Newest Iron County School Board Members Discuss District Challenges

Tyrell Eddy and John Taylor, the newest members of the Iron County School Board, recently discussed their motivations and challenges in a radio interview on KSUB.

Eddy, a father of four, three of whom attend Iron County schools, emphasized the importance of having a parental perspective on the board. “I feel that’s a great perspective to have on the school board—someone with kids that are actually going through the process,” he said.

Taylor, whose family has been involved in education for generations, saw serving on the board as an opportunity to give back. “My entire career has been at Southern Utah University. When I was asked to represent District 1, I thought, ‘OK, I should give back in a different way,’” he explained.

One of the key issues facing the district is school overcrowding and the repeated failure of bond measures to secure funding for new facilities. Taylor expressed concern over students learning in portable classrooms. “It pains me that we’ve got students in portables with no water, having to put on coats to go inside for the bathroom,” he said.

Eddy acknowledged the economic difficulties facing the community but stressed the need for better engagement with voters. “If we’re not able to secure that vote, we really need to be asking ourselves the proper questions on why we’re not getting that vote and do the best we can to mend or heal whatever grievances there are,” he said.

Despite financial concerns, both board members emphasized the importance of planning for Iron County’s future growth. “We don’t have enough space for our kids,” Taylor stated. Eddy echoed that sentiment, pointing to the area's ongoing development. “We have the inland port, we have businesses moving in, and houses going up everywhere,” he said.

The board is actively exploring creative solutions, including temporary alternatives to constructing new schools. Taylor emphasized the board's commitment to making well-informed decisions. “We are looking at every possible solution and we are going to pick the one that we think is the best for all,” he said.

Get our free mobile app

You can hear our entire discussion with Mr. Eddy and Mr. Taylor in the podcast below.