Utah Charter School Conversations

Free School Mental Health Support for Education: Introduction to Call-Up Program

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0600

Consultation Access Link Line to Utah Psychiatry (CALL-UP) is a free consultation service available to all Utah public schools. The consult service is designed to:

Optimize primary care providers’ ability and confidence to diagnose and treat mild to moderate mental health issues;
Improve quality of care and health outcomes for patients by affording early interventions;
Promote and improve mental health and physical health integration; and
Ensure appropriate referrals for individuals with serious behavioral health concerns.

Our conversation covers the services available, how to access the Call-up line, and ways to help improve student mental health.

Visit the Call-Up website: https://healthcare.utah.edu/hmhi/programs/call-up

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The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools is a non-profit organization that promotes excellence in Utah's public charter schools through advocacy, training, and technical support. Our podcast is produced, hosted, and edited by Gina James. Original music was composed by James Valentine.

Please subscribe to this podcast and visit us on Facebook and Instagram. Find student stories and training videos on our YouTube channel.

Part 1: Grant Readiness: Foundation & Accounting Best Practices

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0700

How do you know if you are ready to apply for the CSP grant? This episode will guide you through identifying the foundational core capabilities that must be in place to be ready to apply. We also cover baseline application elements. We end with a quick discussion of accounting best practices, including time and effort tracking and internal controls that are required in grant reports.

Please download the corresponding handout HERE.

If you have any questions, visit utahcharters.org/csp-grant.

Part 2: Grant Readiness: Writing a Strong Project & Budget Narrative

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0700

This episode will address how to craft a persuasive project narrative and aligning your budget to your proposal so your organization is grant-ready. Your project narrative isn’t just paperwork. It's your opportunity to show reviewers that your vision is strategic, your goals are measurable, and your plan is realistic.

This episode covers key strategies to make your narrative stand out. We also address the budget narrative and making sure your budget includes expenses that are allowable, reasonable, necessary, and allocable (ARNA).

Please download the corresponding handout HERE.

If you have any questions, visit utahcharters.org/csp-grant.

Part 2: Is the CSP Grant Right for Your School? Requirements, Process & What to Expect

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode, you will learn about the Utah Charter Schools Program, CSP, Grant and share the application process, required documents, review criteria, and what it takes to submit a competitive application. We will cover the following:

Step 1: Eligibility Verification

Step 2: Mandatory Technical Assistance

Step 3: Application Submission

Step 4: Application Format & Required Components

What Happens after you submit?

Post-Award: What CSP Expects

How do you know if you're ready to apply?

We have also created a handout to help you remember all the key points. You can find the handout HERE.

Visit utahcharters.org/csp-grant for more information.

Part 1: Is the CSP Grant Right for Your School? Background, Purpose & Eligibility

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode, you will learn about the Utah Charter Schools Program, CSP, Grant and help you determine whether applying is the right step for your school. We will answer:

What is the CSP Grant?

Why does this grant exist?

How much funding is available?

Who is eligible to apply?

What can CSP funding be used for and not used for?

We have also created a handout to help you remember all the key points. You can find the handout HERE.

Visit utahcharters.org/csp-grant for more information.

Expressing Your Learning at Ascent Academy with Wade Glathar, Executive Director

Thu, 02 May 2024 18:00:00 -0600

Join our discussion all about Ascent Academies of Utah and the Schoolwide Enrichment Model (SEM). With 5 campuses (Lehi, Saratoga Springs, West Valley, West Jordan, and Farmington), Ascent Academies provides an education not only geared to a student's learning type but to their expression type of learning through SEM. Developed at the University of Connecticut, Ascent teachers receive deep training in SEM to help children become engaged, self-motivated learners.

In our discussion, Wade talks about how the students thrive with this learning style by taking charge of their own education with careful guidance from trained teachers. Wade has been in education for over 20 years as a teacher, principal, and now executive director over several campuses. We talk about how education has changed, including his optimism about the remarkable children in school now. He shares how Ascent has cross-campus collaboration for teachers and students to strengthen the community. We also talk about the role of schools in society.

We hope you enjoy our discussion!

