Last month, the Utah Education Network (UEN) honored several community leaders at the "UtahFutures Celebrates Stories of Champions Dinner". This event highlighted the work and dedication of fourteen individuals, nominated by fellow community members, who help students in Utah to excel academically and professionally. Jen Gibbs, the project manager of Utah American Graduate, which worked in conjuction with UEN, said, "As Utah's public media network for education, UEN is thrilled to bring attention to these inspirational mentors and the people they serve." The honorary dinner was held at the Hogle Zoo, and attendees included representatives of Utah's public libraries, public education facilities, higher education institutions, and the Utah System of Technical Colleges. 
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Guadalupe School is proud to say that our very own Kate Brainerd, Director of Adult Education, was one of the fourteen mentor champions honored. We cannot think of a person more deserving of such recognition. Kate has proven time and time again her tireless dedication to providing English Language Learners with opportunities to grow and progress. Besides directing a program that provides training to volunteer tutors who in turn help small groups of students to learn English, Kate has gone above and beyond to provide vocational training opportunities. She implemented a program to train students in preparation for the Certified Nurse Assistant examination, and supports Adult Education student volunteers who operate a thrift shop where Guadalupe families can shop for affordably priced items.

We appreciate Kate, who is a shining example of the kind of passion that drives Guadalupe School and its five programs to transform lives through education. Congratulations, Kate! 

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Thanks to a warm invitation from Guadalupe School board member Steve Downing, manager at Telemundo Utah, Guadalupe sixth graders experienced a unique field trip at the studios of a real news channel! Students were greeted by Steve, as well as news anchors the kids have seen on television, including Silvana Effio, the lead anchor. They were able to hear about what it takes to produce the news, and the various components of a broadcasting team. It was especially inspiring for Guadalupe students to hear from Telemundo staff, many of whom share similar stories of  learning English as a second language, immigrating from another country, or coming from parents who did. ​

A highlight of the trip included the chance to experiment with the newsroom's green screen. Students and teachers stood in front of the screen, and watched the magic occur as a small television screen displayed them standing in front of various digitally imposed backdrops. ​

At Guadalupe School, we are proud to offer our students exciting and original ways to learn about the world around them. We hope to inspire youth to see what they can become, and work hard to achieve their dreams, regardless of what they are.