School Spotlights

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 What a wonderful visit to Clinton Elementary! Student leadership and kindness were on full display, from warm handshakes at the playground to confident introductions as students welcomed us into their classrooms.

Principal Brenda Gleed (19 years in Davis District, 3 at Clinton) and Assistant Intern Jessi Follett, the school’s Safety Specialist, are guiding the school through exciting improvements, with construction set to finish in March.

Even during this construction phase, the school remains deeply focused on both education and safety, working to ensure students, teachers, and staff have secure, functional learning environments as the building evolves. Safety truly stands at the forefront of every decision.

Clinton offers strong Tier 1 and Tier 3 supports, three preschool classes, DEEP magnet services, small-group specialists, and Sipps intervention.

Students shine in Choir and Multicultural Club, and they are excited for Running Club to soon return this spring!

With over 500 students, ESL-endorsed teachers, and dedicated volunteers like Grandma Dina, Clinton Elementary continues to build a safe, supportive, and joyful school community.

A highlight of the day? A kindergartner greeting us with, “I know you—you’re my great grandfather!” Moments like these capture the heart of Clinton Elementary.

Thank you, Clinton Elementary, for your warmth, dedication, and commitment to keeping students at the center of everything you do.

 Our visit to Shoreline Jr High was uplifting from start to finish. Principal Doug Hammerschmidt, with 21 years in education and 11 years in administration, shared how much he loves serving Davis County and how naturally he connects with students at the junior high level. He stepped into a school with strong, consistent systems already in place, allowing him to focus immediately on knowing the faculty and students, something he values deeply.

What stood out most was the school’s incredible student focus. Everywhere we turned, it was clear that students are at the center of Shoreline’s culture.

The partnership with Layton City is another strength, creating meaningful opportunities that support both the school and community.

We were especially impressed by the library, which truly serves as the heart of the campus. The librarian invests in students well beyond books, offering summer opportunities for families like life-size games, a homemade escape room, and engaging activities that bring learning to life.

Shoreline is proud to be a Platinum-Level STEM School and home to the DEEP program, serving 150 students out of its 1,300. Student recognition is celebrated through Shark Salute cards, and it was wonderful meeting the Student Body Officers, who represent their peers with energy and kindness.

Shoreline students continue to shine academically. Their proficiency scores stand strong across the district, and their AP pass rates rise above the Utah state average, a reflection of hard work from both students and staff.

Established in 2019, Shoreline Jr High has quickly developed a warm, thriving culture where students feel seen, supported, and inspired.

Thank you to Principal Hammerschmidt, staff, and students for an enlightening visit.

 Our visit to Syracuse High School was truly uplifting. Principal Brad Chapple, in his first year at SHS, is living out a long-held dream—serving as a high school principal, a role he pursued with purpose and now fulfills with genuine passion. His connection with students is already evident.

He is supported by Assistant Principals Erin Stumo, Katie Frederiksen, and Steve Loveland, and Administrative Intern Jessica Holtry, who help lead a vibrant campus of 2,790 students.

In the classrooms we visited, we saw order, engagement, and learning. It was especially touching to see Mr. Young, my former teacher, still teaching after 40+ years.

Our visit fell on Veterans Day, where students were making poppies at lunch to honor veterans. We also observed military veteran Mr. Garofalo teaching—a powerful reminder of service carried into the classroom.

Syracuse High celebrated a standout year, earning the 6A State Championship in Girls Soccer and placing 2nd in State in Unified Soccer. Students also raised $22,000 in the March of the Titans fundraiser—an impressive display of generosity and pride.

Thank you to the students and staff for such a warm and memorable visit. Syracuse High School is truly a special place.

 Clearfield High School Visit We had a great visit at Clearfield High School, where the school spirit and sense of community were immediately evident. This year brings a new leadership team to CHS: Principal TJ Barker, Assistant Principals Wendy Marland and Jordan Loo, and Administrative Intern Christopher Thomas—all in their first year at Clearfield. Even in this first year, it is clear that Principal Barker knows his students, and the students know him. His visible presence has already made a positive impact.  

Established in 1960, Clearfield High has a long-standing identity rooted in pride, tradition, and involvement. The level of school spirit shared among students and staff stood out as a defining strength during our visit. 

CHS students recently led a school-wide fundraising effort and raised over $100,000 in a short period of time—a strong reflection of student ownership, unity, and commitment to their school community. 

Clearfield provides students with multiple academic and career pathways, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program for internationally recognized college credit, along with advanced CTE programs. A new CTE building is underway to support these expanding programs. 

Because of limited parking space surrounding the campus, student clubs and administrators partner to maintain nearby shared areas, including Fisher Park, the neighboring church property, and South Clearfield Elementary grounds. This reflects the school’s commitment to being a thoughtful and responsible community neighbor. 

