As we begin a brand-new school year in Murray, our primary goal is simple: ensuring every student, family, and educator knows we are Better Together.

When students feel safe at school, rested at home, and supported by both teachers and parents, they thrive. Here are five key areas where we as schools and you as parents are working better together to strengthen our school community this year:

1. Safe Schools with SRP

Safety comes first. Murray schools use the Standard Response Protocol (SRP)—a simple, proven system built on clear terms: Hold, Secure, Lock down, Evacuate, and Shelter. By using the same clear language across all campuses, students and staff can react calmly and quickly in any situation. 

2. Healthy Tech Habits (HB218)

Under Utah’s HB218, we are teaching students how to navigate the digital world safely. Digital balance is essential for young minds. CDC research shows that teens who spend 4 or more hours a day on screens are twice as likely to experience anxiety or depression compared to those with lighter use. Helping kids disconnect from screen overload helps us reconnect in person.

3. Literacy & Reading Growth

Reading opens doors to all future learning. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, children with engaged reading routines at home achieve up to 15% higher reading scores in school.

4. Daily School Attendance

Showing up matters! U.S. Department of Education data reveals that students with good attendance score 20% higher in math and reading than those who are chronically absent. Every day in class builds learning momentum.

5. Strong Parent Engagement

Education is a team effort. Research shows that when parents actively engage with their child’s school, students miss 25% fewer days and are far more likely to enjoy their learning journey.

By working together on these five priorities, we make Murray a place where every family belongs, every school is safe, and we accomplish more because we are Better Together.