Announcements
SLCSD Priorities 2026-27 - Our top priorities highlighted from our strategic plan for student success. (Draft only!!)
Common Expectations – Administrative guiding document for 26-27 school year.
September Cultural Calendar – Record of cultural observances for September
CSTAG (comprehensive school threat assessment guidelines) is a critical component of school safety. All building administrators must be trained in CSTAG but it is recommended that others be trained as well. If you or your staff are interested in completing CSTAG training, please sign up for our next session offered on Monday, Sept. 14 from 8:30am-4:00pm in room 1055 at the District Office. Registration is available on Kickup or reach out to Dr. Alli Martin with any questions.
CELEBRATIONS – Please send to leeson.taylor@slcschools.org or angelina.tovar@slcschools.org by Wednesday at 5:00 PM.
Attendance and Engagement Meta Network celebration
Salt Lake City School District has been accepted into the National Attendance and Engagement Meta Network, a Gates Foundation-funded initiative focused on improving student attendance and engagement. East, West, and Horizonte will represent the district in this national learning network, collaborating with schools and districts across the country to identify, implement, and refine strategies that reduce chronic absenteeism and strengthen student connection to school.
We appreciate the leadership of the East, West, and Horizonte teams for taking on this work and look forward to sharing lessons learned across the district throughout the year.
ALL ADMINISTRATORS – Items for all building level administrators
DEADLINES
PUBLISHED 2z026 Principal Tackle List.docx
ACTION ITEMS
Administrator ESL Endorsement Information – In the Salt Lake City School District, every educator plays an important role in supporting English learners. As an administrator, you can choose to complete the full ESL endorsement, or just complete three classes for the modified endorsement.
Action Item: Assigning STEM AC Math Digital Learning Student Licenses – The math digital learning student licenses awarded to schools from the STEM AC Math Digital Learning Grant will be assigned by SLCSD IT Department. Administrators must submit a SLCSD IT helpdesk ticket to inform IT how the licenses are to be assigned in their school.
Attendance Counts for Events Family Engagement
As part of SLCSD's Strategic Plan, Pillar 3, Goal 1, we are entering our second year of collecting attendance data for key family engagement events. Please provide attendance information for the following:
Back-to-School Night (2026)
Two family engagement events during the 2026-27 school year (selected by your school; you may use the same events reported in 2025-26)
Fall and Spring SEP Conferences (2026-27)
We recognize that schools track attendance in different ways. Whether you use exact counts or reasonable estimates, please report the data using the method that works best for your school. Our goal is to establish a baseline and measure growth in family engagement over time.
Once your event dates are submitted, we will add them to the district tracking spreadsheet and the Tackle list so that you, or your designee, can enter attendance data following each event throughout the school year.
Please submit the 2026-27 School Event Attendance Count – Fill out form by Thursday, September 10.
INFORMATION ITEMS
Attendance Update September 2026.docx -this is the September attendance newsletter.
Attendance-Based Grading Under HB 502 Guidance – The Salt Lake City School District is providing the following guidance regarding attendance-based grading under HB 502. This guidance is intended to support a fair, transparent, and consistent approach across our secondary schools while ensuring that students and families clearly understand how attendance may affect a course grade.
Assessment Plan for SY 2026-27 – This document is the comprehensive overview of assessments. For specific dates of testing windows, questions about administration, or training on administration, please contact Dr. Patrick Jefferies, Assessment & Evaluation Supervisor.
Update: Internal and External Grant Pre-Application Approval Process – This memo serves as an important reminder that all faculty and staff must use the district’s Grant Pre-Application Approval process before submitting any grant request.
Botvin Life Skills Training – It is now time to fill out the BOTVIN forms for your schools.
Student Services Newsletter – This is the monthly newsletter from Student Services.
Utah Compose/Scrible update
USBE retired Utah Compose and will not be available this year. Scrible will be the replacement.
The platform is currently not rostered or available for teacher use.
We expect USBE to have it ready by October.
Teachers New to Acadience Reading:
Teachers new to Acadience Reading need to complete the Administration Essentials course provided online by USBE before they conduct any benchmarking. While not as robust of an option, there is a self-paced Canvas course that covers this information as well. Teacher should observe and practice testing procedures and follow standard testing procedures to keep the data collected valid and reliable.
Math Acadience License Issues
Acadience Math Digital Upgrades and License Information:
Schools that have requested K-3 manual-entry Acadience Math licenses are all set to use them, but please remember that they are exclusively for K-3 students. Manual licenses for upper grade students must be purchased, even though it appears that all students have accounts. This is due to the way the ALO platform rosters. Upper grade students with Acadience Reading accounts may appear to have Acadience Math accounts. They do not unless your school purchases them.
For schools that have requested quotes for digital upgrades or upper grade licenses, please complete your purchase as quickly as possible. These upgrades are given at a district level through ALO. This means that any school in the district could potentially use it. To avoid using the upgrades purchased by another school and avoid costly invoices, schools need to clearly communicate the type of licenses they are using to classroom teachers and support staff for Acadience Math. If the school does not purchase the digital upgrade, all measures need to be administered, scored, and entered manually into ALO.
Teacher Growth Reports
Teacher growth reports are now available in the DDC>Assessment & Evaluation>Assessment Essentials> [School Folder]>Scores & Reports> Teacher Growth. Reach out to Dr. Jefferies in Assessment & Evaluation with questions.
