School LAND Trust

The School LAND Trust (LAND stands for Learning And Nurturing Development) program brings tens of millions of dollars annually to academic programs in public schools across Utah. The funds are generated from school trust lands. These funds are the only discretionary funds many schools receive. The program runs entirely from this web site. Each public school in Utah elects a school community council consisting of parents, teachers, and the principal. Charter Schools have Trust Lands Councils. All councils have a two parent member majority. Each council carefully reviews student assessments and progress to decide which academic areas they want to focus on. Plans are developed to improve student academic performance in the identified academic areas with the annual School LAND Trust funds. The plans are approved by the council, submitted on this website, and approved by the local school board or chartering entity.

What are Utah Trust LANDs?

Trust lands are parcels of land throughout our state that were granted by Congress to Utah at the time of statehood. Trust lands were allocated specifically to generate revenue to support designated state institutions, including public schools, hospitals, teaching colleges, and universities. Unlike public lands, trust lands are parcels of land held in trust to support 12 state institutions, schools, but also state hospitals, teaching colleges, and universities. While 67 percent of Utah is held in public domain, only about six percent of the state’s acreage is set aside as trust lands.

How are Utah Trust LANDs used?

Revenue from management and development of school trust lands is deposited into the Permanent School Fund.
The Fund is invested, and annual interest and dividends are distributed to public schools.
Each School Community Council determines the greatest needs at its school and allocates the funds accordingly.

Where Can I Find More Information on Utah Trust LANDs?

Visit the Trust Lands Administration website.

Parent Involvement

Parents Act as the Primary Advocates for All Children

By working as a group and understanding the legal responsibilities that lie with the principal, parents ensure the representation of various viewpoints and values within the community. Parent engagement is a key element to student achievement and student progress. Parents have at least a two-member majority of a school community council, and are often the driving force. Parents will serve as chair and may serve as vice-chair. It is important that parents on the council understand the responsibilities of the council, and are able to collaborate well with the other members of the council to effect meaningful school improvement for all children.

Invitation to Parents to Serve on the School LAND Trust Committee:

Please contact Brian Reid at 435-879-4715 or [email protected] for more information if you are interested in serving on the UT SUCCESS School LAND Trust committee.