On October 22-25, Mrs. Melino and five members of Jordan’s FFA chapter traveled to Indianapolis, Indiana, to attend the National FFA Convention, considered to be the most anticipated leadership event for youth with more than 55,000 FFA members from across the country in attendance. While at the convention, students participated in leadership workshops, seminars, team building activities, career success tours and met FFA members from all over. Students had the opportunity to network with hundreds of representatives from colleges and agriculture companies across the US.

The trip proved to be memorable and exciting and was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. "The FFA Organization is a positive example of what works in education," says adviser, Mrs. Melino.  "This dynamic youth organization changes students’ lives through preparation for premier leadership, personal growth and career success."

Jordan science teacher, Bill Vincent, has been selected from among 800 applicants for the National Science Teachers Fellowship Program to be a part of the New Science Teacher Academy, a year-long professional development program aimed at reducing the turnover rate, especially for new teachers. 

“At the time I submitted my application to the NSTA, I had no idea how selective the process was,” says Vincent.  “I applied because it sounded like a great opportunity to work with other science teachers, both new and veteran, across the country.  In a way, I view it as an extension of our district's PLC program ‘on steroids’”. 

Vincent has been assigned a content-area mentor and will collaborate with other teachers to jointly develop, implement and assess lesson plans.  Afterwards, they evaluate and reflect on what worked and what didn't.  “I am able to do all this within an online environment which enables me to work and contribute at times that are convenient for me.”