Wear blue this Friday, April 10, to support children!
Everyone plays a role in helping children have healthy and positive childhoods.
Positive Childhood Experiences occur when children experience safe, stable nurturing relationships and environments.
Everyone plays a role in helping children have healthy and positive childhoods.
Positive Childhood Experiences occur when children experience safe, stable nurturing relationships and environments.
Students at Lakeside Elementary built reading skills and excitement through a schoolwide literacy initiative that ended in a memorable and messy celebration.
As part of the school’s annual “one book one school” program, families read Dragons in the Bag together while tracking reading minutes throughout the month.
Classes tracked progress and competed for top reading spots, with a growing “class dragon” marking their success.
“The PTA and the student council keep track of who reads the most,” Administrative Intern Tammi Niederhauser said. “And then they've had a class dragon that they created, and the class dragon got bigger and bigger by every link each time.”
Top readers from each class were rewarded by helping “decorate” Principal Hilaree Lowry with taco ingredients.
“So, the student that read the most in each class got to come up and douse the principal with some taco elements,” Niederhauser said.
Lowry said the event became a strong motivator as students realized what was at stake.
“Well, they've been having so much fun. And this morning I went and walked around in my taco outfit, and they were so excited for it,” Lowry said. “At first, it didn't really catch on. They didn't really understand that I was willing to make a mess of myself. And when they realized what was happening, all of a sudden, they were really motivated to be able to, to see this.”
The celebration connected directly to the book’s theme and encouraged excitement around reading.
“And there is an element of tacos in there. Dragons do love tacos,” Lowry said. “So, it's great to see the kids excited about a book and excited about reading.”
School leaders said the goal is to build lasting reading habits and keep students engaged.
“We love to motivate the kids to read,” Lowry said. “And big thanks to our PTA who has spearheaded this whole reading month and tied it into our one book, one school.”
As part of the school’s annual “one book one school” program, families read Dragons in the Bag together while tracking reading minutes throughout the month.
Classes tracked progress and competed for top reading spots, with a growing “class dragon” marking their success.
“The PTA and the student council keep track of who reads the most,” Administrative Intern Tammi Niederhauser said. “And then they've had a class dragon that they created, and the class dragon got bigger and bigger by every link each time.”
Top readers from each class were rewarded by helping “decorate” Principal Hilaree Lowry with taco ingredients.
“So, the student that read the most in each class got to come up and douse the principal with some taco elements,” Niederhauser said.
Lowry said the event became a strong motivator as students realized what was at stake.
“Well, they've been having so much fun. And this morning I went and walked around in my taco outfit, and they were so excited for it,” Lowry said. “At first, it didn't really catch on. They didn't really understand that I was willing to make a mess of myself. And when they realized what was happening, all of a sudden, they were really motivated to be able to, to see this.”
The celebration connected directly to the book’s theme and encouraged excitement around reading.
“And there is an element of tacos in there. Dragons do love tacos,” Lowry said. “So, it's great to see the kids excited about a book and excited about reading.”
School leaders said the goal is to build lasting reading habits and keep students engaged.
“We love to motivate the kids to read,” Lowry said. “And big thanks to our PTA who has spearheaded this whole reading month and tied it into our one book, one school.”
Landon Horton, a science teacher at Farmington Junior High School, stars as Olaf in the Hale Center’s production of Frozen. Horton’s performance not only shows his love and skill for acting but serves as an inspiration for his students.
“My goal is to help them discover what the arts have to offer and experience the same confidence, creativity and joy that theatre gave me,” Horton said.
“My goal is to help them discover what the arts have to offer and experience the same confidence, creativity and joy that theatre gave me,” Horton said.
Today, our district recognizes World Autism Awareness Day, a time to celebrate the strengths, perspectives and contributions of students with autism across our schools.
Many also observe this as Autism Acceptance Day. We honor both. Awareness builds understanding. Acceptance builds belonging.
Students with autism are an important part of our school communities. Their talents, perspectives and experiences help shape classrooms where all students can learn and grow.
Our district remains committed to fostering learning environments where every student is supported, respected and included.
