Education

The first school in Utah was established by the Mormons shortly after they arrived in 1847. A territorial law in 1852 provided for the organization of a public, nonsectarian school system. A compulsory school attendance law was enacted in 1890. School attendance is required for all children from 6 to 18 years of age.

The state board of education is responsible for the administration of the public school system. Board members are elected for fouryear terms. They appoint the superintendent of public instruction, who heads the state office of education.

The University of Utah, at Salt Lake City, was chartered in 1850; it was then called the University of Deseret. It was rechartered under its present name in 1892. Utah State University at Logan was opened in 1890 as the Agricultural College of Utah. The present name was adopted in 1957. Both universities are state controlled and coeducational.

Brigham Young University at Provo is operated by the Mormon Church.