It was a proud moment at the recent Jordan School District Board of Education meeting as Board member Suzanne Wood introduced members of the West Jordan High School Unified Sports basketball “Blue Team” for recognition.

The “Blue Team” played their hearts out, taking first place in the State Unified Sports basketball division tournament held at the Delta Center. Congratulations to the entire team and their coaches; Christy Baker, Jessica Little, and Sheldon Russell.

Also, congratulations to West Jordan High’s Garret Draper who, at the same tournament, was named the Unified Athlete of the Year for Special Olympics of Utah Unified Sports.

Jordan School District has 200 high school students involved in Unified Sports; soccer, basketball, and track & field. About 300 middle school students participate in Unified Sports; soccer, basketball, golf, and bocci ball.

We are very proud of our Unified Sports athletes and their partners!

It was a night to recognize some incredibly dedicated individuals going above and beyond for students and education every day with spirit, innovation, and passion.

Region 6 PTA awards were announced, celebrating those who impact and enhance the learning environment in Jordan School District schools.

Congratulations to the following:

Honorable Mentions
Bingham High School

• Chucky Pham – Outstanding Secondary Educator Award
• Stephanie Maumau – Outstanding Support Staff Award
• Jenn Dishman – Spirit of PTA Award

Blackridge Elementary School

• Cindy Tenney – Engagement Award
• Kristi Haywood – Outstanding Volunteer Award

Elk Meadows Elementary School

• Emily Crane – Outstanding Elementary Educator Award

Jordan Hills Elementary School

• Jennifer Carlson & Sarah Champion – Engagement Award
• Michelle Bailey – Outstanding Support Staff Award

Region Winners
Bingham High School

• Ivie Erickson – Outstanding School Administrator Award
• Karina Taylor – Spirit of Inclusivity Award

Elk Meadows Elementary

• Jeff Welch – Outstanding Support Staff Award
• Carolann Rogers – Spirit of PTA Award

Foothills Elementary

• Morgan Meyers – Engagement Award
• Natalie Tycksen – Outstanding Elementary Educator Award
• Abe Yospe – Outstanding Elementary Educator Award
• Darrell Robinson – Spirit of PTA Award

Jordan Hills Elementary School

• Brita Engh – Outstanding Volunteer Award

Mountain Ridge High School

• Bailey Donohoo – Outstanding Secondary Educator Award

Region & State Winners

Butterfield Canyon Elementary School

• RaNisha Glover – Outstanding Elementary Educator Award

Foothills Elementary School

• Brandi Eaton – Advocacy Award
• Katelyn Vidmar – Development Award
• Patricia Hanlon – Outstanding Support Staff Award
• Whitney Joseph – Outstanding Support Staff Award

Riverton High School

• Kayla Edwards – Outstanding Secondary Educator Award

Westland Elementary School

• Hillary Moser & the Kindness Committee – Engagement Award

He is a beloved educator who inspires students to reach for the stars in music, performing, and future careers. Mountain Ridge High School choir director Kelly DeHaan does it all with kindness, compassion, and an abundance of true talent. His students remember him long after they have graduated and moved on.

That’s part of the reason why we are proud to congratulate Kelly DeHaan, Jordan School District’s 2025 Teacher of the Year!

Mr. DeHaan was honored during a schoolwide assembly where students, faculty, and staff cheered wildly when the announcement was made recognizing one of their own. Superintendent Godfrey described Mr. DeHaan as one of the very best educators and individuals he has had the privilege to work with over the years. Kelly DeHaan’s students had kind words for him as well saying “He pushes everyone to excellence and I am so grateful to be his student.” Another student said, “He is able to create an environment of expectations along with love.” Others say being in Mr. DeHaan’s class has been one of the best moments of their high school career, they say it is where they find pure joy and a passion for singing.

Again, congratulations Kelly DeHaan. We are cheering you on as you now qualify to compete at the State level for Utah Teacher of the Year!