Utah Education Section 2025 by The Salt Lake Tribune

Utah Education 2025

CHALLENGER SCHOOL

6 Wasatch Front Campuses • ChallengerSchool.com

Education Entrepreneur

In 1960, while teaching in a public school, Challenger School founder and CEO Barbara Baker became alarmed that her first grade students had received no academics in kindergarten and that their best years for establishing a foundation for learning were being wasted. Barbara decided to leave the comfort of the public schools to start her own preschool where she could teach phonics to children before they went to public school. “I figured that if they learned phonics in preschool, no one could take that away from them.”

In Barbara’s first class, there were only six paying students. Two years later, as fascinated parents witnessed their children singing songs and bubbling with excitement about learning, the tiny preschool had grown to 100 half-day

preschool students with another 100 students waiting for admission. Today, Challenger School educates more than 10,000 students annually.

Challenging Curriculum

Challenger teaches reading, composition, math, history, and logic as essential bedrock subjects upon which literature, science, and other subjects naturally depend.

From preschool on, Challenger students regularly speak and perform before their peers, teachers, and parents. These repeated experiences help them gain the confidence necessary for effective public speaking. Challenger graduates point to these experiences as the basis for success in college and the workplace.

Challenger’s curriculum and philoso-

phy lead students to respect and protect the unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness expressed so brilliantly by our Founding Fathers in the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution.

Proven Methods

Students learn to identify and establish connections between ideas. This linked structure of ideas, this understanding of an idea connected to other supporting ideas, gives students a deep and lasting understanding of the subject.

Our emphasis on independent reasoning results in Challenger students’ extraordinary academic performance and their unique ability to essentialize what they learn and integrate and connect it with what they know.

Breathtaking Results

Challenger’s proven curriculum and teaching methods help students develop the skills needed to succeed in whatever they decide to pursue. As students learn foundational concepts and apply reasoning skills, the results are spectacular.

On the 2024 Iowa Assessments, Challenger students achieved average scores well above the 90th percentile. The average percentile rank for Challenger kindergartners was 98. Challenger School’s educational philosophy and methods set it apart from other schools. Challenger School, which offers preschool through eighth grade, operates 27 campuses, including six along the Wasatch Front. Learn more at ChallengerSchool.com.

Unmatched Academic Results

Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic classes for preschool to eighth grade students. Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence.

SKAGGS CATHOLIC CENTER

801-984-7650 • be-included.com

2024

was an exciting year for the Schools of the Skaggs Catholic Center (SCC), filled with growth, milestones, and achievements. The Center celebrated the past, embraced the present, and prepared for the future.

Juan Diego Catholic High School’s class of 2024 earned more than $17 million in renewable scholarships and entered top-tier universities such as Dartmouth, Notre Dame, University of Alabama, University of Oregon, and many others. The class of 2024 was comprised of award-winning musicians, athletes, scientists, and artists who donated over 18,000 hours of service to the community. Their dedication and achievements serve as a source of inspiration.

The SCC recently broke ground on a multi-million dollar expansion project. When completed, it will include a stateof-the-art performing arts center, eight new classrooms, and a beautiful south entrance designed to reflect the campus’s iconic breezeway and bell tower architecture. Additionally, five new post-tensioned concrete tennis courts were constructed, and the campus store, St. Paul’s Place, was relocated to better serve students and patrons. Plans are also underway to build a large indoor athletic facility.

September marked a significant milestone: the 25th Anniversary of the Skaggs Catholic Center. Nearly 2,500 people and 20 priests from around the state gathered for Mass to celebrate the center’s rich legacy and remember benefactors Sam and Aline Skaggs. To commemorate the anniversary, a stunning coffee table book: Sacred Spaces: A Spiritual Portrait, was unveiled, showcasing the art and icons that adorn the campus.

Several students broadened their horizons by traveling globally with Youthlinc and living Juan Diego’s motto, Spiritus Donorum, the spirit of giving. This year’s seniors will embrace

this motto as they dedicate a week in late January to serving over 23 agencies across Salt Lake and Summit County.

December brought a touch of nostalgia as they opened the time capsule in the interior wall behind the prominent 1999 cornerstone. Filled with treasures from the past, it reminded faculty, parents, and students of the journey that brought the SCC to Draper, UT. Plans are underway to build another time capsule to be opened in 2049.

Most recently, SCC launched a new website to cater to the whole campus community merging the individual school websites into one, easy-to-navigate site. The redesign ensures easier access to essential information and a modern design that reflects the vibrancy of our campus.

