SALT LAKE CITY — A child abuse prevention advocate has been appointed by Gov. Gary Herbert to the Utah State Board of Education to fill the elected office previously held by Linda Hansen, who has moved from District 3 boundaries.
Laurieann Thorpe, executive director for Prevent Child Abuse Utah, will represent a portion of Granite School District, including schools in West Valley City, as well as Juab, Tooele and Tintic school districts. Her appointment is subject to confirmation by the Utah Senate.
Thorpe previously worked for the State School Board’s special education department and with Youth In Care. Additionally, she has owned a consulting business that provided professional development for educators.
She has a master’s degree in public administration from Brigham Young University.
“I am thrilled to be appointed to serve on the Utah State Board of Education,” said Thorpe in a statement. “I care deeply about education and the power it has to transform lives.”
Thorpe’s term will expire Dec. 31, 2020. The remainder of the unexpired term will be filled as part of the 2020 election process.
Herbert said Thorpe’s passion and experience “will help her to connect on a deeper level with students, parents and educators alike.”