This week is National School Bus Safety Week. It is a week, which serves as a reminder to motorists, students, and school bus drivers of the important role they all play in ensuring the safety of children. This year’s theme is “BEEP! BEEP!

We want to thank all Jordan School District school bus drivers for their dedication to the job, driving our most precious cargo, and always doing so with safety in mind.

They were captivated by exhibits and experiencing different cultures together. Native American students from 15 Jordan School District schools, in the 5^th and 6^th grades, were treated to a field trip to the Utah Natural History Museum. The trip was sponsored by the Native American Program, allowing the students to explore their own culture and other cultures with visual and hands-on exhibits. For some, it was the first time experiencing the Natural History Museum. It was a field trip full of engaging education, understanding, and fostering of new friendships.

Thanks to everyone involved for making this field trip a wonderful and unique experience for students.

It was a night to remember at Aspen Elementary School as everyone came together to have some fun and support a good cause. The PTA “Color Run” fundraiser was a huge success. Families and others in the Aspen Elementary School community showed up and managed to raise $40,000 for the PTA.

A number of teachers were good sports having pies thrown in their faces, there was also a dunk tank adding to the fun.

Congratulations to everyone involved in supporting the Aspen Elementary School PTA.

It was a day Riverton High School Automotive teacher Jay Hales will likely never forget after being called to the school commons for the surprise of a lifetime. Harbor Freight Tools for Schools awarded Jay Hales $50,000 for being selected as a winner in the national “Teaching Excellence in Skilled Trades” competition. Riverton High’s skilled trades program will receive $35,000 of the prize and Mr. Hales will receive $15,000.

Mr. Hales family was on hand for the surprise along with Superintendent Godfrey, other District leaders, students, teachers, and staff. A drum line and cheerleaders were also part of the festivities.

Mr. Hales is one of 25 skilled trades teachers nationwide being recognized by Harbor Freight Tools for Schools and they are awarding $1.5 million in prizes to the teachers.

Take a minute out of your day to say thank you to custodians in schools and buildings throughout the District today and throughout the week. Each year, October 2 is recognized as National Custodian Appreciation Day. It is a day set aside to show appreciation for the men and women who keep our schools and workplaces clean, shining, well maintained, and running smoothly.

These valuable employees contribute to the important first impressions in our schools and buildings as well as lending a helping hand whenever and wherever they are needed. They are an important part of education and the Jordan School District family.

Who is your favorite custodian? Tell them how much they are appreciated.

Thank you, custodians!