Parley’s Park Elementary reports jump in science scores, early reading gains

Parley's Park Elementary School. Photo: TownLift // Rayne Moynahan

PARK CITY, Utah — Parley’s Park Elementary School leaders told the Park City Board of Education on Tuesday night that the school has posted year-over-year gains on state testing while tightening its focus on school culture, communication, and early literacy.

Principal Kim Howe said Parley’s Park has leaned into a campus wide “puzzle theme” this year — “we all fit together, leading with kindness and learning with purpose” — alongside weekly “kindness connection challenges” shared in hallways and family newsletters.

Howe told the board the school’s RISE science scores for fourth- and fifth-graders rose from an average of 51% to 71% year-over-year, including a fourth-grade cohort that increased from 49% to 70% as it moved into fifth grade. Howe also cited math growth from about 56% to 64% and said English language arts rebounded to 65% after earlier declines, attributing the gains to changes in practice and a stronger focus on student readiness to learn.

Howe said expanded reading tests showed 71% overall proficiency, with higher rates in kindergarten, third, and fifth grades, and strong progress in first grade.

Beyond academics, Howe said Parley’s Park has pushed for clearer expectations and a more cohesive adult culture, including a commitment to “be curious and not judgmental” and “no gossip,” which she said has improved climate and safety among staff.

Howe also highlighted student-led sustainability efforts, telling the board that the school diverted 14,000 pounds of waste from the landfill last month, began composting utensils after the student council raised concerns about plastic waste, and that the student council worked with school nutrition staff and the PTA on a grant.

She also described a painted playground “time machine”—a student-friendly conflict-resolution map—that she said has changed how students work through disagreements independently during recess.

Howe closed by telling the board the school has “so much more to do,” but emphasized that more transparent communication, stronger routines, and shared ownership among staff have set a solid foundation. She expressed confidence that, with this momentum, Parley’s Park will continue to grow as a unified and welcoming community — a place that truly feels like home.