They are dedicated, hard-working, kind, and always have the best interest of students at heart. Amazing school counselors are being recognized for all they do supporting students on a daily basis with the 2026 “Jordy Awards.” This is a districtwide, counselor nominated award, and the nominees are voted on by school counselors as well.

Congratulations to the following school counselors. Read some of what colleagues had to say about them:

• Isaac Broadbent – Daybreak Elementary School – I have had more than one person explain Isaac as a “golden retriever in human form.” I hope he loves dogs because it is quite a compliment. Working with him brightens anyone’s day and I can only imagine the great work he does with his students. Isaac has shown up to our incoming 7^th grade parent nights and I have witnessed how his students light up when they see him. He is collaborative, supportive, reliable, and a great example of a person for those young kids.
• Jeni Viernes – Fort Herriman Middle School – Jeni is truly the heartbeat of our school culture and has a unique gift for turning a standard school building into a warm, welcoming community. Jeni is a constant, reassuring presence. You can always find her in the halls during passing periods greeting students by name, with a warmth that makes her incredibly approachable. This “helpful spirit” doesn’t go unnoticed by our families, as parents frequently reach out to express their gratitude for the genuine support she provides their children. Jeni is an indispensable part of our team who balances professional excellence with a creative soul and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.
• Alena Johnson – Valley High School – Alena is such an amazing advocate for her students. She’s empathetic and understanding, when a lot of adults might feel out of patience or discouraged. She can see where students are coming from and meet them where they’re at so they can achieve their potential. She’s an awesome counselor and person, and we’re lucky to have her.

Students will take the stage singing, dancing, and performing memorable moments and lyrics like “oh you, pretty Chitty Bang Bang, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, we love you,” in a production months in the making.

Oakcrest Elementary School would like to invite everyone to a magical evening of music, adventure, and imagination, as students take the stage in “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr.” starting Tuesday, April 21 and running through Friday, April 24. The show starts at 6:30 p.m. in the school gym and admission is free. Concessions are available and all proceeds will support the school.

Bring your family and friends for a fun, unforgettable night enjoying the hard work and talents of students, staff, and parents involved.

Oak Leaf Elementary first-grade teacher Jessica Brown is one of the Jordan Education Foundation’s top fifteen Outstanding Educators of the Year. Ms. Brown was nominated for the award by the staff at Oak Leaf for helping every student grow, no matter where they start.

Ms. Brown creates a classroom where every student feels safe, valued, and inspired to grow academically and personally. Her energy, creativity, and dedication foster a sense of family, celebrate effort and resilience, and ensure students are supported every step of the way. Beyond her classroom, Jessica uplifts colleagues, mentors peers, and keeps families engaged, leaving a lasting, positive impact on her entire school community.

Congratulations, Ms. Brown! Thank you for all that you do for the students at Oak Leaf Elementary School.

Monte Vista Elementary third-grade teacher Corrie Chase is one of the Jordan Education Foundation’s top fifteen Outstanding Educators of the Year. Ms. Chase was nominated for the award by the Monte Vista staff for always looking for ways to improve as a teacher and pushing her students to be their best.

Ms. Chase has driven remarkable student growth by using data-driven strategies, creativity, and unwavering dedication, helping her third graders achieve a leap from 63% to 95% proficiency in reading. She fosters a positive, engaging classroom where every student feels heard, valued, and motivated, incorporating imaginative approaches like her Harry Potter–themed lessons. Beyond her classroom, Corrie leads her team with collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to sharing best practices, positively impacting the entire Monte Vista community.

Congratulations Ms. Chase! Thank you for all that you do for the students at Monte Vista Elementary School!