Jordan Supercast

You could say he was born to run with a high school career in cross country that is hard to beat.

On this episode of the Supercast, meet Jackson Spencer who was recently named the National Gatorade Player of the Year in Boys Cross Country. Find out what sets Spencer apart from others in his sport, and how his love for running is paving a path for future success, possibly in the Olympics.

Transcription coming soon.

Something really cool is happening in classrooms at Oak Leaf Elementary School these days. Older students are stepping up and leading by example, proving to everyone that life is better with books.

On this episode of the Supercast, meet some sixth-graders who are taking their love for literacy to the kindergarten classroom. They are reading to younger kids as part of the Planet Kindergarten literacy program.

Transcription coming soon.

They are going about their days demonstrating the characteristics of Jordan School District’s “Portrait of a Graduate.”

On this episode of the Supercast, we head to Copper Canyon Elementary School where students are posing for pictures in their cap and gowns already thinking ahead to graduation. They are being recognized for their actions demonstrating the six characteristics of “Portrait of a Graduate.” At this celebration breakfast, students are being recognized for being a responsible teammate.

Transcription coming soon.

Born with cerebral palsy, she has risen above challenges all her life and inspired countless people; friends, family, even total strangers along the way.

On this episode of the Supercast, we invite you to listen closely as Oquirrh Hills Middle School Para-Educator Aubrey Allen talks about earning a bachelor's and master’s degree in recreational therapy, leading her to a career in the classroom and as a Unified Sports coach. Amber doesn’t let her disorder, which impacts movement, muscle tone, and speech, get in the way of making her dreams come true, and in the process, supp...

He has a love for music and theater, has performed with the likes of Donny Osmond, in national commercials, musical theater, and is passionate about teaching and sharing his tremendous talents.

On this episode of the Supercast, meet Bingham High School music theater teacher David Martin. He is an incredible educator with an impressive resume, who also happens to perform in a Beatles tribute band, having fun for a good cause, with all concert ticket sales going to charity.

Transcription coming soon.

They are learning literacy by making clay model animals like a tiny toxic octopus and a very interesting elephant. It's all part of a Language Arts Curriculum called Wit and Wisdom that is fostering critical thinking in students across Jordan School District.

On this episode of the Supercast, we take you to Terra Linda Elementary School where a first-grade teaching team is taking student success to new heights with this rich Wit and Wisdom reading experience and they're inviting parents to be part of it all.

Transcription coming soon.

You could say they are hitting new heights as winners of a NASA Aerospace Engineering contest.

On this episode of the Supercast, we head to JATC North to hear how four students will be working with NASA TechRise engineers over the next 18 months to bring an experiment they proposed to life. It is an experiment, with real world applications, that will be launched into the edge of space on one of NASA’s high altitude balloons, a dream come true for aspiring space engineers.

Student:
Now that we've won, we're going to be...

They are talented students being recognized on the world stage because of their passion for film making and for their amazing skills in storytelling.

On this episode of the Supercast, meet students in the Riverton High School video production class who just walked away with second place in an International Video Competition as part of the Student Television Network. Find out how a short horror film they produced is getting rave reviews and critical acclaim, with the students competing against young storytellers all over the world.

It is a high note in the very successful career of a Jordan School District music educator. On this episode of the Supercast, meet Majestic Elementary School music teacher Lisa Blodget who just returned from marching in the Pasadena Rose Bowl Parade.

Find out why Blodget was one of more than 300 band teachers and directors from across the country selected to march in the prestigious parade, and what it felt like to be on the national stage cheered on by thousands along the five-mile route.

Lisa Blodgett:
I was invited to participate...

He is known for his winning ways at the helm as head football coach at the University of Utah, leading the Utes to historic success over 12 exciting seasons.  We’re talking about Ron McBride, or Coach Mac as many have come to know him over the years.

On this episode of the Supercast, we have the honor of sitting down with the legend and hearing first-hand about his time coaching, recruiting, and giving young athletes opportunities they never thought possible. Find out how Coach Mac is continuing his passionate work in our schools today with the Ron McB...

They have worked hard learning the English language trying to be the best they can be, making change in their own lives and the lives of generations to come.

On this episode of the Supercast, we take you to a very emotional WIDA graduation. WIDA stands for World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment. Listen as we talk to graduates about the great pride they take in their achievement, becoming proficient in the English language; listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Find out what the milestone means to the multilingual students and their families now and well into the future.<...

He is a middle school principal who loves working with students, bringing out the best in them every single day. But there is a secret talent that keeps Bryan Leggat going long after the last bell of the day at Elk Ridge Middle.

On this episode of the Supercast, we find out about Mr. Leggat’s longtime passion for painting and creating beautiful works of art. Hear how he finds inspiration as an artist, sometimes thanks to his meaningful and impactful work as a school principal and the relationships he has built along the way.

It is a showcase of student talent, musical magic, and seasonal joy.

On this episode of the Supercast, we take you to Joel P. Jensen Middle School for a holiday music program that will make your spirits bright one note at a time. Listen and enjoy.

Anthony Godfrey:
Hello, and welcome to the Supercast. I'm your host, Superintendent Anthony Godfrey. It is a showcase of student talent, musical magic, and seasonal joy. On this episode of the Supercast, we take you to Joel P. Jensen Middle School for a holiday...

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.

Anthony Godfrey:
I heard...

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.

Krista Mecham:
Chanar and I, we started talking and Chanar expressed her interest in having a collaboration between us...

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...