Davis School District opens first statewide teen centers to support at-risk students

The Davis School District Board Meeting held on January 21, 2025, featured a significant public comment from Jason Smith, a father of five and a member of the Davis Education Foundation Board. The meeting began with a reminder that public comments are reserved for residents of Davis County or those working within the district, emphasizing that personal grievances regarding individual student education issues or district employees would not be addressed.

Smith expressed his pride in the educational system of the Davis School District, highlighting the recent ribbon-cutting ceremony for teen centers at local high schools. He noted that Davis School District is the first in the state to implement such services across all high schools, which aim to provide safe havens for students with essential resources like showers, laundry facilities, and food pantries.

The Davis Education Foundation, which Smith represents, is dedicated to removing barriers to learning and supporting students in crisis. He emphasized the importance of these centers in helping students transition to adulthood and preventing cycles of homelessness and poverty. Smith credited the school board and district leadership for their support in making this initiative possible, stating that the project has been a collaborative effort since its inception in 2019.

In conclusion, Smith's remarks underscored the district's commitment to innovation and student-centered solutions, showcasing the positive impact of community collaboration in addressing the needs of vulnerable students. The board's ongoing support for such initiatives was highlighted as crucial for their success.