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!
We’re celebrating Women’s History Month by highlighting the incredible women of Davis School District.
Lezlee Longhurst, a special education paraeducator at Orchard Elementary, was nominated by a colleague who highlighted her strength, compassion and resilience through life’s challenges. She is described as a supportive mentor who lifts others up and exemplifies strength and grace.
Katie Barber, a teacher at Central Davis Junior High, is inspired by her grandmother’s resilience and selflessness. Her advice: “Be your own champion … believe in yourself and don’t wait for someone else to validate your worth or your abilities.”
Julie Lundell, assessment director, finds inspiration in Neesha Killpack, a colleague who models bold leadership with kindness. Her message: “Don’t shrink your goals to fit what others expect … speak up even when your voice shakes.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Stay tuned as we continue sharing more throughout the month. #WomensHistoryMonth
Lezlee Longhurst, a special education paraeducator at Orchard Elementary, was nominated by a colleague who highlighted her strength, compassion and resilience through life’s challenges. She is described as a supportive mentor who lifts others up and exemplifies strength and grace.
Katie Barber, a teacher at Central Davis Junior High, is inspired by her grandmother’s resilience and selflessness. Her advice: “Be your own champion … believe in yourself and don’t wait for someone else to validate your worth or your abilities.”
Julie Lundell, assessment director, finds inspiration in Neesha Killpack, a colleague who models bold leadership with kindness. Her message: “Don’t shrink your goals to fit what others expect … speak up even when your voice shakes.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Stay tuned as we continue sharing more throughout the month. #WomensHistoryMonth
We’re celebrating Women’s History Month by highlighting the incredible women of Davis School District.
Milla Chen, a 5th grade Chinese immersion teacher at Stewart Elementary, shared how her high school teacher inspired her to support students beyond the classroom. Her advice: “Every experience in life is a lesson… they will help you bloom into who you are meant to be.”
Janessa Gibbs, a math teacher at Shoreline Junior High, is inspired by her mom’s compassion and dedication to students. She shares: “Be confident. Believe in yourself and your abilities… don’t be afraid to pursue the things that excite and inspire you.”
Jelina Hollberg, a Refugee Family Advocate, finds inspiration in the women she works with every day. Her message: “Aim high, pursue your dreams… and never settle for less than what you deserve.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Stay tuned as we continue sharing more throughout the month. #WomensHistoryMonth
Milla Chen, a 5th grade Chinese immersion teacher at Stewart Elementary, shared how her high school teacher inspired her to support students beyond the classroom. Her advice: “Every experience in life is a lesson… they will help you bloom into who you are meant to be.”
Janessa Gibbs, a math teacher at Shoreline Junior High, is inspired by her mom’s compassion and dedication to students. She shares: “Be confident. Believe in yourself and your abilities… don’t be afraid to pursue the things that excite and inspire you.”
Jelina Hollberg, a Refugee Family Advocate, finds inspiration in the women she works with every day. Her message: “Aim high, pursue your dreams… and never settle for less than what you deserve.”
These spotlights come from staff submissions and nominations. Stay tuned as we continue sharing more throughout the month. #WomensHistoryMonth
Strong attendance takes teamwork! When families, schools and communities work together, students thrive. Help our students show up every day for success.
Davis School District teams recently had a strong showing at the Unified Basketball State Championship at the Delta Center.
Bountiful White, Bountiful Redhawks, Woods Cross Navy and Clearfield Black each earned state wins, while Clearfield Grey finished second.
A great day of teamwork by all.
Bountiful White, Bountiful Redhawks, Woods Cross Navy and Clearfield Black each earned state wins, while Clearfield Grey finished second.
A great day of teamwork by all.
A group of students from across Davis School District recently gathered for a unique field trip focused on independence, mobility skills and connection.
Traveling by public transportation to a local theater, the students practiced real-world skills while also having the opportunity to enjoy a film together which included built-in accessibility features.
Meghan Stott, a teacher of the visually impaired, explained the students caught UTA buses and went to the theater to not only learn how to use public transit, but also to work on orientation and mobility skills, getting in line and learning how to order food at a movie theater.
“Today, we are watching a documentary called ‘‘Pick of the Litter,” Stott said. “It’s about guide dogs and how they go from puppies to servicing the visually impaired. The film has audio description, so if you don’t have any vision, it also describes the film as they’re watching it. It’s a unique opportunity for them to have a film with audio description already.”
Students also had the chance to learn about guide dogs and the training process, while meeting volunteers and puppies connected to the program.
“I coordinated that today because I know all the guide dog people,” said Lacey Goforth, a district orientation and mobility specialist. “We have two (dogs) here already and we’re expecting four more.”
Teachers said the experience gives students a chance to build independence while also connecting with others who share similar challenges.
“We’ve got students from all over the district because usually they’re the only ones in their school or one of two,” Stott said. “It’s nice to meet up with other kids the same age that have the same visual impairments and just being able to be excited about that.”
Traveling by public transportation to a local theater, the students practiced real-world skills while also having the opportunity to enjoy a film together which included built-in accessibility features.
