Jordan Supercast

They are less than an inch long, weigh mere grams, and move incredibly slow with average speeds of 0.03 miles per hour. We are talking about snails, a soft-bodied mollusk called the Gastropoda.

On this episode of the Supercast, we take you to an Advanced Placement (AP) Environmental Science class at Mountain Ridge High School where small snails are having a big impact on students studying the ecosystem. Find out the role snails are playing in the AP course, and how the class is capitalizing on the snail-based learning.

Transcription coming soon.

It is a unique program that is helping students achieve huge success in reaching their reading goals, and students and teachers alike are having a blast in the process.

On this episode of the Supercast, we take you to Riverton Elementary School where kindergarten students and teachers are dressed as astronauts to celebrate their incredible accomplishments in a Districtwide initiative called “Planet Kindergarten.” The space-themed program is helping students reach for the stars in achieving their literacy goals and we’re about to hear from some of the amazing educators behind it all.

They traveled thousands of miles away on a mission to foster education and share knowledge with fellow educators in Mongolia.

On this episode of the Supercast, find out what inspired three amazing Jordan School District employees to spend much of their summer providing training to English teachers in Mongolia. We’ll hear about the incredible lessons they learned and the life-changing impact they discovered, learning about another beautiful and very different culture.

Transcription coming soon.

They were high school students already getting up close and personal hands-on experience at the Jordan Academy for Technology and Careers (JATC) in their quest to become firefighters.

On this episode of the Supercast, meet some recent Jordan School District graduates who spent this past summer on the front line fighting wildland fires in Utah. Hear how they got a jump start on their careers in high school, enrolled in the JATC Fire Science program. Find out what advice they have for current students eager to don their turnout gear and start their own careers as firefighters...

It is a long-time tradition at Valley High School thanks to the hard work and dedication of two incredible teachers.

On this episode of the Supercast, we take you to Valley High’s Day of the Dead or Dia de los Muertos celebration, a touching and colorful commemoration, remembering lost loved ones though family photos, favorite foods, and so much more. At Valley it’s also an opportunity for students who participate to benefit academically through the school’s credit recovery program.

Graham:
Today is the fourth annual Dia de los Muertos activi...

When she’s not in the classrooms of her school caring for kids, one assistant principal has a unique passion, and you could say she is having a dog-gone good time pursuing that passion.

On this episode of the Supercast, we take you to Elk Meadows Elementary School where we meet up with Stacie Thompson and her striking Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs. Find out why this educator loves showing her prize possessions at dog shows everywhere and what it takes to bring home the title of “Best in Show,” or “Best in Breed.”

Stacie Thompson:<...

He works tirelessly to improve the motor skills and mobility of students, so they can get the most out of their education and all the fun activities that go along with it.

On this episode of the Supercast, we meet Jordan School District physical therapist Mitch Gibson. Hear why Mitch is considered quite the character, dressing up in fun and creative costumes as a way to connect with students in his care. It is the story of a physical therapist going above and beyond every day to ensure student success in and outside of the classroom.

Some classrooms on wheels are making their way to kindergarten and first-grade students throughout Jordan School District right now. The classrooms are actually big yellow school buses.

On this episode of the Supercast, find out how our dedicated school bus drivers have come up with an entertaining and hands-on training course to keep kids safe on the school bus. Hear how students are loving the lessons, which everyone hopes will save lives.

Lacey Paschall:
So you don't have to have any driving experience. You just need to be somebody who loves working...

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the many things we do as a school District to keep student data safe and protect employees and families from falling victim to phishing and other scams.

On this episode, find out how partnering with parents and the community can make a big difference in defending against cyber-attacks and reducing risks online.

David Bowman:
So these threats look like, yeah, hacker kids in basements all over the world. It looks like cyber criminal gangs. We even have fairly consistent attacks from...

They work hard to safeguard the health and well-being of student athletes, focusing on injury prevention on-site during practice and games.

On this episode of the Supercast, we head to Mountain Ridge High School to meet two amazing certified athletic trainers. Listen and hear about the difference they make in the lives of students in so many different sports, even impacting kids in band and drill.

One of the trainers is actually a Herriman High graduate who found huge success after high school as a four-time USA tumbling champion and a World Champion gold medalist.<...

