On February 10, 2025, Weber High School celebrated the grand opening of its Teen Center, the fifth such facility in the Weber School District. This milestone event was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by district leaders, community members, and students, highlighting the collective efforts of many to create a space of hope and support for students in need.
The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Emily Oyler, Executive Director of the Weber School Foundation. She reflected on the incredible progress made this year, with four new teen centers opening across the district. "Teen centers have been a huge part of our foundation's work, and by June, we are on track to have one in every high school," she said.
Guests were treated to a heartfelt musical performance of When She Loved Me by the Weber High School Chamber Choir, directed by Caleb Saunders, setting an emotional and inspiring tone for the event.
Superintendent Gina Butters emphasized the urgency and importance of the Teen Centers, noting that over 900 students in the district face homelessness or housing and food insecurity at any given time. "These centers are not just spaces; they are sanctuaries. They provide students with dignity, stability, and hope," she stated.
Other speakers, including Jen Dunyon, Board President of the Weber School Foundation, and Steve Kier, Teen Center Committee Chair, highlighted the community's generosity and the transformative impact of the centers. Rob Birch of Hogan Construction shared his pride in bringing the project to life, while Weber High Principal Ryan Kachold reaffirmed the Teen Center's critical role in helping students overcome barriers to their education.
The event concluded with the cheerleaders leading attendees to the new Teen Center for the ribbon cutting, performed by the Spikers from the Ogden-Weber Chamber of Commerce. Guests enjoyed self-guided tours of the state-of-the-art facility, which includes laundry services, a food pantry, private study spaces, and more, designed to meet the needs of students facing adversity. A taco truck, sponsored by Dr. Kim and Flora Cassity, and treats provided by Hogan Construction, added a celebratory touch.
This new center stands as a testament to the district’s commitment to ensuring that every student feels valued and supported. Thanks to the contributions of donors, the Policy Project, and the Weber School Foundation, these spaces are making a real difference, helping students build a brighter future.
The Weber High Teen Center is more than a building—it’s a lifeline. Together, as Superintendent Butters said, we ensure that “hope must be loud” in our schools, communities, and hearts.