Dr. Joel Perkins has been sworn in as the first superintendent of Aspen Peaks School District after receiving unanimous approval from the Aspen Peaks Board of Education.
Perkins, who currently serves as an associate superintendent in Alpine School District, expressed his commitment to the community where he has lived and worked for 27 years. He stated that it is an honor to partner with the community to build the new district.
The Aspen Peaks School District was established in November 2024 following the passage of Proposition 11 by voters in Lehi, American Fork, Cedar Hills, Highland, Draper (Utah County portion), and Alpine. Following the election of the first school board in November 2025, the board moved to appoint a leader.
Aspen Peaks Board President Diane Knight noted that finding the right leader was the board's first priority. Knight stated that the board decided to move forward decisively with Perkins because he was uniquely qualified and they did not want to delay the process while other districts were interviewing similar candidates.
The appointment marks a historic moment for Utah, as it is the first time a school district will be dissolved to create three new districts. Aspen Peaks will be the largest of these three and is scheduled to assume all public education operations on July 1, 2027.
Before the transition, Perkins and the board must manage tasks including hiring district staff, determining funding for learning programs, and considering school boundaries. Dr. Perkins' stated priorities include establishing a district identity, pursuing excellence through continuous improvement, and ensuring high levels of learning for all students.
Dr. Perkins will continue his role as associate superintendent of Alpine School District until June 30.
