elliott is one of the Jordan Education Foundation’s top fifteen Outstanding Educators of the Year. Mrs. Elliott was nominated for the award by the staff at Blackridge for her positivity, creativity, and ability to make learning come to life in the classroom. 

Learning in Mrs. Elliot’s classroom is fun as she creates routines like “Who Done It Wednesday” and themed learning experiences like “Jurassic Park Week” to make rigorous instruction both meaningful and memorable. She sets high expectations while inspiring students to collaborate, think critically, and develop confidence in their abilities. Known for her positivity and infectious laugh, she has created a lasting legacy for students in the classroom and colleagues who work alongside her. 

Congratulations, Mrs. Elliot! Thank you for all that you do for the students at Blackridge Elementary School.

Aspen Elementary kindergarten teacher Brooke Mueller is one of the Jordan Education Foundation’s top fifteen Outstanding Educators of the Year. Mrs. Mueller was nominated for the award by the staff at Aspen for her excellent work in setting Jordan School District’s youngest students up for success. 

Mrs. Mueller’s impact is evident in both exceptional academic outcomes and life-changing student growth. Her entire kindergarten class met early literacy benchmarks by November, with more than 90% continuing to show strong progress and proficiency. Through high expectations, differentiated instruction, and daily reading and writing, she ensures every student has the support to succeed. Families consistently credit her with building confidence, overcoming challenges, and helping their children achieve milestones once thought out of reach.

Congratulations, Mrs. Mueller! Thank you for all that you do for the students at Aspen Elementary School.

Students at Mountain Ridge High School were inspired to find their voices when author Darren Parry visited campus for a writers workshop. The author of “The Bear River Massacre: A Shoshone History” and “Tending the Sacred: How Indigenous Wisdom Will Save the World,” Dr. Parry shared his journey as a writer and explained that storytelling wasn’t a choice he made, but a responsibility he felt. 

Through his work and life experiences, he encouraged students to see writing as more than perfect grammar or polished sentences. Instead, he emphasized curiosity, listening, and the courage to tell stories that matter, especially those often overlooked or untold.

Dr. Parry reminded students that no one needs permission to begin writing. Each person carries unique experiences and perspectives that the world needs to hear. By capturing memories, asking questions, and listening to others, students can help ensure important stories are never lost.

Thank you to Dr. Parry for sharing your expertise and encouraging Mountain Ridge students to find and tell the story from within.