The Auburn School District Board of Directors recently recognized Vicki Jenson, transportation router/dispatcher, as the outstanding staff member for the month of October.

Jenson has worked in the school district for 17 years, the first 10 years as a bus driver, driver trainer, and first aid/CPR trainer. As a bus driver, she drove students with hearing impairments and taught herself sign language so she could communicate with her students.

Prior to working for the school district, Jenson owned an in-home daycare for 20 years.

“Vicki is extremely committed to our students, families and schools,” said coworker Kyle Carrier. “She is constantly going the extra mile to make sure our students are routed and cared for by our drivers.”

The board also recognized Jade Zurita, a fifth-grader at Dick Scobee Elementary, for being an outstanding student.

Zurita, who has attended Dick Scobee since kindergarten, is a natural teacher and leader with a positive demeanor. She is willing to step outside of her comfort zone and attempt new, rigorous challenges.

“I couldn’t be prouder of Jade’s accomplishments these last two years,” said Glenn Jenkins, her teacher for the last two years.

In the future, Zurita plans to attend Seattle Pacific University and become a doctor.

Elsewhere

Auburn’s Megan Bass and Karissa Gaffney were among approximately 1,500 students named to Biola University’s dean’s list for academic excellence in the spring. Students who achieved a grade point average of 3.60 or higher while enrolled in 12 or more credit units and whose cumulative grade point average is at least a 3.20 are placed on the dean’s list. Biola University is a leading Christ-centered university in Southern California.