Your Money Made Simple with Able & Strong, Investment Partners of UAPCS

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 14:00:00 -0600

UAPCS partners with several companies to offer shared services at better rates and with more options that a school may be able to receive on their own.

Able & Strong, formerly Verapath, offers financial services including retirement investment options including a 401K program. In this podcast, we speak with Greg Misener, Chief Compliance Officer, and Sarah Cox, Director of Business Development and Client Relations. We cover it all:

Budgeting tips
Determining how much to take out of your paycheck for retirement
Determining how much money you need for retirement
Different long term saving options

We had a great time (really!) talking all things finance!

Everyone is Important at Athenian eAcademy with Jared Ferguson, Executive Director

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 14:00:00 -0600

Join our conversation with Jared Ferguson, Executive Director, at Athenian eAcademy. Athenian has six campuses in Tremonton, Delta, Ephraim, Nephi, Richfield, and Ballard in addition to a blended program that combines home learning with school supports.

Jared believes in the importance of each person at school from students to parents, and support staff to teachers. Athenian strives to provide differentiated learning for their multi-grade classrooms to meet each student at their level. Teacher training is targeted to be meaningful and highly pertinent. Jared believes in building trust and sees lack of trust as one of the big problems in education. To combat that, he values each person's perspective and advocates for using agency to be deliberate in interactions with others.

A former high school biology teacher, with a particular interest in entomology, Jared makes time to visit each campus and give a presentation on insects that is a highlight for students, and for him. Listen to learn more about this school that caters to rural Utah.

2024 Legislative Wrap-Up with Royce Van Tassell, Executive Director UAPCS

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 20:00:00 -0600

Join Royce Van Tassell, Executive Director, Utah Association of Public Charter Schools as we discuss what bills passed, what was discussed, and how much money we'll get for education in the coming year. Please take a look at the summary document on our website HERE. You can also see all the updates during the session on our website at https://www.utahcharters.org/legislative-updates. Some key bills discussed include the following (link to bill):

HB 221, Student teacher stipends
HB 105, Classroom supplies reimbursements
HB 173, Teacher bonuses
HB 29, Sensitive materials
HB 303, Classroom neutrality
HB 182, Student survey requirements
HB 499, Adjusts training requirements for educators
HB 413, Mental health screener notification requirements
HB 84, School safety amendments
HB 415, Curricular and co-curricular fees

We have also provided a detailed HB 84, School Safety Amendments, summary document HERE.

Happy Clickers, PPCD, and the Critical Role of Each Person with Lani Rounds, Principal, Bridge Elementary

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 15:00:00 -0700

Meet the delightful and experienced Lani Rounds, Principal at Bridge Elementary in Roy, UT. A long-time educator, Lani has worked with multiple charter schools in leadership positions, but began in education as a SPED teacher. Designing Bridge Elementary after Special Education principles of personalized learning, her school is active, "sometimes noisy," and full of enthusiastic professionals. Her teachers receive 16 hours/week toward PPCD (preparation, professional development, collaboration, and data analysis) to deliver personalized learning plans for every child. Learn about this method of education, integrating specialities into math and language arts, and how a "no desk" environment supports it all.

Lani describes the "happy clicker" she uses to highlight the good things happening around her and how it has helped students as well. (about minute 34).

Lani also mentions the "ARL" route to her teaching after work as a berry picker at Sacco Fruits (age 10) to the IRS (for 13 years!) and as an IT professional testing software. ARL is an Alternate Route to Licensure used for years by the State to train teachers who were entering teaching outside a teacher preparation program at a university. The current route for teacher training is the APPEL (Alternate Pathway to Professional Educator License) program.

Meet the New Leadership of the Utah State Charter School Board Staff with Marie Steffenson and Dr. Paul Kremer

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 15:00:00 -0700

In this double episode (!) we get two interviews-first with Marie Steffenson, Associate Executive Director, State Charter School Board. Marie has extensive experience with Utah's charter schools as a teacher, instructional coach, and school director. Her desire to build relationships and support charter schools comes through. We discuss what an authorizer does, what supportive authorization looks like, and the organization of the SCSB.

