As we look ahead to the 2026 legislative session, the Utah School Boards Association (USBA), the Utah School Superintendents Association (USSA) and the Utah Association of School Business Officials (UASBO), have identified a set of unified priorities designed to strengthen public education across the state. The Joint Legislative Committee (JLC) is committed to working with state leaders to ensure that each student in Utah is prepared for college, career, and life.
This year’s legislative priorities reflect a forward-thinking approach that centers achievement, sustainability, and collaboration:
1. Fulfill Commitments to At-Risk Students
We are calling on the legislature to fulfill its prior commitment to increase funding for at-risk students. These additional resources are essential to better meet the unique needs of students who face barriers to academic success. Targeted support helps ensure all students have access to a high-quality education, regardless of their circumstances.
2. Strengthen the WPU with a 2% Enhancement
To provide meaningful and stable support for all students, especially those in special education, we are advocating for a 2% increase in funding above the guaranteed inflation and growth in the Weighted Pupil Unit (WPU). This investment is critical to helping local districts meet rising costs while continuing to deliver high-quality services.
3. Incentivize a Culture of Student Attendance
Attendance matters—and it starts with a culture that values showing up every day. USBA, USSA, and UASBO support initiatives that help foster regular student attendance through evidence-based programs and community-driven engagement. Increased attendance leads to better academic outcomes and long-term success.
4. Create a Plan for the Economic Stabilization Account
We are urging the state to adopt a structured plan for the Economic Stabilization Account that allows 85% of available funds to flow directly to local education agencies (LEAs). These funds would support pressing needs in school safety, capital improvements, small school building projects, and educator-directed professional development hours.
5. Establish a Legislative-Education Working Group
To enhance collaboration between education leaders and policymakers, we propose the formation of a working group made up of legislators and JLC members (USBA, USSA, UASBO). This group would serve as a forum to find real-world solutions that support students, educators, parents, and communities statewide.
6. Build a Long-Term Education Funding Framework
Our organizations are committed to partnering with state leaders to create a long-term, sustainable educational funding model. This framework must ensure consistent, adequate, and equitable funding that prepares Utah’s growing and diverse student population for a competitive future.
The USBA, USSA, and UASBO believe that thoughtful, collaborative policy is the foundation of educational success. With these legislative priorities, we invite our partners at the Capitol to join us in building a stronger future for all Utah students.