Content about School

We all look back and think of teachers that have inspired us—those who teach us more than what can be captured within the confines of textbook. For the past 40 years, Morgan Middle School art teacher Steve Carrigan was one of those.

Even though summer is here for over 2,000 Morgan students, it only takes about two weeks before the kids start to ask, “What can I do today, mom?”  As educators we hope you will take time with your children to continue the process of learning as the summer progresses.   

 
The Morgan County School Board approved a new high school attendance policy.
“Attendance is always a difficult thing,” said Morgan High School Principal Wade Murdock.

Two weeks after voting to delay a property tax increase, the Morgan County School Board is reconsidering.  They have set a July 12 date to hold a public meeting, where they may vote to move forward with raising taxes as early as this November in order to build a contingency fund into the district’s budget.

The Morgan School District is developing a new policy governing fund-raising and donations.  Not only does it put restrictions on the type of fund-raising allowed in schools, it also protects local merchants and assigns guidelines for vendors and advertisers wishing to solicit students and district employees.

 
The school district is in financial trouble, enough that two top administrators are doing something drastic to save costs.
Superintendent Ken Adams announced his retirement, effective April 16, 2013.  The state retirement board has already approved the move, Adams said.

 
On May 11 the kindergarten students joined the FFA students for a farm field trip at Morgan’s Diamond D Ranch. They learned about horses, cows, baby animals, crops, roping, barrel racing, and played keyhole and goat tying. They had lots of fun and learned much. The FFA students loved helping the kids learn about animals.

The fifth grade students from Mountain Green Elementary School spent the year learning about United States history and government.  As a culminating activity to demonstrate what they had learned, they put on a “Great American” program for their parents and the MGES studentbody.  

As the weather warms, my staff and I focus on the loose ends that still need to be tied to finish the school year successfully.  Among those loose ends is the important and joyous responsibility we have of planning and carrying out graduation ceremonies.  Just imagine the countless hours of preparation.  If a student spent just one hour on homework each day from the time they were in kindergarten until graduation, he or she would have spent 2,340 hours.  We know that many of our students have spent many more hours than that.  

  The eighty-fifth Morgan Utah and Morgan Utah North Stake Seminary Graduation exercises will be held Sunday, May 20 at 7 p.m. in the Morgan Utah Stake building.

 “Good people of Morgan Elementary School. We live in a great nation full of opportunity, full of optimism, full of hope”, begins JA Biztown mayor Nate Preslar. “ In recent months I believe that our freedoms and liberties have been slowly deteriorating. Unemployment is rising, the income gap is growing, and men and women march on Washington D.C. in protest. Yes, the Dow has dropped tremendously, and in Greece, Neo Nazis are gaining political power. The world and its future may appear bleak to you. Don’t give up. Coming to J.A. Biztown, you may see a town that is insignificant, that is just another fieldtrip. I on the other hand, see a town of hope, a town of prosperity, a town of promise, and a town of opportunity waiting for us. Students don’t believe the future is bleak, where others see disparity, I see opportunity. How do we harness this opportunity? We start today! I believe in America and the free market.  I believe in competition and hard work, and I believe in you! Don’t give up, there is opportunity awaiting us in life and in this town. God bless you, and God bless America!”

Wednesday, May 9, the Morgan FFA Chapter held its annual banquet where we honored many students for their outstanding accomplishments.  We believe that  congratulations are in order for all those who gained their Greenhand, Chapter, State, and American degree.  Greenhand:  Alex Eddington, Kennedy Gibson, Hanna Giles, Chase Grandpre, McKenna Hales, Annie Hodges, Linsday Mahan, Kailyn Nelson, Mariah Remund, Taylor Sherburn, Miranda Smith, Ty Stephens, and Taisha Vollmer.  Chapter:  Bryce Preece, Jessica Carter, Tabatha Carter, Isaac Cannon, Jake Cannon, Jessica Larsen, Marissa Morgan, Courtney Sanders, and Tyson Spens.  State:  Christina Andersen, Nate Buchanan, Garrett Eddington, Shawn Francis, and Megan Stapley.  American:  Ethan Porter.  We would also like to honor Hanna Giles and Luke Larsen for being selected as our Star Greenhands.

May 10, 2012, Morgan High School held their 16th annual Scholarship Awards Night in the high school auditorium. Over 100 students received scholarships to help them in furthering their education.

“The whole history of the progress of human liberty shows that all concessions yet made to her august claims have been born of earnest struggle…If there is no struggle, there is no progress.  Those who profess to favor freedom, and yet deprecate agitation, are men who want crops without plowing up the ground, they want rain without thunder and lightning. They want the ocean without the awful roar of its many waters.”

Inspired by Sam Johnson and the Blue Ribbon Quilt by Lisa Campbell Ernst, Mrs. Sheridan encouraged students in Mrs. Yorgason’s class to create a “quilt square” based on a character trait each student would like to acquire.  

We are all born into this world with the chance of doing something great. Have you ever been told you can’t do something and you believed it? Don’t believe it because it’s not true! 

Since 2008 our country, state, and county have been dealing with the longest recession in our history.  The longevity of the crisis has taken a toll on all of us.  Our schools are no exception.

Morgan Middle School took ten 7th graders and eleven 8th graders to the state math competition last month and the results are back.  All 21 students scored in the top 50%.  Special congratulations are given to Sadie Carter, Logan Jones, Logan Cameron, Savana Carter, Jaiden Farr, and Tyler Payne for scoring in the top 25%, and to Carter Bailey, Ryan Milburn, Konnor Andrews, Weston Blocker, and Colin Smith for scoring in the top 10%.  Our students did an outstanding job, considering we were competing against all schools this year, no matter their size.  This would not be unlike all schools, from 1A through 5A, playing for the state championship in a given sport. 

Six weeks ago any bugs spotted around Morgan Elementary would be squished, swatted or exterminated on the spot.  Now there is a celebrated multi-legged creature crawling through the halls of the school.  

Morgan School District (MSD) employees had an opportunity this year to be involved in a new wellness program. A wellness committee was formed last year before school started to decide how to motivate the employees to incorporate healthy habits into their life. The committee decided to adopt a similar program developed by the Wasatch School District. The name of the program is “Seven Steps in Seven Months: Healthier Habits = Healthier You”.  The goal of the committee for this year was to unite and encourage the employees of Morgan School District to improve overall health and wellness.

One of the most memorable activities for the fourth grade students at Mountain Green Elementary School is the Utah History Fair. As part of the fourth grade curriculum, they study the history and origins of the state of Utah, from Native Americans, to the first Mormon pioneers and settlers. 

Samantha Braithwaite, daughter of Russell and Beth Braithwaite, was chosen as this year’s Foreign Language Sterling Scholar! 

Tyler Kippen, son of Bryan and Rachael Kippen, was chosen as Morgan High School’s 2011-2012 Science Sterling Scholar! Tyler scored a perfect 36 on the science section of the ACT. 

