PARK CITY, Utah – Across the Park City School District, a quiet revolution in literacy is transforming how students learn to read, and the state is taking notice.

Thanks to an unwavering commitment to evidence-based instruction, Superintendent Lyndsay Huntsman, Executive Director of Curriculum Amy Jenkins, and Literacy Specialist Katie McGinn were awarded the Utah State Board of Education’s (USBE) prestigious District Leader Science of Reading Award on May 27, 2026. 

The Utah State Board of Education’s (USBE) District Leader Science of Reading Award recognizes outstanding educational leaders who champion evidence-based literacy instruction and improve student reading outcomes through the Science of Reading framework. The award honors district leaders who demonstrate excellence in implementing research-based practices, supporting teacher development, and building strong literacy systems that help students become successful readers.

The recognition comes as the district celebrates historic academic milestones. According to the USBE Reading on Grade Level report, Park City School District ranks first among all traditional public school districts in Utah, achieving a 69% third-grade reading proficiency rate, well ahead of the statewide average of 48.7%. This milestone reflects a multi-year upward trajectory, climbing steadily from 57.8% in 2023 and 64.8% in 2024 to lead the state today.

While this achievement sets a benchmark for districtwide reading success, leaders are utilizing the Science of Reading framework to close remaining achievement gaps and elevate outcomes for all students.

A central objective of this framework is ensuring systemic equity during the transition to secondary education. The district’s explicit goal is to standardize the elementary reading experience across all neighborhood schools so that foundational skills are universally strong.

By aligning instruction across all elementary sites, the district aims to ensure that when students enter Ecker Hill Middle School, they share the same academic preparation. Ultimately, the benchmark for success is a system where a student's elementary school of origin cannot be identified by their reading readiness upon entering secondary education.

Today's award presentation recognizes the work of these three leaders in establishing a consistent, high-achieving literacy culture designed to prepare every Park City student for secondary success.