PCSD Partners With Park City Mountain Resort and PCEF to Recognize Two Outstanding McPolin Employees

PARK CITY, Utah —Park City School District recognized two outstanding McPolin Elementary School employees during the Board of Education meeting on Nov. 18, celebrating the positive impact they have on students, families, and the school community.

Education Support Professional of the Month is Belsy Moscoso. Licensed Educator of the Month is Jena Schmidt. The recognition is part of a partnership with Park City Mountain Resort and Park City Education Foundation, which helps honor district staff who represent what it means to be One Park City and who go above and beyond in their roles.

As the program continues throughout the school year, Park City School District will rotate through each school with monthly employee recognitions, presented during future Board of Education meetings.

McPolin Elementary Principal Angie Dufner introduced both honorees at the board meeting, praising their relationships with students and their contributions to school culture.

“She really embodies the outreach position, and I do not know what we would do without her. She has been amazing,” Dufner said, describing Moscoso’s daily commitment to student well-being and family engagement.

Students often visit Moscoso before and after school simply because they feel seen and supported in her presence.

Dufner also highlighted Schmidt’s classroom approach that focuses on the whole child through individualized instruction and a strong sense of belonging.

“Jena decides what it is that she can talk about with that student. She gets the buy-in from the parents. She makes them feel comfortable, and she meets those students where they are,” Dufner said.

This year, Schmidt introduced a schoolwide social-emotional learning practice rooted in the Crew model that encourages students to take ownership of their classroom community.

“We are crew, not passengers,” Schmidt said. “If we can all put our focus on getting to know our kids and letting them know that they matter to each other and to themselves, it helps everything we do as educators.”

Schmidt also launched McPolin’s first musical theater opportunity, Finding Nemo, while working closely with Moscoso to ensure equitable access for every student. This opportunity is funded by a PCEF Classroom Grant.

Park City School District Superintendent Lyndsay Huntsman congratulated the employees and expressed her appreciation for their leadership.

“Belsy and Jena reflect the heart of Park City School District,” Huntsman said. “They make learning personal. They lift up every child. They create spaces where students know they matter. We are so grateful for the difference they make.”

Park City Mountain Resort Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Deirdra Walsh attended the meeting to congratulate the recipients and emphasized the resort’s commitment to community partnership and support for educators.

“We are so inspired to be here,” Walsh said. “These staff members are shaping not only students, but the future of our community. We are proud to celebrate the difference they make every single day.”

Each winner received a special token of appreciation, including a choice of a lift ticket or a gift card redeemable at Park City Mountain Resort’s dining or retail locations.

Park City Education Foundation also participated in the recognition, reinforcing its ongoing work to uplift teachers and programs that support student success throughout the district. PCEF noted its 11-year relationship with Park City Mountain Resort through Preschool support and Running with Ed, presenting sponsorship.

For more information about district recognitions and celebrations, visit pcschools.us.