Media Releases

Wyoming Department of Education > Communications > Media Releases

March 7, 2024

Superintendent Degenfelder To Host Education Town Hall In Lander

The Wyoming Department of Education will host an Education Town Hall at 6 p.m. on Monday, March 11 in the Lander Community & Convention Center. Members of the public are invited to join and share feedback.

February 20, 2024

WDE Seeks Comment On Chapter 32 Rules

The Wyoming Department of Education seeks public comment on the proposed Wyoming Department of Education Chapter 32 rules pertaining to Charter Schools. Public comment may be submitted online until 11:59 p.m. on April 6, 2024.

February 2, 2024

Wyoming Students Selected for United States Senate Youth Program

The Wyoming Department of Education and the United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) announce that high school students Casey J. Dean Toner and Grace H. Zhou will join Senator John Barrasso and Senator Cynthia Lummis in representing Wyoming during the 62nd annual USSYP Washington Week, to be held March 2 – 9, 2024. Casey Toner of Glenrock and Grace Zhou of Laramie were selected from among the state’s top student leaders to be among the 104 national students in the delegation.

January 31, 2024

WDE Seeks Public Comment on Proposed Standards Reductions

The Wyoming Department of Education seeks public comment on proposed standards for Math, Science, Computer Science, Physical Education, Health and Safety, and Fine & Performing Arts. Public comment can be submitted through online survey, virtual session, or written comment, by 11:59 p.m. on March 21. The public can attend a virtual public comment session to provide verbal input.

January 30, 2024

Wyoming’s Future Of Learning Collaborative Launches Second Round of Pilot Programs

Wyoming’s Future of Learning collaborative is accepting applications from school districts for the second round of a pilot project to reimagine K-12 education through competency based learning. This opportunity will expand the reach of the initial RIDE pilot program currently underway in nine Wyoming school districts by adding seven additional districts for the 2024-25 school year.

January 25, 2024

WDE Releases 2022-23 Graduation Rates

The Wyoming Department of Education announced that high school graduation rates remained relatively consistent, with 81.4 percent in 2022-23, a slight decrease of .4 percent from 2021-22’s 81.8 percent. Wyoming’s graduation rates have remained statistically strong – above 80 percent since 2015-16. Despite the slight decrease, 284 more students graduated last year, than the year prior.

January 23, 2024

Superintendent Degenfelder Launches Curriculum Transparency Initiative

State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Megan Degenfelder and the Wyoming Department of Education have launched the Curriculum Transparency page on the WDE website as outlined in the 2023-2027 WDE Strategic Plan. This webpage will directly link to similar curricular transparency pages on participating district websites.

January 18, 2024

WDE Seeks Comment on SBE Chapter 1 Rules

The Wyoming Department of Education seeks public comment on the proposed State Board of Education Chapter 1 rules pertaining to Certificate of Completion Requirements. Public comment may be submitted online until 11:59 p.m. on March 8.

Superintendent Degenfelder To Host Curriculum Transparency Event At Cody High School

The Wyoming Department of Education will host an hybrid media event at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, January 23 at the Wynona Thompson Auditorium, on the campus of Cody High School. Members of the press and public are invited.

January 17, 2024

WDE Honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. And Buffalo Soldiers

The Wyoming Department of Education hosted an event on Tuesday, January 16 in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and to celebrate African American contributions to Wyoming through a presentation on Buffalo Soldiers, early 1900’s military units composed of Black men stationed at Fort D.A. Russell, presently F.E. Warren AFB. Attendees included the Mayoral Youth Council, St. Mary’s Catholic School students, and members of the Boys & Girls Club of Cheyenne.

January 8, 2024

WDE Seeks Public Comment On Perkins V Wyoming State Plan

The Wyoming Department of Education is seeking public comment on the proposed Wyoming State Plan for the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V). The act provides federal funding for secondary and postsecondary career and technical education in Wyoming.