Many also observe this as Autism Acceptance Day. We honor both. Awareness builds understanding. Acceptance builds belonging.
Students with autism are an important part of our school communities. Their talents, perspectives and experiences help shape classrooms where all students can learn and grow.
Our district remains committed to fostering learning environments where every student is supported, respected and included.
Students at Morgan Elementary School wrapped up French Week with an assembly celebrating cultures from around the French-speaking world.
Throughout the week, students were introduced to different countries through daily songs and lunchtime activities. The event gave students a chance to perform song and dance inspired by regions including France, Belgium, Quebec, Senegal and Réunion.
While Morgan Elementary offers a French immersion program, the assembly was designed to include all students. Educators say sharing French language and culture schoolwide helps build connection and cultural awareness, giving students a broader understanding of the world beyond the classroom.
Throughout the week, students were introduced to different countries through daily songs and lunchtime activities. The event gave students a chance to perform song and dance inspired by regions including France, Belgium, Quebec, Senegal and Réunion.
While Morgan Elementary offers a French immersion program, the assembly was designed to include all students. Educators say sharing French language and culture schoolwide helps build connection and cultural awareness, giving students a broader understanding of the world beyond the classroom.
Update - A few weeks after competing in the finals of the Amazing Shake, Lakeside Elementary fifth grader Navy Nelson returned to the spotlight to share what she learned from the experience.
Nelson was named the Amazing Shake champion after advancing through a competition that gave 84 Lakeview Elementary students the chance to take on real-world challenges. The event tested skills ranging from job interview scenarios to difficult workplace conversations, all designed to help students build confidence and strong communication abilities.
With support from community volunteers, students practiced teamwork, quick thinking, respect and relationship-building while navigating a series of life-like situations.
During a recent assembly, Nelson spoke to third- through sixth-grade students about the competition, what she learned and how those skills can help students succeed in the future.
Judges for the event included School Board Vice President Emily Price, former Assistant Superintendent John Zurbuchen and West Point City Mayor Brian Vincent.
The Amazing Shake continues to help Lakeview students step into real-world situations with confidence.
Nelson was named the Amazing Shake champion after advancing through a competition that gave 84 Lakeview Elementary students the chance to take on real-world challenges. The event tested skills ranging from job interview scenarios to difficult workplace conversations, all designed to help students build confidence and strong communication abilities.
With support from community volunteers, students practiced teamwork, quick thinking, respect and relationship-building while navigating a series of life-like situations.
During a recent assembly, Nelson spoke to third- through sixth-grade students about the competition, what she learned and how those skills can help students succeed in the future.
Judges for the event included School Board Vice President Emily Price, former Assistant Superintendent John Zurbuchen and West Point City Mayor Brian Vincent.
The Amazing Shake continues to help Lakeview students step into real-world situations with confidence.
Dr. Tim Best, Healthy Lifestyles Director for the Davis School District, was honored with the Linda Mayne Award during the annual conference of SHAPE Utah on March 9 at Salt Lake Community College.
Presented during the opening ceremony of the Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds Conference, the award recognizes an educator who exemplifies the legacy of Linda Mayne, a longtime Utah teacher and advocate for student wellness. Mayne helped launch the conference with a vision of providing elementary classroom teachers with tools and support to integrate physical activity into daily instruction. Mayne dedicated 33 years to educating, coaching and mentoring students. After her unexpected passing in 2016, SHAPE Utah created the award in her honor to recognize educators working to keep students active and healthy.
“This award is to remember her great legacy that she left behind as we all are working together to get our kids up and moving every day,” said Jodi Parker, health education specialist at the Utah State Board of Education and SHAPE Utah board member who presented the award.
Best has spent more than 30 years serving students in Davis School District and previously served as president of SHAPE Utah. Colleagues say his leadership has had a lasting impact on physical education and student wellness.
“Dr. Best leads with a quiet strength and steady integrity, the kind of leader who doesn’t seek the spotlight because his impact speaks for itself,” said Dan Linford, superintendent of Davis School District.
