Utah State Board recognizes staff for work on Indian education and statewide assessment implementation

The Utah State Board of Education recognized two employees for August: Harold Foster, who administers the Title VI American Indian Education Program, and Teresa McIntyre, who has led implementation and training for a new statewide assessment platform.

Board presenters praised Foster’s long-standing relationships with tribal leaders and his role as a cornerstone of Indian education in Utah. “He is trusted. He has this ability to just ... build positive relationships wherever he goes,” a presenter said, citing Foster’s work on language, culture and community partnerships in support of indigenous students.

Why it matters: Foster’s role administers programs that target educational opportunities for American Indian students under Title VI-related programs, and the board framed his work as vital to tribal partnerships and culturally responsive programming across the state.

Details on assessment work: Teresa McIntyre was recognized for leading the statewide transition to an online assessment platform (Acadience Learning online) and for training educators statewide. Presenters said McIntyre handled numerous field requests, developed teacher-facing materials, and worked across departments to align preschool assessments with legislative requirements while responding to classroom needs.

Remarks and nominations: Foster was nominated by longtime colleague Max Lang. McIntyre was nominated by Sydney McCarty. Board presenters emphasized their professionalism, positive attitudes, and responsiveness to districts during large-scale transitions.

Next steps and context: The recognitions were ceremonial; no formal board action was associated with the awards. Board materials presented the honors as part of monthly employee recognition.