December 11, 2023

Superintendent Degenfelder Announces Statewide Mental Health Services Connection Program

Superintendent Degenfelder and the Wyoming Department of Education announce Care Coordination, a free statewide service connecting Wyoming students, families, and school district staff with mental health care providers both locally and nationally. This resource will create the opportunity for improved mental wellbeing while keeping Wyoming parents in charge. The program also furthers the WDE’s strategic plan initiative to value and support teachers.

November 21, 2023

Superintendent Degenfelder Announces Plan For Digital Learning Innovation

The Wyoming Department of Education has released the 2023-28 Wyoming Digital Learning Plan to ensure that Wyoming’s students have equitable access to opportunities at the forefront of digital learning that allow them to attain technological skills required by the workforce, postsecondary education, or military through student-centered strategies that respond to local guidance and needs.

November 15, 2023

Superintendent Degenfelder Joins Effort to Enhance Collaboration Between State Education Departments and The Department Of Defense

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder has signed on to a letter to the Department of Defense from the Kansas Commissioner of Education, Randall D. Watson, and 29 additional state education leaders, requesting a new information sharing protocol for graduates who pursue a military career.

November 1, 2023

Superintendent Degenfelder and WDE Launch Guidance for Establishing or Modifying Library Material Policy

State Superintendent Megan Degenfelder and the Wyoming Department of Education have released the guidance for Establishing or Modifying Library Material Policy as outlined in the 2023-2027 WDE Strategic Plan.

October 18, 2023

Superintendent Degenfelder to Testify on Capitol Hill Thursday

Wyoming State Superintendent Megan Degenfelder has been invited to testify before the United States Congress, House Committee on Education and the Workforce Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education. The hearing titled “Protecting Kids: Combatting Graphic, Explicit Content in School Libraries” will be held on Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 10:15 a.m. (EST).

September 29, 2023

Superintendent Degenfelder Celebrates Wyoming’s National Blue Ribbon Schools

Superintendent Megan Degenfelder and the Wyoming Department of Education congratulate two Wyoming schools named National Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education. Sagewood Elementary in Casper, and Southside Elementary in Powell were identified among the 353 schools honored. Both schools were recognized in the Exemplary High Performing Schools category.

September 25, 2023

Wyoming Announces Collaborative Initiative to Expand Hunting, Fishing, and Conservation Curriculum Opportunities to More Schools

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department Director Brian Nesvik, Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder and Governor Mark Gordon joined forces last week to announce a collaborative initiative to expand conservation education opportunities for Wyoming’s youth under Game and Fish’s Inspire a Kid campaign.

September 15, 2023

Educator Professional Growth Supported with Innovative Learning Portal Developed by Wyoming Department of Education, University of Wyoming, and Professional Teaching Standards Board

The Wyoming Department of Education, in partnership with the Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board , and the University of Wyoming has launched the WYO Education PD Portal, a statewide professional development system for all Wyoming educators. The portal makes it easy to find, register, and track progress for educator professional development opportunities.

September 13, 2023

WDE Names John Corbin 2024 Wyoming Teacher Of The Year

 John Corbin, a high school social studies teacher at Cody High School, has been named the 2024 Wyoming Teacher of the Year in a surprise assembly. Corbin, a Wyoming educator for 15 years, is a strong advocate for civics education. He believes that all students should have the opportunity to learn about the history and government of their country.

September 12, 2023

Superintendent Degenfelder Embarks on Statewide Tour to Celebrate Excellence in Teaching

Wyoming State Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder is traveling the state in September and October on a Tour of Excellence. The visits align with Degenfelder’s WDE Strategic Plan, released earlier this year, furthering the initiative on valuing and supporting teachers. The Tour of Excellence will feature five school districts identified to be excelling in special education, Career and Technical Education , art excellence, civic excellence, and personalized learning.

