3 JTHS staff members receive honors and awards

Three staff members are Joliet Township High School District 204 were recently honored for their skills and contributions, according to news releases from District 204.

They are Joliet Central High School teacher Melissa Magnuson, Joliet Central High School Band Instructor Don Stinson and Joliet Township High School Curriculum Director Nicole McMorris.

JCHS teacher state-level finalist for PAEMST

Joliet Central High School teacher Melissa Magnuson is a state-level finalist for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

Only three math and three science finalists were forwarded on for consideration at the national level.

The National Selection Committee, composed of K-12 teachers, administrators, university professors and STEM education researchers, will meet to select the national PAEMST awardees.

The White House will notify the awardees. They will be honored in Washington D.C. and will receive $10,000 from the National Science Foundation.

As a state-level finalist, Magnuson will be honored at state ceremonies this year.

JCHS band director accepted as American School Band Directors’ Association member

The American School Band Directors’ Association has accepted Joliet Central High School band instructor Don Stinson as a member of its organization.

Members of the ASBDA must be nominated and sponsored by a peer who is a current member of the ASBDA. In addition, members must demonstrate a high level of experience, excellent moral character and quality of musicianship.

USF honored JTHS curriculum director with William Orenic Outstanding Contribution Award

The University of St. Francis College of Education has announced that Joliet Township High School Curriculum Director Nicole McMorris is the 2021 recipient of the William Orenic Outstanding Contribution Award.

McMorris received the award on May 3.

The award is given annually to an individual who has made outstanding contributions in support of the conceptual framework of the College of Education: understanding students, serving the community and finding he professional self.

Award recipients personify the USF core values of respect, compassion, service and integrity.

McMorris is dedicated to preparing the next generation of teachers through her support of the MERIT Program, and participation as a steering committee member, a panelist and a member of the mentoring committee.

For more information, visit jths.org.