USBE Updates
School LAND Trust – USBE is excited to announce a new Canvas course designed to support District Principals in administering the School LAND Trust (SLT) program. District principals are vital to ensuring School Community Councils (SCC) are properly formed and funds are used to address critical academic needs.
SEOP Newsletter – August newsletter
USBE September Attendance Newsletter – USBE Attendance information for the month of August.
HIGH SCHOOLS – Items for high school administration
DEADLINES
ACTION ITEMS
Calculating Added Value GPA -- Additional value is awarded to courses that demonstrate a higher level of academic rigor. This system ensures students are recognized for the commitment they make when enrolling in advanced coursework.
INFORMATION ITEMS
2026 Cohort Cleanup for High Schools
All graduation requirements for last year's 12th grade students who did not graduate in May must be completed and entered into PowerSchool by September 25.
Registrars must also ensure that an Exit Status Change record is created in PowerSchool for any student who has completed their graduation requirements or for whom new information is available regarding their enrollment status or transfer destination.
Registrars will receive training on this process from IT on August 28.
Monthly Registrar Meetings Reminder and Dates – Monthly Registrar Meetings Reminder and Dates
High School RISE updates – USBE has indicated that RISE blueprints will be available starting Sept 1 for:
ELA 9 & 10
Secondary Math II (Secondary Math I is already posted)
Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, & Physics
Nov 16, 2026: Performance Indicators available
Jan 19, 2026: Benchmarks for ELA 9 & 10, and Secondary Math II available
MIDDLE SCHOOLS –Items for middle school administration
DEADLINES
ACTION ITEMS
INFORMATION ITEMS
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS – Items for elementary school administration
DEADLINES
ACTION ITEMS
Botvin Materials and Teacher Training for Grade 5 – Action Required by 9.11.26 – Botvin LifeSkills Training (LST) is an evidence-based substance-use and violence-prevention program that helps students develop skills for making healthy and responsible choices.
INFORMATION ITEMS
UEA Support for Readathon – On October 2, 2026 the Utah Statewide Read-A-Thon will take place. UEA applauds the efforts of Governor Cox and first lady Abby Cox in working to build literacy in our state.
UEA supports the Governor’s initiative, and we hope your school district will actively participate so students and educators of all ages can discover, or rediscover, the joy of reading. We also hope that you will work in close collaboration with educators and the community in planning events. UEA and your local association leaders stand ready to help
CogAT Testing – Annual Dates & Expectations -- SLCSD’s Magnet and Advanced Academics and Mentoring Program (AAMP) provide advanced learning opportunities for students who demonstrate gifted characteristics and high academic potential.
Math Acadience Order process for 2026-27: Any school can use manual licenses for K-3 Math Acadience paid for by USBE. Schools can pay $2.95/student with school funds to upgrade to digital licenses and avoid hand entry of data in K-1. For more details, please click here. To order licenses for grades 4-6, email quotes@acadiencelearning.org to purchase.
TRAINING:
Starting now, participants can self-enroll in the Canvas course for the SY26-27 administration and scoring of the Acadience Math assessments. Once they complete the module(s) and submit the survey they will receive a certificate of completion. Self-enroll URL link https://usbe.instructure.com/enroll/C6FRBW
Please reach out to Dr. Patrick Jefferies, Assessment & Evaluation, with questions. patrick.jefferies@slcschools.org
RESOURCES AVAILABLE FOR SCHOOLS FROM DISTRICT DEPARTMENTS
SPED Scoop – Special Education Newsletter
Student Services Resources
Teaching & Learning
Salt Lake Education Foundation
School Leadership & Support
Administrative Memos
*Unless otherwise requested, information will run for 2 weeks only.
Author: Leeson Taylor
Update: Internal and External Grant Pre-Application Approval Process
TO: Teachers, Area Directors, and Administrators
DATE: Monday, August 24, 2026
FROM: James E. Yapias, Senior Director of Development and Salt Lake Education Foundation
RE: Update: Internal and External Grant Pre-Application Approval Process
Dear Colleagues,
This memo serves as an important reminder that all faculty and staff must use the district’s Grant Pre-Application Approval process before submitting any grant request. This applies to all external grants as well as internal funding opportunities through the Salt Lake Education Foundation. This procedure has been required since April 2018. Note: This does not apply to grants submitted on the Utah Grant portal or federal grants, which continue to require approval from the Business Administrator.
The purpose of this process is to strengthen site and department support, encourage collaboration of resources, and enhance student achievement through a streamlined and coordinated approach. Please submit all proposed grants using the Grant Pre-Application Approval Link: https://apex.slcschools.org/apex/f?p=321.
Utilizing this required process ensures that the district and foundation operate from a clear, shared plan aligned with school improvement goals and community needs. It also allows us to communicate effectively with stakeholders, track reporting requirements, and prevent multiple funding requests that may fatigue our donor base.
Process Overview:
•
School administrators will be notified of any grant submission for their department/school and will have the opportunity to ask questions and provide pre-approval.
•
The foundation will be notified to ensure compliance with the district’s C-6 Fundraising Policy and 501(c)(3) tax-exempt requirements.
Required Pre-Submission Timeline:
•
Approval by impacted schools/departments: 15 business days before the grant application deadline
o
Approval by the Foundation Director: 10 business days before the grant application deadline
▪
All local, state, business/corporate, and foundation grants under $100,000
o
Approval by the Business Administrator: 10 business days before the grant application deadline
▪
All local, state, business/corporate, and foundation grants of $100,000 or more
If you have questions regarding the Grant Pre-Application Approval process, please contact me at James.Yapias@slcschools.org or 801-578-8268.