WDE, PTSB & UW To Host Hybrid Media Event To Launch The WYO Education Professional Development Portal

The Wyoming Department of Education, Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board, and the University of Wyoming will host a joint, hybrid media event at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 15 in the Capitol Complex Auditorium, Basement-Level of the Herschler Building. Superintendent Megan Degenfelder will lead the celebration of the collaborative effort culminating in the launch of theWYOEd Professional Development Portal, providing districts and educators across Wyoming with a single, user-friendly resource for all aspects of professional development.

September 8, 2023

WDE to Honor Local First Responders on 9/11 National Day of Service

The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) will participate in the National Day of Service and Remembrance to honor and thank local first responders and public servants for their dedication to our community. Staff members from the WDE will drop off treats, cards of support, and more to Cheyenne and Laramie County employees on Monday, September 11, 2023.

September 5, 2023

WDE and Superintendent Degenfelder Release 2023 Assessment Data and New Tools for Parents

The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) has released results for the 2022-23 Wyoming Test of Proficiency and Progress (WY-TOPP) and Wyoming Alternate Assessment (WY-ALT). Full assessment data, district by district snapshots by content area and grade, and a Parents & Community Members Overview outlining the assessment process and additional current results are included in the released statement.

September 1, 2023

WDE and Superintendent Degenfelder Release 2023 School Performance Ratings with New Resources for Parents

The Wyoming Department of Education has released results for the 2022-23 School Performance Ratings. Full school performance rating data, a snapshot of three ratings periods sorted by district, and a Parent & Community Member Overview are included in the released statement.

WDE To Host Hybrid Media Event For 2023 Assessment Results

The Wyoming Department of Education will host a hybrid media event to discuss assessment results for the 2022-23 school year at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, September 6 in the Capitol Complex Auditorium, Basement Level of the Herschler Building. Superintendent Degenfelder will be joined by representatives from district and school leadership.

August 15, 2023

Superintendent Degenfelder and WDE Support Economic Innovation Through CTE Grants to Schools

The Wyoming Department of Education , Career and Technical Education Team announces three districts who will receive WDE State Career and Technical Education Grants. Weston County School District #7 (WCSD #7), Sheridan County School District #2 (SCSD #2), and Sheridan County School District #3 (SCSD #3) will each receive up to $50,000 a year over two years from the WDE. These funds will support the purchase of supplies, materials and equipment for a new or existing career and technical education program in their districts.

July 31, 2023

WDE & Superintendent Degenfelder Launch Get Wild Wyoming To Get Kids Learning Outside

One of Wyoming’s most valuable resources is the rich environment in which we live. Diverse in its landscapes, flora and fauna, climates, and history- our state offers an incredible learning environment for our children to explore. The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) is launching the Get Wild, Wyoming initiative to tear down the walls of Wyoming classrooms so kids can get wild through nature-based education.

WDE Seeks Comment On Chapter 36 & 37 Rules

The Wyoming Department of Education seeks public comment on the proposed  Chapter 36 and Chapter 37 Rules pertaining to W.S. 21-12-105 and 21-13-337: Career and Technical Education. Public comment may be submitted online, or via email until 11:59 p.m. on September 18, 2023. All public comments will be recorded verbatim, including the submitter’s name and city of residence, on the Secretary of State’s website as part of the rules promulgation process.

July 27, 2023

Charter School Authorizing Board Announces Initial Public Meeting

The Wyoming Charter School Authorizing Board will conduct its first meeting starting at 1:00 p.m. on July 17th. The board will undergo training on the history of charter schools in Wyoming, board etiquette, and will work to establish its operating procedures. The meeting will be held virtually and will be available to the public to join.

July 12, 2023

Wde Seeks Public Input On Proposed Standards For Computer Science, Physical Education, Health, and Fine & Performing Arts

The Wyoming Department of Education is collecting informal public input on the 2023 Wyoming Standards for Computer Science, Physical Education, Health, and Fine & Performing Arts at the request of the State Board of Education (SBE). The collected input will be shared with the SBE.