“One Dream, One Goal, One Team, One Soul.”  That is the theme for the 2011-2012 Morgan High School Troyettes.  On March 28th, as “One Team”, the Troyettes won first place at 2012 USA Dance/Drill National Competition held in Anaheim, California!  

Morgan School District would like to announce the dedication of the new transportation facility.  It is located at 94 South Commercial Street. 

Lindsey Newton, daughter of Mark and Joan Newton, was chosen as this year’s Family and Consumer Sciences Sterling Scholar! Lindsey received silver at the region and state FCCLA competitions this year in the Chapter Showcase Manual Star Event. 

Some of the professional literature on adolescent reading motivation suggests that teenagers are disinterested or non-motivated readers and as they move through the adolescent years their motivation to read diminishes.  On the other hand, some teens are willing to read but get discouraged from reading for various reasons.  With this being said, it is obvious that the middle school years are a critical juncture in adolescents’ lives where their reading actions or inactions can have long-lasting benefits or consequences.  Literacy plays a vital role in a person’s success throughout life, and motivation plays an integral role in the acquisition of literacy skills.  Therefore, motivational factors cannot be overlooked in learning situations, particularly during these critical learning years.  

Let’s Catch a Leprechaun!

On March 16th, the third grade students from Mountain Green Elementary School participated in a Simple Machines Fair in preparation for catching Leprechauns that night.  Each student created his/her own machine using a pulley, wheel & axle, lever, inclined plane, screw, or wedge.  The students could use as many simple machines as they wanted for their catcher.  It was amazing to see the creativity displayed by the students and their understanding of how effective simple machines can be for catching the “wee folk.”

The FFA once again brought back Donkey Basketball to the High School gym to raise funds for their program! A bit like traditional basketball, only with donkeys added  and a twist of country on the court, these donkeys have a mind all their own, even when their riders have a different agenda. A competitive sport involving the Morgan Cowboys, FFA, MHS Faculty, and the Wrestling team, not riding a horse with no name, but riding donkeys with names like Shrek, Snickers, Twitter, Red Rock, Pee Wee, Snake River, Expresso and Tater Tot!  Donkey Basketball has been in Morgan for many years, going every other year.  The teams consisted of the cowboys with Mike Morgan, Jody Mecham, Jason Morgan, Rhonda Morgan, Hutch Haslam, Justin Haslam. The FFA team was Byran Chappell, Kyle Stapley, Christian Anderson, Caden Wilde, Jake Cannon, Luke Little, Byrce Preece, Eli Porter. The MHS faculty was Mr. Bennett, Mr. Mills, Coach Kelly, Magee Stapley, Megan Stapley, Bro. Phelps, Nate Buchanon. The Wrestling team was Wyatt Ashby, Porter Green, Ryder Green, Tyler Carter, Jayden Pentz, Jose Patino, Bridger Anderson, Karen Baird.

Ever wanted to do or say something that was absolutely crazy? I am pretty sure we all have. Whether it be standing up for what we know to be right or to admit to our crush that we like them. It’s scary and it can decide your future or it can change how you live your life. However courage can be deflected by the fear of failure or of rejection. 

Last week was the Night out with the Troyettes, with various dances performed by our Troyettes. This year’s Troyettes:  Amanda Walker is the President; Kylie Sorensen is Drill Mistress, Taylor Mecham, Karlee Stokes, Morgan Streadbeck, Mikaela Garner, Ayana VanCampen, Shara Nye, Erika Fairbanks, Shaylee Ewing, Kelsie Cannon, Alexis Jensen, Nocona Campbell, Sadie Siebert, and Daryion Stuart. Thanks for always pumping us up for all the games! A big thanks to Morgan Academy of Dance and all the Mini-Troyettes! One Dream, One Goal, One Team, One Soul. 

As parents we attend Parent/Teacher Conferences because we are concerned about our children. We want to know how they are doing in school socially, academically, and gain some insight into our children’s lives when they are away from home. Teachers dutifully tell us our child’s academic strengths, weaknesses, and provide some knowledge regarding social growth. At some point during the conference DIBELS scores are mentioned. The purpose of this article is to provide basic information regarding DIBELS so you, as parents/guardians, will have a better understanding of what DIBELS scores mean for your child. It is important to understand how DIBELS works so you will be better equipped to be your child’s advocate. So, what are DIBELS?

This year the Speech/Drama Sterling Scholar representing Morgan High School is Katherine Seely, daughter of Jim and Ellie Seely! 

Whitney Morgan, daughter of Christopher and Cori Morgan, was chosen as Morgan High School’s 2011-2012 Music Sterling Scholar! 

In the State of Utah voters are able to select fellow citizens to positions on local district school boards through non-partisan elections.  This system allows many decisions regarding public education to be determined on a local level.  These representatives add real meaning to the term “Grass Roots”.

On March 2nd, the students at Mountain Green Elementary School celebrated the birthday of the famous author, Dr. Theodore Seuss Geisel. 

The Morgan Elementary fourth grade recently went on a field trip to the Utah State Capitol.  When we arrived at the State Capitol Building, we were taken right to the gold room where we met Utah’s first lady.  

This year, students at Mountain Green and Morgan Elementary School have intensified their focus on personal expression and the writing process.  It is my pleasure to feature an essay by fourth grade student, Kate Korth.  Kate’s essay provides an exemplary example of what school, home, and student can accomplish when we work together!

A love of tradition has never weakened a nation, indeed it has strengthened nations in their hour of peril; but the new view must come, the world must roll forward.

On February 7th the annual blood drive, organized by the year’s Sterling Scholars, was held at Morgan High School. The staff from Mountain Star Blood Services was very professional and ran everything smoothly. Ninety-seven students and community members donated blood making an all-time record of blood donations at Morgan High School. 

The Visual Arts Sterling Scholar representing Morgan High School this year is Ashly Pentz, daughter of Troy and Sonia Pentz! Residents of Morgan may have seen some of her work on display at the Rocky Mountain Fine Art Gallery, at the Morgan County Fair, or even at Morgan High School. Ashly’s favorite classes in high school have been her Fine Arts classes such as Band and Art. 

Lindsey Richards, the daughter of Stewart and Gretchen Richards, was selected as this year’s Dance Sterling Scholar at Morgan High School! She has danced for sixteen years, performing numerous times. She won the All-Star All American title in clogging for two years,   was on the All American clogging team for seven years and was recognized as the National Jazz and Ballet Queen of America On Stage. 

Morgan High School’s Academic Decathlon team placed first at region this year!! They attended their regional meet on February 3rd and 4th at Westminster College to compete against all of the other high school AcaDec teams in the state. 

Each week for the past sixteen years, KSL  Newsradio and Zions Bank have sponsored a program highlighting teachers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty. Each week hundreds of nominations are sent to KSL where a panel of judges from Zions Bank, the State Office of Education and KSL Newsradio help select the well-deserving teacher. This program, known as “Teacher Feature,”  is announced each Tuesday morning as part of KSL Newsradio’s Grant and Amanda Show. This week Morgan was honored when Morgan Elementary school’s own first grade teacher Mrs. Christine Tyrrell was picked.  Monday afternoon she was highlighted in an assembly to focus on what a wonderful  influence she has been. Zions Bank representative, Dennis Porter, was very excited to be able to present this award as they grew up in Morgan together. 

