Ogden School Board Plans Renaming of James Madison to Ogden Center of Opportunity

The Ogden City School District Board of Education meeting on August 14, 2025, focused on significant developments regarding the James Madison building, which is being reimagined as the Ogden Center of Opportunity. The initiative aims to enhance community services and educational programs while seeking external funding to support its operations.

During the meeting, officials discussed their collaboration with Voices for Utah Children and Intermountain Healthcare to secure a competitive grant that could provide substantial funding for the center. The goal is to avoid using district funds for the program, instead relying on partnerships and philanthropy to support various services.

The center currently hosts a robust adult education program serving 700 to 800 students, offering English language learning and diploma services in partnership with Weber State University. Additionally, it provides early learning programs through partnerships with ALCAP and Head Start, as well as health services from Midtown Clinic, which operates on a sliding scale.

Other initiatives at the center include a business incubator kitchen supported by Weber State Small Business, mental health services from Latino Behavioral Health, and the YouthBuild program, which assists young adults aged 16 to 24 in gaining job training and completing their education.

To better reflect its expanded mission, the board plans to propose a name change from James Madison to the Ogden Center of Opportunity. This change aims to shift public perception away from viewing the building solely as a school and to attract potential sponsors for naming rights.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue pursuing external funding and partnerships to enhance the center's offerings and infrastructure. The board anticipates discussing the proposed name change in the next meeting, marking a significant step in the center's evolution.