According to the most recent census data, Utah ranks number 9 on the list of states with the highest percentage growth. From 2022 to 2023, Utah grew 1.1% year-over-year. There are a variety of reasons that families are flocking to the Beehive State. Whether it is for job opportunities in Utah’s growing economy or to have immediate access to the outdoors, the Wasatch front provides a robust and fulfilling lifestyle.
As you consider a move to Utah, we can help highlight some important factors to examine. Rest assured that the Waterford Admissions Team is here to help you and your family every step of the way in the transition to Utah.
Utah’s state motto, “industry,” was officially adopted in 1959, and the motto still rings true today. Not surprisingly, Utah ranks #1 in US News’s state economy rankings. Families may find themselves moving to Utah for job opportunities in the Silicon Slopes. With a favorable business start up environment, the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the greater Salt Lake area.
While exploring neighborhoods to move in relation to office sites, Waterford’s campus is centrally located in Sandy. Waterford attracts families from the reaches of Farmington in the north, Park City in the east, and Utah County in the south. A bus service with Waterford allows for easy transportation for students along the Wasatch Front. As an independent school removed from district lines, Waterford celebrates the richness in diversity of students coming from various places.
In 2023, Utah was ranked as the happiest state in the United States. It is no surprise, given the vast opportunities for outdoor recreation. Utah boasts 5 National Parks and 15 world class ski resorts, and Utah snow is known as “The Greatest Snow on Earth” by ski and snowboard enthusiasts. Within the state, Utah remarkably has over 20,000 miles of mapped, hikeable trails. From hikes to river rafting to cross country skiing, there is a hobby for everyone.
Situated at the base of Little Cottonwood Canyon, Waterford’s campus enjoys a stunning backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains. In fact, you’ll hear members of the Waterford community refer to the Wasatch mountains as an extension of our campus. And rightfully so—Waterford students participate in Ski and Ride programs at Snowbird, and the Middle and Upper School Outdoor Programs set off on regular excursions in the mountains. Even the Murray Science Center is intentionally designed in parallel harmony with the mountain range, serving as a visual reminder of our responsibility as stewards of the land.
Utah has a vibrant cultural scene with museums, theater, concert venues, sports venues, and festivals taking place throughout the year. Perhaps the most famous is the Sundance Film Festival, which attracts artists, creatives, and film enthusiasts from around the world. Utahns can enjoy a basketball game with the Utah Jazz, a soccer match with Real Salt Lake, or a baseball game with the Salt Lake Bees. Looking toward the future, there’s movement toward a Salt Lake MLB team and NHL team. Salt Lake City is also slated as a preferred host for the 2034 Olympic Games.
In the tradition of the liberal arts, Waterford students partake in the richness of Utah’s cultural offerings as they study performing arts, visual arts, athletics, science, math, and the humanities. It would not be unusual to see a Waterford student leaving the photo lab dark room, with a lacrosse bag on one shoulder and their violin in the other hand. Waterford is a place for students to dive into the liberal arts and expand their curiosity.
As mentioned earlier, the Admissions Team at Waterford is delighted to assist you and your family as you look for the right school match in your relocation. Whether it’s a phone call to discuss the application process or guidance toward the most fitting school and area to settle, the team can lend a friendly and helpful hand in the process. We hope you’re able to visit us for a tour on our 41-acre campus to fully understand the excitement of the Waterford School and to be in the company of our welcoming community of teachers and students.
Elle Zieser joined the Waterford School admissions team in the Fall of 2022 as Admission Associate. Prior to Waterford, Elle worked in schools in California, Hawaii, and Virginia in various roles including teacher, coach, department chair, dean of students, and independent consultant.
Elle earned her Bachelor of Arts in Spanish with a minor in International Relations from the University of San Diego in addition to her single-subject teaching credential in Spanish. After undergrad, Elle joined Teach For America in Los Angeles while attending Loyola Marymount University and earning her Masters of Education in Educational Studies with an emphasis in K-12 Bilingual Education.
Elle lives in Salt Lake City with her husband, Vince, and their dog, Otto. Outside of school, Elle enjoys the outdoors, renovating her home, beekeeping, and gardening.
October 18, 2022
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