CHAPTER
14
THE EXPANDING EDUCATIONAL HORIZON J_;ducational programs in Utah County began in 1850 when a log schoolhouse was constructed in the new fort at Provo. Officially, "An Act in Relation to C o m m o n Schools," approved on 3 March 1852, stipulated: "It shall be the duty of the County Court in each county, to divide . . . their respective counties into proper school districts, and cause to be elected by the qualified voters in each district, three Trustees, who may appoint their own clerk."1 Three other sections outlined how c o m m o n schools were to be organized and administered by the counties, including the establishment of a board of school teacher examiners. Under the provisions of this legislation, on 19 April Utah County officials appointed Alanson Norton, lohn Banks, and loseph Kelley as examiners. By December, many ward schools had "commodious and comfortable school houses," yet many of those applying for teaching positions failed their examinations. 2 In 1860, the office of county superintendent of common schools was created by the territorial legislature. Charles D. Evans filled the position in Utah County and reported on 20 October: "Several commodious school rooms are in the course of construction." 3 While 325
