Originally opened in 1905, Whittier Elementary in West Valley City is among the oldest school names in Granite School District.

You may have heard of the school’s wrap around medical hub for special education students; or that the school was recently rebuilt in 2001. Here’s what you may not have known:

A dynamic community council – Whittier boasts a diverse community with students representing a wide array of cultures. Thanks to the school’s efforts to bring all groups together, Whittier has a school community council in which a variety of perspectives are brought to the table.

This effective approach to collaboration has led to numerous upgrades of protocol, including revised standards of student safety in the parking lot.

Fine arts dance specialist – Students in grades 1-6 will be jumping, stepping, twirling, and moving this year as they welcome fine arts dance specialist Krystal Slatton to the school. Krystal will be prepping students for a school-wide Fine Arts Night in the spring.

AmeriCorps partnership – Whittier is very conscious of the importance of community involvement to increase student achievement. With the approval of the community council, Whittier is participating in the “Read. Graduate. Succeed” AmeriCorps initiative.

The program pairs students with volunteer reading tutors who meet with them twice weekly for 30-50 minutes.

As with most other schools, Whittier always welcomes the help of volunteers. Community members may join the initiative by calling 385-646-5096.