It was a night to remember for South Valley students who gathered for their own homecoming dance. The theme of the dance was “Harvest Moon.” Max Brown, a student at South Valley, was the amazing DJ providing a variety of music for students on the dance floor. There was also a homecoming picture booth and refreshments. Stylists from Taylor Andrews Academy in West Jordan provided free hair and makeup for students attending the dance.

Congratulations to the entire South Valley School team for making such magical moments and memories for students!

They are kind, caring, and determined to spread hope throughout the community. The South Hills Middle School Hope Squad participated with other community members in the annual “Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk.” They walked hoping to bring suicide awareness and prevention to the community, encouraging everyone to be trained in awareness and recognizing signs for prevention.

During the “Out of the Darkness” event, students and teachers were able to meet with
community mental health resources like SafeUT, the Hope Squad booth, Valley Behavioral
Health, and Promise to Live. They learned about all the options available to anyone who is in need and the students reached their goal of gathering more than 100 signatures on a South Hills community banner showing support for their work and bringing awareness to the forefront.

Hope Squad members take great pride in helping to make a difference in their community. Sarah Carter said “I like that no one ever makes fun of me for being willing to participate in the Hope Squad here, and that everyone was willing to sign the poster and wanted to learn about what we are doing here in our school’s Hope Squad.” Nolan Astin, another Hope Squad member, said “This event is a place where everyone gets to speak their mind and not be judged by what they say or how they feel. “

Congratulations to this amazing group of students and teachers working so hard to bring awareness and prevention in an effort to lift others and save lives.

Students at Majestic Elementary Arts Academy were filled with excitement and delight during a kickoff assembly revealing the school’s theme for this year. That’s because Disney Princesses, Mickey Mouse, and the Evil Queen were all on hand for the fun. Majestic Principal Marianne Johansen and her staff decided on the theme “The Magic of Majestic… The Magic in You.” Students will be asked to share their magical stories throughout the school year. They are also being asked to take PRIDE in themselves and the school by being Positive, Responsible, Independent, Disciplined, and Empowered (PRIDE).

We wish everyone at Majestic Elementary Arts Academy a fun, creative, safe, successful, and magical school year!

He is being recognized as an exceptional leader who demonstrates exemplary support, innovative visions, and works to promote growth in the high school where he works. Please join us in congratulating Bingham High Assistant Principal Vaega Toilolo for being selected as one of K-12 DIVE’s “Rising Leaders.” The national education publication named ten standout assistant principals and district leaders you should know in 2023-24 and Mr. Toilolo was one of them.

Vaega Toilolo was selected, in part, for leading the way in establishing a Calm Room for students at Bingham High after applying for a grant from the Cook Center for Human Connection. When students returned to school following pandemic closures, Mr. Toilolo recognized they may need space to reset and adjust. The Calm Room is located near the school’s counseling department. Students check in with a wellness attendant and then are given access to the room for up to 10 minutes. The room, according to staff at Bingham High, is a perfect example of Mr. Toilolo’s prioritization of student well-being, along with academics and physical activity.

Keep up the great work, Vaega Toilolo!

See all ten of the “Rising Leaders” on K-12 DIVE’s list.

She is known as an extraordinary teacher who goes above and beyond for her students. Join us in congratulating Riverton High School CTE teacher Buffy Blunck, one of ten Utah educators recently honored as the 2023 “Superstars in Education.” The Utah Education Association (UEA) along with the Clark and Christine Ivory Foundation paid tribute to the teachers at an awards banquet, saying they have demonstrated unwavering support for public education and the students of Utah, profoundly impacting the lives of those they serve.

A co-worker who nominated Buffy Blunck said she creates an engaging and inclusive learning environment in her Health and Intro to Health classes. The co-worker also said Buffy’s ability to connect with her students and provide guidance and support has made her classroom a safe haven for many.

Each winner received a crystal trophy and a check for $1,500, courtesy of the award sponsor, the Clark and Christine Ivory Foundation.

Congratulations, Buffy Blunck!