In our second interview (beginning at 35:00), we meet Dr. Paul Kremer, Executive Director, State Charter School Board. Dr. Kremer joined the SCSB in October 2023 from broad experience with charter schools in Arizona. Dr. Kremer seeks to fulfill the SCSB strategic plan to better serve the charter schools the SCSB authorizes. We discuss the great things going on in Utah's charter schools and how to make things even better.

State Charter School Board Website: https://www.utahscsb.org/
State Charter School Board Strategic Plan: file:///Users/ginajames/Downloads/SCSB%20Strategic%20Plan%20221208.pdf From May 11, 2023 SCSB Board Meeting

What to Watch for in the 2024 Legislative Session with Royce Van Tassell, Executive Director of UAPCS

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 21:00:00 -0700

This episode covers items pertinent to public charter schools coming up in the Utah State Legislature session. Royce Van Tassell, Executive Director, UAPCS, is right in the center of conversations with lawmakers and let's us know what to watch for. The 45 day session runs from January 16, 2024-March 1, 2024.

We discuss the following items:

Governor's Budget Recommendations
HB 29, Rep. Ivory, sensitive materials bill
HB 84, Rep. Wilcox, school safety amendments
HB 182, Rep. Lisonbee, student survey amendments
Teacher empowerment bill
Charter school law updates

Education Enriched with Native American Culture with Brittany Luck and Ronee Wopsock Pawwinnee, Uintah River High School

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 14:00:00 -0700

Join the discussion with Brittany Luck, Principal, Uintah River High School, and Ronee Wopsock Pawwinnee, Ute Indian Tribe Education Director to talk about Uintah River High School. This public charter school is located on Ute tribal land in Fort Duchesne, UT. The school serves 80 students, most with tribal affiliation (506 students refer to federally funded appropriations for American Indian and Alaskan Native students). The school is designed to foster cultural appreciation by teaching the Ute language and participating in tribal celebrations. They also are sensitive to tribal customs and individualize student learning to be sure that education works within traditions. A close relationship with the Ute Indian Education Department ensures that ensures that the charter school and tribal council work together to deliver an environment of supportive education geared toward lifelong learning.

Building a School Family with Simon Raubenheimer, Principal at Endeavor Hall

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 15:00:00 -0700

We're all on a long road trip together...it helps to stay positive, focus on the same goals, and have mutual respect. Join this conversation with Simon Raubenheimer, Principal, Endeavor Hall, to learn how a South African native, runs a school with nearly a third English language learners. One of the Simon's tools is his positive outlook on life and the ability to build a family-like community around the school.

Lessons in Clear Communication with Jennilyn Derbidge, Principal, Utah County Academy of Sciences

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 12:00:00 -0600

This discussion covers all things UCAS (Utah County Academy of Sciences) including its partnership with Utah Valley University, close-knit student group, and leadership in communication that brings together students and staff for great student success. The great majority of UCAS graduates have completed an Associate degree which covers a significant portion of their general college education. Additionally, the senior year experience at UCAS is held primarily on-campus at Utah Valley University giving students college experience and excellent learning opportunities.

Ms. Derbidge has been with UCAS since its 2005 beginning. Her enthusiasm for the program and love of continued learning is evident in our conversation. She shares professional development lessons that have helped the school grow in student success (UCAS is always among the top-ranked high schools in Utah) and positive culture (teacher retention is high).

Celebrating Hispanic Cultures through Bilingual Education with Angela Fanjul, Dual Immersion Academy

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 16:00:00 -0600

Join today's conversation with Angela Fanjul, Director of Dual Immersion Academy in Salt Lake City, UT. We discuss how a variety of Hispanic cultures (teachers and students from many different Spanish-speaking countries) come together to work toward the common goal of excellent education and proficiency in two languages. We talk about their immersion model (different from many district school programs) and supports they offer to help all students and families (97% of the staff is bilingual).

You will want to join the Feria de las Culturas (Cultural Fair) in October or visit Espanolandia in the spring! Or start watching telenovelas from Spain. Listen in to be in the know!