Could it be magic? It was something like that for an amazing Jordan School District music teacher.

On this episode of the Superast, meet Riverton High’s Performing Arts Director Jason Weimer. Mr. Weimer recently received the prestigious Barry Manilow Music Teacher Award for the State of Utah. The award came with a once in a lifetime meet and greet with Barry Manilow, and with Mr. Weimer being recognized in the middle of the Manilow concert at the Maverik Center. Yes, it looks like this talented teacher has made it. Listen to hear his incredible story.

Teachers in Jordan School District are transforming their classrooms with more personalized, efficient, and engaging lessons than ever before, thanks in part, to the use of SchoolAI.

On this episode of the Supercast, we take you inside an amazing classroom at Valley High School. It’s where students are thriving and the classroom experience more dynamic thanks to a teacher who is diving in, using SchoolAI to reach and teach students in a way that is elevating the educational experience for everyone.

Graham Bany:
The more students know that you are willing to...

It is a ‘first-of- its-kind’ High Tech Learning Lab for elementary school students in Jordan School District made possible through a partnership with the Utah Jazz, Utah Mammoth and America First Credit Union.

On this episode of the Supercast, we take you inside the Learning Lab where students are wild with excitement over 3D printing, stop motion robotics, coding, and so much more. Listen and you will hear the sounds of technology hard at work.

Traci Rindlisbach:
We thought that was so exciting to give the kids a chance to 3D print. Not...

They are students at Copper Hills High School who recently risked their own lives by breaking down a front door and running into a burning home hoping to save the lives of others.

On this episode of the Supercast, join us as we take you inside the big surprise where the students received a military style “Honor of Excellence” award for going above and beyond and being exemplary citizens.

Heidi Jacobson:
They're heroes, honestly. Carter's like, "I'm not a hero.” He just did what he thought was right.

Cammerin Inselsberger:
...

She was just a teen when she lost an eye to a rare form of cancer, had to wear an eye patch, and suddenly became a target for hurtful teasing.

On this episode of the Supercast, hear the incredible story of Columbia Elementary School kindergarten teacher Alexa Byrd. Find out how one middle school teacher taught Alexa to be proud of her eye patch as something that sets her apart. Hear how Alexa now tells her own students to take pride in their individual differences and how that message is making a difference in their young lives.<...

It is an impressive sight to see in the student parking lot at West Jordan High School.

On this episode of the Supercast, find out how a Paint & Park project is raising money for senior class activities throughout the school year. It’s a project where some students were able to paint and personalize their parking stalls in creative works of art you simply have to see to believe.

Katie:
It was very intimidating. I was not used to painting something this big. I've never done it before.

Anthony Godfrey:

It’s that time of year when thousands of students are making their way to school walking eagerly through neighborhoods, along established safe walking routes.

On this episode of the Supercast, find out how we can all work together to better protect young pedestrians and make sure their travel to and from school is safe.

Sarah Elliott:
If we all did what we were supposed to do, the world would be a better place. But it doesn't always work that way. There are distractions and things happen and you've just gotta be...

She is a motivational speaker, an amputee, athlete, humanitarian, and goalie for the gold medal winning U.S.A. Para Ice Hockey team.

On this episode of the Supercast, we meet West Jordan High School graduate Hope Bevilhymer. We hear Hope’s inspirational story of tragic challenges in life to hard-earned triumphs. And, you’ll find out what happens when we hit the ice with this elite athlete.

Hope Bevelheimer:
I play para, I talk to you about …. we’re in a sled.

Anthony Godfrey:
No one has beaten you at n...

They are internationally known recording artists who have made it to the Top Ten of Billboard's Hot 100. The American Pop band AJR recently performed in Utah and guess what, they invited the Copper Hills High School marching band to take the stage with them.

On this episode of the Supercast, find out what the high school students are saying about their experience and this incredible opportunity of a lifetime. Then, listen as Copper Hills High takes the stage for a mic check with members of AJR prior to the big show.

Cadence Ivins:<...

Before you know it, the first bells will ring and students will fill the halls ready for new adventures in the brand-new school year.

On this episode of the Supercast, we share some tips for parents on preparing kids for a smooth transition back to school. Listen and find out how you can get your students off to a successful start.