Thank you for your cooperation and for your continued commitment to supporting our students.
Sincerely,
James E. Yapias
Grant Memorandum Salt Lake Education Foundation
August 24, 2026 Page 2 of 2
406 East 100 South | Salt Lake City, Utah 84111 | Phone: 801.578.8268 | saltlakeeducationfoundation.org
GRANT PRE-APPLICATION APPROVAL GUIDE
Requester: Will auto populate with your name and employee number.
Requester Title/Worksite: Will auto populate with your title and worksite info.
Requester Department: Will auto populate with your department info.
Implementation Site: Where will the program take place?
Name of Grant Opportunity: What is the name of the external funder (external grant) or name of the program for SLEF funding request.
Funding Type: Select local, state, federal, business/corporate, foundation (for SLEF funding requests).
Program Focus: Special Event, Enhancement, After-School, Other
Program Title: What is the name of the program/activity?
Amount Requesting: What is the total dollar amount you are requesting?
Matching Funds: If yes, please list the amount your school or department is contributing in the Program Summary.
Is student data required? If yes, you need to complete a student request form on the information technology website. https://apex.slcschools.org/apex/f?p=151.
Date Grant Application is Due: Enter the date the grant application is due.
Proposed Implementation Date: Enter the date your program/activity starts.
Departments you need support from: Select the department you need support from (e.g., IT, Facility Services, etc.).
Required Support: If you require support from other departments, please detail it here.
Program Summary/detailed budget: Include a brief summary of the program or project for which you are requesting funding. Be sure to include a detailed breakdown of the budget and number of people this request serves.
Contact Information of Funder: For external funding applications, provide the organization’s name, address, phone number, and contact person’s name and email. You will also need to upload a complete copy of your application to the portal.
Letters for Leadership v.9, e.5
Announcements
SLCSD Priorities 2026-27 - Our top priorities highlighted from our strategic plan for student success. (Draft only!!)
Common Expectations – Administrative guiding document for 26-27 school year.
September Cultural Calendar – Record of cultural observances for September
CSTAG (comprehensive school threat assessment guidelines) is a critical component of school safety. All building administrators must be trained in CSTAG but it is recommended that others be trained as well. If you or your staff are interested in completing CSTAG training, please sign up for our next session offered on Monday, Sept. 14 from 8:30am-4:00pm in room 1055 at the District Office. Registration is available on Kickup or reach out to Dr. Alli Martin with any questions.
CELEBRATIONS – Please send to leeson.taylor@slcschools.org or angelina.tovar@slcschools.org by Wednesday at 5:00 PM.
Attendance and Engagement Meta Network celebration
Salt Lake City School District has been accepted into the National Attendance and Engagement Meta Network, a Gates Foundation-funded initiative focused on improving student attendance and engagement. East, West, and Horizonte will represent the district in this national learning network, collaborating with schools and districts across the country to identify, implement, and refine strategies that reduce chronic absenteeism and strengthen student connection to school.
We appreciate the leadership of the East, West, and Horizonte teams for taking on this work and look forward to sharing lessons learned across the district throughout the year.
ALL ADMINISTRATORS – Items for all building level administrators
DEADLINESPUBLISHED 2026 Principal Tackle List.docx
ACTION ITEMS
Administrator ESL Endorsement Information – In the Salt Lake City School District, every educator plays an important role in supporting English learners. As an administrator, you can choose to complete the full ESL endorsement, or just complete three classes for the modified endorsement.
Action Item: Assigning STEM AC Math Digital Learning Student Licenses – The math digital learning student licenses awarded to schools from the STEM AC Math Digital Learning Grant will be assigned by SLCSD IT Department. Administrators must submit a SLCSD IT helpdesk ticket to inform IT how the licenses are to be assigned in their school.
Attendance Counts for Events Family Engagement
As part of SLCSD's Strategic Plan, Pillar 3, Goal 1, we are entering our second year of collecting attendance data for key family engagement events. Please provide attendance information for the following:
Back-to-School Night (2026)
Two family engagement events during the 2026-27 school year (selected by your school; you may use the same events reported in 2025-26)
Fall and Spring SEP Conferences (2026-27)
We recognize that schools track attendance in different ways. Whether you use exact counts or reasonable estimates, please report the data using the method that works best for your school. Our goal is to establish a baseline and measure growth in family engagement over time.
Once your event dates are submitted, we will add them to the district tracking spreadsheet and the Tackle list so that you, or your designee, can enter attendance data following each event throughout the school year.
Please submit the 2026-27 School Event Attendance Count – Fill out form by Thursday, September 10.
INFORMATION ITEMS
Attendance Update September 2026.docx -this is the September attendance newsletter.
Attendance-Based Grading Under HB 502 Guidance – The Salt Lake City School District is providing the following guidance regarding attendance-based grading under HB 502. This guidance is intended to support a fair, transparent, and consistent approach across our secondary schools while ensuring that students and families clearly understand how attendance may affect a course grade.
Enrollment Guidance Related to SB 167 – We recognize that schools have received a number of questions regarding student enrollment requirements and the implementation of SB 167. We appreciate your continued attention to this matter and your efforts to ensure that enrollment decisions are handled consistently and appropriately across the district.
Edia Implementation and Attendance Communication – See important information regarding our implementation of Edia attendance software.
Assessment Plan for SY 2026-27 – This document is the comprehensive overview of assessments. For specific dates of testing windows, questions about administration, or training on administration, please contact Dr. Patrick Jefferies, Assessment & Evaluation Supervisor.