Meghan Stott, a teacher of the visually impaired, explained the students caught UTA buses and went to the theater to not only learn how to use public transit, but also to work on orientation and mobility skills, getting in line and learning how to order food at a movie theater.
“Today, we are watching a documentary called ‘‘Pick of the Litter,” Stott said. “It’s about guide dogs and how they go from puppies to servicing the visually impaired. The film has audio description, so if you don’t have any vision, it also describes the film as they’re watching it. It’s a unique opportunity for them to have a film with audio description already.”
Students also had the chance to learn about guide dogs and the training process, while meeting volunteers and puppies connected to the program.
“I coordinated that today because I know all the guide dog people,” said Lacey Goforth, a district orientation and mobility specialist. “We have two (dogs) here already and we’re expecting four more.”
Teachers said the experience gives students a chance to build independence while also connecting with others who share similar challenges.
“We’ve got students from all over the district because usually they’re the only ones in their school or one of two,” Stott said. “It’s nice to meet up with other kids the same age that have the same visual impairments and just being able to be excited about that.”
Students in Usha Mannepalli’s class at Ellison Park Elementary celebrated the Indian Festival of Colors, Holi. She gave a short presentation explaining that the festival celebrates spring, love, new beginnings and the victory of good over evil.
Students learned that Holi colors have special meanings—red for love, green for new beginnings, yellow for joy and blue for calmness. They were excited to participate by applying colorful powders to one another and creating festive crafts inspired by the holiday.
The event was filled with laughter, color and excitement, and students thoroughly enjoyed the experience. By learning about Holi, students learned how celebrating different traditions can bring the classroom community closer together and create a joyful learning experience.
Students learned that Holi colors have special meanings—red for love, green for new beginnings, yellow for joy and blue for calmness. They were excited to participate by applying colorful powders to one another and creating festive crafts inspired by the holiday.
The event was filled with laughter, color and excitement, and students thoroughly enjoyed the experience. By learning about Holi, students learned how celebrating different traditions can bring the classroom community closer together and create a joyful learning experience.
World Down Syndrome Day is coming up.
On March 21, communities around the world celebrate individuals with Down syndrome. To show support, we’re inviting students and staff across Davis School District to Rock Your Socks.
Wear bright, mismatched socks to school on Friday, March 20, and again on March 21 to celebrate.
Don’t forget to send us your photos so we can share them!
On March 21, communities around the world celebrate individuals with Down syndrome. To show support, we’re inviting students and staff across Davis School District to Rock Your Socks.
Wear bright, mismatched socks to school on Friday, March 20, and again on March 21 to celebrate.
Don’t forget to send us your photos so we can share them!
We love seeing the creative ways our schools are helping students show up and succeed. At Creekside Elementary, a strong focus on attendance has helped the school reduce chronic absenteeism by 20% over the past two years.
One initiative making a big difference is On-timers. Twice a week, the school’s peer mentors surprise classrooms that are on time with a special treat. It’s a simple idea that builds excitement around being at school and ready to learn.
Creekside’s progress shows what can happen when students, staff, and families work together to support attendance. When we all encourage students to show up each day, we help create stronger learning opportunities across our entire district.
One initiative making a big difference is On-timers. Twice a week, the school’s peer mentors surprise classrooms that are on time with a special treat. It’s a simple idea that builds excitement around being at school and ready to learn.
Creekside’s progress shows what can happen when students, staff, and families work together to support attendance. When we all encourage students to show up each day, we help create stronger learning opportunities across our entire district.
North Davis Junior High School was the epicenter of creativity and storytelling recently as New York Times Bestselling author Soman Chainani took center stage and interacted with the school’s ninth-graders about becoming writers and overcoming challenges.
Chainani was at North Davis thanks to a sponsorship from Operation Literacy-Book Drop and was a keynote speaker days earlier at StoryCon 2026 in Salt Lake City.
“It’s a really big deal to have someone like him in our building,” said North Davis Junior High School librarian Michelle Hurst.
Chainani is the author of the children’s book series The School for Good and Evil, which has sold more than 4.5 million copies. During his visit, he provided signed copies of the latest in that series to all of the students.
During his career, it’s estimated that he has visited more than 800 schools, sharing his belief that “reading is the path to a better life.”
Chainani was at North Davis thanks to a sponsorship from Operation Literacy-Book Drop and was a keynote speaker days earlier at StoryCon 2026 in Salt Lake City.
“It’s a really big deal to have someone like him in our building,” said North Davis Junior High School librarian Michelle Hurst.
Chainani is the author of the children’s book series The School for Good and Evil, which has sold more than 4.5 million copies. During his visit, he provided signed copies of the latest in that series to all of the students.
During his career, it’s estimated that he has visited more than 800 schools, sharing his belief that “reading is the path to a better life.”
Bountiful High School’s boys basketball team finished 2nd at the 5A State Championship. An incredible season defined by hard work, teamwork and Redhawk pride.
Way to go, Redhawks.
Way to go, Redhawks.
Orchard Elementary School recently came together for a Winter Olympics celebration.
