Julie Walker outlines priorities for new Timpanogos-area school district: safety, boundaries, taxes and special education

Julie Walker, a candidate for Seat 4 in the proposed new school district that would cover Orem, Linden, Pleasant Grove and Vineyard (working name "Timpanogos"), told interviewer Bridal she plans to focus on hiring a strong superintendent and business administrator, reviewing district policies and negotiating local revenue agreements that she said undercut school funding.

"I want to create a place that our kids can thrive, our teachers can thrive, our families can feel part of a community, and our parents can feel heard and seen," Walker said, describing why she is running and how her PTA and small-business background shape her approach.

Walker said a top priority in the board's first 100 days would be a full boundary study to address uneven school capacities and closures carried over from Alpine School District. She noted that some area high schools have shrunk considerably while others remain small and walkable, and that the district should use capacity data to rebalance enrollment.

On school safety, Walker pointed to past local measures such as volunteer parent "watchdogs," secured exterior doors and student reporting. She cited a recent incident in which a student reported a weapon and staff stabilized the scene within minutes, and urged continued emphasis on both physical security and a culture that encourages students to report concerns.

Walker also addressed teacher support and retirement, saying many long-serving educators lack adequate…