It is a day to say thank you to those who have served and sacrificed so much to protect the many freedoms we enjoy.

Students at Riverton High gathered early as the sun was coming up to participate in a Sunrise Salute to military veterans. They held a moment of silence to reflect on the men and women who serve and those who have paid the ultimate price. It was a meaningful and moving way to start the day before heading to class on this Veterans Day.

At Herriman High School they paid respect to several veterans invited to speak at a school assembly. One speech was delivered by 103-year-old Eugene England who served in Okinawa, Japan. Mr. England received the Bronze Star for valor during World War II and received a standing ovation from students for his speech and more importantly his service.

Thank you to all of the brave men and women who have and continue to serve this country and fight for our freedoms!

It is a generous gift for some families that have fallen on hard times and don’t qualify for free and reduced school breakfast and lunch. On Monday, a local community member, Tua Kaloha and some of his friends showed up at Westvale Elementary School with a monetary donation to pay off the entire school lunch deficit for students and their families. Teachers at the school have stepped up as well, donating money out of their own pockets to help families having a difficult time paying for meals right now. It is generosity that goes a long way, especially as we head into the holiday season.

Thank you to Tua and his team, the Jordan Education Foundation, along with Westvale teachers for their kindness and caring about kids in the classroom and cafeteria.

It is an award that recognizes the most inspiring Education Support Professionals in the State of Utah. Please join us in congratulating Mountain Ridge High School head custodian Kevan Sprague, a recipient of the 2022 Utah Recognizing Inspiring School Employees Award (U-Rise).

A representative from the Governor’s office and USBE surprised Mr. Sprague with the award on Thursday.

 The U-Rise award goes to ESP’s who demonstrate superior work performance, a high level of school and community involvement, along with exemplary leadership and a commitment to the job.

Thank you, Kevan Sprague, for the amazing work you do, always going above and beyond to support your school, students and education. You make Jordan School District proud!

It was a ride to school to remember for Oquirrh Elementary School 6th grade student, Renee Bailey. West Jordan City firefighters drove to Renee’s house to pick her up and escort her and a few friends to school on a big fire engine. It was a reward for Renee, who recently won the fire department’s Fire Prevention Week Art Contest. The theme of this year’s contest was “Fire Won’t Wait, Plan Your Escape.” Students who participated in the contest had to create artwork representing that theme.

Before leaving for school, Renee’s family and neighbors were allowed to get a tour of the fire engine. Then, Renee and the firefighters headed to school on the fire engine where they were greeted by the entire 6th grade class along with other students, faculty, staff and Principal Shauna Worthington.

Renee’s winning piece of art, along with several other winning pieces, will be on display at the West Jordan City Fire Department.

Thanks to West Jordan City firefighters for promoting fire safety and giving students an opportunity to participate in Fire Prevention Week.

Wishing everyone a fun, safe, simply Spooktacular Halloween.

Enjoy some of the amazing and creative costumes worn by our students, teachers and staff.