Lacey Peterson

Lacey Peterson earned a high school diploma from Orem High School. She earned a bachelor's degree from Utah Valley University in 2012, and a graduate degree from Rutgers University in 2017. Peterson's career experience includes working as a licensed clinical social worker.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’ve lived in Utah County most of my life and feel proud to call it home. My mom, a teacher for over 30 years, inspired me to become an educator. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in School Health Education from UVU and spent years as a substitute teacher but ultimately chose to leave the teaching profession and become a therapist. I attended Rutgers University, received a Master of Social Work, and have been working as a licensed clinical social worker for 9 years. Even before I moved back to Utah, I knew I wanted to get involved in politics and help create needed change. I love Utah and believe in the incredible potential of our schools and communities. Through my work as a therapist serving children, teens, and families, I see firsthand the growing mental health needs of Utah students and the pressures facing our educators. I believe Utah’s schools must prioritize student well-being, inclusive learning environments, and practical support for teachers. I am running to help ensure every Utah student has the opportunity to learn, feel safe, and succeed.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Safety is a pressing issue in our schools. Earlier this year, the current legislature ordered a 5% cut to the education budget and the board proposed to eliminate suicide prevention and mental health screening programs in schools. The fact that this was even considered an option speaks to decision-makers who are in denial of the mental health crisis Utah’s youth continually face. In addition to emotional safety, some students live in fear of being physically removed from their learning environments because of I.C.E. interference. Strong public schools create strong communities; strong schools require safety first.As an alternative voice on the State Board of Education, I will work to find additional funding resources for schools to further support student and teacher mental health needs. I won’t just go along with the loudest voices on the board; I will stand my ground so students and teachers receive more direct support and resources. I will advocate for and use my voting power to support the emotional and physical safety of all students, regardless of identity or legal status, because safety is the most fundamental need we humans have.I have seen firsthand the mental health and systemic challenges facing today’s schools. My job as a therapist for the past 9 years has been to listen and understand others, help them feel heard, and brainstorm a path forward. These skills make me an ideal candidate to advocate for our local students, teachers, and families on the State Board of Education. I am committed to strengthening public education through inclusive policies, educator support, and student-centered decision-making.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I believe the way the current school voucher system works is not helping those most in need and public schools are being harmed by the system as it is. Strengthening public schools will require an overhaul of the current system.

The presence of counselors in schools is so beneficial and extremely needed, but the current caseloads due to underfunding are shocking. This leads to high burnout and turnover rates, which negatively impact the students who so desperately need their services.

Underfunding leading to low teacher pay and retention rates is an issue I feel strongly about because it’s one of the reasons I left teaching. It ends up costing school districts a lot more when good teachers get burnt out by their third year of teaching.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to all the amazing women in my life who are changing the world one day at a time, especially my mom who sees what needs to be done and does it with grace and flair.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Sincere, honest, dedicated, good listener, considerate, level-headed, approachable

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Staying current on relevant issues, interested in what struggles constituent families are dealing with, being easy to approach and talk to, and working well with others to make actual progress toward goals.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I want to leave a legacy of knowing I made life better for others and compassionately fought for those in need.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job that wasn’t babysitting or nannying was as a Records Department Technician at UVU for 9 months before leaving to student teach.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Leaving Utah to go to grad school in New Jersey was one of the hardest things I’ve ever experienced. It was also the most worthwhile experience as I learned so much about other people, that growth doesn’t happen in the comfort zone, and how to rely on my own inner strength.

What is the primary job of a school board member in your view?

Staying informed, listening to constituents, seeking knowledge from those with expertise, advocating for students and teachers, supporting healthy learning environments, and voting for realistic change.

Who are your constituents?

Students, their families, and teachers. Above all, what is best for students should be at the center of every decision.

Describe your ideal learning environment for students.

Emotionally and physically safe with evidence-based teaching modalities and appropriate technology use.

What was the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember?

I vividly remember the day of 9/11 when I was in 9th grade.