On Tuesday January 31, Morgan Elementary’s 1st grade celebrated their 100th day of school by dressing up as if they were 100 years old themselves. 

From the National Institute for Literacy’s text, Big Dreams:

On Thursday, January 19th, Morgan Elementary School Faculty and Staff joined Chili’s in supporting the Weber/Morgan Strike Force by holding a luncheon. We appreciate the opportunity to be a part of such a worthwhile event.

Each November, Morgan Elementary students start preparing to show off their storytelling skills as they compete for the opportunity to showcase their talents at the annual Weber State Storytelling Festival. All students from 1st grade to 5th grade are encouraged to learn or write a story. They then share their stories with their classmates in December. It is a tough decision to choose just two students from each class to move on to the grade-level competition because the children are all working to be great storytellers.

Congratulations to the grade level winners of the Mountain Green Elementary Storytelling Contest.  

Broc Wilkinson, a student at Morgan Middle School, won the school-level competition of the National Geographic Bee on January 10, 2012 and a chance at a $25,000 college scholarship.  The school-level Bee, at which students answered oral and written questions on geography, was the first round in the annual National Geographic Bee.  

Winter has finally arrived to Morgan.  With the cold weather kids don’t want to go out to the bus.  As a parent you hate to have your child waiting in the cold longer than necessary. The solution to both is OnTimeBus.  

Today marked the start of the 2011-12 winter season for Utah’s newest ski resort Eagle Point. The opening signifies that every Utah ski and snowboard resort is open for the season. A fresh blanket of The Greatest Snow on Earth® during the past 24 hours added two to eight inches to resort snow totals. This new snowfall, in addition to the past weekend’s storm cycle, has created wonderful conditions for skiing and snowboarding in Utah.

A clear glass lies atop the counter.  A young child fills the glass to the half-point mark with water.  Is the glass half full or is it half empty?  The answer could very well depend on the respondent’s attitude.

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE MORGAN COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

(To Clarify from 100 years of  Morgan High School article,  the beginnings of Morgan higher education started 100 years ago, not the graduating class. The 100 year graduating class will be 2015) 

For the past several months the Morgan County Board of Education has been focused on creating a new facility use policy for district buildings and grounds.  In the process the Board looked at a number of similar policies throughout the state as a basis for their plan.

The holiday season is upon us and in addition to regular academic and extracurricular activities, Morgan High School is decking the halls, caroling, and gathering food and gifts to support families in need.  Students and staff members are as busy as Santa’s elves making preparations for drama productions, choir and band concerts, and various athletic and club competitions.  

Douglas Hunt of Modern Woodmen presents Superintendent Ken Adams and Principal Wade Murdock with a $3,000 check for the Trojan Century Center. The Center is expected to be completed by the end of January.  Many in the community have rallied around the project and the Morgan Education Foundation continues to receive donations from individuals, families, organizations and businesses.

Over the past few weeks, Morgan Middle School students have been participating in their annual food drive to benefit the Morgan Food Pantry. In an effort to drive participation, the school created some healthy competition between individuals, classes, and grades. The 2010 food drive brought in approximately 3,800 food items, and proved to be very successful. This year the students set a goal to beat that number by targeting at least 4,000 food items for collection. As the students sought donations from family, friends, and neighbors, they truly caught the spirit of helping local families who could benefit from the generosity of their community. This extra help is especially appreciated during the holidays.

“Reality Town” came to Morgan High School on December 6th. Reality Town is a 2 to 3 hour activity, similar to the board game “Life”, the entire 10th grade participated in this annual event, which has been presented to the students and volunteers since 2002,said Emily Rose, Work Based Learning Coordinator. She said, “I think it went really well and the students gained a lot from this experience, and also learned a lot from it.”

The students filled out an “Reality Town Employment Application” that  requires to be completely filled in with following information: personal information; education; employment; references; talents and hobbies, and employment desired. The applications are sent to R.E.A.L. LLC in Lehi, Utah (founders of this program) for processing. The scenarios that are assigned to each student is taken from the job application, but is mainly based on gender and (in years past ) grade point average(GPA). The GPA was not included this year on the application. Each scenario is different as is each student, Mrs Rose feels that these scenarios are scaled fairly with the GPA not a factor.

Young adults from all communities in Morgan Valley recently presented a special service award to Sherie Wright.  Representing a large group of young adults attending Institute, Jeni Lake and Chelsea Jensen presented Sherie with a crystal clock as a small token of appreciation for countless years of service to the students of Morgan High School. 

What does it mean to be honest? It means to be truthful in all you do and say, and to be be truthful with others, including yourself. Even when you tell the truth in admitting you did something wrong, it solves the problem much better. 

We are fortunate in our community to have numerous local businesses and other supporters willing to help the district in a myriad of ways, including their financial assistance when needed.  This was certainly apparent as the Morgan Education Foundation conducted fund raising activities for the Trojan Century Center.  More than $500,000 was given to the Foundation for the cause and ninety-five percent of those funds came from businesses, foundations, families, and individuals with connections to the Morgan Valley!

Teachers from all over come to teach at our schools but Morgan Elementary didn’t have to look too far for the newest first grade teacher, Chelsee Brown, because she is from Morgan herself. Chelsee graduated from Morgan high and then went to Utah State University. 

Last week, after reports to the administration of potential inappropriate behavior, the school administration placed a part-time employee on administrative leave, pending results of criminal investigation by the sheriff’s office. The administration then engaged an independent review by a third party to ensure that their actions were appropriate and legal.

Special Education at Morgan Middle School is a variety of experiences, personalities, subjects, abilities, and needs boiled into one program.  Part of what makes us unique is that every day has different thrills and experiences.  It is an exciting adventure!

The new sixth grade teacher at Morgan Middle School this year is Mrs. Ball. Mrs. Ball attended high school in Arizona and then graduated from Northern Arizona University where she studied nursing and microbiology. Once her youngest child started kindergarten, she went back to school and received her teaching degree from Southern Utah University. Mrs. Ball taught eighth grade in Cedar City before she came to Morgan. She was given the opportunity to teach sixth grade here and she loves it. She is very glad to continue teaching middle school. Mrs. Ball very much enjoys being with her students. Her favorite thing about teaching is seeing  the understanding in her students’ eyes. The satisfying feeling of helping the students learn is what she takes the most pleasure in. 

I’ve had a few people give me great ideas for Teen Square. I would like to have more topics or thoughts that you would like to see in future articles.