As the Skaggs Catholic Center celebrates 25 remarkable years, it reflects on countless memories, achievements, and an unwavering commitment to faith-based education that has shaped generations of students. This milestone

serves as both a reflection of the past and a beacon of hope for the future. With gratitude, the center looks forward to the next 25 years, confident that the values instilled within its walls will continue to guide future students toward becoming productive, compassionate, and successful adults. Together, the community embarks on the next chapter, remaining steadfast in its mission to nurture minds, hearts, and spirits in the Catholic tradition.

About the Schools of the Skaggs Catholic Center

Juan Diego Catholic High School in Draper, UT is a private school rooted in the Catholic tradition. Established in 1999, the school is part of the Skaggs Catholic Center, a comprehensive 57acre campus that houses Guardian Angel Development Center, Saint John the Baptist Catholic Elementary and Saint John the Baptist Catholic Middle School. For more information on how to enroll or schedule a tour, visit skaggscatholiccenter.org or call 801984-7650. The schools offer several tuition options and accept the $8,000 Utah Fits All Scholarship.

REID SCHOOL

2965 East Evergreen Avenue, Salt Lake City, UT 84109 801-466-4214 • www.reidschool.com

Unlock Your Child’s Reading Potential at Reid School

At Reid School in Salt Lake City, we believe every child has the potential to excel in reading. Our unique, ability-based reading program allows students to learn at their own pace, ensuring they never feel left behind or held back. Whether your child is a fast learner or needs a bit more time, our tailored approach ensures they receive the support they need to thrive.

Our program is built around the Exemplary Center for Reading Instruction (ECRI), a proven method that focuses on reading, spelling, oral language, writing, comprehension, and general study skills. This holistic approach not only boosts reading abilities but also enhances overall academic performance.

At Reid School, we pride ourselves on our handson teaching techniques and personalized instruction. Our dedicated teachers work closely with students to identify their strengths and areas for improvement, creating a customized learning plan for each child. This individualized attention helps students achieve mastery in all basic subjects while fostering a love for learning.

Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our consistent academic achievements. Students at Reid School have shown remarkable progress, with average reading gains of 26.3 months on the Informal Reading Inventory (IRI) tests during the 2023–24 academic year. This success is a testament to our innovative teaching methods and the dedication of our staff.

Our curriculum covers a wide range of subjects, from mathematics and science to history and fine arts. We expose our students to great literature, such as the works of Homer, Shakespeare, and Tolstoy, and teach them how to write with clarity and creativity. Our teachers are passionate and dedicated, and they tailor their instructions to each student’s needs and abilities. Hands-on activities, regular field trips, and classroom presenters strengthen daily lessons. Middle school students have the option to study abroad, traveling to different locations each year, both in and out of the country.

We also offer a variety of electives and extracurricular activities, such as chess, archery, music, and Spanish, to enrich our students’ learning experience and foster their talents and interests. Annual events showcase students’ skills and academic work, including the Native American powwow, state, county, and world fairs; science day and science

fair; fine arts fair; talent show; Shakespeare festival; mini-mini-Olympics and mini-Olympics; and awards assemblies. Students enjoy other annual activities, such as a Halloween parade and carnival, mastery test parties, free dress days, Thanksgiving feast, Valentine’s parties and a luncheon, and a spring carnival. Competitions are held in-school and at regional and state levels.

Parents are invited to musical programs, including a holiday program and a spring and graduation program. They are also invited to hear their children read aloud on a “muffins for moms and donuts for dads” day (these treats handed out afterward). Parental involvement is encouraged at Reid School.

Middle school students may join the Reid School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society, which hosts service projects, a Veterans’ Day program, fundraising for charity, and other activities throughout the year.

Join our community at Reid School, where your child’s strengths become their superpowers. With our flexible teaching methods, diverse instructional techniques, and emphasis on specific study skills, we ensure that every student reaches their full potential. At Reid School, we’re not just teaching reading; we’re unlocking a world of possibilities. Call 801-466-4214 for a school tour at 2965 E. Evergreen Ave., Salt Lake City, Utah 84109, or visit www.reidschool.com.

ELIZABETH ACADEMY

2870 S. Connor Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84109 801-281-4848 • elizabethacademy.com

Elizabeth Academy: Utah's Model for Inclusive Education

Located in Salt Lake City, Elizabeth Academy is an inclusive Montessori school inspiring learning and growth for children from infancy through 8th grade. By combining authentic Montessori principles with integrated services, it offers a pioneering model of inclusion tailored to meet the needs of every student.