June 29, 2023

Degenfelder Appoints State Business Leader, National Charter School Expert, and Wyoming CTE Hall of Fame Teacher to Charter School Authorizing Board

CHEYENNE – State Superintendent Megan Degenfelder has appointed three individuals to the new Charter School Authorizing Board. Passed by the legislature during the 2023 session, Wyoming Statute 21-3-302 takes effect July 1, 2023 and establishes the Wyoming Charter School Authorizing Board with a mission to approve high-quality public charter schools in the state. The board is composed of eight appointed individuals from across Wyoming.

 

June 12, 2023

WDE Seeks Comment On K-3 Reading Assessment and Intervention Rules

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education seeks public comment on the proposed Chapter 56 Rules pertaining to WS 21-3-401(a): K-3 Reading Assessment and Intervention. Public comment may be submitted online, or via email by 11:59 p.m. on July 31, 2023. All public comments will be recorded verbatim, including the submitter’s name and city of residence, on the Secretary of State website as part of the rules promulgation process.

May 31, 2023

Superintendent Degenfelder Submits Comment Opposing BLM’s Proposed Anti-land Use Regulation

CHEYENNE – Wyoming State Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder submitted a public comment opposing the federal Bureau of Land Management’s new proposed rule regarding so-called conservation “use” of federal lands. If this rule passes, it can severely compromise Wyoming’s ability to realize returns off our state and federal lands by locking up parcels into Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) that disallow multiple uses such as mineral development and grazing. These returns are essential to funding our state education system and other services.

May 24, 2023

“Wyoming’s Future of Learning” Collaborative Launches First Pilot Programs

CHEYENNE, Wyo. –  Governor Mark Gordon, Superintendent Megan Degenfelder and the Wyoming Department of Education, the State Board of Education, and the University of Wyoming College of Education are accepting applications from school districts for an instruction and assessment pilot project that is poised to  transform the trajectory of education in Wyoming. The entities have created the “Wyoming’s Future of Learning” a collaborative effort that will lead this first pilot program and additional pilots to follow.

May 15, 2023

State Superintendent Degenfelder Releases Strategic Plan Focusing on Parental Rights, Job Preparations and Citizenship

CHEYENNE –  State Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder has released a strategic plan that will guide the Wyoming Department of Education’s focus and priorities for 2023 – 2027. The Superintendent intends to create a state education system that is transparent, efficient and encourages parents to play an active role in their child’s schooling. She aims to ensure Wyoming students are well-prepared for good careers and have the knowledge required to be engaged American citizens.

May 15, 2023

State Superintendent Degenfelder Joins with Florida Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. in Fighting Proposed Federal Title Ix Rule Changes

CHEYENNE – Wyoming State Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder has joined Manny Diaz, Jr.; Commissioner of the Florida Department of Education and other state school leaders in signing a comment letter opposing the United States Department of Education’s recent Title IX notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) affecting K-12 and collegiate athletics.

May 10, 2023

Two Wyoming Students Named 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars

CHEYENNE – The U.S. Department of Education announced the addition of Audrey Su-Wai Yeung of Laramie and Cameron Nicholas Reckard of Sheridan to the 59th class of U.S. Presidential Scholars.

April 21, 2023

SBE Votes to Partner with Governor Gordon, Superintendent Degenfelder, and UW College of Education

RIVERTON – The Wyoming State Board of Education voted on Thursday to move discussions forward in partnership with Governor Mark Gordon, Superintendent Megan Degenfelder, the Wyoming Department of Education, and the UW College of Education on piloting new instruction and assessment strategies for Wyoming students.

March 28, 2023

WDE Seeks Public Input on Proposed 2023 Math and Science Standards

The Wyoming Department of Education is collecting public input on the 2023 Wyoming Math and Science Standards at the request of the State Board of Education. The collected input will be shared with the SBE.