Learning beyond the classroom is an essential part of a complete education.  The Morgan County School District Community has an expressed dedication to this concept through our Mission Statement and imbedded within our instruction.  “What does it look like?” is a common phrase educators use as we challenge ourselves and our colleagues during professional development and is also a phrase that is appropriate when planning successful educational experiences beyond the classroom.  What is learning beyond the classroom and how can it be linked seamlessly to the activities and learning prepared for school?

Morgan Middle school culminated an event filled week Thursday afternoon, by hosting an assembly to reinforce the messages of the Red Ribbon Week campaign. Started in 1988, Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention program which is used to teach students all across America the danger of illegal drugs. 

The accreditation process is well underway at Morgan High School.  As we prepare for the visiting team to arrive on March 13th and 14th, we have focused on the steps to make sure that our school is on track and ready to go.  One of the first steps was to analyze our departmental effectiveness using the new guidelines provided by the state accreditation training team.  Each department met and answered a series of eleven questions regarding various aspects of instruction and learning within their areas of expertise.  Teachers were asked how they help one another throughout the department and school to better meet the needs of students.  In reading the different responses, I am reassured by the strengths and talents of our faculty and staff.  We have an amazing group of teachers who not only understand their content area, but also know and understand their students.  

Thank you to the 

Morgan County Historical Society for pictures and history information.

In, looking back over the history of the Morgan County High School, one must regard its rapid development as most miraculous. In the fall of 1911, the high school began to take firm footing. The first year saw a sturdy bunch of twenty-two students and one instructor, Principal H. B, Fry, working hard against a thousand difficulties; yet never having the least idea of the great foundation they were laying. One room comprised the spacious apartments of the school in the present grade building. 

This year in 8th grade science we are doing a number of fun activities. We will make and erupt volcanoes, make and launch catapults and make grape smashers. The students have many chances to perform hands on experiments and labs. I believe that this enriches the learning environment.

The students at Mountain Green Elementary School  have been getting a close up view of some very large pumpkins.  The growers,   Matt McConkie and Tyler Quigley, both residents of Mountain Green, brought the pumpkins to the school for display.  

The Morgan High School and Middle School choirs came together to present their annual fall concert called “How can I keep from singing” conducted by Mr. Michael Mills, with his own piano teacher Suzanne Gibbs accompanying some of the music groups. 

The students learned about stranger danger and what to do if approached. They were taught that a firefighter is a friendly stranger (friendly monster) and it is okay to go with them.

The Technology and Engineering Education program at Morgan Middle School introduces students to the technical skills needed to be successful in the technology or engineering career of his or her choice and with the skills to function in a technological society. 

October has been selected as National School Principals Month.  The primary purpose for this designation is to recognize and honor the outstanding work of public school principals.  In Morgan we have the privilege of having six outstanding leaders directing our schools.  These individuals each portray unique leadership skills that when combined add enormous strength to the quality of our schools and the academic climate within those schools.

Middle School art teacher Steve Carrigan went to Japan a few years back for an art convention. He there met a Japanese artist who was looking for international art to share with her students. It was there that inspired Carrigan to have his students submit their art work to Japan, drawing themes that the Japanese artists would send to him. 

Steven Gudmundson is Morgan High’s new woods teacher.    His curriculum encompasses all drafting, woodworking and construction classes.  He graduated from Westwood High School in Austin Texas in 1996,  and then went on to graduate from BYU.  He came to Morgan because of a job opportunity,  and is enjoying his time here.  Mr. Gudmundson enjoys furniture design and is excited for the opportunity to teach this to his students.

Morgan Elementary held its first ever Grandparent’s Day. Grandparents from all over came to enjoy lunch, have their pictures taken and just spend time with their grandchildren. If you were to walk into the lunch room during this time, you would see nothing but smiles from ear to ear! It was an enjoyable day for everyone. Thanks “Grandparents” for spending the day with us!

We all know what it is like to have our parents tell us what is right to do and what is wrong. Also, we know how annoying that it can be, however it can be the best thing that we can ever receive. 

In the State of Utah voters are able to select fellow citizens to positions on local district school boards through non-partisan elections.  This system allows many decisions regarding public education to be determined on a local level.  These representatives add real meaning to the term “Grass Roots”.

Mountain Green Elementary held its 3rd annual student Walk-A-Thon on Friday, Sept. 23.  Over 450 students from Kindergarten thru 5th grade walked 1/5 or ¼ mile course.  Students walked 8047 laps or 1820 miles in 1 hour and 15 minutes.   Parent volunteers manned water and snack stations and counted laps completed by students.

Pat Stephen,  a former Morgan High School art teacher is hosting an open art studio sale on October 6th, 7th, and 8th.  Pat graduated from Weber State University as an outstanding art student and also outstanding woman artist at WSU in 1983. She has exhibited her work in Salt Lake City, Brigham City, Ogden City, and Weber State College.

Chris Deitsch is in the business of teaching high school students business.  He is teaching classes ranging from Computer Technology, to Business Communication.  Mr. Deitsch’s favorite class he took during his own days in High School was Sports Marketing, and he is excited to be offering this class to students 3rd trimester.  Mr. Deitsch graduated from Clearfield High School in 2006, and from Weber State University in 2011.  The best way to get on Mr. Deitsch’s good side is to work hard and show others respect.  On the other hand, not paying attention or being disrespectful, and lack of effort are Mr. Deitsch’s least favorite traits. 

KSL “We R Utah” show, visited Morgan High School on Wed. Sept. 28, to film one segment of their show for the “We are talented” featuring individual  finalists from high schools across Utah.  Their object: to film the talented teen McKenna Zentner and her high school backing her. The high school students and their teachers surrounded the front of the school to greet KSL and McKenna with a lawn barbecue, Dance Music, pingpong table and a whole bunch of excited students to be on film standing behind McKenna. 

Many are familiar with the African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child.”  Similarly, Buddha taught, “…people may live in a community but it is not one of real fellowship until they know each other and have sympathy for one another.”  

See pictures inside.

Homecoming Pictures

Savanna Bryant is the new Student School Board Member for the 2011-2012 school year. She is the daughter of Kurt and Angi Bryant and is a Senior at Morgan High School.

She is a member of the National Honor Society and has a 4.0 GPA.  Savanna is involved with

FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) and the Service Club.  

Savanna has competed in state math competitions, and participates in track.  She also received her CNA as a junior. 

Congratulations 

Savanna!

The sounds of honor and respect, could be felt as the audience stood, while a color guard of Cub and Boy Scouts, presented the colors of the state and national flags. The voices of the kindergarten children recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

Children begging to go to school?

Elementary students of all grade levels enjoyed the PTSO’s annual carnival. While the purpose of this event is to raise money for the PTSO, it has become a community event that is highly anticipated by many of the county’s shorter citizens. Teachers announced the affair in their classrooms and encouraged the students to come and bring their families. Posters hung throughout the school to broadcast the upcoming carnival. These strategies brought great results. Several hundred individuals came together to eat pizza, get their faces and nails painted and throw footballs.
Angie Farr attended with her kids for the 3rd year in a row. “The kids love it and it’s fun to support the school,” Angie said as she waited with her children in line for the ring toss. Each child had their favorite game but her son Milton’s preferred game was the donut eating competition . This was a challenge where the participants had to eat little donuts off of a table without their hands. This was one of the favorite games at the carnival.

