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!

Kevan Sprague has been with the Jordan School District for his entire 31-year career and is currently the head custodian at Mountain Ridge High School, a school he helped to open in 2019.

Last week, Kevan had an entirely new assignment. He was selected to throw the first pitch at the Salt Lake Bees game. Kevan prepared for his pitching debut with the help of the Mountain Ridge High School coaching staff and administration, throwing pitches in front of the entire faculty. The preparation paid off as Kevan threw the ball like a pro across home plate!  

Corbin Roesbery, a Unified Athlete in the 11^th grade at Copper Hills High School and Alex Roberts, a Unified Athlete in 12^th grade at Copper Hills High School also were invited to throw a pitch and they did a great job as well!

Kylee Holder and Chase Ryan are Copper Hills High ‘Pals’ and were on hand to assist our Unified Athletes.

Right after the first pitches were thrown, Bingham High School sophomore Miles Jeppson sang a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem, wowing the crowd with his amazing voice as it rang out across the ballpark.

Thanks to the Salt Lake Bees organization for providing such fun and memorable moments for JSD students and staff.