With 1,996 students, Clearfield High continues to thrive. However, space remains a challenge, especially during lunch hours and with daily parking. This need continues and remains an important area of focus moving forward. 

Thanks to Principal Barker and the administrative team for your time, leadership, and dedication to your students. It was a pleasure to visit and see the great work taking place at Clearfield High School.

 It was a great visit at Sunset Junior High with Principal Tami Oliver, who brings over 30 years of experience in education and is in her fourth year leading Sunset Jr High. Her leadership and dedication to excellence continue to shape a thriving environment for both students and staff.

The brand-new 240,000-square-foot building, which opened just days before the start of school, serves 900 students and provides a welcoming, innovative learning space. The campus features wide hallways, spacious classrooms, breakout areas for collaboration, and a large commons area used for both lunch and stage performances.

Starting in January, practicum college students from Weber State University and Utah State University will have the opportunity to use these learning spaces for instructional use.

Outdoors, a new field area is being developed to include pickleball courts, offering students even more opportunities for physical activity and connection.

It was a pleasure meeting the office staff, teachers, and students who bring such energy and heart to this growing school community. 

It was a great time meeting with Principal Sophia Fleming and staff at Vae View Elementary!

Under Principal Fleming’s leadership over the past three years, the school has seen a tremendous increase in student enrollment. 

Their upcoming building project will provide space for a dedicated activities center, that is separate from the currently shared area with the lunchroom, along with new office space and additional classrooms to support continued growth.

Today’s highlight was also to meet an outstanding student who was recognized as the Breakfast Club Award winner.  

It is evident that every student on campus knows they are valued and loved. Thank you teachers and staff!

It was a privilege to visit Syracuse Arts Academy Elementary and Junior High at the Antelope Campus. I am grateful for the dedicated staff and their genuine care and concern for every student. Their commitment to preparing students for the next step in their educational journey is evident in all they do.

With a strong emphasis on the arts and CTE leadership, SAA continues to raise the bar and create opportunities that set their school apart. When students at both the elementary and junior high were asked what they love most about their school, their answer was unanimous: *the teachers!*

A special thank you to Elementary Principal Mike Page, Junior High Principal Wendy Long, Junior High Assistant Principal Jay Welk, and SAA Director Kelli Mudrow, along with the staff and teachers, for the passion, hard work, and excellence they bring to Syracuse Arts Academy each day.

 My visit to Bluff Ridge Elementary was one for the books. It was a tremendous experience visiting Bluff Ridge Elementary and seeing such a dynamic group of teachers in action. The classrooms were full of energy, with students engaged, focused, and enjoying the learning process.

This year, Bluff Ridge is welcoming a new principal who is already bringing her expertise and vision to the school. Her leadership emphasizes two powerful goals: that 'every child can read' and that 'every child belongs.'

At Bluff Ridge, the mission goes beyond simply teaching—it’s about ensuring students are truly learning.

A special thank you to Principal Megan Fairborn, along with the dedicated staff and teachers, for their commitment to helping every child succeed.  

 I had the great honor and privilege of visiting Hill Field Elementary School and speaking with Principal Sarah Burke, DSD Elementary Director, Doug Frosgren, and Principal Burke's staff. 

During my visit, I was inspired by the ways this school fosters kindness, connection, and support. A Kindness Rock Garden and a tree planted for the Month of the Military Child bloom purple each spring as a living tribute to military families. The new Buddy Bench, donated in memory of a former student, encourages children to reach out and include others.

This visit was especially meaningful, as I attended this school in my own elementary years. I remember tether ball, wall ball, Field Day, and after-school talent shows that brought the community together. A special shout out to my childhood teachers: Mr. Potter, Mrs. Garbette, Mrs. Scipilini, the late Mrs. Crumperman, remembered with gratitude, and Mrs. Beard. I’m grateful for the impact they had on my life.

Since 1963, this school has faithfully served military families, with 94% of current enrollment made up of military-connected students.

A heartfelt thank you to Principal Sarah Burke, the staff, and teachers for their dedication and care for students and families.

 I had the opportunity to visit EG King Elementary. This school’s vision, “Build values to build resilience,” is seen in action through parent engagement nights focused on Spirit, STEM, and Literacy, and through strong family involvement. Grandparents are volunteering to read with students, and parents actively support learning through open communication.

Leading the way is Principal Alicia Johnson with 34 years of service in Davis District, who emphasizes “productive struggles” as key to building resilience. Supporting her are administrative interns Heather Straw and Catherine Swinyard.

Local businesses have supported this school and encouraged students through attendance incentives, rewarding their commitment and effort.

A special thank you to Principal Alicia Johnson, the staff and teachers for their dedication to building resilient learners and engaged families.