Residents of Eagle Mountain, Saratoga Springs, Fairfield and Cedar Fort have chosen to split from the Alpine School District, with Proposition 14 passing decisively on Election Day.
The decision, reached after months of debate over facilities funding and community representation, will divide the district three ways along with the approval of Proposition 11, creating new districts in the western and central regions of the county.
“The voters have made their decision, and I believe it’s time to put away our differences and head in a common direction for the good of our facilities, teachers, and most importantly, our students,” says Eagle Mountain Mayor Tom Westmoreland.
In the western region, 62% of voters from Saratoga Springs, Eagle Mountain, Cedar Fort, and Fairfield supported Proposition 14, moving toward local governance within a new school district yet to be named. Voters in the central region—Lehi, Highland, Alpine, Cedar Hills, and American Fork—also supported a split, with 58% voting in favor of establishing their own district.
“I am thrilled by the passage of Proposition 14, which marks a significant step forward for our communities in Cedar Fort, Eagle Mountain, Fairfield, and Saratoga Springs,” says Saratoga Springs City Councilman Chris Carn. “This decision reflects the commitment of our residents to prioritize local control and ensure our children have access to the best possible educational opportunities. By creating a new school district, we have opened doors to a future where decisions are made closer to home, responsive to the unique needs of our growing community.”
The vote concluded a months-long debate about the right of communities within the Alpine School District to manage their educational resources more locally.
The transition will require significant coordination over the next few years. School district transition leaders will need to determine the division of assets, services and staff within each of the new districts.
Alpine School District’s feasibility study, conducted by MGT Consulting, assessed the impact of splitting the district and provided critical insights to guide the process.
With both propositions passing, voters in each new district will elect school board members next year, who will oversee the establishment of the districts, aiming for operational readiness by August 2027.
“I know there are residents who were against this split,“ says Westmoreland. “To me, it’s important to address every concern and make those who were against this split heard every step of the way.”
As the school boards are elected next year, they will play a critical role in crafting the vision, allocating resources and ensuring a seamless transition for students, teachers and families.
The district splits are set to go into effect in July 2027, with the new districts operational for the 2027-2028 school year.
