The Libertas Institute, a Utah-based non-profit “think tank” and educational organization, has endorsed the proposals to divide Alpine School District via interlocal agreements.
The opinion piece points out that ASD is much larger than the average school district in Utah, and even that is more than twice the size of average school districts nationwide. It also mentions the disparity between the sides of the district as well as the inability to pass a large bond.
“A three-way split would create more manageable districts, which would give greater control over how the children are educated.” – Alessandro Demarchi, Libertas Institute
We wholeheartedly agree with the final statement of the op-ed: “It’s time to give parents a say on whether they want to leave Alpine School District. Should the proposals make it on the ballot this fall, by approving them families in Northeastern Utah County would see local tax resources allocated directly to facilities, programs and initiative in a way that truly allows their children to succeed.”
In other news, ASD is also proposing a significant tax increase. It’s no secret that there are needs in the district, but this is another example that ASD is going to continue to raise taxes and instead of those decisions being made on a more local basis, they are being made district-wide and many residents will not see the benefit of those tax dollars in their neighborhood schools.
“According to the Taxpayers Association, Alpine’s proposal this year would cost taxpayers nearly $200 more a year on an average home.”
A public truth-in-taxation hearing on the proposed increase will be Aug. 13 at 6 p.m. at the district office building in American Fork. The board will vote after the hearing.
Smaller Schools and Districts 
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