Wayne Culley announced as new principal of West High
Mar 20, 2025, 1:00 PM | Updated: Mar 21, 2025, 11:59 am
Wayne Culley, shown on school admin and staff directory. (West High School)
(West High School)
SALT LAKE CITY — The Salt Lake City School District announced Thursday that Wayne Culley would be the new principal of West High School, effective July 1.
Culley has been the school’s interim principal since Dr. Jared Wright was placed on administrative leave in January.
“I am honored and excited to continue serving the incredible West High community,” Culley said in a school district press release. “West is a place where every student belongs, where voices matter and where dreams are supported. My goal is to foster an environment where students feel safe, valued and inspired to reach their full potential.”
The school district called Culley a “dedicated and experienced educational leader,” saying he has 20 years of experience.
“(Culley) has been a tireless advocate for West High students, staff and families. His vision includes strengthening academic achievement, promoting inclusivity, and ensuring that West High continues its tradition of excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts,” the school district said.
Culley’s 20 years in education began with teaching junior high science in the Weber County School District, then teaching at both Glendale Middle School and Clayton Middle School in the Salt Lake City School District, the district said.
He then worked as the principal of Bonneville Elementary and assistant principal of Meadowlark Elementary before ultimately ending up in administration at West High School. The Salt Lake City School District said Culley had been a part of West’s administration for two years before being named principal.
“Wayne Culley has shown exceptional dedication to West High, and I know he is ready to guide West into the future. I have great confidence that he will continue to make a positive impact on students, staff, and families,” said Salt Lake City School District Superintendent Elizabeth Grant in the press release.
“Culley’s leadership will mark an exciting new chapter for West High School. With his dedication, experience, and vision, he is poised to build on the school’s rich legacy while fostering innovation and growth,” the district said.
