Canyons Board of Education swears in three new members, highlights focus on teachers and student success

The Canyons Board of Education held an oath-of-office ceremony where Holly Nybar, reelected to District 7, Katie Dolly, the new representative for District 3, and Jackson Lewis, the new representative for District 1, were sworn in before an audience of family, school staff and community members.

The event — held with Mayor Troy Walker of Draper City administering the oaths — included short remarks from each newly sworn member, Superintendent Robbins and Walker, who praised the role of local school boards and public education. Dr. Robbins urged young people in attendance to note the ceremony as an example of civic process.

Jackson Lewis, newly sworn board member for District 1, thanked teachers, support staff and his family and said, "I'm eternally grateful." Katie Dolly, sworn for District 3, said she was "humbled by this opportunity to work with and to represent you on the Canyon School Board." Holly Nybar, reelected to District 7, highlighted district priorities and said, "We've been able to raise teacher salaries a few times since I've been on the board."

Mayor Troy Walker, who administered the oaths, described school board service as "the most difficult political job on the planet" and called it a privilege to swear in the new members. Dr. Robbins said the ceremony demonstrates "a few of the hallmarks of American democracy" and urged students in the room to remember the peaceful transfer of power.

The evening also included a flag presentation by the Acadians drill team from Brighton High School and a livestream of the event on the district's CSD TV channels. Nancy Tierney and other past and current board members were in attendance and were acknowledged by speakers. Legislator Clint Oakland was welcomed but did not address the meeting.

No board votes or policy decisions were taken at the ceremony; board business was scheduled to begin after a reception and later meeting. The district encouraged attendees to stay for refreshments and the regular meeting that followed.

Photos and remarks from the ceremony were shared with the audience; the district noted the livestream is available on canyonsdistrict.org and the district YouTube channel.

Less-critical remarks and extended personal reflections by the new members emphasized gratitude for teachers and family support, the district's strategic plan and the goal that "every child in our community graduates college and career ready."