Statement on HB 257 and HB 261

Statement from Superintendent Elizabeth Grant: 

We are weeks away from the conclusion of the 2024 Utah legislative session. While we don't yet know the full impacts of this session, a few, including HB 257 “Sex-based Designations for Privacy, Anti-bullying, and Women's Opportunities” and HB 261 “Equal Opportunity Initiatives,” have already been signed by the governor and will go into effect in a few short months. 

I want to make sure our community is clear on where we stand regarding these two bills in particular. First and foremost, no matter what legislation is enacted, our schools and district facilities will remain safe and welcoming places for all students and staff and their families. We also remain committed to following the law, as we always do. 

I am proud to lead a school district known for its culture of inclusion of all children – no matter their race, ethnicity, national origin, disability status, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or language(s) spoken at home. As we have affirmed internally, the passage and signing of HB 257 and HB 261 require attentive, thoughtful action from our school district. We recognize that some of our students, families, and staff may be hurting or feel worried about what’s to come.  

As our Board of Education previously affirmed in The Safe School resolution, we embrace our responsibility to welcome and educate all students and uphold our mission to provide an excellent and equitable education to every student, every classroom, every day.