Experienced teachers collaborate with special educators and therapists to adapt lessons for more challenge or support, focusing on individual interests and abilities. Whether gifted, neuro-typical, or needing extra support, every child is valued and empowered to thrive.

Infant & Toddler Programs

Elizabeth Academy provides a nurturing environment that fosters independence, curiosity, and exploration for its youngest learners. Carefully prepared spaces and attentive guidance support the development of motor, communication, and social skills.

Early Childhood (Ages 3–6)

In the Early Childhood program, children engage with hands-on Montessori materials that cultivate a love of learning. Core subjects like Math and Language are integrated with sensory activities, practical life skills, and the Arts, sparking creativity and critical thinking.

Elementary Programs (Ages 6–12)

Divided into Lower Elementary (ages 6–9) and Upper Elementary (ages 9–12), these programs use multi-age classrooms to allow students to progress at their own pace.

Lower Elementary: Students build on foundational skills, transitioning from hands-on learning to abstract thinking.

Experienced teachers collaborate with special educators and therapists to adapt lessons for more challenge or support, focusing on individual interests and abilities.

They explore subjects such as Math, Language, Science, and Cultural Studies through engaging lessons while fostering independence and a love for discovery.

Upper Elementary: Older students continue their academic journey with increasingly complex topics in Humanities and STEAM. They are encouraged to research, analyze, and present ideas while mentoring younger peers, developing leadership and a deeper understanding of their studies.

Middle School (Grades 7–8)

Elizabeth Academy’s middle school prepares students for high school with rigorous academics, collaborative projects, and practical applications. Leadership development and exposure to diverse perspectives equip students with skills for future success.

Across all programs, Elizabeth Academy creates an inclusive community where children of all abilities grow together. This environment nurtures empathy, resilience, and respect for differences, ensuring students thrive both academically and socially.

Learn more at ElizabethAcademy.com or call 801-281-4848.

HAWTHORN ACADEMY

K-9 | South Jordan 801-260-3040 • West Jordan 801-282-9066

Hawthorn was founded in 2009 with a clear purpose of providing an exciting and enabling learning environment where students not only develop a desire to explore and understand the world around them, but are inspired to set and reach personal goals and become lifelong seekers of knowledge. Building a strong school culture is vital to the success and well being of students and teachers. At its core, culture is a collection of shared values and expectations that inform practice. At Hawthorn, we value Safety, Growth, and Engagement. We believe that if we align our efforts to these core values we will cultivate a culture of positivity, high expectations, inclusion, and trust.

Safety

As we began our 15th year, we felt the need to revisit our purpose and reestablish our place in the ever evolving landscape of public education. We adopted the RCA House system in 2023 in a quest to promote

a positive climate and culture for students and staff. The house system builds character, relationships, and school spirit while providing a sense of belonging and purpose to the whole school community. Our goal is total inclusion of each student. Counselors/Behavior Specialists, in collaboration with teachers, promote the mental health and well being of all students. These professionals, our house system, and clear behavior plans create a safe environment for all.

Growth

We use Standards-Based Instruction that identifies the highest priority State standards in all core subject areas which helps teachers and students focus on what matters most. High quality core instruction, rigorous assessments, and strategic interventions assure that all students are progressing toward mastery of these standards.

Narrowing the focus of our collaborative team meetings on data from the Priority Standards helps us track

the growth of our students and work together to find solutions for those who are struggling and those who need to be challenged beyond grade-level expectations. Our elementary students have already seen, on average, a 15% growth increase from the beginning of the year in math and reading.

Engagement

Hawthorn incorporates teaching and learning strategies that assure high levels of student engagement throughout instruction. These strategies are designed to keep students actively engaged in the learning process. Teachers are expected to be out of their seats and moving around throughout the lesson to assure that they are monitoring students and providing support.

Students are encouraged to take an active role in their own learning by tracking their progress on their proficiency scales. Identifying individual academic needs is critical to their personal academic progress.

CARDEN MEMORIAL SCHOOL

1452 East 2700 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84106 801-486-4895 • cardenmemorialschool.com

What makes Carden Memorial School the right choice for your child? In a rapidly changing world, we believe some things should stay the same. At Carden, we believe in honoring and preserving childhood. Carden is a private non-denominational Christian school, educating children in Pre-Kindergarten through 8th Grade. With over 50 years of experience, we help children pursue academic excellence and develop strong character in a joyful learning environment. The Carden approach to learning is incorporated in a traditional, classically based curriculum enriched with Biblical values. Carden teaches patriotism with an appreciation for America and its history.