Transportation Contact Information -- As we prepare for the upcoming school year, we would like to share the Salt Lake City School District Transportation Department contact information to help ensure you can quickly connect with the appropriate staff for transportation-related needs.
UPDATE: UTA Passes for the 26-27 School Year – UTA is upgrading its fare payment system, which requires new transit cards for staff, guardians, and most students.
Standard Operating Procedures for Zūm Pass Usage, Student Boarding, and Space-Available (Transportation) – The Salt Lake City School District is implementing consistent procedures for Zūm pass usage, student boarding, transportation eligibility, and space-available transportation requests for the 2026–27 school year.
Botvin Life Skills Training – It is now time to fill out the BOTVIN forms for your schools.
Student Services Newsletter – This is the monthly newsletter from Student Services.
Utah Compose/Scrible update
USBE retired Utah Compose and will not be available this year. Scrible will be the replacement.
The platform is currently not rostered or available for teacher use.
We expect USBE to have it ready by October.
KEEP –KEEP Kindergarten Testing ends September 4. Please ensure that all scores are entered and submitted to the Data Gateway by the end of the testing window.
Class Rosters for test tracking should arrive at your schools this week. Please include the completed Class Rosters when returning your testing materials. Refer to the Packing List or Teacher Checklist for instructions on returning materials.
Performance Matters – There is currently (8/26) an issue with course types in Performance Matters that will prevent most Math and Language Arts testing from being published and distributed.
Course types are required to publish and distribute tests within Performance Matters, and many course types are currently missing. I.T. is aware of this issue.
Missing Students – If students are missing from testing platforms such as Acadience or the Data Gateway, please work with I.T. and your school registrar to resolve the issue. Once the student’s information has been corrected, please allow 24–48 hours for the changes to be reflected in the testing platform.
RISE Interim Testing Update – Please be aware that the RISE testing platform is currently experiencing an issue with rostering in TIDE. At this time, we do not have an estimated timeline for when rostering will be restored. Because students cannot be properly rostered, schools will need to delay Fall RISE Interim testing until this issue has been resolved. We will share additional information as soon as we receive it.
NWEA Participation Dashboard – To To help monitor NWEA participation, we have a new dashboard that shows participation by school. You can find it here: NWEA - NWEA and Acadience Participation Report - Power BI
The dashboard will be updated daily, and you can see when it was last updated. Anyone with Power BI access can use it. This Dashboard will eventually include Acadience participation as well. This is a new product, so please let us know if something looks off or if you have any questions.
USBE Updates
School LAND Trust – USBE is excited to announce a new Canvas course designed to support District Principals in administering the School LAND Trust (SLT) program. District principals are vital to ensuring School Community Councils (SCC) are properly formed and funds are used to address critical academic needs.
SEOP Newsletter – August newsletter
USBE August Attendance Newsletter – USBE Attendance information for the month of August.
HIGH SCHOOLS – Items for high school administration
DEADLINES
ACTION ITEMS
Calculating Added Value GPA -- Additional value is awarded to courses that demonstrate a higher level of academic rigor. This system ensures students are recognized for the commitment they make when enrolling in advanced coursework.
INFORMATION ITEMS
2026 Cohort Cleanup for High Schools
All graduation requirements for last year's 12th grade students who did not graduate in May must be completed and entered into PowerSchool by September 25.
Registrars must also ensure that an Exit Status Change record is created in PowerSchool for any student who has completed their graduation requirements or for whom new information is available regarding their enrollment status or transfer destination.
Registrars will receive training on this process from IT on August 28.
Monthly Registrar Meetings Reminder and Dates – Monthly Registrar Meetings Reminder and Dates
High School RISE updates – USBE has indicated that RISE blueprints will be available starting Sept 1 for:
ELA 9 & 10
Secondary Math II (Secondary Math I is already posted)
Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, & Physics
Nov 16, 2026: Performance Indicators available
Jan 19, 2026: Benchmarks for ELA 9 & 10, and Secondary Math II available
MIDDLE SCHOOLS –Items for middle school administration
DEADLINES
ACTION ITEMS
INFORMATION ITEMS
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS – Items for elementary school administration
DEADLINES
ACTION ITEMS
Botvin Materials and Teacher Training for Grade 5 – Action Required by 9.11.26 – Botvin LifeSkills Training (LST) is an evidence-based substance-use and violence-prevention program that helps students develop skills for making healthy and responsible choices.
INFORMATION ITEMS
CogAT Testing – Annual Dates & Expectations -- SLCSD’s Magnet and Advanced Academics and Mentoring Program (AAMP) provide advanced learning opportunities for students who demonstrate gifted characteristics and high academic potential.
Math Acadience Order process for 2026-27: Any school can use manual licenses for K-3 Math Acadience paid for by USBE. Schools can pay $2.95/student with school funds to upgrade to digital licenses and avoid hand entry of data in K-1. For more details, please click here. To order licenses for grades 4-6, email quotes@acadiencelearning.org to purchase.
TRAINING:
Starting now, participants can self-enroll in the Canvas course for the SY26-27 administration and scoring of the Acadience Math assessments. Once they complete the module(s) and submit the survey they will receive a certificate of completion. Self-enroll URL link https://usbe.instructure.com/enroll/C6FRBW
Please reach out to Dr. Patrick Jefferies, Assessment & Evaluation, with questions. patrick.jefferies@slcschools.org
RESOURCES AVAILABLE FOR SCHOOLS FROM DISTRICT DEPARTMENTS
SPED Scoop – Special Education Newsletter
Student Services Resources
Teaching & Learning
Salt Lake City Education Foundation
School Leadership & Support
Administrative Memos
*Unless otherwise requested, information will run for 2 weeks only.