Friday, September 2, 2011 (07:00 PM)
Non-league game at Wasatch

Morgan Trojans 41, Wasatch Wasps 10

The Utah State University Extension Office provides excellent resources to Morgan County.  Through the Family and Consumer Sciences and 4-H program, the Agricultural Services Department and the Food Sense Program our community is enriched and educated. The first two services may be familiar to you already, but the last, Food Sense is an up and coming program in the Extension Office. The program is headed by me, Madeline Carrigan, the Nutrition Education Assistant and sponsored and supported by Amanda Horrocks the County 4-H Agent. Food Sense is a program funded by the USDA which aims to assist families in budgeting properly and getting the most nutrition out of what they can afford.  

Ten years ago when the Morgan School District gave the temporary use of one of its buildings to have a Weber State University  information center in Morgan, no one could foresee the progress the center has made today. Barbara Anderson who has worked at the center from the time of opening, has seen this higher education learning center grow from an information center, to a testing center, to now a place where students can learn by taking classes via video conferencing (IVC).  Through video conferencing students can interact with the course instructor teaching from a distant campus.

As school begins each year students are usually filled with excitement and enthusiasm to meet new friends and learn new things.  Just the anticipation of a new class and seeing their old friends provides motivation to come to school during the first few weeks.  Regrettably, after a few weeks some students begin to feel that regular attendance to school is not important.  Sadly, but not usually intentionally, some parents also feel that missing a few days of school is not that important.

The Morgan Valley has been carpeted with lush green for most of the summer and the hills and valleys continue to clothe in the colors of summer.  It’s hard to imagine that school will be back in session next week!  Following are some random thoughts about the upcoming year and what we can expect to see as the year progresses.

Round Valley – The Third Annual Morgan Education Golf Tournament was held on August 2, 2011 at the Round Valley Golf Course.  According to Foundation officials it was a well-supported activity that grossed over $7,500 for the group.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the opening of Morgan High School.  The past century has presented many educational challenges that the students, staff, and stakeholders of Morgan have overcome throughout the years.  Our era is no different.  We will begin this school year with several challenges including new construction, a new core curriculum, accreditation review, budget crunches, and possible unforeseen issues.  However, our struggles make us stronger.  I also believe that we have a talented and creative staff and an amazing community support system that will help us meet these challenges head on.  Having said that, “There is no excellence uncoupled with difficulties.”  In order to excel beyond our forefathers’ traditions of excellence, we will unite to overcome any difficulties that come our way.  

It’s six-thirty a.m. and the temperature outside is 10 degrees.  The bus should be arriving at the stop in ten minutes to pick up the kids, but its one of those mornings when it is likely to be late and one of those mornings inclined to result in frostbite while the kids walk to the bus stop and wait there.  Wouldn’t it be great if you could know when the bus was going to be at the stop?

Morgan County has a new member of the school board, Jodi Hipwell.  Hipwell is a native of Ogden.  After her marriage to her husband, Carl, they spent seventeen years in the Southeast United States in Arkansas and South and North Carolina.  Hipwell, who has four children, volunteered in schools in each community where  they lived.  “I have seen some of the best schools in the country and I have seen some of the worst schools in the country,” says Hipwell.  She continues, “That gives me a little bit of insight into different types of school systems.”  Her two youngest children both attend Morgan High School presently.

Often the past has a way of sounding better than it was.  Recently, some have lamented that the good old days of education were better than today.  I suggest that we investigate the good old days of education, and you be the judge.

The school board considered options for managing the long-term growth in the county on Tuesday night.  The district faces a situation where the high school is at capacity and needs to be replaced or have additional space created added on.  There are also long term projections that show crowding issues developing at the middle school and ultimately at the elementary schools.  

Nationally, high school sports are still increasing in the number of participants that plays yearly.  It has increased every year for the past 16 years with 2010-11 being the most ever.  That trend is also prevalent at Morgan high School.  If sports are so important, one has to ask the question why?   Is it because people value the sports or is it what the sports program can teach our youth?  It seems to be the social, emotional and intellectual satisfaction that is gained by the participants.  The true purpose of high school sports is to serve the complete educational needs of all students.  The preeminent purpose is to harness discipline – desire – and commitment of all individuals involved.  Another lesson that cannot be over looked is that responsibility comes with the privilege of playing.  Morgan High School now offers 20 sports and activities sponsored by Utah High School Activities Association.  As administrators we know there are other benefits that come to students who participate that include having higher GPAs, better attendance, lower dropout rate, and fewer discipline issues.   At Morgan High School our goal is to employ people that are double goal coaches, which not only coach the sport but teach life lessons as well.  In the world of high school sports emotions can and often run high.  Our coaches are encouraged to teach, practice, and model good sportsmanship.

Commencement of construction on the highly anticipated Trojan Century Center was celebrated Tuesday afternoon by members of the school district and individuals from the construction firm. Joey Skinner, president of the School Board, kicked off the ceremony by thanking all those who donated their time and money to make this project a reality. He shared his thoughts, expressing, “It’s humbling to see the type of community we live in. Everyone feels the benefit of these things for our children.”  Members of the Morgan Board of Education then broke ground on the new facility. Each grasped a golden shovel and turned the first mounds of earth to mark the beginning of this long awaited undertaking.

The 56th Annual Morgan County Jr. Livestock Show was held on Saturday, June 4, 2011 at the Morgan County Fairgrounds. 230 4-H and FFA exhibitors from Morgan County and several other counties in Utah and Wyoming showed steers, hogs and lambs.

High Honors

Joshua Abplanalp, Samuel Abplanalp, Cassandra Andersen, Natasha Andersen, Kaylee Andreason, Sarah Ashby, Zoe Ashton-Korn, Rhett Ballantyne, Alisa Barnes, Annie Bateman, Jordan Bell, Emily Bingham, Elizabeth Blake, Rashel Balzzard, Katelyn Braithwaite, Dallen Brooks, Sawyer Brooks, Maddison Brough, Savanna Bryant, Tyson Butterfield, Jacob Caldwell, Mackenzie Cannon, Jessica Carter, Kayla Carter, Lauren Casper, Caylee Clark, Ellissa Clark, Sara Clark, Cosette Clemens, Britlyn Compton, Colton Cowan, Rylan Cox, Sydney Creager, Shannon Criddle, Stephanie Criddle, Gabe Davis, Tyler Dean, Laura Deru, Ashley Dickson, Matthew Dicou, Kameron Drage, Alec Edson, Christian 

High Honors

8th Grade

The commencement exercises at Morgan High School were an evening of laughs and tears.  The graduating class of 160 students enjoyed the ceremony even as the contemplated their last evening together as a class.

  On May 20th the fourth graders of both Morgan and Mountain Green Elementary schools went to the county fairgrounds. They learned about different animals, plants, soil and water, branding animals, and played a few games. 