Building a Cultural "Fruit Salad" at Pacific Heritage Academy with Sheena Alaiasa and Kaniela Kamala

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 13:00:00 -0600

Enjoy the delightful Sheena Alaiasa and Kaniela Kamala with Pacific Heritage Academy as we discuss using cultural heritage to help students understand themselves, value others, and as an approach to learning. For ten years, Pacific Heritage Academy has been serving students in the Rose Park neighborhood of Salt Lake City. Sheena and Kaniela discuss the demographic changes of their students, challenges of covid to learning, and helping teachers avoid burnout.

We mention Hamish Brewer, guest of the 2023 UAPCS Conference and a study about the benefits of adolescents knowing their family history. In 2014, Sheena was named the MetLife/National Association of Secondary Principals Middle School Principal of the Year. We are fortunate to see how she has applied her expertise at Pacific Heritage Academy...and how her "hobby" is reading curriculum materials!

Meeting Olympic-sized Needs Through Flexibility in Schooling with Tess Miner-Farra, Winter Sports School

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 18:00:00 -0600

The Winter Sports School in Park City, UT has a unique mission and school schedule (they attend school April-November). Learn about how very serious student athletes (Olympians even!) can get a world-class education while pursuing world records. Our discussion includes how teachers and students work together to create flexibility with academic rigor. We also learn about how WSS is addressing the demand on student's attention through thoughtful education and conversations around electronic device usage. (They use Project Reboot.) WSS Executive Director, Tess Miner-Farra, is uniquely qualified to lead a school through her academic background and familiarity with Olympic athletes (her husband, John Farra, was a 1992 Olympian).

Vex Robotics Competition at the Vista School

Wed, 17 May 2023 15:00:00 -0600

The Vista School in Ivins, UT hosts Vex Robotics competitions. Join us at the December 2022 competition and learn all about Vex! Many thanks to the students, parents, and teams from across the region that spoke to me:

Vista School Middle School Division Champions and World Competitors
Success Academy, Utah Tech
Moapa Valley
Doral Academy, Las Vegas
Bear River

Vex Robotics is a curriculum, and extra-curricular activity. Vista School incorporates it from kindergarten on to emphasize STEM education that keeps students engaged. Visit the Utah Charters podcast page for photos and videos from the competition. Watch one competition match on YouTube.

Jump Rope Team: Learning Teamwork and Resilience at Canyon Rim Academy

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 12:00:00 -0600

If your school is looking for a fun, active, easy-to-start, and affordable after school team/activity for students, consider a Jump Rope Team. One of the unique performances at Charter Day on the Hill at the Utah State Capitol was watching this enthusiastic, choreographed group of jump ropers performing rump jumps, synchronized swings, and crossies! Hear about the program...and you may find yourself wanting to take the leap!

Canyon Rim Academy has a 20+ year tradition of having a Jump Rope Team. In this interview, I speak with founding parent of Canyon Rim (and the Jump Rope Team), Shana Heyn, about starting the Jump Rope Team. We talk to team members Mark (6th grade), Goldie (5th grade), and Beatrice (4th grade) about being serious jumpers and the joy (and pain) of jump rope performing. We wrap up with a discussion with the coaches (AND former Jump Rope Team members AND current teachers at Canyon Rim Academy) Paige Pectol, Serena Knaphus, Hanna Broome, and Calli Hodson. I was interested to know how their passion for team jump roping informs how they coach and encourage this next generation of jumpers.

Pictures from the Jump Rope Team performance at Charter Day on the Hill and at their after school practices can be found at https://www.utahcharters.org/podcasts.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Supporting Innovation by Saying Yes with Scott Mastroianni, Director, Canyon Rim Academy

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 16:00:00 -0600

Scott Mastroianni, Director of Canyon Rim Academy, shares his experience of finding Canyon Rim after teaching all over the world and all over the education spectrum. He is building on the 15 year of community support of Canyon Rim to continue their clear and encouraging core values of Learning, Respect, Safety, Love, Peace,
and Joy.

We discuss the joy of "saying yes" to innovative ideas (and what that looks like in practical terms). We also talk facilities, and the challenges of housing academics, arts, and a myriad of programs in an older building.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Ten Minute Training: Open and Public Meetings Act

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 14:00:00 -0700

In our new series of Ten-Minute Trainings, listen to our Director of Training, Shannon Greer, concisely let you know the basics of OPMA (Open and Public Meetings Act) in Utah. This can be used in board meetings with the accompanying worksheet to help your board comply to this vital law.

