West Jordan Softball Coach Named Deseret News Female Coach of the Year

West Jordan High School softball coach McHailee Danner was named the 2025 Female Coach of the Year at the Deseret News High School Sports Awards. Danner was presented with the trophy and a check for $1000 from America First Credit Union at a banquet at The Ballpark at America First Square

Danner just finished her second season as the head coach for the Jaguars and piloted the team to the UHSAA 5A State Championship in softball, West Jordan’s first-ever girls state championship in the school’s 44-year history.

Congrats on a well-deserved recognition, McHailee!

Herriman Relay Team Breaks National Record

Herriman Relay Team Breaks National Record

The Herriman High School relay team of Jonah Tang, Micah Tang, Tayshaun Ogomo, and Jackson Spencer broke the National High School Record in the 4 x 800-meter relay at the New Balance Nationals track and field meet in Philadelphia.

Jonah Tang started the relay off with a 1:54.74 in the first leg, handing the baton to his identical twin brother Micah, who ran a 1:52:52 in the second leg. Ogomo put the team in front with a 1:48:94 third leg and Spencer put in a 1:49:94 anchor to combine for a blistering 7:26:12. The time bested the 14-year-old National High School record of 7:28:75 set by Poly High School of Long Beach, California by over two seconds and finished over six seconds ahead of their nearest competitors at Nationals.

Congratulations to Jonah, Micah, Tayshaun, and Jackson, as well as Track & Field Coach Doug Soles on a tremendous accomplishment!

JSD Staff Hard At Work Giving Schools a Summer Cleaning

It might be summer break, but the work at our schools doesn’t take a vacation! Our dedicated custodians and sweepers are hard at work giving their schools a deep cleaning. They will spend the 10 weeks of summer scrubbing desks, vacuuming classrooms, buffing floors, changing locker combinations, and so much more. All of this ensures students arrive for the first day of school in a safe and clean environment to learn in. Thank you to all our custodians and sweepers for all that they do!

Terra Linda Elementary School Principal Named Top Student Advocate of the Year

Join us in congratulating Terra Linda Elementary School Principal Yajaira Martinez who was recently awarded the “Student Advocate Principal of the Year” by the Utah Association of Elementary School Principals.

Principal Martinez was recognized, in part, for the incredible work she has done starting a schoolwide PAWS behavior plan teaching student’s kindness and problem-solving skills. Her nomination also said Ms. Martinez is a fierce advocate for students with Autism and she encourages all students to celebrate their differences and languages, to view them as superpowers.

Keep up the great work advocating for students, Yajaira Martinez!

Oakcrest Principal Receives Retirement Surprise

Oakcrest Elementary Principal Mr. Westwood received a big retirement surprise courtesy of Real Salt Lake. At a special assembly, Mr. Westwood, a big soccer fan, was presented with a customized jersey by Leo the Lion as a token of appreciation for the many years of service to the community. He was also presented with a homemade quilt signed by the students and faculty.

Thank you, Mr. Westwood for the difference you have made in the lives of your students. Enjoy your well-earned retirement!