During the Uintah School Board Work Session and Business Meeting held on August 13, 2025, key discussions centered around student performance metrics, particularly focusing on graduation rates, attendance, and disciplinary actions within the district. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by schools in the wake of the pandemic, particularly concerning chronic absenteeism and the need for improved student behavior management.

Ryan, a district representative, presented data indicating that graduation rates have remained relatively stable over the past five years, hovering between 88.1% and 88.8%. While this figure is commendable, it falls short of the state average of approximately 93%, prompting the board to set a goal of increasing graduation rates to meet or exceed this benchmark. The discussion emphasized the importance of enhancing attendance rates, which have significantly declined since the pandemic, with chronic absenteeism reported at 39% in recent years.

The board also addressed the implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) as a framework to foster a positive school climate and reduce disciplinary referrals. The goal is to achieve 100% fidelity in tier 1 PBIS practices across all schools, which will then allow for the strengthening of tier 2 and tier 3 supports. The committee aims to reduce office disciplinary referrals and suspensions by 20% over the next three years, emphasizing a supportive rather than punitive approach to discipline.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the state’s initiative to improve attendance, which has become a pressing issue across Utah. The board noted that the state is considering new legislation to reinforce attendance requirements, which have become more lenient in recent years. This legislative push aims to balance parental responsibility with the need for accountability in school attendance.

The discussions underscored the district's commitment to addressing these challenges through data-driven strategies and community support. The board plans to launch an attendance recovery plan in September, coinciding with Attendance Awareness Month, to promote resources and accountability for improving student attendance and graduation rates.

In conclusion, the Uintah School Board is actively working to enhance educational outcomes by focusing on critical areas such as graduation rates, attendance, and student behavior management. The board's initiatives reflect a broader commitment to fostering a supportive educational environment that prioritizes student success and well-being.