***Updated and shortened from the other OPMA training.***

Grab the WORKSHEET! (print or view pdf online)
Turn on the podcast!
Be in compliance!

Here is what we cover:

Noticing a meeting (even if it's an emergency!)
Board meeting agenda (everyone needs one...and a good one)
Electronic meetings (do you have a policy so you can even have one?)
Board meeting minutes (let 'em know what happened in a timely manner)
Common violations-what to watch out for!

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Helping Students Find Their Passion at Vista School with Chris Barnum, Principal, Vista School

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 17:00:00 -0700

Chris Barnum, Principal at Vista School in Ivins, Utah discusses the triple focus of academics, arts, and technology. The school offers a variety of options so students can focus on what interests them the most....but not without giving them plenty of exposure to a variety of fun curriculum! Chris discusses going from teacher to administrator and how to help teacher (and his own) burnout.

This episode, recorded December 3rd, discusses the newly opened expansion of Vista School. The new 500 seat theater was dedicated January 7, 2023. The theater will showcase student productions with professional sound and lighting, including an orchestra pit. If you're around, make sure to attend one of their many productions!

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Student Voices in Setting School Culture with Christy Hall, Director, St. George Academy

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 12:00:00 -0700

Our conversation this week is with Christy Hall, Director of St. George Academy in Washington, Utah. Christy has over 20 years experience in charter schools in southern Utah. We discuss the focus of St. George Academy, building and inclusive school culture with student input, and much more! Christy has a great story about transitioning from a performance-based charter school to an academic-focused school-let's just say you teach math a little differently. This story shows that as an educator, Christy is determined to serve students in a meaningful and individualized way.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Eliminating Classroom Cellphone Use with Nathan Marshall, Executive Director, Providence Hall Charter School

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 16:00:00 -0700

Listen in to my conversation with Nathan Marshall, Executive Director at Providence Hall Charter School. He watches over 2000 students, K-12, in Herriman, UT.
Recently discussed in a BYU Daily Universe article, Providence Hall has taken steps to eliminate cell phone use in the classroom. We talk the impact of this on student engagement and chasing lizards (no, really!) so take a few minutes and get to know Providence Hall and Mr. Marshall.

NOTE: There were a couple recording errors, so the full explanation of the cell phone program was not recorded. You will understand the gist of the program which is that cell phones are put away in during each class. The students are allowed phones at schools between periods and during lunch.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

The Importance of Biliterate Education with Eulogio Alejandre, Principal of Esperanza Elementary

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0600

Join in this conversation with Eulogio Alejandre, Principal of Esperanza Elementary. Esperanza Elementary educates its student to be biliterate in Spanish and English. In our conversation we cover the need for biliterate education especially in our local Latin population and best methods to provide that learning. We discuss the four registers of language and how that impacts language learning. You will see the intentionality of Esperanza's design and how passionate Mr. Alejandre is about educating "his" children.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Pathmaker Bridge Teacher Program for Cancer Research with April Thompson, 9th Grade Science Teacher, Lakeview Academy

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 16:00:00 -0600

This week's conversation is with April Thompson, 9th grade science teacher at Lakeview Academy. April participated in the Pathmaker Bridge program at the University of Utah where she conducted cancer research over the summer. In this conversation, we learn about the program and April's research project to encourage other charter school teacher to participate. We also learn about April's path to becoming a teacher. Side note: April also works for UAPCS as the APPEL Program Coordinator.

Reach April at april@utahcharters.org.

Mentions in the podcast:

Genetics Science Learning Center part of University of Utah Health Sciences: https://teach.genetics.utah.edu/
Utah State Science Standards (Science with Engineering Education-SEEd): https://www.schools.utah.gov/file/e5d886e2-19c3-45a5-8364-5bcb48a63097
Pathmaker Bridge (teachers): https://uofuhealth.utah.edu/huntsman/education-training/pathmaker/bridge
Pathmaker Scholar (high school juniors and seniors): https://uofuhealth.utah.edu/huntsman/education-training/pathmaker/scholars

Focusing on Literacy with Katina Santamaria, Principal of Guadalupe School

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 22:00:00 -0600

This week my conversation is with Katina Santamaria, Principal, Guadalupe School in Salt Lake City. Ms. Santamaria and I discuss the literacy focus of Guadalupe, the close culture of the school community, and swimming in the ocean (wear a bright pink cap)!