“His influence on Davis School District is as positive as it is immeasurable.” Retired curriculum supervisor and former district board president John Robison added, “In my 40 years as an educator, I have never seen a physical educator like Tim Best. He is the epitome of what every physical educator should be.”
Presented during the opening ceremony of the Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds Conference, the award recognizes an educator who exemplifies the legacy of Linda Mayne, a longtime Utah teacher and advocate for student wellness. Mayne helped launch the conference with a vision of providing elementary classroom teachers with tools and support to integrate physical activity into daily instruction. Mayne dedicated 33 years to educating, coaching and mentoring students. After her unexpected passing in 2016, SHAPE Utah created the award in her honor to recognize educators working to keep students active and healthy.
“This award is to remember her great legacy that she left behind as we all are working together to get our kids up and moving every day,” said Jodi Parker, health education specialist at the Utah State Board of Education and SHAPE Utah board member who presented the award.
Best has spent more than 30 years serving students in Davis School District and previously served as president of SHAPE Utah. Colleagues say his leadership has had a lasting impact on physical education and student wellness.
“Dr. Best leads with a quiet strength and steady integrity, the kind of leader who doesn’t seek the spotlight because his impact speaks for itself,” said Dan Linford, superintendent of Davis School District.
“His influence on Davis School District is as positive as it is immeasurable.” Retired curriculum supervisor and former district board president John Robison added, “In my 40 years as an educator, I have never seen a physical educator like Tim Best. He is the epitome of what every physical educator should be.”
We’re celebrating Women’s History Month by highlighting the incredible women of Davis School District.
Kallyn Gren, a fifth-grade ELA teacher at Clinton Elementary, is inspired by teachers who showed her the joy of learning and collaboration. Her advice: “Don’t dull your shine to make someone else happy … just be yourself.”
Alyssa Arnold, a part-time yoga and dance instructor at Farmington Junior High, is inspired by her mother’s work in special education. She shares: “Don’t settle … challenge the norm, ask questions and follow your heart.”
Olivia Webberley, a secondary EL coordinator, is inspired by a leader who models authenticity and advocacy. Her message: “Become educated and share your voice so diverse perspectives continue to be heard.”
Meghan Shaver, an assessment literacy specialist, finds inspiration in strong, confident women who lead with authenticity. Her advice: “Carry yourself with confidence and composure … and always be yourself.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Thank you for celebrating Women’s History Month with us.
Kallyn Gren, a fifth-grade ELA teacher at Clinton Elementary, is inspired by teachers who showed her the joy of learning and collaboration. Her advice: “Don’t dull your shine to make someone else happy … just be yourself.”
Alyssa Arnold, a part-time yoga and dance instructor at Farmington Junior High, is inspired by her mother’s work in special education. She shares: “Don’t settle … challenge the norm, ask questions and follow your heart.”
Olivia Webberley, a secondary EL coordinator, is inspired by a leader who models authenticity and advocacy. Her message: “Become educated and share your voice so diverse perspectives continue to be heard.”
Meghan Shaver, an assessment literacy specialist, finds inspiration in strong, confident women who lead with authenticity. Her advice: “Carry yourself with confidence and composure … and always be yourself.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Thank you for celebrating Women’s History Month with us.
We’re celebrating Women’s History Month by highlighting the incredible women of Davis School District.
Deena Mulhall, a special education teacher at Windridge Elementary, is inspired by her students and their resilience. Her message: “Everyone around us is facing their own invisible challenges … look for the shared experiences that connect us.”
Elizabeth VanPatten, a computer science teacher at the Davis Catalyst Center, draws inspiration from women in computing history. She shares: “Don’t avoid something just because it’s not expected … you can make a real difference in any field.”
Morgan Duckworth, a speech-language pathologist, finds inspiration in the many strong women she works with and in her own mother’s perseverance. Her advice: “Be brave, be loud, and don’t be afraid to be a little ‘bossy.’”
Melissa Skousen, coordinator for translation and interpretation services, is inspired by a colleague who modeled collaboration and dedication to students. Her message: “Believe in your abilities … your voice and perspective matter.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Stay tuned as we continue sharing more throughout the month. #WomensHistoryMonth
Deena Mulhall, a special education teacher at Windridge Elementary, is inspired by her students and their resilience. Her message: “Everyone around us is facing their own invisible challenges … look for the shared experiences that connect us.”