The event, held in the school gym, began with an opening ceremony that included a walk of countries and a ceremonial torch run. K-6 students participated with student council members to enjoy each activity, encourage participation and support athletes throughout the morning.
Students rotated through four Olympic-inspired stations: bobsledding, skiing and snowboarding challenges, curling and figure skating dance. Each activity focused on cooperation, balance, communication and self-expression in a structured and supportive environment.
Syracuse Elementary’s recent olympic event brought smiles, cheers and proud moments. Students rotated through games and received medals as classmates and families cheered them on.
America is turning 250 — and our students have something to say.
Davis School District is hosting Voices of a Nation: Student Perspectives on 250 Years of America, a districtwide speaking event aligned with America 250 Utah.
Students from every school and grade level are invited to apply to deliver an original speech about America’s past, present or future.
Selected students will receive mentorship and take the stage on May 4, 2026, at the Davis Instructional Services Center in Layton. The event will be professionally produced and live streamed for the community.
You don’t have to be famous to have something worth saying.
Take the mic. Share your idea. Be part of the story.
Applications due March 18.
Apply at Davis School District America 250 Student Speaking Event
Youth Mental Health Screening – March 11, 2026
For students in grades 6–12.
Davis School District Kendell Building, Farmington, 5–7 p.m.
Registration closes March 6.
Screening covers emotional needs, anxiety, depression, trauma and safety concerns.
A parent must attend.
Sign up: dbhutah.org/screening
For students in grades 6–12.
Davis School District Kendell Building, Farmington, 5–7 p.m.
Registration closes March 6.
Screening covers emotional needs, anxiety, depression, trauma and safety concerns.
A parent must attend.
Sign up: dbhutah.org/screening
Caregivers of kids ages 0–3 are invited to a free 9 week workshop series from Davis School District!
Learn about child development, socialemotional skills, health, safety, and ways to support your little one — all while connecting with other caregivers.
Thursdays, Mar 19–May 14, 2026
10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Family Enrichment Center, Kaysville
Kids welcome + free breakfast
Earn up to $500 toward your child’s my529 account
Register: https://forms.office.com/r/yqqAzBXBzz
Or register in person/phone/email through the Davis Community Learning Center.
Learn about child development, socialemotional skills, health, safety, and ways to support your little one — all while connecting with other caregivers.
Thursdays, Mar 19–May 14, 2026
10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Family Enrichment Center, Kaysville
Kids welcome + free breakfast
Earn up to $500 toward your child’s my529 account
Register: https://forms.office.com/r/yqqAzBXBzz
Or register in person/phone/email through the Davis Community Learning Center.
West Point Elementary’s second graders shared their voices and their learning during Friday’s Patriotic Program.
All three 2nd grade classes took the stage to sing patriotic songs, highlight moments in American history and demonstrate impressive public speaking skills.
The program concluded with a heartfelt slideshow honoring members of the military, veterans and first responders, reminding everyone in attendance of the sacrifices made to serve our country.
Experiences like this help students build confidence while developing a deeper understanding and appreciation of our nation’s history.
Well done, Wildcats.
All three 2nd grade classes took the stage to sing patriotic songs, highlight moments in American history and demonstrate impressive public speaking skills.
The program concluded with a heartfelt slideshow honoring members of the military, veterans and first responders, reminding everyone in attendance of the sacrifices made to serve our country.
Experiences like this help students build confidence while developing a deeper understanding and appreciation of our nation’s history.
Well done, Wildcats.
A Handshake Can Change Everything.
The Amazing Shake gave 84 Lakeview Elementary students a chance to take on real‑world challenges. From interview skills, to firing an employee, the layout of the event was designed to build confidence and strong communication skills.
With support from community volunteers, students practiced teamwork, quick thinking, respect and relationship‑building as they navigated a whirlwind of life‑like scenarios.
The Amazing Shake is helping Lakeview students step into the real world with confidence.
The Amazing Shake gave 84 Lakeview Elementary students a chance to take on real‑world challenges. From interview skills, to firing an employee, the layout of the event was designed to build confidence and strong communication skills.
With support from community volunteers, students practiced teamwork, quick thinking, respect and relationship‑building as they navigated a whirlwind of life‑like scenarios.
The Amazing Shake is helping Lakeview students step into the real world with confidence.
On Wednesdays at E.G. King Elementary, the halls turn pink.
Students and staff wear pink, fill a special mailbox with notes of encouragement and rally around special education teacher Holly Elliott as she bravely battles breast cancer — all while continuing to show up for her students each day.
As one message left for her reads: “Her fight is my fight.”
And in every pink shirt and handwritten note, she’s reminded that she’s not fighting alone.
Students and staff wear pink, fill a special mailbox with notes of encouragement and rally around special education teacher Holly Elliott as she bravely battles breast cancer — all while continuing to show up for her students each day.
As one message left for her reads: “Her fight is my fight.”
And in every pink shirt and handwritten note, she’s reminded that she’s not fighting alone.
Syracuse High School’s boys wrestling team earned 3rd place at the 6A State Boys Wrestling Competition. A strong showing of resilience, determination and teamwork. Congratulations, Titans.