To learn more about Guadalupe School visit https://guadschool.org/ or call (801) 531-6100.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Bonus: Charter School Graduate Profile: Mitchell Sanborn

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 13:00:00 -0600

Itineris graduate, Mitchell Sandborn, takes a few minutes to discuss the impact the Itineris had on his career. Hint: A lot! He works as an IT contractor at Itineris! Hear about his educational journey and what his time at Itineris meant to him.

To learn more about Itineris, visit https://www.iechs.org/.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Supportive College Prep Education with Renee Edwards, Director at Itineris Early College High School

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 13:00:00 -0600

In this conversation with Renee Edwards, we learn more about Itineris Early College High School and Renee's path in education. Itineris is affiliated with Salt Lake Community College and 90% of its seniors participate in college-level classes. Learn about the supportive education system at Itineris that helps students reach their potential. Itineris currently serves 10-12 grade students, but is adding 9th grade next year. To learn more, visit https://www.iechs.org/.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

All about the APPEL Program

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 16:00:00 -0600

This episode covers the UAPCS APPEL Program. APPEL stands for Alternate Pathway to Professional Educator License. All teachers who do not go through a traditional teacher college, can get a professional license through an APPEL program. Many district and other charter schools have their own programs, but UAPCS also has its own robust program. Joylin Lincoln and April Thompson coordinate the teacher candidates for UAPCS.

In this episode I discuss with Joylin why an APPEL program is necessary, the types of teacher licenses, and how the program works.

For questions about the UAPCS APPEL program visit utahcharters.org/APPEL or email appel@utahcharters.org.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Training: Board Retreats and Strategic Planning

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 12:00:00 -0600

Want to know how to approach strategic planning at your school? Kim Dohrer, President, Academica West and Kara Findley, Lead Board Liasion, Academica West join us to discuss board retreats and strategic planning. We discuss the following:

Why board retreats are important
Key components to planning
- What items does the director need to provide in the state of the school?
  - Academic data (achievement test results)
  - Staff data (teacher retention, salaries)
  - Stakeholder survey results
  - Finance (facility needs, curriculum costs)
- Strategic Planning-ask questions!
  - Understand Director's responsibilities for alignment of goals
    - Know your charter
    - Know legal requirements
    - Understand your "sacred cows"
    - Identify expectations of your director
  - Where is the board at?
    - Do we understand governance vs. management?
    - What are our roles?
  - What are the needs of the school?
    - Set short term goals
    - Follow up on goals in board meetings
    - What resources can we put toward goals?
  - Dealing with less-engaged board members
  - Requirements for Open Meeting Act and board retreats
  - Using a "parking lot" for issues brought up in board retreats/meetings. (You'll want to find out what this is!)

Teacher Collaboration and Supporting Student Wellness with Blake Clark, Executive Director at George Washington Academy

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 08:00:00 -0600

The featured conversation this week is with Blake Clark, Executive Director at St. George Academy, located in St. George, Utah. We discuss the great things going on at GWA, teacher and administrative collaboration, and supporting students' emotional wellness.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Why Choose a Charter School? The Warners

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 14:00:00 -0600

We are starting the new school year with Why Choose a Charter School? This episode gives an inside look to one family's decision to send their children to a public charter school.

Meet the Warners, parents of seven children, who chose American Preparatory Academy after researching several charter and district schools. This conversation discusses identifying your educational philosophy as a parent and seeking the best school to support that philosophy.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Why Choose a Charter School? The Hansens

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 10:00:00 -0600

We are starting the new school year with Why Choose a Charter School? This episode gives an inside look to one family's decision to send their children to a public charter school.

