Ski Utah & Youth Sports Alliance Announce Expanded School Program
Ski Utah and the Youth Sports Alliance (YSA) are partnering to expand and enhance Ski Utah’s long-standing school program, which has introduced thousands of fourth graders to skiing and snowboarding over the past two decades. The updated model will ultimately reach more children, provide a stronger learning experience and reduce barriers for families.
Previously, the program consisted of a single half-day ski or snowboard lesson during the school day. Starting in the 2025–26 season, students will instead take part in four half-day lessons after school. Transportation will be provided. The program will also expand beyond fourth grade, opening to children in first through sixth grade. For the 2025–26 season, Ski Utah will continue to operate its existing school programs with select schools on a limited basis.
To make participation possible for more families, the program will introduce a tiered pricing structure, with scholarships available for families making less than $120,000 annually. Scholarship recipients will also receive assistance with rental equipment. In addition to time on the slopes, participants will be introduced to other Youth Sports Alliance programs and clubs.
“This is about expanding access to the slopes for kids throughout Utah. One day on the mountain can spark an interest, but four days gives them the confidence to keep coming back. Teaming up with YSA means we can make that experience possible for more families across the state, while also planting the seeds for the next generation of athletes who may take the world stage when the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games return to Utah in 2034.” said Nathan Rafferty, President, Ski Utah
Emily Fisher, Executive Director of the Youth Sports Alliance, added, “Our mission is to introduce kids to sports in a way that fosters confidence and belonging, while teaching kids the lifelong lessons of sports – perseverance, optimism and resilience. Partnering with Ski Utah allows us to connect more families to winter sports and provide resources that make participation possible for every child, regardless of financial barriers.”