CogAT Testing in Elementary Schools
Title: CogAT Testing in Elementary Schools
Date: August 28, 2026
To: Elementary Principals
From: Dr. Garret Rose, Advanced Academics Supervisor
Subject: Annual Testing Dates and Expectations
Background
SLCSD’s Magnet and Advanced Academics and Mentoring Program (AAMP) provide advanced learning opportunities for students who demonstrate gifted characteristics and high academic potential.
The Magnet program offers full-day advanced instruction for eligible students in grades 1–6. Students learn with academic peers through grade-level and accelerated instruction that emphasizes depth, complexity, creativity, and critical thinking. Magnet opportunities continue in middle school through advanced core classes.
AAMP is a part-time, school-based program for eligible students in grades 4–6. Students receive up to three hours of advanced instruction each week while remaining in their neighborhood school. AAMP helps students strengthen critical-thinking skills, develop their academic identity, and prepare for continued advanced learning opportunities.
Students qualify for these programs through an identification process that includes the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT), a group-administered aptitude assessment used by schools to measure reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Summary
Fall Testing:
Beginning August 24 through September 4, AAMP teachers and staff are testing any new students in grades 1-2 and 4-6 as well as students in those grades that may not have been tested previously with the CogAt assessment. Assessments in grades 1 & 2 should take approximately 1 hour; grades 4-6 require two 90-minute sessions (about 180 minutes in total). AAMP teachers will work with classroom teachers to schedule these assessments, being mindful of WIDA screening and Acadience testing happening in the same window.
Fall Testing Schedule: August Cogat Schedule.docx
January Testing:
January 6 through January 19, AAMP teachers and staff will be testing Kindergarten and grade 3 students. This screening is used to identify students who qualify for magnet classes or for AAMP programs. A comprehensive schedule will be sent out to all elementary principals with the testing dates and times at each school later in the fall. Kindergarten testing will take approximately one hour and grade 3 testing will take three hours in two sessions.
This is an exhaustive and massive undertaking, so we kindly ask the following:
- Prioritze computer lab time for testing as outlined on the schedule.
- Work with your compter tech to ensure computers are updated in the labs.
- If no computer labs are available, ensure student laptops are updated and bandwidth is available.
- Understand our need for flexibility for unexpected intangibles (lagging Wi-Fi, power outages, absent students, etc.).
- Communicate to staff:
- The dates (January 6-19) and expectations for student testing; and
- Post the schedule for labs when it is sent out so teachers are aware.
Expectations for Implementation
- Communication
- Principals are responsible to ensure the steps above are implemented
- Thank you for helping us provide opportunities for our students!
- For any further clarifications, please contact any of the following:
- Dr. Garret Rose, Advanced Academics Supervisor; 801-578-8285; garret.rose@slcschools.org
- Karen Holman, Identification and Advocacy Specialist; 801-578-8358; karen.holman@slcschools.org
- Maggie Nickerson, Administrative Secretary; 801-578-8573; maggie.nickerson@slcschools.org
Keywords: Magnet, AAMP, CogAT, assessments, Advanced Academics
Botvin LifeSkills Training and Materials
Title: Botvin LifeSkills Training and Materials
Date: August 28, 2026
To: Elementary Principals
From: Katie Lowery, PE Specialist
Adam Eskelson, Extended Learning
Subject: Ordering Materials for Classrooms from USBE
Background
Botvin LifeSkills Training (LST) is an evidence-based substance-use and violence-prevention program that helps students develop skills for making healthy and responsible choices. Lessons address decision-making, communication, managing stress, resisting peer and media pressure, building positive relationships, and understanding the risks of alcohol, tobacco, electronic cigarettes, and other drugs. SLCSD uses the elementary program with fifth-grade students as part of its health and prevention instruction.
Utah Code §53G-10-406 requires public schools to offer the state’s Underage Drinking and Substance Abuse Prevention Program to students in grade 4 or 5, grade 7 or 8, and grade 9 or 10. Utah Administrative Rule R277-910 establishes the criteria for selecting the program and requires it to be evidence-based, taught over multiple lessons, include opportunities to practice skills, and align with Utah’s academic standards. The Utah State Board of Education currently identifies Botvin LifeSkills Training as the state’s approved provider for this required program.
In SLCSD, we incorporate the Botvin training in grade 5, Health I, and Health II. In secondary, the materials are incorporated into our health textbooks and do not need to be ordered.
Elementary teachers or counselors using the program must complete a state-created training. At this time, they only need to complete it once. A $210 stipend is available for educators who complete the training outside of contract hours. THIS STIPEND IS FROM USBE, and directions will be provided during the course registration process. Participants will also receive relicensure points in the state system (Altitude). If you have questions about who has already completed this training, please contact Katie Lowery.
Ordering Materials
To order materials for your students in grade 5, you must:
- Determine if you have any materials left over from last year, and how many.
- Calculate how many guidebooks for students you need this year.
- Complete your order for all grade 5 students.
- Submit your order to Amy Burris in the Teaching & Learning Department BY
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 using the following link: Botvin Order Form
- Materials will be delivered to your school 3-4 weeks after September 11.
Expectations for Implementation
- Communication
- Principals are responsible for coordinating with their teachers and head secretary to complete and submit the order forms for needed materials. We will send in one order for all schools.
