This newsletter is meant to compile important resources and information related to critical sectors of state services. The original information found here was shared with the Utah Multicultural Commission during its quarterly meeting. It is being reshared to expand opportunity and greater access to resources available to Utah’s communities.

As the youngest state in the nation, Utah places tremendous value on its children and families, striving to ensure their success both inside and outside the classroom. High-quality education and youth programming are vital to building strong communities and cultivating a thriving workforce that will uplift our state for generations to come. With approximately 675,000 students enrolled across 41 school districts and more than 100 charter schools, Utah’s K-12 students reflect the rich diversity of our state.

Utah’s commitment to education is embodied in the 2024 Superintendent Report’s Portrait of a Graduate framework, which aims to inspire Mastery, Autonomy, and Purpose for all students. Achieving this vision requires a holistic approach, where student success is supported in partnership with families and broader support networks.

The Utah Multicultural Commission is grateful for its partnerships with the Utah State Board of Education and community-based educational organizations that are working to create safe and supportive learning environments. We believe education is the key to improving quality of life and fostering better communities across the state.

We invite you to explore the following resources, recommendations, and key information to better understand Utah’s response and the available programming in this critical area.

“I’m proud to report that Utah’s K-12 Public Education system witnessed remarkable progress in 2023. This progress… symbolizes the collaborative spirit and dedication that has long propelled Utah’s Public Education system forward.” Read the State Superintendent Sydnee Dickinson’s 2024 Report below

Provided by the Utah State Board of Education, the Educational Data Gateway offers public and school personnel access to education-related data. This data is used to analyze student performance and guide improvements at the policy, state board, and classroom levels.

The Utah State Board of Education aims for academic and organizational excellence in Utah's education system. Its mission is to create equal opportunities for all children by ensuring a safe, supportive learning environment, identifying students needing extra support, protecting student rights, promoting impartial exploration of diverse viewpoints, and fostering inclusion. USBE supports students, families, and schools on civil rights compliance, prohibiting discrimination based on disability (Section 504), sex (Title IX), and race, color, or national origin (Title VI).

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal funds, requiring nondiscriminatory operations and protection from retaliation for opposing unlawful practices. Schools must appoint a Title IX coordinator, with contact information visibly posted in schools and on websites. Schools must follow Title IX’s grievance process for handling sexual harassment allegations, focusing on equitable treatment for all parties involved.

The Migrant Education Program funds high-quality education for migratory children, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to excel in a new academic environment. It provides services to meet their unique needs and supports their ability to achieve state academic standards. 

The Utah State Board of Education's American Indian website provides guidance for creating programs that support awareness and success for American Indian and Alaskan Native communities in Utah, offering information based on current research and state and federal requirements.

KNOW THE RESOURCES IN DEPTH

KNOW THE ORGANIZATIONS

POLICY-INFORMED, COMMUNITY-DRIVEN

The Utah Multicultural Commission is a community-informed and policy-driven advisory body overseen by the Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs. It focuses on building relationships with state partners and community ambassadors to elevate the needs and concerns of historically underserved and underrepresented Utahns. Our Commissioners serve a variety of communities across the state and build bridges of understanding and collaboration. Join our meetings and learn more about our efforts by clicking the link below.

Resources compiled by:

PLEASE NOTE: The views and opinions expressed in content from partner agencies do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs. Information found at external links on partner websites do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Utah Department of Cultural and Community Engagement (CCE), Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs, or divisions associated with CCE. The intent of this resource is to centralize information, not to endorse.