Elk Ridge Middle School science teacher Vynessa Campos exemplifies the qualities of the modern teacher by using technology to its fullest to create lessons, and engage students, creating a nurturing environment for students of all abilities and backgrounds. For her tremendous efforts, she has been nominated as LifeChanger of the Year, an annual award sponsored by National Life Group Insurance and their foundation.

Not only is Mrs. Campos an outstanding middle school teacher, she also teaches non-traditional learners at the Southpointe Adult High School in Jordan School District. Other teachers go to her for advice on classroom management techniques, student engagement input and even moral support. Her impact is truly felt by students, teachers and administration at her schools. She also leads the Climate, Culture and Character committee at Elk Ridge Middle.

The national grand prize for the LifeChanger of the Year recipient is $10,000. Winners will be chosen by a selection committee, which will review comments from people who know and support the individual nominees. To support Vynessa Campos for this worthwhile recognition, visit her LifeChanger of the Year page and leave a comment of support about her!

Principal Joel Pullan says she represents everything that you expect a teacher should be, an educator who truly focuses on every child, every day. That is why 4^th grade teacher, Rupali Munot was surprised by KSL NewsRadio and Zions Bank as part of the Teacher Feature campaign to recognize outstanding teachers in Utah.

The nomination was submitted by a parent who described Mrs. Munot as an educator who literally changed her son’s life, turning obstacles into opportunities for him to thrive. The parent added that Mrs. Munot has reframed education from a one-way street from teacher to student to a synergistic partnership involving student, teacher and parents.

Mr. Pullan says Mrs. Munot is the 4^th grade team leader and she works closely with parents and builds relationships in order to meet the needs of all students academically and behaviorally.

Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition, Mrs. Munot. You are a shining example to all. Keep up the good work!

Enjoy a photo gallery on our Facebook page.

She is described as the kind of teacher who always goes above and beyond in her work. That’s just one reason why West Hills Middle School geography teacher, Janet Sanders, received a surprise visit from KSL Newsradio. The radio news team showed up to recognize Ms. Sanders as part of their ‘Teacher Feature” program which honors educators who make a difference in the lives of students and in their community. West Hills Middle Principal Stacy Evans says Janet Sanders is very deserving of the recognition because she is a top-notch teacher who engages students and makes learning fun. Ms. Sanders also supports other educators as a teacher coach.

Congratulations to Janet Sanders! Thank you for your outstanding work educating young people and making a difference in their lives every single day.

It was a first in the history of the Utah Council for the Social Studies. All three Teacher of the Year awards winners are from one school district and it happens to be Jordan School District. The social studies teachers were honored at the UCSS conference over the weekend for their devotion to social studies education. Congratulations to the following:

• Lorna Murray, Copper Hills High – High School Teacher of the Year
• Laraine Lawes, South Jordan Middle – Middle School Teacher of the Year
• Janae Barron, Midas Creek Elementary – Elementary School Teacher of the Year