Diane Knight
What are your thoughts on curriculum and instruction, including the use of innovative methods and technology in the classroom?
The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) sets the statewide academic standards that must be taught in every classroom. However, local school boards—including ours—have the authority and responsibility to choose the specific curriculum and instructional materials that best meet the needs of their communities.
Throughout my career, I’ve helped vet potential curriculums for the district and used numerous programs firsthand. Over the past four decades, I’ve witnessed the rise and fall of many instructional approaches—from whole language to guided reading. Currently, we are grounded in the Science of Reading, a deeply researched, phonics-based framework that I personally studied through the state-mandated LETRS program (click to download PDF).
While keeping up to date is essential, it’s equally important to preserve teacher autonomy. Educators should have the flexibility to use teaching methods that best align with their style—as long as students are mastering the standards. In recent years, the push to implement programs “with fidelity” has too often meant requiring teachers to follow scripted lessons rigidly. While such structure can support new teachers, we must not lose the art and craft of teaching.
This is why it’s critical to have a teacher on the school board when making curriculum decisions that cost millions and impact every student.
The Role of Technology
We live in a digital world, and that brings tremendous opportunities. I support having Chromebooks and digital learning tools in classrooms—but digital doesn’t automatically mean better. Educators must use discernment and ensure that digital tools truly enhance learning, not replace effective traditional methods.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is another tool we must proactively address. While it presents challenges, especially regarding student integrity, AI also holds promise. For example, AI can provide real-time feedback on essays, improving writing skills through immediate, instructive support. Like calculators in math or reviews on Amazon, AI is here to stay—and we must learn to use it wisely.
How will you ensure all students have access to a well-rounded curriculum, including arts, music, and career and technical education?
A strong education goes beyond core academics. Arts, music, and career and technical education (CTE) are vital in helping students discover their interests and succeed in adulthood. These opportunities must be accessible to all students.
While small schools offer benefits, they also struggle to maintain staff needed for a well-rounded curriculum. One of Alpine’s strengths as a large district has been the ability to offer diverse programs. If a course wasn’t available at one high school, students could often take it at a nearby campus.
As the district splits, I’m encouraged that existing schools will remain intact. That continuity should allow us to retain the broad selection of classes we currently enjoy. But we must be vigilant. If the split impacts any programs, we must find creative ways to preserve them. I am committed to ensuring our students continue to have access to a full and balanced education.