- Principals are responsible for checking with their teachers to ensure they have completed the one-time Botvin LifeSkills training. If you have questions about your teachers, contact Katie Lowery.
- Training is online and will take 5-7 hours. It must be completed within one week. Training dates are:
- Elementary: September 22 – September 28
- Training is online and will take 5-7 hours. It must be completed within one week. Training dates are:
- For any further clarifications, please contact any of the following:
- Katie Lowery, PE Specialist; 801-578-8208; katie.lowery@slcschools.org
- Amy Burris, Administrative Secretary; 801-578-8273; amy.burris@slcschools.org
- If you would like additional information regarding the Botvin LifeSkills Training program and requirements, please review Underage Drinking and Substance Abuse Prevention Program.
Keywords: Botvin, LifeSkills, Health
Student Services Newsletter
STUDENT SERVICES NEWS
Monthly Newsletter | September 2026
OUR WORK SUPPORTS THE DISTRICT PRIORITIES
Student Services supports our district priorities of Literacy, Attendance, and CCR Pathways by removing barriers to learning, increasing student engagement and school attendance, and supporting students’ academic, social-emotional, health, safety, and college and career needs. Through the collaborative work of counselors, social workers, McKinney-Vento staff, nurses, and school resource officers, we help ensure students are present, supported, ready to learn, and prepared for their future.
THIS MONTH'S ACTION ITEMS & UPDATES
- Please coordinate with counselors for mandatory student G19-20 Anti-Bullying and Anti-Harassment student training. Documentation is due by October 1, 2026. Please submit all documentation via this link.
- Please coordinate with the social workers to schedule the annual mental health staff presentation and to schedule student mental health screenings
- September is Suicide Prevention Month. Parent Guidance Online Mental Health Newsletter.
- This year, our McKinney-Vento team is working with fewer staff, requiring ongoing support and collaboration at schools with counselors and administrators to identify and support students experiencing homelessness. Please reach out if you would like to request staff training.
- SRO Information & SRO Updated Assignments
- The Insight Prime for Life and Guiding Good Choices schedule for 2026-2027 is now available. To see the schedule and register please click here
- HB396 PD Hours Course Suggestions Self-Care MBSR Course • USBE Trauma Informed Courses (Watch for 26-27 updated course dates)
| School Counselors | |
| | Student Services Meetings will be in person here at the district office on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. Meeting DatesAll Counselors, Social Workers, Nurses and McKinney Staff attend. Admin are always welcome. Agendas and resources Helpful Links: 3rd Millennium
Counselor Handbooks Counselor Document Center Utah College Application and FAFSA Resources Elementary Counselors Welcome back!Resource: Utah’s K-12 Comprehensive School Counseling Program Elementary Implementation GuideReminder: G19-20 Anti-Bullying and Anti-Harassment training and documentation is due by October 1, 2026. Submit all documentation to this Microsoft Form link.Elementary Counselor 26-27 Task OrganizerIf you have not already completed the College and Career Readiness Certificate, please do so. USBE will begin sending letters of non-compliance in October. See this document for more information. District Social Workers: Coordinate with the Social Worker on staff mental health presentation and student mental health screenings.Coordinate with Social Worker for regular mental health meetings with counselors and admin. Social Work School Assignments Odyssey House Salt Lake City School District partners with Odyssey House to provide free school-based therapeutic services to students at East, Highland, Horizonte, Backman and Parkview. Helpful Links: Mental Health Screening Parent Guidance Mental Health Series Social Work Handbook Mental Health Resource Guide |
| Health Services | |
| CPR/AED/Narcan training Is offered one Friday a month at the district office building. If you would like to be certified or your certification has expired, please sign up. Remember, schools must have at least three front office staff members CPR certified to have an AED in the school. Nurses are currently:Creating and updating student healthcare plans.Providing Annual School Health training, including Stop the Bleed, to all faculty and staff.Assisting school secretaries to review student immunization records Helpful Links: How to access Healthcare Plans
Sick Room Protocol Guidelines for Illness Health Services School Assignments and Resources | |
| McKinney-Vento | |
| This year, our McKinney-Vento team is working with fewer staff, making continued collaboration with counselors, administrators and teachers especially important in supporting students experiencing homelessness. McKinney-Vento Team:Mike Harman | 801-243-8351 (work cell) | Mike.Harman@slcschools.org Becky Baskett | 385-518-4818 (work cell) | Becky.Baskett@slcschools.org McKinney Vento Updates Training See McKinney-Vento List in PowerSchool: homeless_code>0 - If students you know qualify and are not on the list, complete the Housing Questionnaire Other Reminders: Housing Questionnaire: This form activates support for qualifying students. Email completed forms to Becky Baskett and Mike Harman (See District Documents Center for translated forms) Rental Assistance: Utah Community Action 801-359-2444 Immediate Shelter: Connie Crosby Family Resource Center CCFRC (formerly the Midvale Family Shelter) Encourage families to call first: 801-569-1201 Reach out to the McKinney-Vento team for student support, questions and/or staff training Helpful Links: McKinney Vento Resources | |
| School Resource Officers | |
| | If you need an SRO for any reason: Call your school assigned SRO (if no response) Call Sgt. Jonathan Lampshire 801-783-9337 (if no response) Call dispatch for non-emergency 801-799-3000 Call 911 in an emergency Promising Youth & Promising Youth Referral Contact Krystyn Stargel 385-312-3104 regarding referrals or questions. Peer Court Referral Contact Sadie Gomez 801-322-1815 regarding referrals or questions. Helpful Links: SRO School Assignments School Resource Officers |
Action Item: Assigning STEM AC Math Digital Learning Student Licenses
Title: Action Item: Assigning STEM AC Math Digital Learning Student Licenses
Date: 08/28/2026
To: All School Administrators
From: Holley McIntosh, STEM Director
Dr. Tiffany Hall, Executive Director of Teaching & Learning
Subject: Assigning STEM Action Center (STEM AC) Math Digital Learning Student Licenses
Summary:
The math digital learning student licenses awarded to schools from the STEM AC Math Digital Learning Grant will be assigned by SLCSD IT Department.