Meet the Hansens, parents of three children, who chose a charter school after having their children in private school. This conversation covers identifying your educational philosophy, matching that to your child's individual needs and finding the right school for them, all through the Hansen's experiences.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Developing Student Character with Stephanie Eccles, Director of Excelsior Academy

Thu, 26 May 2022 22:00:00 -0600

The featured conversation this week is with Stephanie Eccles, Executive Director at Excelsior Academy located in Erda, Utah. We learn about Excelsior and Stephanie's familial push into education (which she appreciated!) We frankly discuss the role of character education in a student's life and how Excelsior seeks to develop good people and not just good students.

Excelsior also has a podcast called Excelsior Speaks. We encourage you to check it out, especially Excelsior Writes about Grit, discussed in this episode.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Developing Good Citizens with Sonia Woodbury, Executive Director of City Academy

Sat, 07 May 2022 17:00:00 -0600

In this conversation with Dr. Sonia Woodbury, we learn about the unique community of City Academy. Dr. Woodbury started City Academy with like-minded teaching professionals from the University of Utah. As one of the first charter schools in Utah, City Academy serves 7-12th grade with the goal to not only have students highly engaged in their learning, but become involved and active citizens within their communities. We hope you enjoy this great conversation with Dr. Woodbury.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Creating a Safe and Loving School Environment with Tyler Bastian, Principal of Roots Charter High School

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 13:00:00 -0600

Join our conversation with Tyler Bastian, principal of Roots Charter High School in West Valley City. Roots is a farm-based school that provides real-life work experience to make education meaningful and applicable to students. Many of his students had left school previously or weren't interested in graduating. Tyler talks about creating a safe and loving environment to re-engage students to success. He also explains his educational journey and how it shaped the creation of Roots.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

All About UAPCS

Sat, 26 Mar 2022 13:00:00 -0600

We've had a little break, but would like you to get to know us! UAPCS (Utah Association of Public Charter Schools) provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in Utah's public charter schools. Hear a conversation with Royce Van Tassell, Executive Director, about the impact of charter schools on student's lives, and the community UAPCS seeks to build through our services.

Crossover Episode: March 2, 2022 Legislative Updates

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 18:00:00 -0700

Today, we visit our sister podcast: Climbing the Hill. Climbing the Hill is all about the Utah Legislative Session and how it affects charter schools. We discuss the following with Royce Van Tassell, Executive Director, Utah Association of Public Charter Schools:

Budget
- Funding still looks like increase of 6% WPU.
- LRF increase 7%.
HB 475 Economic Stabilization Account Allocations: This bill will allocate the $250M one-time funds in the following manner:
$50M buildings fund for small districts in rural Utah
$30M building for Utah School for the Deaf and Blind
$90M to all LEAs
- Distributed 20% base funding (about $25K for charter schools) and 80% funding on student enrollment
- Money is unrestricted but will require reporting on how it was spent.
HB 193 All-Day Kindergarten: This bill has changed significantly and will now include an expansion of the Optional Extended Day Kindergarten (OEK) program. The intention will be to still require all LEAs to offer all-day kindergarten, but in 4 years or so through another bill.
HB 396 Paid Professional Development
- - $64M (more $$ than last week!) one-time funding for LEAs (based on teaching force) to allow for professional development outside required school days.
Charter schools can still use up to 35% state restricted funds for the next two fiscal years. All student needs still need to be met, but schools will be able to have flexibility to do so.
SB 141/HB 386: Regulatory Sandbox/Innovation in schools will likely pass and allow for waiver of rules/statute to help designated innovative schools. Also allows up to 35% state restricted funds to go toward innovation.
HB 374, Sensitive materials in schools has been amended to prevent schools from using pornographic material, according to statute definition of pornography. Will require schools to have a policy about this.

Contact Royce at royce@utahcharters.org with any comments/concerns about bills.
See www.utahcharters.org/legislative-updates for Watchlist of bills (under Advocacy tab).

Training: Robert's Rules of Order

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 23:00:00 -0700

Robert's Rules of Order provide structure and formality to help your meetings run smoothly. In this conversation with Joylin Lincoln, Director of Training for the Utah Association of Public Charter Schools, we cover the basic tenets of Robert's Rules including motions, agenda structure, and examples of how it all fits together.

