Julie Payne, principal of North Park Elementary, presented a school profile to the Cache County School District board on Nov. 20 describing enrollment, student demographics, academic trends and school improvement efforts.

Payne said North Park currently enrolls roughly 422 students kindergarten through sixth and reported demographic breakdowns the school tracks: about 28% of students are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch, 16% receive special education services and 11% receive ESL services. She described steady progress on RISE and WISE indicators for 2024–25, noting in kindergarten‑through‑third‑grade reading (the state reportable group) the percentage at benchmark improved during the year (from roughly 56.9% at start to 64.1% at end in one cited year) and almost 78% of students made typical or above‑typical progress by year end in the most recent reporting.

Payne described instructional and schoolwide supports: a PBIS (positive behavior interventions and supports) program with "Nights in Training" for students, a school support leader funded with board and district support, expanded math coaching (noting Beverly Sanders’ support), TSSA/TAD goals and targeted professional learning for staff. She also highlighted family‑focused activities (family book night, STEAM night), a new biweekly student news program called the Night Gazette, and a student council and leadership opportunities.

Payne acknowledged challenges including declining enrollment in recent years, chronic absenteeism, student homelessness and behavior needs. She said the school and district are pursuing capital improvement requests for the aging facility and additional staff training to address behavioral supports.

Board members thanked Payne and asked a brief question about an acronym; Payne clarified TAG as the teacher and assistance guidance team (formerly known to some as SAT). The board applauded staff and students for school programming and student leadership.