Transcription coming soon.

As thousands of Utahns enjoy parades, rodeos, fireworks, and other festivities to celebrate Pioneer Day, it’s time to pack up and take a field trip for a hands-on lesson in history for some Jordan School District elementary school students.

On this episode of the Supercast, we follow teachers and their students to “This is the Place Heritage Park” where the life and times of Utah’s early settlers come alive. It is a live history lesson you won’t want to miss.

Ms. Crane:
It brings it to life for the students...

It is giving every student an opportunity to learn at higher levels in ways some never imagined.

On this episode of the Supercast, we talk with companies igniting curiosity in the classroom with the use of technology, technology which is bringing better education opportunities for students, enhancing what teachers teach, and impacting education in some incredible ways.

Talon Hatch:
Even some of these younger kiddos as young as third grade, they're already building websites with HTML.

Matt Linford:
It creates this environment where tools like Skill Struck, tools like...

It is an exciting new addition to Jordan School District, using a cost-efficient approach to provide a growing number of essential educational services to families in a centralized location.

On this episode of the Supercast, find out what Jordan School District is doing with the former Walmart space across from Elk Ridge Middle School off of 9800 South in South Jordan. It is space that’s being transformed into the Jordan Learning Center (JLC), and excitement is growing for students, teachers, staff, and the programs which will soon call the remodeled space home.

Anthony Go...

Do you know the signs to watch for if you suspect your young teen might be vaping? Do you want to talk to your teen about it, but don’t know where to begin?

On this episode of the Supercast, we sit down with a doctor from Intermountain Health Riverton Hospital, who gives us some strategies for approaching the subject of vaping. Find out why it’s a conversation that could save your teen from some serious health complications now and in the future, due to what doctors say are the real dangers of vaping.

She has been a teacher at Riverside Elementary School by day, by night and on weekends, performing live concerts throughout the State.

On this episode of the Supercast, we take you to a weekend regional music festival in American Fork. That’s where we catch up with teacher, Lydia Theobald, who is a vocalist and keyboard player with the very talented local folk-rock band “Seaslak.” Hear first-hand about the history of the band and how Lydia’s love for music has spread to students in her classroom over the years.

Anthony Godfrey:
You talk...

They are a fiercely talented team, a force to be reckoned with and it all happened in a very short amount of time.

On this episode of the Supercast, meet the Herriman High School boys’ rugby team and find out how they have risen to become one of the premier programs in the country. In fact, this year they were competing at the very highest of levels, falling just short of a national championship.

Logan Youngblood:
People describe rugby as a hooligans' game played by gentlemen. It's really demanding on the body.

They are putting school pride firmly in the hands of students and building strong connections at the same time at Fort Herriman Middle School.

On this episode of the Supercast, hear why “Battle of the Grades” has become a big hit throughout the entire year at Fort Herriman. It is a battle resulting in a big win for everyone, with students taking care of one another and taking greater pride in their school.

Creed Jensen:
I feel like it really has united this school and I feel like it's just been a fun...

It is a full circle moment for two former students and their teachers at Rose Creek Elementary School.

On this episode of the Supercast, listen as the former students are reunited with the teachers they grew to love in elementary school. They are reunited as co-workers, now teaching side by side in classrooms at Rose Creek. It is a story that speaks to the life-long impact a good teacher can have on his or her students, leading to lasting friendship and future success.

Rebecca Chandler:
I was so lucky to have this...

You could say students are really ‘rockin it’ at River’s Edge School this year.

On this episode of the Supercast, find out how music in a brand-new school band is enriching the educational experience for students at River’s Edge and how teachers are taking note, loving the experience as well.

Melanie Dawson:
What's really tapped into developing skills that they may have already had somewhat, but to really expand that and give them this connection to school that might they might not have had before; something that they love and they lov...

They took the audience back in time to the 1940’s with period costumes, a creative set design, and delightful music.

On this episode of the Supercast, listen as Midas Creek Elementary School students take the stage in a lively and uplifting performance of the musical “Don’t Say No to the USO.” It is a family-friendly production with a focus on humor, suspense, and nostalgia, combined with a student performance which had everyone clapping and doing some toe tapping.

Anthony Godfrey:
You’re the total package, you can create the costume, direct it, pull t...

