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District Goals and Priorities

DIstrict Priorities and Goals

A teacher reads to a group of children seated on colorful cushions in a classroom.

GOAL: 70% literacy proficiency by 2029 in grades 3, 8, and 10.

 

Reading is a basic skill that helps students succeed in every subject. When students can read at grade level by third grade, they are more likely to do well in school, graduate, and succeed in college, work, and life.

We plan to:

  • Make sure all students get strong reading instruction based on proven research.
  • Give extra help early to students who struggle with reading.
  • Train teachers—including K–3 and special education teachers—in effective reading methods like LETRS.
  • Support school leaders so they can guide reading instruction.
  • Regularly check student progress with reliable assessments.

 

A person in a blue shirt works on a project with wires and components.

GOAL: 100% of students on a career or college pathway by 2029.

 

This means every student will graduate high school with a clear plan for their future—whether that’s going to college, learning a trade, starting a career, or choosing another path after graduation.

To make this happen, the district will:

  • Offer more Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs.
  • Give students more chances to earn college credit while still in high school.
  • Work closely with local businesses, colleges, and community groups.

Students will create their own learning plans, explore different careers, and gain real-world experience through internships. This will help them discover what they like, build valuable skills, and earn credentials. By the time they graduate, students will be ready and confident to take their next step.

 

Two students write at their desks in a classroom setting.

Goal: Reduce chronic absenteeism from 28% to 10% by 2029.

Salt Lake City School District is working to reduce chronic absenteeism. This means making sure students don’t miss 18 or more days of school in a year—even if the absences are excused. Missing too many days hurts learning, makes it harder to build friendships, and can affect long-term success.

Coming to school every day matters because regular classroom time helps students build strong skills, keep up with their classes, and be ready for college or a career after graduation.

To reach this goal, the district will:

  • Step in early to support students who start missing too many days.
  • Offer help to students and families with things like health, transportation, and mentoring.
  • Improve how attendance is tracked and monitored.
  • Train school leaders and teachers to use strategies that help students stay engaged and in class.