Elizabeth VanPatten, a computer science teacher at the Davis Catalyst Center, draws inspiration from women in computing history. She shares: “Don’t avoid something just because it’s not expected … you can make a real difference in any field.”
Morgan Duckworth, a speech-language pathologist, finds inspiration in the many strong women she works with and in her own mother’s perseverance. Her advice: “Be brave, be loud, and don’t be afraid to be a little ‘bossy.’”
Melissa Skousen, coordinator for translation and interpretation services, is inspired by a colleague who modeled collaboration and dedication to students. Her message: “Believe in your abilities … your voice and perspective matter.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Stay tuned as we continue sharing more throughout the month. #WomensHistoryMonth
Construction is underway on a new field house at Kaysville Junior High, part of a voter-approved bond to upgrade school facilities across Davis County.
The facility, a partnership between the district and Kaysville City, will include two full-size courts, a running track, exercise space, locker rooms and coach offices. Students will use the field house for P.E., athletics, and school programs, while the city will open it for community recreation in the evenings, weekends and summers.
The field house is expected to open in fall 2027, providing a space that supports both student programs and community activities.
The facility, a partnership between the district and Kaysville City, will include two full-size courts, a running track, exercise space, locker rooms and coach offices. Students will use the field house for P.E., athletics, and school programs, while the city will open it for community recreation in the evenings, weekends and summers.
The field house is expected to open in fall 2027, providing a space that supports both student programs and community activities.
We’re celebrating Women’s History Month by highlighting the incredible women of Davis School District.
Megan Liddell, a teacher at Windridge Elementary, is inspired by Helen Keller’s example of resilience. Her message: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much … let the beams of your sunshine reach others.”
Bayly Clark, a health teacher at Mueller Park Junior High, is inspired by the women in her life, including her teachers and sisters. Her advice: “Be nice to people … a small act of service or a smile goes a long way.”
Chadli Bodily, assistant superintendent, is inspired by the many women who have shaped her leadership journey. Her message: “Set a clear vision for yourself … surround yourself with people who support that vision and help you stay grounded in it.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Stay tuned as we continue sharing more throughout the month. #WomensHistoryMonth
Megan Liddell, a teacher at Windridge Elementary, is inspired by Helen Keller’s example of resilience. Her message: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much … let the beams of your sunshine reach others.”
Bayly Clark, a health teacher at Mueller Park Junior High, is inspired by the women in her life, including her teachers and sisters. Her advice: “Be nice to people … a small act of service or a smile goes a long way.”
Chadli Bodily, assistant superintendent, is inspired by the many women who have shaped her leadership journey. Her message: “Set a clear vision for yourself … surround yourself with people who support that vision and help you stay grounded in it.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Stay tuned as we continue sharing more throughout the month. #WomensHistoryMonth
🌷 Spring Break Reminder 🌷
All schools and district offices will be closed March 30–April 3 for spring break.
We hope you have a safe and relaxing week. School will resume on April 6.
All schools and district offices will be closed March 30–April 3 for spring break.
We hope you have a safe and relaxing week. School will resume on April 6.
What a great day for our junior high students.
The first-ever Junior High Unified Basketball Tournament recently brought together 12 schools and 24 teams for a morning of competition, connection and inclusion. With six divisions competing at Central Davis Junior High, students of all abilities took the court side by side—building confidence, teamwork and a true sense of belonging.
Division champions included:
Division 1 - Centerville Chargers Blue
Division 2 - North Davis Norsemen
Division 3 - North Davis Green
Division 4 - Central Davis Purple
Division 5 - Mueller Park Panthers
Division 6 - Horizon Court Commanders
Expanding Unified Sports to the junior high level creates even more opportunities for students to get involved and understand the power of inclusion. These experiences strengthen school culture, support academic success and help every student feel valued.
The first-ever Junior High Unified Basketball Tournament recently brought together 12 schools and 24 teams for a morning of competition, connection and inclusion. With six divisions competing at Central Davis Junior High, students of all abilities took the court side by side—building confidence, teamwork and a true sense of belonging.