Check out this powerpoint (that would be great to use for board training).
Pattern of formality (to be used on the back of the board agenda).
See these websites for more information:

Building School Culture with Principal Janese Vance of Mountainville Academy

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0700

We talk with Mountainville Academy Principal, Janese Vance. We have a great conversation about building school culture for students and teachers, listening to solve problems, communication in and out of the school, and so much more!

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools (UAPCS) is a non-profit organization that provides advocacy, training, and technical support to promote excellence in education across Utah. Visit www.utahcharters.org for more information.

Training: Board Meeting Structure

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -0700

Board Meeting Structure is essential to create an efficient board meeting. Here are some highlights from the discussion with Joylin Lincoln, Director of Training at the Utah Association for Public Charter Schools (UAPCS).

Importance of board structure
Agenda suggestions
- Director's Report (30 minutes)
  - focuses on academics
  - written report in board packet so board can ask pertinent question
- Financial Report (30 minutes)
  - fully review all components
  - board member should ask questions to fully understand budget
- Board Reports
  - committee
  - training attended/training in house
- Public Comment
  - putting public comment here allows the public to see the work of the board
  - public comment not required by the law, but good practice
  - explain parameters/pattern of formality on printed agenda (i.e., time to speak, allowed number of comments, etc.)
  - not a time for discussion
  - no action can be taken on an item unless already on agenda
  - follow up with thank you note and/or further addressing of concern by staff/board member
- Board Business
  - housekeeping items (i.e. committee assignments, meeting times/dates, board calendar, non-voting items)
- Consent Agenda
  - items that require no discussion (i.e. minutes, previously reviewed but not voted on policy)
  - board members may vote to remove items from consent for further discussion
- Policy Review (sample policies at https://www.utahcharters.org/sample-forms-policies)
  - Each policy should be reviewed every 2-3 years
  - Ask the following questions:
    - How well are we staying in compliance of our written policy?
    - How do we know we are in compliance?
    - What evidence do we have of compliance?
    - Do we need to make a change?
- Action Items
  - Policy votes
  - Contracts

Training: Open and Public Meetings Act

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -0700

In this podcast, we discuss the Utah Open and Public Meetings Act and how it applies specifically to charter schools. Our conversation points out some of the most outstanding components of the law, but is not exhaustive. We discuss the Public Notice Website. This is where agendas, calendars, minutes and recordings should be posted.

The Utah Open and Public Meetings Act (UT Code Title 52, Chapter 4) is available here .

Our website, https://www.utahcharters.org/sample-forms-policies, has more information under the Law & Policy section.

Training: So You Joined a Board...

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 15:00:00 -0700

This 27 minute audio training will help you know the first things you need to know when joining a charter school board. Taught by Joylin Lincoln, Director of Training, at the Utah Association of Public Charter Schools, this training covers:

your role as a board member
documents to read
- New Board Member Documents
- New Board Member Training
learning the difference between governance and management
- governance=how well
- management=how will
board packets
- all the information that supports the actionable items for the board meeting including agenda, minutes, financial reports-balance statement, income statement, cash flow report, administrator report w/academic report, policy reviews/new policy
- best received 3-5 days before board meeting to allow everyone to review
handling grievances and questions
- hint: direct them to talk to the school administrator first!
- give heads-up to the administrator too
- individuals have no power, only through motions in a board meeting
follow Open and Public Meetings Act
choosing the administrator at the school
- board should see the contract of the administrator
- evaluate at least yearly
important items to consider
- conflicts of interest
- school financial audit statements
- director/officer liability insurance
- being a quality board member
- academic reports at the school

Thank you for serving on your local charter school board!

The Resources tab on the UAPCS website, www.utahcharters.org, also contains supporting information we discuss as well as many other items of interest for charter school boards.

History of Utah Charter Schools

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 06:00:00 -0700

In this conversation, Royce Van Tassell, Executive Director of the Utah Association of Public Charter Schools, shares the history and purpose of Utah public charter schools.

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools is a non-profit organization. The mission of UAPCS is to provide advocacy, training, and technical support that promote excellence in public charter schools throughout the state.

For more information, visit www.utahcharters.org.