Who We Serve

Beneficiaries of the School and Institutional Trust

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Lands designated by Congress at statehood were put in trust to generate revenue for the support of twelve public institutions. These institutions are known as trust beneficiaries. Annually, distributions from permanent trust funds provide an important source of revenue for many of Utah’s most important public purposes.

Utah schools receive 95% of all trust distributions.

In the school year 2025-26, public schools received $111 million for academic programs and initiatives that enhance learning and achievement statewide. An additional $6.7 million supported higher education, hospitals, youth services, and other public programs.

Teacher instructing two young students at a round classroom table

Three school children sitting at a desk drawing with colored pencils

A record $111 million was distributed to schools statewide for the 2025-26 school year, benefiting over 1000 schools and 647K students. Annual distributions support academic intervention and innovation, reduce class sizes, expand access to technology, and enhance professional development in public schools.

The School LAND Trust Program, administered by the School Children’s Trust Section at the Utah State Board of Education, manages the distributions to the individual K-12 schools.

Utah’s unique School LAND Trust Program leverages community input by directing funds through local School Community Councils comprised of the principal, teachers and parents.

School LAND Trust Program

Video: Learn How the Trust Works

Four smiling graduates in blue gowns, two wearing leis

Four smiling students holding robots in a classroom setting

The Utah Schools for the Deaf (USD), a division of Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind (USDB), provides specialized, comprehensive services for the deaf and hard of hearing from birth through age 22. Trust distributions support enrichment programs beyond the scope of traditional curriculum. Each program empowers students to build confidence, and lifelong skills for meaningful participation in their communities and future careers.

Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind

Two women helping a young child use a white cane

The Utah Schools for the Blind (USB), a division of Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind (USDB), provides specialized services for individuals with vision impairments from birth through age 22. Trust distributions support enrichment programs beyond the scope of traditional curriculum. These opportunities enrich student success as they explore their potential and strengthen independence.

Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind

Smiling graduate holds a Utah State University diploma cover

The Colleges of Education Trust includes programs at public universities which award teaching degrees: Utah State University, Utah Valley University, Southern Utah University, Weber State University, Utah Tech University, University of Utah. Distributions are used to enhance the preparation of students graduating with teaching degrees and support a well-prepared educator workforce for Utah’s future.

Utah Council of Education Deans (UCED)

Six miners in safety gear standing before a tunnel entrance

The Miners Hospital, part of University of Utah Health, is a program that provides care and pays medical bills for work-related illnesses or injuries for current and former Utah miners. Distributions support the treatment of patients, fund the skilled care teams who provide personalized services, and enable the acquisition of equipment to deliver services more efficiently across the state.

The Miners Hospital at University of Utah Health

Rights and Interests of Trust Beneficiaries

Trust beneficiaries have rights and interests under Utah Law to protect them now and in the future. The proper and lawful management of trust lands, funds, and distributions is their primary interest, and their specific rights include:

Right to information
Right to impartial treatment
Right to timely notice
Right to challenge certain actions
Right to distribution of funds
Other rights recognized in 53C-1-102
Right to regular accountings