Utah Schools Benefit from Record $111 Million in Land Trust Funds

The Trust Lands Administration (TLA) has allocated a record-breaking $111 million for Utah schools during the 2025-2026 academic year. This substantial funding will enhance technological advancements and improve educational outcomes across the state. The distribution of these funds will directly benefit public and charter schools, impacting over 647,000 students and 1,019 schools in Utah.

The financial support is part of the School LAND Trust Program, which generates revenue from trust lands granted to Utah to bolster public education. The funds are allocated based on a per pupil basis, considering the specific academic needs of different schools as identified by the School Community Council—a body consisting of parents, teachers, and school principals.

Strategic Initiatives to Enhance Education

Among the various initiatives funded by this program are efforts aimed at reducing class sizes, increasing access to technology, providing professional development for educators, and implementing early intervention programs for students facing challenges. These projects are designed to create a more effective learning environment and support student achievement.

Salt Lake City School District Superintendent Elizabeth Grant emphasized the importance of parental involvement, stating, “Parent involvement is critical to our school community councils. That is where they have a voice on how we spend [School LAND Trust] funding to better serve our kids. School Community Councils show that education works best when it’s a collaboration between teachers, administrators, and families.”

Superintendent Grant joined Dr. Molly Hart, Utah State Superintendent of Public Instruction, and Marlo Oaks, Utah State Treasurer, to observe firsthand how these trust funds are being utilized in schools across the state.

Impact on Local Schools

One notable example of the effective use of LAND trust funds is at Whittier Elementary School in Salt Lake City. The allocated funds will support early intervention programs specifically targeting Kindergarten through second grade. Principal Dr. Vanessa Jordan highlighted the significance of these initiatives, stating, “It is so important that students access early literacy intervention. We know that early intervention in reading allows students entry to the skills needed to have choice and agency in their lives with careers and continued access to engaging curriculum.”

According to the Utah State Board of Education, the average distribution amounts to approximately $166 per student, underscoring the financial commitment to improve educational outcomes statewide. For additional information on the School LAND Trust Program, interested parties can access resources provided by the Trust Lands Administration.