A Major Win for Microschools
Lehi, UT — Below is a statement from Libertas Institute Education Policy Analyst and former public school principal Jon England on the passage of House Bill 126, legislation sponsored by Representative Ariel Defay that clarifies where microschools can open.
“Opening a microschool is never easy, but with the passage of HB 126, it just became easier. For years, microschool founders have run into barrier after barrier when trying to figure out where they are allowed to operate. Those delays cost time and money and, in some cases, stop a school from opening before it ever begins.”
“HB 126 directly addresses one of the biggest challenges: finding a location. The bill makes clear that any building can be converted into microschools and removes the guesswork about where founders can legally open. That means less red tape, faster approvals, and a clearer path from idea to reality. A recent Libertas Institute/Overton Insights poll found that 69% of Utahns support the opening of new microschools in their neighborhoods. These options are not only needed but also popular. This is a win for entrepreneurial school founders, a win for families, and most importantly, a win for students across Utah who deserve more educational choices.”