Ashley Valley Education Center reports increase in student enrollment and graduation rates

In a vibrant meeting held on June 18, 2025, the Uintah School Board gathered to celebrate achievements and discuss the strategic direction of the Ashley Valley Education Center (AVEC). The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as board members and educators reflected on the school’s impressive growth and the impact it has had on students.

Andy, a passionate representative from AVEC, took center stage to present the school’s strategic plan, proudly declaring it “the best school in the world.” With a dedicated staff of 30, AVEC has successfully enrolled 1,628 students this year, making it one of the largest schools in the district despite its small staff size. This remarkable achievement highlights the school’s commitment to serving a diverse student body, including those in night school, summer programs, and adult education.

The heart of AVEC’s mission is to ensure that every student, regardless of their educational journey, has the opportunity to learn and grow. “We all learn because it’s worth it,” Andy emphasized, underscoring the school’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment where students can gain the confidence and skills needed to graduate. The school’s vision is clear: to help every student achieve a successful future.

A key focus of the meeting was AVEC’s ambitious goal for the 2024-2025 school year, aiming for 60% of high school students to earn 2.5 credits each trimester. This goal is supported by weekly meetings where staff discuss each student’s progress, ensuring personalized attention and intervention when necessary. The data shared revealed that AVEC has seen a significant increase in credits earned and classes completed, with 138 graduates this year alone.

Board members expressed their admiration for AVEC’s innovative approach, particularly its ability to adapt to students’ needs by transitioning them between online and campus learning environments based on performance. This flexibility has proven effective, as evidenced by the school’s rising graduation rates, which have climbed from a mere 7% in 2009 to around 80% today.

As the meeting concluded, the board members acknowledged the financial implications of AVEC’s success, noting that the school’s efficient student-to-staff ratio has been beneficial for the district. The discussions left a sense of optimism for the future, with a shared commitment to continue supporting AVEC’s mission of providing quality education to all students.

The Uintah School Board’s work session not only celebrated past achievements but also set the stage for future initiatives aimed at enhancing educational outcomes for the community. With a clear vision and dedicated staff, AVEC stands poised to continue making a significant impact in the lives of its students.