Small class sizes and calm environment allow our highly trained faculty to work with small groups around the teaching table, giving individualized reading, language arts, and math lessons based on student needs. This eye-level interaction holds the students’ attention and allows the teacher to understand how each child learns.

Carden Memorial School provides a unique and excellent educational opportunity where students develop a love of learning; where they hone the skills to read, write, speak, listen, think, and understand; where children grow into wise, contributing citizens and leave prepared to face their future education and life with confidence and joy.

CHANNING HALL

Channing Hall’s annual STEM Expo is an exciting event where families can explore the boundless possibilities of STEM education. As a Platinum STEM and International Baccalaureate (IB) school, Channing Hall is committed to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving, making the STEM Expo a highlight of the year.

Unlike a traditional science fair, the STEM Expo is an opportunity for teachers and STEM leaders from the community to share cutting-edge demonstrations, innovative tools, and interactive displays. From robotics and coding to environmental sustainability and 3D printing, families can experience the future of STEM firsthand and discover the opportunities available to Channing Hall students.

This year, Channing Hall’s STEM program received a $46,000 grant, which has been used to enhance resources and create even more engaging STEM opportunities. The Expo provides a glimpse into how this funding is being used to inspire the next generation of innovators.

The STEM Expo is more than an event—it’s a celebration of what’s possible when education meets innovation. To learn more about Channing Hall’s programs and enrollment opportunities, visit channinghall.org.

D STREET, SLC | 801-578-8144 Learn More and Apply at OCSLC.org

THE OPEN CLASSROOM

The Open Classroom, situated in the Salt Lake City School District, is a distinctive educational environment that offers a unique approach to learning for students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. Established in 1977 as an optional program, it transitioned into a district-supported charter school in 2006. This free public school is characterized by a blend of traditional and innovative educational practices.

Key features of the Open Classroom include:

• Teacher-led, parent-supported, and child-centered approach, ensuring a dynamic and collaborative learning environment.

The Open Classroom is a Pre-K thru 8 Co-Op Public Charter School where children learn to be capable leaders, independent learners, valued members of a community, problem-solvers, and friends.

• Multi-age classrooms, enabling students to learn from and teach each other, deepening their understanding of various subjects.

• Emphasis on the whole child, where social, emotional, creative, cognitive, and physical aspects are nurtured alongside meeting state academic standards.

• Small-group collaborative learning that is tailored to the interests of the students, allowing for a more personalized and engaging education experience.

• Active parent participation in classrooms, which has shown to enhance students’ appreciation for education and strengthen family relationships.

The Open Classroom is more than just a school; it’s a cooperative and intentional community, united not by location or demographics, but by a shared philosophy and commitment to the holistic development of children. This community aspect is a cornerstone of the school’s philosophy ...

The Open Classroom is more than just a school; it’s a cooperative and intentional community, united not by location or demographics, but by a shared philosophy and commitment to the holistic development of children. This community aspect is a cornerstone of the school’s philosophy, with over four decades of experience highlighting the positive impact of parental involvement on children’s love for learning and their educational outcomes. For those interested in learning more about this unique educational approach and the community it fosters, additional information is available at OCSLC.org. The Open Classroom stands as a testament to the power of collaborative, inclusive, and child-centric education in shaping the minds and lives of young learners.

ROWLAND HALL

720 Guardsman Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108

801-355-7485 • rowlandhall.org

Shaping the future of education

Since 1867, Rowland Hall has provided students with flexible, transformative educational experiences that equip them with the skills they need to thrive in our dynamic world. A leader among independent schools, we’re committed to building on this legacy of excellence, shaping the future of education and Developing People the World Needs.

We believe students of all ages can create knowledge, not just take in knowledge. By investing in areas such as applied mathematics, engineering, environmental and research science, computer science, and entrepreneurship, we’re preparing them to find solutions to real-world problems.

We believe students are the problem solvers, communicators, critical thinkers, and creators the world needs, and we’re expanding opportunities

for the deep learning and leadership that build these identities.

We believe in coming together in partnership. By embracing collaboration, we enable meaningful learning and connections that expand perspectives, foster understanding and creativity, build and strengthen community, and shape empathetic, ethical global citizens.

Students in Action

High Schoolers Published in Scientific Cancer Journal

As part of their Advanced Research Biology course, three seniors took on the challenge of studying a deadly breast cancer subtype. In September, their findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal ‘Cancers.’