Ni How, Hola, and Bonjour!  These greetings are becoming a regular part of life for many Utah children, as Morgan County residents found out last Thursday night when Gregg Roberts from the Utah State Office of Education visited Mountain Green Elementary.  Mr. Roberts was asked to present the state’s dual immersion program to a gathering of interested residents.  

The Morgan High School  class of 2011 will graduate this evening at 7:00 p.m.  Congratulations students!  Below is the graduating class in alphabetical order:

Tryouts for the new 2011-2012 Morgan High School drill team were held April 14, 2011. Through a long and tiring week of clinics and hard work, the new team was selected!! The new drill team for this upcoming year will be; Seniors: Megan Jensen (President), Amanda Walker (Vice President), Kelli Pringle (Secretary), Kylie Sorensen (Drill Mistress), Jayd Jacobson (Asst. Drill Mistress), Breann Jorgensen (Historian), and Taylor Mecham (Advertising). Juniors: Cheridyn Prochnow, Morgan Streadbeck, Karlee Stokes, Mikaela Garner, and Ayana VanCampen. Sophomores: Sarah Nye, Erika Fairbanks, Shaylee Ewing, and Kelsie Canon. Freshman: Alexis Jensen, Nocona Campbell, Daryion Stuart, and Sadie Siebert. These girls are looking forward to a fun and exciting year. They plan to work extra hard starting with their first practice on May 3, to reach their goal of taking Region once again, participate at state, and to travel to Nationals in March. Congratulations to the new team and good luck in the upcoming year!

When school is dismissed on May 26th, families look forward to a summer of swimming, camping, baseball, and various summer activities.  Many families still include reading as an important and pleasant summer activity.  We as educators know the importance of summer reading and here are some specifics to encourage the enjoyment of reading during your child’s summer vacation.

On April 29-30, five Morgan FFA members competed in the Utah Envirothon at the Bear River Bird Refuge. The members of the Envirothon team were the following: Nate Buchanan, Isaac Cannon, Danielle Morgan, Megan Stapley, Brittney Visage, and Megan Haslam as their coach.   

Fifty-four members competed on 13 different State FFA judging teams at Utah State University on April 26-27.  

Morgan FFA won sweepstakes for the 19th year in a row.  The sweepstakes award was instituted twenty years ago.  For every year since the first year Morgan has won the competition. The sweepstakes award is given to the chapter with the most points earned in career development throughout the year.  

The eighty-fourth Morgan Utah and Morgan Utah North Stake Seminary Graduation exercises will be held Sunday, May 22, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. in the Morgan Utah Stake Building.

We will be honoring 128 graduates for their completion in excellence in the Book of Mormon, New Testament, Old Testament and Doctrine and Covenants as well as scripture mastery.

This special evening is under the direction of President John Porter of the Morgan Utah Stake and President Clark Mower of the Morgan Utah North Stake.

Principal Russell Tibbitts will have the honor of presenting the graduates to both Stake Presidents.  President John Porter will accept the graduates.  Graduates will be awarded their diplomas from their individual bishops.

Representing the graduating class to speak will be Jannae Somerville and Kessa Clemens with the Class of 2011 performing a musical number.  The public is invited.

The Morgan Seminary Faculty consists of Russell Tibbitts, Principal.  The instructors include Lance Andersen, Stephen Dredge, Michael Phelps and Janet L Randall as Secretary.

A long time ago there was a cowboy named Wyatt Earp.  He lived alone in a cave.  Everybody thought he was crazy because he believed in the spirit of the west.  The mayor didn’t like Wyatt because he lived in a cave and was poor.  He didn’t realize what a great cowboy he was.  The mayor decided he can’t go to the party.

Morgan Empowered provided a program last Thursday at the high school where they presented ideas for activities for kids this summer.  The program began with a story teller who provided entertainment and education.  His style was engaging and entertaining and his messages gave good food for thought.

A surprising number of Morgan School District employees are going to join the ranks of the retired this year.  Ten of our stalwart members have decided it’s time to move on to future endeavors and adventures.

Summer months for children need to be a time for relaxation, fun, learning the attributes of work, and of course no school. It can also be a time when reading skills are lost if students do not participate to a small extent in summer reading programs.  

When is beauty not beautiful? When her name is Beauty but her actions are beastly. Referring to the 4-H Theater Club’s performance titled “Beauty IS a Beast” by D.M. Bocaz-Larson.

Morgan High has announced their cheerleaders for the 2011-2012 school year. They are listed here: Back row:  Shelby Prochnow, Paige Malan, McKayla Jones, Noelle Dredge, Lexus Toomer, Shayli Kilmer, Bekah Compas, Karlie Dotson

Though the regional Sterling Scholar competition has come and gone, we still have two scholars to recognize for their outstanding achievements in their respective areas.  Hear they are:

Although it is hard to believe, this school year is almost over. We are already starting to budget, hire, and plan for next school year.  As our children transition from grade to grade, new concerns arise about the challenges a new school year may bring.  For parents of students who struggle with aspects of the learning process, those concerns may become more apparent as students transition into new schools or developmental phases.  

The fourth grade students at Mountain Green Elementary were involved in an “I Love Utah” history fair, Friday, April 1, 2011.  The Utah State Core Curriculum requires that fourth graders study Utah History.  Those subjects studied have been:  Dinosaurs, Mining, Native Americans, Mountain Men, Railroad, Government, and Utah today.  

In the Tuesday night meeting the school board authorized the superintendent to utilize the High School Students to help in the case of a disaster. Superintendent Adams reported that he had met with individuals from the reservoirs in the area as well as emergency personnel from the county who had reported on the state of flooding in the area and he wanted to be prepared to act if flooding occurred again this year.  The district has a stockpile of sand and sandbags to help with flooding.  The students would be provided the opportunity to fill sandbags on school property if the county declared an emergency

By Chelsea Fairbourn

TMCN Student Writer

We are now one week closer to the Northeastern region Sterling Scholar competition and the pressure is building.  First drafts of portfolios have been submitted for proofreading, mock interviews scheduled, and plans to shop for business attire made.  

For the fourteen scholars at Morgan High School, the process has been a blur, but perhaps one of the most valuable experiences of their lives thus far.  

Without further ado, it’s time to meet this week’s four Sterling Scholars:

By Cheryl Ovard

Summit County New Editor

 Plant Manager Keith Krugh, was honored to present a Certificate of Recognition and gift to each of the Sterling Scholars for 2011, seniors who have excelled in many categories available in their high school on behalf of Holcim, (US), Inc.  Holcim is a cement plant located in Devil’s Slide. 

Our school system has a dedicated and devoted group of citizens leading the Morgan Education Foundation.  These men and women give of their time and talents to serve the students of our schools. Trustees include:  Kelly Wright, Scott Deru, David Alexander, Bruce Galbraith, Daren Peterson, Becky Weeks, Diana Olsen, Deanne Johnson, Jerry Peterson, Melanie Moore, Scott Duncan, and Jennie Earl.