Administrators must submit a SLCSD IT helpdesk ticket to inform IT how the licenses are to be assigned in their school.
Rationale:
The STEM AC did not have sufficient resources to fund any school’s full grant request for licenses. As only a portion of the licenses you requested were provided, schools need to be strategic in assigning licenses to classes or students that will best use them. The STEM AC tracks student usage to ensure license are being used at appropriate levels.
Schools not using their licenses by October 30, 2026 run the risk of having the STEM AC reassign their licenses to another school in the state.
Expectations for Implementation:
- Communication
Administrators are responsible to tell teachers in their building which grade levels and specific teachers have access to these programs.
Administrators are responsible to submit a helpdesk ticket to the SLCSD IT Department. Note in the ticket*:
- the name of the math digital learning supplemental program you received from the STEM AC grant
- which grade levels or specific teachers are to have licenses
- how many licenses for the grade levels or specific teachers
One exception: High school ALEKs licenses will be managed and assigned by your HS Math Coach/Content Area Specialist.
- Collaboration:
- Contact Holley McIntosh if you have questions about your school’s STEM AC grant award.
- Work with the District Math Coach/CAS assigned to your school if you have questions about how to match these licenses with student needs.
- Evaluation
- Administrators communicate the appropriate assignment of the awarded licenses to IT.
- Administrators ensure the licenses are used appropriately and as a supplement to our adopted core programs.
- See the conditions of the STEM AC grant for more information.
Keywords: STEM Action Center, STEM AC, math, digital learning licenses, math student licenses
*Helpdesk Directions:
First Button > Category: Applications > Subcategory: Your selected program > Subject: Assign Licenses
Letters for Leadership v.8, e.5
Announcements
SLCSD Priorities 2026-27 - Our top priorities highlighted from our strategic plan for student success. (Draft only!!)
Common Expectations – Administrative guiding document for 26-27 school year.
September Cultural Calendar – Record of cultural observances for September
CSTAG (comprehensive school threat assessment guidelines) is a critical component of school safety. All building administrators must be trained in CSTAG but it is recommended that others be trained as well. If you or your staff are interested in completing CSTAG training, please sign up for our next session offered on Monday, Sept. 14 from 8:30am-4:00pm in room 1055 at the District Office. Registration is available on Kickup or reach out to Dr. Alli Martin with any questions.
CELEBRATIONS – Please send to leeson.taylor@slcschools.org or angelina.tovar@slcschools.org by Wednesday at 5:00 PM.
Attendance and Engagement Meta Network celebration
Salt Lake City School District has been accepted into the National Attendance and Engagement Meta Network, a Gates Foundation-funded initiative focused on improving student attendance and engagement. East, West, and Horizonte will represent the district in this national learning network, collaborating with schools and districts across the country to identify, implement, and refine strategies that reduce chronic absenteeism and strengthen student connection to school.
We appreciate the leadership of the East, West, and Horizonte teams for taking on this work and look forward to sharing lessons learned across the district throughout the year.
ALL ADMINISTRATORS – Items for all building level administrators
DEADLINESPUBLISHED 2026 Principal Tackle List.docx
ACTION ITEMS
26-27 Title IX Trainings – Required trainings for Title IX and updating your school's Deputy Title IX Coordinator information.
26-27 Start of School Title I Updates – To support a successful beginning to the 2026–2027 school year, we are asking the principals of Title I schools to please complete the following required Title I tasks by Friday, August 28, 2026. Completing these items early will help ensure your school is well prepared for the year ahead. If you need assistance at any point, please do not hesitate to reach out to Dr. Taylor.
Administrator ESL Endorsement Information – In the Salt Lake City School District, every educator plays an important role in supporting English learners. As an administrator, you can choose to complete the full ESL endorsement, or just complete three classes for the modified endorsement.
INFORMATION ITEMSAttendance Update August 2026.docx -this is the first attendance newsletter for the 26-27 school year.
Attendance-Based Grading Under HB 502 Guidance – The Salt Lake City School District is providing the following guidance regarding attendance-based grading under HB 502. This guidance is intended to support a fair, transparent, and consistent approach across our secondary schools while ensuring that students and families clearly understand how attendance may affect a course grade.
Enrollment Guidance Related to SB 167 – We recognize that schools have received a number of questions regarding student enrollment requirements and the implementation of SB 167. We appreciate your continued attention to this matter and your efforts to ensure that enrollment decisions are handled consistently and appropriately across the district.
Edia Implementation and Attendance Communication – See important information regarding our implementation of Edia attendance software.
Assessment Plan for SY 2026-27 – This document is the comprehensive overview of assessments. For specific dates of testing windows, questions about administration, or training on administration, please contact Dr. Patrick Jefferies, Assessment & Evaluation Supervisor.
