One is considered a “child whisperer.” Others lead with empathy and patience. And many are described by their colleagues and supervisors as being “amazing,” “marvelous” and “exemplary,” among other complimentary terms.
Paraeducators around Canyons School District, a group of devoted Education Support Professionals who are no strangers to calmly dealing with difficult situations, stepped up to help make this challenging year a rewarding one for special education students.
With a grateful shoutout to all of the paraeducators, we pay tribute to 10 exceptional examples who consistently make a difference at CSD schools — winners of Canyons’ 2021 Paraeducator Recognition of Excellence Awards.
Catie Hooten
Canyons Transition Academy
In her supervision of students, Catie is a model of consistency and addresses behaviors in a professional manner. She is friendly, kind and builds positive relationships with all students. To her credit, some of the most difficult students will pick their classes based on Catie being the paraeducator.
Michelle Elbel
Silver Mesa Elementary
Michelle is simply marvelous with the kids. Not only has she seen it all, but she has gained invaluable experience in proper behavior management techniques. She is a pro at ignoring attention-seeking behavior and quick to reward students for making good choices.
Bonnie Healy
Mount Jordan Middle School
Bonnie is always helpful and available to problem solve with kids. Students like to work with her and willingly ask her for help, which shows the trust they have in her. She is the epitome of dedication to her students.
Briana Bellon
Altara Elementary
Briana is the best of the best. She comes to work early and stays late, individualizing her small group lessons and reviewing data needs. Briana is actively involved with all students every minute of the instructional day.
Stephanie Porter
Jordan Valley School
Stephanie is not only a hard worker who truly cares for her students. She relates to them with such a positive and genuine interaction that allows them to respond to her with the same positive demeanor according to their abilities.
Jennifer Burns
Brighton High School
Jen wears many hats and has been an integral to keeping the resource classrooms running smoothly. Her years of experience have made her a great sounding board for new teachers and paraprofessionals while providing her valuable insight into students’ strengths and needs.
Misty Crofoot
Willow Springs Elementary
Misty is often called the “child whisperer.” She develops a caring and trusting relationship with students and is able to calm agitated children and help them feel safe at school. Misty has a way of discovering every child’s strengths. Her opinions carry great weight in the classroom.
Carlita Lucero
Park Lane Elementary
Carlita is a true leader in the classroom. Her 20-plus years of teaching experience showcase her organizational skills, leadership, and an eye for detail in selecting creative activities for the students to complete in class. She is a dedicated worker and a reliable asset to students.
Caitlin Willard
Bell View Elementary
Caitlin always does what is asked of her, with efficiency and accuracy. She follows behavior plans as they are explained to her. She sees needs before they arise and takes them on. She is a team player with student needs at the forefront of all she does.
Chris Peterson
Jordan Valley School
Chris is willing to support any student, no matter how challenging. He has helped in both the Bridges program and the behavior units of Jordan Valley with grace. He follows student behavior plans to fidelity and supports lead teachers in daily data input.
Aimee Luers
Union Middle School
Aimee lightens the load for others. She teaches small group lessons while reinforcing positive behaviors. She gathers data, files paperwork, and makes sure students are where they are supposed to be — all while accomplishing what feels like a million more tasks each day.
Shelly Blair
Jordan High School
Shelly is highly respected by the faculty and is considered the go-to person for any questions or concerns about her students. She maintains her good humor even under the most trying circumstances, and never complains. Jordan High’s special education team feels fortunate to have her on board.