Devil’s Slide - The Morgan Education Foundation is happy to announce that funds are already beginning to be received for the Trojan Century Center.  Holcim Cement has graciously donated powder for the concrete in both the Center and the new transportation facility.  Plant Manager Keith Krugh indicates this will be a considerable savings to the district.  

Operation Graduation has committed $12,000 towards the construction of the Trojan Century Center.  The announcement was made by co-chairs Denny and Lucinda Andersen following a meeting with this year’s committee.  

By Robert Kilmer, Career and Technology Education Director

Throughout the year you can open the newspaper and read about the athletic accomplishments of Morgan High Students.  Morgan has a reputation around the state of being one of the most competitive schools in the state. Very seldom do I go to a meeting around the state when someone does not comment on Morgan High’s accomplishments on the playing field. Many of our athletic programs can and do compete with schools three to four times our size. The students are amazing and have shown over the years a dedication and work ethic that is unsurpassed by other schools in the state.  What you don’t see as often are the accomplishments of the students, athletes, and clubs in the classroom or in educational competitions. While these competitions don’t usually make headlines in the newspapers they still demonstrate the work ethic and accomplishments of Morgan’s students. 

By Melinda Savage

“There were approximately 100 visitors to the County Library that day,” replied Morgan County Librarian, Valerie Hancock.  She was reporting on the response to having a  popular guest who had been invited to speak there last week.  The extremely popular LDS author and speaker, Jon Bytheway was enthusiastically received when he spoke to the crowd last Friday.    

On March 10-12, 2011 the FFA went to state convention in Logan.  This is where all FFA members throughout the state compete.

By Tom McFarland – MGES Principal

In the next few months teachers throughout the Morgan School District will be participating in statewide academy classes learning about the implementation of the new Utah State Common Core Educational Standards.  

Registration for the 2011-2012 school year is about to begin!  Students will receive information soon and we would like to encourage parents to be involved with their student’s class selection.

The school district took final action on the question of the land sale to the county on Tuesday.  In a unanimous vote the school board decided to retain the land and to fence the entire parcel.  This move will remove from the table any option for the county to use the land for the fair grounds.  The board acted after the county failed to come to a decision on how to proceed on the land after three separate responses from the school board.  

The FFA held Sweetheart week last week.  The contestants who participated in Sweetheart week were the following Christina Andersen, Bailey Woolsey, Shantel Watkins, Danielle Anderson, Braden Bichoff, Nate Buchanan, Jake Cannon, and Chris Webster.  

In November 19, 2010 FFA held a Greenhand night for all those students who have earned their Greenhand this year.  

By Morgan Middle School Assistant Principal Terry Allen

When it comes to education most people think of the students, parents, teachers, buildings, and district administrators as the so called “village” in educating a child. In our district we have some of the best students, parents, and educators that you would find anywhere in the state. What set us apart though are the stake holders that many do not think about until there is a problem. I am referring to the support staff that we are lucky to have in our district and part of our educational team. I would like to publicly thank them for all they do and provide a glimmer of what they do behind the scenes that allows the students in our district to receive the best education possible.

WASHINGTON, DC  Ruston Roberts of Morgan Elementary School has received a $2,000 Learning & Leadership Grant from the NEA Foundation to lead the Morgan Elementary School faculty in a study of How to Give Effective Feedback to Your Students by Susan Brookhart.  
Collaborative teams will review the text, the research, and student and classroom data over the course of the year to support implementation of the principles of effective feedback.  The study and implementation will be supported by text, DVD training, and coaching.

6th Grade Honor Roll

Kirsten Bennett

Kaitlyn Green

Matthew Pace

Dylan Porter

Benjamin Quarez

Derek Richins

Ignacio Sandoval

Joshua Streadbeck

Wyatt Thomas

By Superintendent Ken Adams

A few years ago, while dealing with some serious issues and looking for a silver lining, I decided to change my choice of words when discussing challenges.  Turning a negative into a positive I now call them “Opportunities for Growth”.  I’ve also altered my salutation to those who ask, “How are you?”  Rather than using the stale phrase, “Fine”, I look them in the eye and say with enthusiasm, “I’m glad to be living in America!”

The students at Mountain Green Elementary School recently were entertained with some exceptional storytellers from their own school.  As part of the annual Mountain Green Elementary Storytelling Contest, the students had an opportunity to compete by telling stories at a class level, a grade level, and finally a school level.  A big congratulations to the three students who were chosen as the final school winners.

Written by

Mike Madeo

MMS Principle

This is the time of the year to make reports about the status of an organization and it is my privilege to report on Morgan Middle School (MMS)!

    The Morgan Middle School gym was filled as they recognized the talents of many of their students at their talent assembly.  There were many great performances.  The performers included:

Tom Borg, Weber State University Continuing Education
Non-traditional becomes traditional at Weber State University’s Morgan Center in Morgan, Utah, as numerous students beyond the traditional college age go there for assistance and accommodation in reaching their higher-education goals. The Center’s location on the campus of Morgan High School provides easy, central access for the community. “Although a few high school students  come here to work on their associate degrees,” says Barbara Anderson, enrollment coordinator, “we have some traditional students and many non – traditional.

I am writing this at the request of my 96 yr. old mother, Vera Carter.  (She wrote for the paper for many years)

She read the article from Sid Creager about his leaving the Council, he cited one line of the ‘School Song’.

It brought back many memories of her days attending Morgan High and also teaching there.  

It is her request that you print the whole song.  “Maybe there are others that would enjoy ‘remembering’.

Thanks for your consideration.      

Lila Hardy,

By Mike Shope, Transportation Director and Robert Kilmer, District Transportation

For more than half a century the Morgan School district bus facility has been located on State Street between Larry’s Spring Chicken Inn and Steph’s Drive-in.  Before dawn each morning, you see the parking lot full of buses warming up and getting ready for a day of transporting students. There is a precession of buses leaving in every direction alerting citizens that school will soon be in session. 

In the December 14, 2010, issue of the Daily Herald in Provo, a State Senator from Utah County made some insinuating comments that have certainly created a stir.  The remarks were demeaning towards local boards of education across the state and the individuals who serve in that capacity. May I share with readers of The Morgan County News some facts about the Morgan County Board of Education? 

Story Number three is Ken Adams as Superintendant.  Adams has long been a part of Morgan life.  He has contributed time energy and results to the education of Morgan’s Children.

After hours of investigation, deliberation and interviews the Morgan County Board of Education has selected Westland Construction, Inc. as the construction manager and general contractor for the upcoming building projects.

The Morgan Board of Education has unveiled a new logo and mission statement for the district.  The action follows work completed by two select committees over the past four months.  The committees were comprised of faculty, community council members, and administrators

Meghan Abbott, Joshua Abplanalp, Molly Adams, Cameron Andersen, Bridger Anderson, Olivia Anderson, Holland Archambault, Camren Arnold, Sarah Ashby, Shelby Ashby, Rhett Ballantyne, Talisha Bambrough

Morgan Middle School held an essay contest titled “About a Time When You Brought Joy to Someone Else”. After attending the assembly, The Morgan County News asked if we could print the winning essays. They are below.