Some high school Welding, Construction Trades, and Teacher Ed students are using skills they learned in the classroom to make it easier for younger kids to make friends at school.

On this episode of the Supercast, we take you to Monte Vista Elementary School where there was a big surprise unveiled during a schoolwide assembly. The big surprise was a “Buddy Bench,” made entirely by high schoolers who want to help their younger counterparts combat loneliness and bullying behavior at school.

Addison Olsen:
A buddy bench is something that people can use when...

She is known for her custodial skills keeping classrooms clean and everything in working order at Joel P. Jensen Middle School. But in her free time, Allison Kunz is passionate about cleaning up and beating the competition in the sport of speed puzzling.

On this episode of the Supercast, we find out what speed puzzling is, what it takes to win, and how Allison Kunz has managed to qualify for world championships in the sport.

Allison Kunz:
In training for things like Nationals and Worlds, they'll throw anything at it. I will...

They were hungry for donations and had a big desire to help those in need.

On this episode of the Supercast, we take you to Terra Linda Elementary School where students and staff recently held a huge community food drive. A food drive that was so successful, it taught students if you have a huge appetite to help others and to be kind, you can make it happen.

Kinley:
I feel good about how I collected so much food for like families that need it, because I might end world hunger.

What if there was a tool to help your student discover their natural ability to do something pretty amazing? Well, that tool exists and it is being used right here in Jordan School District.

On this episode of the Supercast, we meet some students involved in an aptitude-based program called YOU Science. Hear the exciting ways this program is helping students uncover natural talents they didn’t even know they had and in turn, helping them find their personalized pathways to future success.

Kellie Openshaw:
I want them to see the different ex...

He is a Herriman High teacher who makes every student know they really matter. Someone who impacts the course of student lives and their future success every single day.

On his episode of the Supercast, we take you inside Randy Kammerman's classroom where he has become an award winning DECA advisor, building a wildly popular program, leading students to high level careers in marketing and business.

Listen and find out how Mr. Kammerman inspires a love for learning in his classroom, mixed with a couple of laughs along the way.

Randy...

They are sharing culture and building community in a class, that’s also a club, called “People of the Pacific” at West Jordan High School.

On this episode of the Supercast, find out how students are unleashing lots of talent, taking to the stage in dance competitions to showcase their rich cultural traditions from various Pacific Island nations. They are students proudly supporting one another on a path to greater academic success.

Auro Sosi:
This is competition season for us. The "People of the Pacific" are involved annually in the annual Who Got Ro...

They are teachers doing groundbreaking work, redefining what traditional learning looks like in the classroom.

On this episode of the Supercast, we explore the history of digital learning, how it’s impacting students today, and how teachers are seeing big benefits, using all of the new technology now at their fingertips.

Kelli Cannon:
It’s just really fun to see how far education has come.

Megan Dahlgren:
So to be able to take this and learn and see how it's grown from Oregon Trail to you know whatever, however you...

It is a rigorous, time-consuming, and challenging process, one that produces some of the very best and highly trained teachers in the entire nation.

On this episode, we meet two Jordan School District educators who recently achieved National Board Certification. Find out how this personal drive for perfection is taking their teaching practices to new heights, benefiting students and colleagues in other classrooms alike.

Raechel Bunnell:
And I did what I want my students to do. I looked and saw what I needed, where my deficiencies were, what parts of history did...

They are high school students crafting mouth-watering masterpieces in a sizzling hot competition where culinary talents are put to the test.

On this episode of the Supercast, we join students from four Jordan School District high schools dishing up delicious food in a very impressive ProStart competition. It’s a competition where rising young chefs are on a fast track, turning their love of food service into successful careers.

(upbeat music)

Anthony Godfrey:
What is it that you're judged on?

Mackenna York:
So I know we're judged on...

It is a fast-growing club at Riverton High School where students are using their imagination, relying on teamwork, and growing their storytelling skills in a unique way.

On this episode of the Supercast, we meet members of the Dungeons and Dragons Club at Riverton High. It’s a club where students are bonding over their love of exploring dungeons, defeating dragons, and finding treasure in a fantasy world where critical thinking and creative minds are key to success.

Anthony Godfrey:
What do you guys love about playing D&D?

Ethan Sa...