Utah Constitution Article 10 Education
Utah Constitution – Article X: Education
Article X of the Utah Constitution establishes the legal and structural framework for the public education system in Utah. Here's a summary of the key sections and provisions in Article X – Education:
Section 1: Establishment and Maintenance of Public Education System
The Legislature must provide for the establishment and maintenance of a public education system, which is open to all children in the state.
This includes a system of public elementary and secondary schools.
Section 2: State Board of Education
A State Board of Education is established.
Board members are elected as provided by law.
The Board is responsible for the general control and supervision of public education.
Their powers and duties are set by the Legislature.
Section 3: Public Education Funding – Permanent School Fund
Establishes the Permanent State School Fund, which must remain inviolate (cannot be reduced or used for other purposes).
Revenues for this fund come from various sources like lands granted by the federal government and certain fines.
Only the interest and dividends from this fund can be spent on education.
Section 4: Uniform School System
The Legislature must provide a uniform system of public schools.
This includes kindergarten through grade 12 (K-12) education.
Section 5: Higher Education
The Legislature has the authority to provide for higher education, such as universities and colleges.
These institutions are overseen by a separate governing board (e.g., the Utah Board of Higher Education).
Section 6: Control of School Lands
School trust lands and their proceeds must be administered with fiduciary responsibility.
Managed to generate maximum financial return for public schools.
Section 7: Religious Instruction and Activities
Public school funds may not be used for any sectarian or religious instruction.
Schools must remain nonsectarian, and religious exercises are not permitted in public school settings.
Summary:
Utah’s Constitution mandates public education for all children, secures funding through a permanent trust, and outlines the roles of key governing bodies like the State Board of Education. It also emphasizes secularism in public education and strong fiduciary oversight of school trust lands.
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