LAS VEGAS –  Megan Haslam, agricultural educator at Morgan High School in Morgan, Utah, is one of 33  individuals nationwide who received the Teachers Turn the Key Award, given December 4 at the National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE) annual convention in Las Vegas.

Morgan Middle School Student Council with some of the food they collected for needy families in Morgan County.

Earl Ericksen has had an interesting and varied life full of experiences. He is an unassuming man when you first meet him, but as he begins to talk a life of novel worthy stories reveals itself.

The Troyettes participated in their second competition this past weekend at Northridge High School and had another very successful competition. They came away with another 1st in military, 1st in dance, 1st in kick line, Sweepstakes winners, and a trophy for Judges Favorite. These girls are so excited for the success they are having this year and are determined to continue to work hard so they can continue having a successful year. Thanks again to all those who support the Troyettes. It means so much to each and everyone of them. The Troyettes next competition will be held at Murray High School on January 15. The continued support would be much appreciated. Congratulations Troyettes. This is your year. Keep dreaming with your feet and dancing with your hearts.

Bruce Galbraith is the Vice President of the school board. He serves from district two. Galbraith ran unopposed in the recent election and was re-elected for a second term of four years.

UDOT’s Student Neighborhood Access Program (SNAP)™ announced its 49 recipients of donated bikes, helmets and scooters in classrooms and assemblies statewide. Students earned the prizes for participating in UDOT’s “Walk More in Four” initiative.

Ken Durrant is in his third term serving on the Morgan School Board and is loving the experience. “ I have enjoyed every minute of it “ says Durrant. He is a lifelong resident of Morgan. His father was mayor of Morgan City and he graduated from Morgan High School. Durrant and his wife, Kris, have four children, three of which still live in Morgan, and eleven grandchildren.

Thursday, November 11, 2010 was a very memorable day for our Morgan Middle School students and the 250 guests who joined us for our annual Veterans Day Assembly.  It was an honor to recognize those who have served and are presently serving our great country during a time of war.  Since our nation’s founding, brave men and women have taken up arms to defend the truths set forth in the Declaration of Independence: “That all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights; that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.”

With a nip in the air, a cup of hot cocoa in hand, and a quiet evening to reflect on the beginning of this school year, I pause to revel in gratitude for a moment at being in this time and place. 

The Morgan County School Board has selected the architectural firm of Design West for the design of the P.E./Activities Center and the bus facility.  Morgan resident and Design West Production Manager Darrell Erickson represented the company at the November 9 meeting. Design West’s bid for the two projects came in at $110,500.  Four firms were under consideration with bids ranging from $190,400 to $110,500.

Brittany Visage is a Senior for the number one ranked girls Varsity Volleyball team.  Last week during the Ben Lomand and Skyline games she had a great games hitting and blocking.  Then against Rickh she had 5 kills and 3 block assists. She is a stable part of the teams chemistry and is very consistant with her play.

Josh Mines, Senior, had a great game against Hurricane last week.  Josh had one of 3 interceptions of that game.  Josh ran his interception to a 60 yard touchdown.  He also had 5 tackles. 

One of my assignments as an administrator in Morgan School District is the Safe and Drug Free Coordinator for the district. With this responsibility comes an awareness of the issues related to Risk and Protective Factors that affect students.

 Robbie Nelson, Senior, had an outstanding game against Box Elder.  Robbie rushed for an average of 27 yards per carry, had a 20 yard reception leading to a TD, a fumble recovery from co-athlete of the week, Lantzen Toomer’s tackle, 4 defensive tackles of his own, and last but not least; on a kick-off he kicked the ball through the uprights! 

Chelsey Stegelmeier, Senior, had a great game even though the girls soccer team was met with a loss.  As Morgan met Juan Deigo in the first round of the play-off’s, Chelsey was the ONLY thing between them and all the extreme shots taken against her.  She stopped all but 5 of these shots. 

Becca Rees, Senior, had a great game for Varsity girls soccer.  Becca had a goal and had 2 assists to AJ Bateman for goals at last weeks game against Ben Lomond. 

One of the most effective resources available to the Morgan School District centers around the volunteer efforts of the PTSO.   This organization is lead by a group of caring parents who are willing and anxious to lend assistance to the education and safety of our young people.  They make a significant and positive difference in the success of our education program.

Emmalee Barajas, is a Senior at Morgan and had a great race at Ben Lomond last Wednesday. She ran the 3 mile course in 20:37 and took 2nd place.

Student learning is the supreme reason for a school’s existence and optimal student learning is the top priority of the Morgan County School District.  Teachers and administrators in each of the district’s four schools work diligently towards this outcome.

 The Morgan girls soccer team took to the road to play the defending 3A champs Juan Diego on Sept. 28th. It was a match-up of last seasons state finals played at Rio Tinto stadium, and as the first time the two teams played this season, Juan Diego came out on top by a score of 5-1.

The Morgan County News is spotlighting the new teachers in The Morgan County Schools. This is the third of three weeks of the profiles. We hope you get to know the people that teach your children.

6th Grade Honors
Ryan Ballantyne, Max Beddoes, Raegan Bingham, Sheridan Bird, Kobyn Bond, Dallen Calder,

Wednesday evening, the Morgan Board of Education approved a resolution to employ Timothy Wolff as the new principal of Morgan Elementary School.  Wolff graduated from Weber State University with a BS in Elementary Education in 2001.  He has also earned a Master’s Degree in administration from the University of Houston.  Following graduation he was employed as a teacher in the Fort Bend Independent School District, a suburb of Houston.

My experience as an educator spans 36 years, four school districts and two states. During this time of employment, it has been my pleasure to be associated with great students, wonderful parents and conscientious staff members. It has been said that if one chooses something he loves to do then he will never go to work for the rest of his life. There is no truer statement than this about my vocation.

Dallin "Leroy" Schenk, Senior, had a impressive game against Juan Diego.  Even with the loss, Dallin lead the defensive to keep the Soaring Eagles rushing yards to under 130 for the entire game.  The least amount of any game Juan Diego has played so far.  Dallin had some crucial tackles and the defensive line had a great game.

The Morgan girls soccer squad played a home game against Region 11 rival  Bear River Lady Bears on Tuesday Sept.21st.

This spring and early summer produced a number of changes in our administrative team.  Late in the month of May, Ron Wolff announced his intentions to step down as Superintendent.  In mid-June our beloved Morgan Elementary Principal, Laraine Whitear lost her battle to cancer.  Both individuals have left voids to be filled in our system.  The positive influence for good they have given and shared with our community will be felt for years to come.

Technology today has made our lives easier and information more easily accessible than ever before. At the click of a button a student can go to a virtual lab to dissect a frog or to build a strand of DNA.