Skip to main content

Midvale Journal

Canyons School District superintendent to retire after 38 years in education

Feb 03, 2020 12:16PM ● By Justin Adams

After six years as Canyons School District superintendent, Jim Briscoe, seen here speaking at Hillcrest High’s 2019 graduation, recently announced he will retire June 30. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

By Julie Slama | [email protected]

When talking about Canyons School District Superintendent Jim Briscoe, Brighton High Principal Tom Sherwood almost instantaneously said Briscoe is “happy, loves his job and loves life — and he’s quick to shift the spotlight to others around him.”

“He’s always generous with praise to recognize a department or people who do exceptional or positive things,” Sherwood said. “People have appreciated his positivity; the fact they are appreciated and valued. He’s always quick with a joke or a funny story at the start of a meeting.”

However, those stories may be numbered, as on Jan. 23, Briscoe sent an email to district personnel informing them of his intent to retire June 30 after serving the district for six years.

“While I write this notice, there are many emotions running through me,” he wrote. “Serving as superintendent for Canyons School District has proven to be one of the most positive experiences I have had during the past 38 years working in public education.”

And true to Sherwood’s observations, Briscoe praised Canyons Board of Education as well as Canyons’ administrators, principals, teachers and staff in his retirement letter.

“Canyons School District is moving in the right direction as a result of your leadership. I have been humbled and honored to work alongside each of you,” he said.

While he said he plans to spend time with family and friends, he said he doesn’t have a clear path for what he will do.

“For the first time in my life, I have butterflies in my stomach for what the future holds,” he said.

 “Please be assured, I plan to fulfill my role and responsibilities 110% through the next six months.”

He also said he will work with the Board of Education to ensure a seamless transition to his successor. The district will seek and interview applicants this spring.