Jo Edan Parker wins Huntsman award

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Jo Edan Parker is a special education teacher of severe behavioral students at Mapleton Junior High. She has worked for Nebo School District for nine years and in California for 17 years. She works with students from across Nebo School District who have severe intellectual and behavioral challenges. But it isn't just her teaching that sets her apart. Parker's colleagues and student parents say she goes above and beyond for her students. "Jo Edan is more than just a teacher," said Janeal LeBaron, a parent of a former student. "I have known her for 20 years and she is an excellent teacher and friend. She is creative with the ways she teaches the kids. She knows that these kids don't just learn from books. She takes her knowledge of them and teaches them the way they learn. She is a good lady." Along with the basics of school, reading, math and writing, Parker also teaches her students life skills. She plans field trips to expose the students to life outside a classroom. Some of the field trips have included traveling to the mall, restaurants, bowling or fishing. "Jo Edan is an example of a dedicated teacher," said Linda Lewis, Mapleton Junior High PE and drama teacher. "She has the ability to create meaningful experiences for each one of her students." Parker also helped organize the annual Nebo Special Ed Extravaganza. Special education students in junior high in Nebo School District attend the event. Peer tutors from various schools help the students participate in track and field events. "Jo Edan teaches the students with the toughest behavioral issues in the district," said Regina Stoddard, whose son has been Parker's student for three years. "I was very nervous to bring Benjamin here because I know that he is violent, but Jo Edan told me that she knew she would get pinched, kicked, hit and bit and that it would be OK. I trusted her when she told me this. She is a miracle worker. There are students who leave her classroom and never have behavioral issues again. She isn't fazed by the violence of some of the students. We are very lucky to have her as a teacher." Parker's close friends, bowling team members, colleagues and other district employees gathered to congratulate Parker during the presentation. "Wow," Parker said. "Receiving this award is overwhelming and so exciting. I love my students. They are the most precious kids, even though they are the most difficult. I get to work with some amazing parents as well." "I have the opportunity to go through out the state and give these awards to so many amazing educators," Karen Huntsman said. "I have a 37-year-old son who is on a 3-year-old level and while raising him, I have learned so much. Jo Edan is a unique person. She is a person that I wish we could Xerox and make many copies of and put through out the state. She makes a difference in so many lives. I appreciate all you do."
Attributions
Candy Higley (Daily Herald)