Karen Pedersen is running for reelection to the Canyons School Board District 5 seat in the Nov. 3 general election.

Pedersen, a nonpartisan candidate, faces one challenger: Dennis Lagodimos, also running as nonpartisan. The Canyons Board of Education sets policy for schools serving Sandy and surrounding communities.

The policy positions below are drawn from Pedersen's campaign website and her Ballotpedia questionnaire response. They reflect the candidate's own statements.

Candidate information

  • Office sought: Canyons School Board, District 5
  • Party: Nonpartisan
  • Education: Bachelor's in elementary education, Utah State University; master's in education, Westminster College
  • Residence: District 5, Canyons School District

Experience and public service

Pedersen has served on the Canyons Board of Education representing District 5 since Jan. 2, 2023, according to the district's board page. She is the first retired Canyons School District teacher to join the Canyons Board of Education, according to district records.

Before joining the board, Pedersen spent 41 years teaching in the Canyons School District. She was named Willow Canyon Elementary's 2021 Teacher of the Year, according to a district announcement.

Pedersen listed her experience as vice president of the Canyons Education Association on her Ballotpedia profile.

On the issues

School safety: Pedersen said student safety is a top priority. She said the district closely follows state safety guidelines and that new and remodeled buildings are designed with security in mind. Her focus, she said, is on ensuring policies are followed and that the district continually refines school safety.

Use of tax dollars: Pedersen said people understand the need to be frugal with tax dollars and the impact of how those dollars are spent.

Educational excellence: Pedersen said students should have access to developmentally appropriate instruction for all levels and equal access to interest-based courses.

Parent relationships and communication: Pedersen said she believes in inclusive involvement and appreciates and values the opinions, comments and concerns of the people she represents.

Voters in Canyons School District's District 5 can find polling and ballot information through the Salt Lake County Clerk's office.