Utah Jazz mascot Bear visited Mount Logan Middle School to help deliver a “Most Valuable Educator” award to Spanish Dual Language Immersion teacher Josune Labandibar.
WELLSVILLE – Last week, a wave of excitement swept through Wellsville Elementary and Mount Logan Middle School as the Utah Jazz Bear, mascot of the NBA’s Utah Jazz, made unexpected appearances. However, this wasn’t just a regular school visit – it was a celebration of two notable educators, Annelise Hammond and Josune Labandibar, who were honored with the prestigious title of “Most Valuable Educators.”
Hammond, a sixth-grade teacher, was recognized as a “Most Valuable Educator” in a ceremony at Wellsville Elementary. Hammond’s achievement stemmed from nominations by her students, who praised her unwavering dedication and exceptional teaching skills.
Hammond’s recognition came with a generous reward package, including a $1,000 classroom grant, six tickets to a future Jazz game in Instructure’s suite, special recognition during the game, and a personalized Utah Jazz jersey.
Mount Logan Middle School also had a reason to celebrate as they welcomed the Utah Jazz Bear and the Instructure team to honor Josune Labandibar, another “Most Valuable Educator” recipient. Labandibar is a Spanish Dual Language Immersion teacher. Her selection was a result of her contributions to students’ lives, showcasing her unwavering commitment to education.
Just like Hammond, Labandibar received a package of rewards, including a $1,000 classroom grant, six tickets to a Utah Jazz game in Instructure’s suite, special recognition during the game, and a personalized Jazz jersey. The visit by the Jazz Bear and the Instructure team added an extra layer of excitement to the celebration at Mount Logan Middle School.
Both the Logan City and Cache County school districts shared photos of the teachers receiving their recognitions and celebrations with Jazz Bear on social media.
The two teachers were selected among a pool of over 1,000 educators around the state of Utah.