Division champions included:
Division 1 - Centerville Chargers Blue
Division 2 - North Davis Norsemen
Division 3 - North Davis Green
Division 4 - Central Davis Purple
Division 5 - Mueller Park Panthers
Division 6 - Horizon Court Commanders
Expanding Unified Sports to the junior high level creates even more opportunities for students to get involved and understand the power of inclusion. These experiences strengthen school culture, support academic success and help every student feel valued.
We’re celebrating Women’s History Month by highlighting the incredible women of Davis School District.
Jenny Westwood, a fifth-grade teacher at Wasatch Elementary, is inspired by her grandmother’s lifelong perseverance and love of learning. Her advice: “Be brave, work hard and never stop learning … your actions can make a lasting difference in someone else’s life.”
Cynthia Eck, a connection center assistant at Fairfield Junior High, is inspired by her mother’s strong work ethic. She shares: “Don’t let daily drama affect you … you are beautiful just the way you are. The sky is the limit.”
Samantha Smith, a special education preschool teacher, is inspired by a mentor who helped her see her potential. Her message: “Surround yourself with people who inspire you, challenge you and help you grow into the kind of woman who lifts others.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Stay tuned as we continue sharing more throughout the month.
Jenny Westwood, a fifth-grade teacher at Wasatch Elementary, is inspired by her grandmother’s lifelong perseverance and love of learning. Her advice: “Be brave, work hard and never stop learning … your actions can make a lasting difference in someone else’s life.”
Cynthia Eck, a connection center assistant at Fairfield Junior High, is inspired by her mother’s strong work ethic. She shares: “Don’t let daily drama affect you … you are beautiful just the way you are. The sky is the limit.”
Samantha Smith, a special education preschool teacher, is inspired by a mentor who helped her see her potential. Her message: “Surround yourself with people who inspire you, challenge you and help you grow into the kind of woman who lifts others.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Stay tuned as we continue sharing more throughout the month.
We’re celebrating Women’s History Month by highlighting the incredible women of Davis School District.
Chelsea Hagman, an elementary media specialist, is inspired by her high school librarian to help students discover a love of reading. Her advice: “Find your passions that uplift you and find a way to make the world more beautiful.”
Ling Zhang, a Chinese teacher at Mueller Park Junior High, is inspired by her mother’s example of hard work and perseverance. She shares: “Believe in yourself and do not be afraid to try new things … every experience helps you grow.”
Emilie Ord, who works in the grounds department caring for district schools, finds inspiration in the women she works alongside every day. Her message: “Trying new things can lead to so many amazing possibilities.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Stay tuned as we continue sharing more throughout the month. #WomensHistoryMonth
Chelsea Hagman, an elementary media specialist, is inspired by her high school librarian to help students discover a love of reading. Her advice: “Find your passions that uplift you and find a way to make the world more beautiful.”
Ling Zhang, a Chinese teacher at Mueller Park Junior High, is inspired by her mother’s example of hard work and perseverance. She shares: “Believe in yourself and do not be afraid to try new things … every experience helps you grow.”
Emilie Ord, who works in the grounds department caring for district schools, finds inspiration in the women she works alongside every day. Her message: “Trying new things can lead to so many amazing possibilities.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Stay tuned as we continue sharing more throughout the month. #WomensHistoryMonth
Davis High School claimed the 6A State Debate Championship, earning top honors in a highly competitive field of 14 schools.
The Darts secured the title with 103 points, showcasing depth, skill and consistency across events.
Individual state champions include:
Isabella Wilt & Eric Jung — Public Forum Debate
Eve Larsen — Foreign Extemporaneous Speaking
Kimberly Roane — Impromptu Speaking
Abigail Morgenstern — Informative Speaking
Isabella Wilt — National Extemporaneous Speaking
An outstanding achievement that reflects countless hours of preparation, critical thinking and teamwork. Congratulations to these students and their coaches on an exceptional state performance.
The Darts secured the title with 103 points, showcasing depth, skill and consistency across events.
