North Park Elementary recognized several staff members for their contributions during the month of December, honoring Bobbi Fessler as Teacher of the Month and Hyrum Gilbert as Educational Support Professional of the Month. The school's recent announcements highlighted various faculty achievements and community-focused educational initiatives.
December Staff Recognition
During the month of December, North Park Elementary selected several individuals for recognition through its monthly award program. Bobbi Fessler was named Teacher of the Month, with school officials describing her as a great teacher and a valued member of the school team.
Hyrum Gilbert was also honored as the school's Educational Support Professional (ESP) of the Month for December. Gilbert, a paraprofessional, was recognized for his positive attitude and his consistent willingness to assist others within the North Park community.
Previous Monthly Honors
The school's recognition programs also extended to previous months. In November, Shellie Herem, a first-grade teacher, was named Teacher of the Month. Additionally, Naomi Whitmore was recognized as the North Park ESP of the Month for November, with school officials noting her dedication to helping students succeed.
Other faculty members recognized by the school include Erica Hannah, who served as Teacher of the Month in October. The school also honored Becky Atkin as the ESP of the Month, noting her role as an art teacher and her contributions to the school community.
Community Support Initiatives
North Park Elementary has also facilitated various community-oriented programs and support services. The school has organized a Christmas Angel Tree to assist families in need of holiday help. Those seeking assistance or wishing to donate can apply through an online application or in person at the school office by contacting the school counselor, Dacia Pitcher.
In a separate community effort, the school has shared information regarding resource rallies held by multiple organizations. These events have provided families with essential items, including 25-pound food boxes, 15-pound hygiene kits, and Niagara brand water bottles, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Early Learning Partnerships
The Box Elder School District has established a partnership with Waterford Upstart to support early childhood education. This initiative provides an on-demand learning program for PreK children, offering tools, coaching, and resources designed to prepare students for kindergarten.
The program features tailored software with fifteen-minute daily lessons in science, math, and reading. Additionally, qualifying families can receive access to a computer and internet service. The program is specifically designed for children entering kindergarten in the Fall 2026 semester.
Student Engagement Programs
The school also hosts various themed weeks to promote student engagement and social development. In February 2025, the school observed Kindness Week, which featured activities themed around "Horton Hears a Who" and was organized by the Jr. Hope Squad.
Other annual events include College and Career Week, which is held in May to introduce students to various professional paths through activities and themed dress-up days. The school also observes Attendance H.E.R.O. week, a program designed to encourage students to be "Here Everyday Ready and On-time" through the use of monthly attendance rewards and prizes.
Educational Standards and Registration
The school also participates in broader educational assessments and community health initiatives. The Utah State Board of Education administers an annual survey regarding Utah's Core Standards, which allows educators, parents, and students to provide feedback on the knowledge and skills required for students to master as they advance through the public education system.
Furthermore, the school has promoted community health challenges from Utah State University and has facilitated kindergarten registration processes to ensure balanced class sizes for incoming students.
School Identity and Mission
North Park Elementary continues to emphasize its identity as a community-focused institution, often referring to its staff and students as part of the "North Park Family." Through various recognition programs, educational partnerships, and community resource drives, the school aims to support both academic achievement and student well-being.
