State names new official to oversee Utah schools

Garfield Superintendent Myron D. Cottam on Friday was named the state's new associate superintendent for student achievement and school success.

The 31-year education veteran replaces Christine Kearl, who this month became Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr.'s public education deputy.

Cottam will oversee assessment and accountability, career and technical education, curriculum and special education.

"I'm excited about it," said Cottam, who expects to transition to the new job prior to Jan. 1. "I enjoy working with people, I enjoy working with programs, I enjoy seeing programs develop and succeed so we help kids have a better education."

Cottam brings an array of educational experience. His undergraduate degree is in zoology; his master's degree is in educational administration. He has taught German and science to junior high and high school students and directed district applied-technology education.

He has served as Region 12 chairman of the Utah High School Activities Association and president of the Garfield Education Association.

He has been principal of Escalante Elementary and Escalante High School. He has worked as Garfield superintendent since 2000.

Most recently, his district has concentrated on student achievement, identifying weaknesses and helping children improve — an effort involving whole schools, from math teachers to P.E. and shop teachers.

Such efforts are praised by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Patti Harrington.

"(Cottam) has a proven track record of performance in Garfield School District," she said. "Not only (has he helped) increase student achievement there, but also developed local sustainability. Even in his departure, I have faith Garfield is going to continue to succeed. He has helped transform that district."

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