Seventh Graders Battle Invasive Bug Species

Seventh graders combined research, creativity, and problem-solving skills to engineer innovative

bug traps designed to capture invasive species. This cross-disciplinary project sharpened STEM and communication skills, with lessons extending beyond the classroom.

Fifth-Grade Internship Program Builds Confidence and Connection

Fifth graders build real-world leadership in the 5-I Internship Program, which connects students with staff mentors and allows them to tackle campus projects. From planning school events to assisting in classrooms, students learn valuable life skills—and positively impact the school community.

Read these stories and more at rowlandhall.org/ fineprint

DEVELOPING PEOPLE THE WORLD NEEDS

Rowland Hall offers a transformational education that gives students agency and purpose, connects them to their global community, and empowers them to make the world a better place for all.

UTAH VIRTUAL ACADEMY

866-788-0364 • utva.k12.com

Utah Virtual Academy Unleashes Educational Freedom

In the dynamic landscape of education, school choice has become a rallying cry for parents seeking personalized and flexible learning options for their children. Enter Utah Virtual Academy (UTVA), a tuition-free online public school offering a transformative educational experience for students in grades K–12.

Providing a robust platform where students can flourish academically within a safe and supportive environment, the team of Utah-licensed teachers at UTVA ensure a high-quality education that prioritizes individual growth and success.

We recognize the diverse needs of students and offer comprehensive support to address them. Whether students require assistance with credit recovery, aspire to excel in college prep courses, or seek guidance in preparing for their future careers, UTVA stands as a beacon of choice. Parents can tailor their child’s

education journey to match their unique aspirations, fostering a sense of ownership over their academic destiny.

Beyond academics, UTVA values the importance of socialization, club participation, and family engagement. Students not only thrive academically but also develop essential life skills and form connections that extend beyond the virtual classroom. This commitment to a holistic educational experience aligns seamlessly with the ideals of school choice, providing families with the flexibility to choose an educational

path that suits their values and priorities.

For students in grades 6-12, UTVA further enhances school choice by offering part-time enrollment through the Statewide Online Education Program (SOEP). This flexibility allows families to strike a balance between traditional and online education, providing an optimal solution for those seeking a tailored approach to learning.

Embrace the power of online learning with Utah Virtual Academy and redefine the possibilities of education for your child.

A Personalized Approach to Learning

Utah Virtual Academy (UTVA) is a tuition-free online public school for students in grades K-12, with full time and part time positions available.

Why UTVA?

Opportunities for socialization, participation in clubs,and family engagement

Safe, supportive environment with Utah-licensed teachers, and for students in grades 6-12, a dedicated personal mentor and school counselor

Support for small class sizes in grade K-5, college prep, and career readiness

Part time enrollment available for students in grades 6-12 through the Statewide Online Education Program (SOEP)

More questions? Attend a virtual open house to meet school staff, ask questions, and receive enrollment support!

WINTER SPORTS SCHOOL

4251 Shadow Mountain Dr., Park City, UT 84098

435-649-8760 • WinterSportsSchool.org

Apublic 9-12 charter school in Park City, The Winter Sports School develops student-athletes with a passion for learning and excellence in both academics and sport. After 20 years as a private school, in 2014 WSS became a tuition-free, public charter school, offering an exceptional HS education in an exceptional sport community. Our unique Apr-Nov calendar provides the balance and support to allow dedicated student-athletes to focus on academics when in school and on their chosen sports when the season is underway.

The success of the WSS community over the years is remarkable. Our graduates have gone on to compete at the highest levels, some winning Olympic, World Cup, National, Collegiate and junior titles. While athletic accolades are impressive, our focus is to prepare students to confidently forge their own success in college and in life. All competitive athletes eventually start their final events, cross their last fi nish lines, and stop competing. Even though that conclusion is inevitable, The Winter Sports School fosters a lifelong appetite and aptitude for discovering and tenaciously pursuing mastery in new challenges beyond any particular field of athletic competition. At WSS, we are #competitorsforlife.

Find out more at wintersportsschool.org

Advertising supplement produced by The Salt Lake Tribune

Why Choose Redeemer Lutheran?

We offer a personalized approach to education rooted in Christian values. Our small class sizes and dedicated teachers allow us to provide individualized attention and support, helping each student reach their full potential. Our school program has…

• Project Based Learning

• Art/Language

• Music/Choir

• STEM

• PE

• Technology Integration

• Above Average National Testing Scores

• Family Environment

• After School Care Available

• And more

Schedule Your Tour Today!