Transportation Contact Information -- As we prepare for the upcoming school year, we would like to share the Salt Lake City School District Transportation Department contact information to help ensure you can quickly connect with the appropriate staff for transportation-related needs.
UPDATE: UTA Passes for the 26-27 School Year – UTA is upgrading its fare payment system, which requires new transit cards for staff, guardians, and most students.
Standard Operating Procedures for Zūm Pass Usage, Student Boarding, and Space-Available (Transportation) – The Salt Lake City School District is implementing consistent procedures for Zūm pass usage, student boarding, transportation eligibility, and space-available transportation requests for the 2026–27 school year.
Botvin Life Skills Training – It is now time to fill out the BOTVIN forms for your schools.
USBE Updates
School LAND Trust – USBE is excited to announce a new Canvas course designed to support District Principals in administering the School LAND Trust (SLT) program. District principals are vital to ensuring School Community Councils (SCC) are properly formed and funds are used to address critical academic needs.
SEOP Newsletter – August newsletter
USBE August Attendance Newsletter – USBE Attendance information for the month of August.
HIGH SCHOOLS – Items for high school administration
DEADLINES
ACTION ITEMS
Calculating Added Value GPA -- Additional value is awarded to courses that demonstrate a higher level of academic rigor. This system ensures students are recognized for the commitment they make when enrolling in advanced coursework.
INFORMATION ITEMS
Monthly Registrar Meetings -- Mandatory monthly meetings for high school registrars are essential to ensure consistency, efficiency, and compliance across the school district. These meetings serve several critical functions:
MIDDLE SCHOOLS –Items for middle school administration
DEADLINES
ACTION ITEMS
INFORMATION ITEMS
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS – Items for elementary school administration
DEADLINES
ACTION ITEMS
INFORMATION ITEMS
Math Acadience Order process for 2026-27: Any school can use manual licenses for K-3 Math Acadience paid for by USBE. Schools can pay $2.95/student with school funds to upgrade to digital licenses and avoid hand entry of data in K-1. For more details, please click here. To order licenses for grades 4-6, email quotes@acadiencelearning.org to purchase.
TRAINING:
Starting now, participants can self-enroll in the Canvas course for the SY26-27 administration and scoring of the Acadience Math assessments. Once they complete the module(s) and submit the survey they will receive a certificate of completion. Self-enroll URL link https://usbe.instructure.com/enroll/C6FRBW
Please reach out to Dr. Patrick Jefferies, Assessment & Evaluation, with questions. patrick.jefferies@slcschools.org
RESOURCES AVAILABLE FOR SCHOOLS FROM DISTRICT DEPARTMENTS
SPED Scoop – Special Education Newsletter
Student Services Resources
Teaching & Learning
Salt Lake City Education Foundation
School Leadership & Support
Administrative Memos
*Unless otherwise requested, information will run for 2 weeks only.
Botvin LifeSkills Training
Principals,
It is now time to fill out the BOTVIN forms for your schools. Below is a picture of that application, and what should be put into the appropriate boxes. If you are new to this process, Botvin LifeSkills Training is the only approved program that meets the requirements outlined in UCA § 53G-10-406 and R277-910. The program must be offered to all students in grades 4 or 5, 7 or 8, and 9 or 10 (UCA § 53G-10-406). In Salt Lake City School District, we begin our program in 5th grade.
All 5th grade teachers must receive the BOTVIN training. If a teacher is new to the district, or has been teaching in another grade, please make sure they get notified to take the training through Clarissa Stebbing. Required Teacher Training -New Simplified Registration Process
For schools filling out the form, below is a sample of what you should put in the boxes. If you have questions, please reach out to Katie Lowery or Clarissa Stebbing.
Please have your school secretaries send the form to AMY BURRIS and we will send in the numbers for our district. Ordering Student Guidebooks
See the highlighted links below for TEACHER MANUALS AND RESOURCES
BOTVIN Form Helps:
LEA: Salt Lake City School District
CONTACT PERSON: *Principal Name
PHONE: *Your School Phone number
SCHOOL NAME: __________________
ADDRESS: Mailing address for school
Check YES for receiving packages
CONTACT PERSON: Head Secretary or Counselor doing BOTVIN
PHONE of Contact Person
EMAIL of Contact Person
Check the Box for 5th Grade
Quantity: Number of students coming into 5th grade
Administrator ESL Endorsement Information
Date: August 21, 2026
To: All Administrators
From: Dr. Tiffany Hall, Executive Director
Teaching & Learning
Subject: ESL Endorsements
Summary:
In the Salt Lake City School District, every educator plays an important role in supporting English learners. As an administrator, you can choose to complete the full ESL endorsement, or just complete three classes for the modified endorsement.
Endorsement Options
- A state ESL endorsement, recognized by the Utah State Board of Education (USBE); or
- A district-modified ESL endorsement, recognized within SLCSD:
- Understanding Language Acquisition and Cognition
- Foundations of Cultural Diversity
- Family and Community Engagement in ESL Education
The state ESL endorsement may be earned by:
- Completing five graduate-level courses with a grade of C or better; or
- Passing the Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Praxis Exam (5362); and
- Submitting your application to the USBE to place the endorsement on your license.
Rationale:
This is a district requirement outlined in your employment contract.
Expectations for Implementation:
- Communication
- The next cohort will begin in April 2027, and registration information will be emailed to all educators in February 2027.
- For additional information, including district-modified endorsement requirements, please visit the SLCSD ESL Endorsement webpage.
- Collaboration:
- Please contact Tiffany Hall with questions.
Keywords:
ESL Endorsement