Individual state champions include:
Isabella Wilt & Eric Jung — Public Forum Debate
Eve Larsen — Foreign Extemporaneous Speaking
Kimberly Roane — Impromptu Speaking
Abigail Morgenstern — Informative Speaking
Isabella Wilt — National Extemporaneous Speaking
An outstanding achievement that reflects countless hours of preparation, critical thinking and teamwork. Congratulations to these students and their coaches on an exceptional state performance.
Each month, a select group of students are invited to an event called Soup with the Supt. These students, nominated by their principals, are recognized for their outstanding contributions and positive impact on their respective schools.
Congratulations to the March honorees! Your dedication and commitment to helping others feel welcome make you true representatives of our district.
Congratulations to the March honorees! Your dedication and commitment to helping others feel welcome make you true representatives of our district.
School leaders across the Viewmont Cluster recently joined together for a service project tied to the America 250 celebration, collecting and assembling hygiene kits to support students in their own community.
Each school gathered a different hygiene item through donations from students and community members, with a goal of collecting at least 250 of each product. Members of the Service Club at Bountiful Junior High School then assembled the items into complete hygiene kits.
Once the kits were ready, principals and district leaders delivered 252 hygiene kits to the Teen Center at Viewmont High School to help support students who may need additional resources.
Those participating included Elementary Director Ruthanne Keller and Secondary Director Deanne Kapetanov along with Bountiful Junior High School Principal Hadyn Call, Centerville Elementary School Principal Leslie Bertram, Centerville Junior High School Principal Aaron Hogge, Meadowbrook Elementary School Principal Chris Whitaker, Reading Elementary School Principal Roger King, Stewart Elementary School Principal Michelle Yoho, Taylor Elementary School Principal Darryl Denhalter, Tolman Elementary School Principal Cameron Forbush, Viewmont High School Principal Travis Lund and West Bountiful Elementary School Principal Joanel Whinham.
Each school gathered a different hygiene item through donations from students and community members, with a goal of collecting at least 250 of each product. Members of the Service Club at Bountiful Junior High School then assembled the items into complete hygiene kits.
Once the kits were ready, principals and district leaders delivered 252 hygiene kits to the Teen Center at Viewmont High School to help support students who may need additional resources.
Those participating included Elementary Director Ruthanne Keller and Secondary Director Deanne Kapetanov along with Bountiful Junior High School Principal Hadyn Call, Centerville Elementary School Principal Leslie Bertram, Centerville Junior High School Principal Aaron Hogge, Meadowbrook Elementary School Principal Chris Whitaker, Reading Elementary School Principal Roger King, Stewart Elementary School Principal Michelle Yoho, Taylor Elementary School Principal Darryl Denhalter, Tolman Elementary School Principal Cameron Forbush, Viewmont High School Principal Travis Lund and West Bountiful Elementary School Principal Joanel Whinham.
Good luck to all Davis School District juniors taking the ACT tomorrow, March 24.
Tomorrow is a big, future-focused milestone. Your hard work, preparation and focus truly matters, and -your efforts are very well appreciated.
Our districtwide ACT testing day is made possible by amazing school administrators who provided thoughtful schedule coordination, as well as school technology specialists and district IT staff members who provide an all-hands-on-deck effort to ensure a smooth, stress-free testing experience.
Best of luck juniors. We’re proud of you!
Tomorrow is a big, future-focused milestone. Your hard work, preparation and focus truly matters, and -your efforts are very well appreciated.
Our districtwide ACT testing day is made possible by amazing school administrators who provided thoughtful schedule coordination, as well as school technology specialists and district IT staff members who provide an all-hands-on-deck effort to ensure a smooth, stress-free testing experience.
Best of luck juniors. We’re proud of you!
Our community showed up to Rock Their Socks!
Students and staff across Davis School District recently wore bright, mismatched socks to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day and raise awareness for individuals with Down syndrome.
Thanks to everyone who participated and shared their photos with us!
Students and staff across Davis School District recently wore bright, mismatched socks to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day and raise awareness for individuals with Down syndrome.
Thanks to everyone who participated and shared their photos with us!
