Joann Wilcox – South Jordan Elementary

May 31, 2016, 6:30 PM | Updated: Feb 12, 2024, 3:33 pm

Animation of an award for the teacher feature special by KSL...

Joann Wilcox is truly the most incredible teacher I have ever met. I was first introduced to her remarkable efforts when she taught my nephew in 2nd grade 2 years ago. My nephew Jake struggles severely with ADHD. Until meeting Mrs. Wilcox, parents, teachers, neighbors, family, friends all struggled to understand why Jake couldn’t accomplish simple tasks like getting ready for school, finishing/taking tests in his school class…and even me, his piano teacher…I couldn’t help Jake complete one line of music without stopping and getting distracted. Many were very frustrated with his rowdy, distracted behavior. However, Mrs. Wilcox could see Jake’s incredible intelligence and potential. She knew that he was a smart kid just looking for a way to appropriately express himself. She became his advocate helping him find the district testing that he needed to assess his capabilities and disabilities. She creatively fought for hi m to succeed in his classroom, learn how to test appropriately, and function in his daily life. Her pursuit gave new life to this little boy who is now an avid reader, classroom leader, and kind boy at home.

The following year, I came to know Mrs. Wilcox more intimately when she took my daughter, who started her class midyear, under her wing. We were in a transitional process of moving several times and the instability at home gave Danika severe anxiety. Again, this remarkable teacher found ways to celebrate Danika’s strengths in class motivating her to go above and beyond on her assignment. My daughter who was so scared, and didn’t know anyone felt very safe in Mrs. Wilcox’s classroom. She assimilated quickly, and Mrs. Wilcox found unique ways to recognize Danika that were far beyond what I have ever seen any teacher do. She takes her own money to reward great independent reading and challenged Danika to move beyond the norm and develop her independent reading. She took her on rock hunts at recess and helped her pursue a scientific challenge to learn more about geology and discovery. She promoted Danika’s math skills, as well as the entire class, and they won a District recognized Monster Math Challenge. In a year that had so many unknown and where Danika could have slipped through the cracks of a busy classroom, Mrs. Wilcox helped my daughter achieve and shine.

This will be Mrs. Wilcox’s final year teaching. She has touched hundreds of students in similar ways to the two above stories that have changed our lives. I could only wish to find another teacher half as amazing for the rest of my children. I know that she was an angel that improved our children and built a pathway for them both, and all others to succeed. She truly is a remarkable woman, incredible teacher, and deserves anything wonderful that life could bless her with!

–Aubrie Johnson

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Send it to the KSL NewsRadio team here.

...

Emily Ashmead

Angela Hansen, South Valley School

“I am honored to nominate Angela Hansen for this award in recognition of her outstanding dedication and impact as a teacher for transition-aged students (18-22) in the Jordan School District. Angela goes above and beyond in creating engaging and meaningful lessons that prepare students for life beyond the classroom, focusing on education and training, employment, […]

21 hours ago

...

Emily Ashmead

Ms. Suzanne Hooper, Provo Peaks Elementary

“I am writing to nominate Ms. Hooper for recognition as an incredible teacher who truly embodies what it means to be an educator. My daughter has been fortunate enough to be in her class this year, and I cannot express how remarkable Ms. Hooper is. From the moment you step into her classroom, it’s evident […]

22 hours ago

...

Emily Ashmead

Greg Montgomery, Tooele High School

“He is so funny, he makes sure he has a friendship with every one of his students. He loves to joke around and make every student happy, and just makes their day, and a lot of the kids can’t have that type of relationship with teachers like how we have with Montgomery” -Lucy Clemens About […]

24 hours ago

...

Emily Ashmead

Ami Briscoe, Fox Hollow Elementary

“Mrs. Briscoe goes out of her way to make her students feel as comfortable and safe in class as she can. The school conducted an unannounced drill and my daughter was nearly brought to tears in fear; when she got home she told me that Mrs. Briscoe kept her by her side, even covered her […]

1 day ago

...

Emily Ashmead

Ryan Evans, Fremont High School

“Ryan works in the life skills program with the a special Ed kids at Fremont High. He has been there for 4 years now and worked as a Para educator for many years before becoming a teacher. There are 2 classrooms both full of special ed kids. He has a lot of kids with specific […]

2 days ago

...

Emily Ashmead

Emily Miles, Sunset Middle school

“Emily teaches art and shares her talents everyday w the kids. She dedicates time in the classroom and outside of the classroom to ensure all the kids have a great learning experience. She loves what she does and loves the children!” -Lisa Schields About Teacher Features on KSL NewsRadio Teachers are the backbone of our […]

2 days ago

Sponsored Articles

Full speed through the snow. A man on skis is pulled by his through the snow at full gallop Skijori...

Bear Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau

Get ready for an unforgettable skijoring adventure in Bear Lake!

“Skijoring the Bear” takes place this year on February 21-22 in Garden City, Utah.

the bedroom in a geodesic dome shows the night sky...

Clear Sky Resorts Bryce Canyon

Your front row to an extraordinary cosmos show

As America's first glass dome stargazing resort, Clear Sky Resorts Bryce Canyon is one of the world’s most unique and spectacular places to stay.

2 people huddled up in a blanket and warm clothes sipping hot chocolate...

Bear Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau

The best ways to spend your Christmas vacation in Bear Lake

If you're dreaming of a white Christmas this year, Bear Lake should definitely be on your radar. Read this guide for more!

big crowd of people under holiday lights in an outdoor market...

Western Nut

Our favorite family Christmas activities in Utah

We gathered up a list of our favorite activities, movies, and treats to try this holiday season that the whole family can enjoy.

an IT tech looks at a laptop in front of a server network...

Comcast Business

Tips to protect yourself from phishing attacks

Check out this resource from Comcast Business to learn more about phishing attacks and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim of one.

A surprise gift, wrapped and ready to bring holiday cheer! Whether for Christmas, a birthday, or an...

Western Nut

10 Holiday Gift Ideas to cover everyone on your list

This guide is for you if you need holiday gift ideas that will make a lasting impression. 

Joann Wilcox – South Jordan Elementary