×
×
homepage logo
SUBSCRIBE

Mayors of Utah Valley: Collaboration essential while considering possible school district split

By Eagle Mountain Mayor Tom Westmoreland - Special to the Daily Herald | Mar 16, 2024

Courtesy Eagle Mountain

Eagle Mountain Mayor Tom Westmoreland

As our communities evolve, so, too, must our approaches to governance.

The Alpine School District is considering undergoing a significant change in the future that will undoubtedly shape the future of education in our region. As mayor of Eagle Mountain, I see this as a pivotal moment for our city and its residents.

It’s imperative that we not only adapt to these changes but also proactively engage in regional planning to ensure a smooth transition and foster quality partnerships with other government entities.

For some time, the prospect of splitting the Alpine School District has loomed over our heads due to the unprecedented growth in Utah County’s population.

Now, with potential redistricting options on the table, likely on the ballot in November of this year we will be faced with a crucial decision that will impact the education and well-being of over 84,000 students across Lehi, Orem, Eagle Mountain and more. With so many impacted, the school district promises to have more information available on its website soon.

This does not mean this decision is imminent. There is still plenty of time to consider the options in front of us and look into legitimate concerns. This process could take years to complete.

The significance of regional planning cannot be overstated. It requires a collective effort from all stakeholders to navigate the complexities and challenges that lie ahead. We must embrace collaboration and open dialogue to address the diverse needs and concerns of our communities.

One of the key components of regional planning is the consideration of various proposals and their potential implications.

The options presented by MGT Consulting to the ASD school board offer different scenarios, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. Whether it’s dividing the district into two or three parts or even allowing Lehi to become its own school district, these decisions will shape the educational landscape.

As these options are weighed over the course of many months, it’s essential to prioritize the well-being of our students and educators. Any decision made must aim to enhance educational opportunities and ensure quality access to resources across all districts. Moreover, we must be mindful of the financial implications and work toward solutions that promote fiscal sustainability while meeting the needs of our growing population.

Eagle Mountain is committed to playing an active and cooperative role in this process. We understand the importance of fostering strong partnerships with neighboring municipalities and school districts.

By collaborating closely with stakeholders and participating in informational sessions, we long to contribute constructively to the decision-making process in the coming years.

We also recognize the need for transparent communication and community engagement.

It’s worth noting that past attempts to split the district have faced challenges and opposition. However, we must learn from these experiences and approach the current situation with a forward-thinking mindset. Regional planning requires us to prepare for change.

The upcoming changes to the Alpine School District present both challenges and opportunities for Eagle Mountain and the broader region.

As we navigate this transition, let us embrace the principles of regional planning, collaboration and community engagement.

Newsletter

Join thousands already receiving our daily newsletter.

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)