The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) has announced the finalists for the position of State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Two finalists have been selected following an extensive search and review process by the Board’s search committee. The individuals advancing to the final stage of consideration are:
- Dr. L. Ben Dalton has served as Superintendent of Kane County School District since 2016 and previously led the Garfield School District. A first-generation college graduate from Minersville, Utah, Dr. Dalton has over 20 years of experience in public education and was named Utah’s Superintendent of the Year in 2022. He holds a Doctorate in Leadership and Technology and has been recognized for his commitment to academic excellence and rural education.
- Dr. Molly L. Hart is the Executive Director of Summit Academy and has more than 20 years of experience in education, serving in roles from teacher to principal across multiple states and grade levels. She holds a Doctorate in Family-Community Services from Michigan State University and has been honored with the Utah PTA Outstanding School Administrator Award. Dr. Hart is a strong advocate for student achievement and community engagement. She currently represents District 7 on the Utah State Board of Education.
These candidates will participate in a public interview process with the full Board during a specially scheduled meeting, which will be held at the USBE building on Wednesday, May 21 from 2:30 to 7:30 p.m.
In accordance with Utah Code 52-4, the meeting will be held as an open and public session. Members of the public are invited to attend the meeting in person or view it via the Board’s official livestream on the USBE Media Channel.
During the meeting, members of the State Board will interview each finalist. Following the public interviews, the Board will enter a closed executive session to discuss the character and professional competence of the candidates. The Board anticipates returning to open session directly after the executive session to appoint Utah’s next State Superintendent of Public Instruction that evening.
The new superintendent will succeed Dr. Sydnee Dickson, who has served as State Superintendent since 2016 and will step down from her role in June.
Direct Link to USBE Media Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@USBE-Media