March 20, 2023

Four Wyoming Teachers Named 2023 State Finalists for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

CHEYENNE –  Four Wyoming teachers – Emmy Hergert, Rick Simineo, Charity Penn, and London Jenks – have been selected as the 2023 state finalists for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

February 7, 2023

Wyoming Students Selected for United States Senate Youth Program

CHEYENNE – Phoebe Elaine Allbright of Lusk and Sophia Gomelsky of Laramie will join Senator John Barrasso and Senator Cynthia Lummis in representing Wyoming during the 61st annual United States Senate Youth Program Washington Week, set for March 4-11, 2023.

February 2, 2023

WDE and PTSB Announce Retention and Recruitment Task Force Members

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education and the Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board has announced its Retention and Recruitment Task Force; the mission of the task force will be to develop recommendations for state policymakers, district-level, and school-level staff to increase efforts to positively impact the education workforce.

January 31, 2023

WDE Releases 2021-22 Graduation Rates

CHEYENNE – Wyoming’s graduation rates have remained statistically strong – above 80 percent since 2015-16. The Wyoming Department of Education announced today that high school graduation rates were 81.8 percent in 2021-22, a decrease of .6 percent from 2020-21’s 82.4 percent, which was the highest rate reported in a nine-year span.

January 27, 2023

WDE Media Conference Tuesday to Discuss 2021-22 Graduation Rates

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) will host a virtual media conference at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, to discuss the 2021-22 Wyoming high school graduation rate. State Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder and WDE staff will be available to answer media questions.

January 26, 2023

Governor Gordon, Wyoming Military Department and the WDE Award First Two Purple Star Schools in Wyoming

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education, along with Governor Mark Gordon and the Wyoming Military Department, awarded Wyoming’s first two Purple Star Schools – Freedom Elementary School and McCormick Junior High School – today at a ceremony at the Wyoming State Capitol.

January 24, 2023

Summer Food Service Programs Available Across Wyoming

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Summer Food Service program for kids offered through the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) served thousands of meals last summer to Wyoming children and teens.

January 17, 2023

Superintendent Degenfelder Appoints Former Deputy Secretary of State Karen Wheeler as Boards and Commissions Coordinator

CHEYENNE – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder has named Karen Wheeler as the Boards and Commissions Coordinator for the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE).

January 10, 2023

WDE Announces Wyoming Child And Adult Care Food Program Sites

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education has announced the participating Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) organizations in Wyoming. The program reimburses participating organizations for nutritious meals and snacks served to children in child care centers and family day care homes. The program teaches good eating habits and assures that well-balanced, nourishing meals are served in these participating centers.

January 9, 2023

WDE & PTSB Launch Teacher Retention & Recruitment Taskforce with Call for Members

CHEYENNE – As a follow-up to the establishment of the Wyoming Teacher Apprenticeship last fall, the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) and the Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board (PTSB) will turn its attention to the creation of a Teacher Retention and Recruitment Task Force. The mission of the task force will be to develop recommendations for state policymakers, district-level, and school-level staff to increase efforts to positively impact the education workforce.

November 29, 2022

Milken Educator Awards Come to Wyoming, Surprising One Deserving Buffalo Educator with $25,000

Buffalo — Kindergarten is a big transition, but for Jessica Kavitz’s students at Meadowlark Elementary School, she eases them into the school year with movement-as-learning, colorful and creative exercises to engage their young minds, and social-emotional learning tools to build confidence. Kavitz (KAY-vitz) is a local leader, following in the footsteps of her mother who was an educator in Gillette for nearly three decades. At a schoolwide assembly today, Kavitz was honored for her work in and out of the classroom, becoming the district’s first recipient of the Milken Educator Award, often hailed as the “Oscar of Teaching.”

Wyoming’s Fall K-12 Enrollment Decreased In 2022

CHEYENNE – Overall enrollment in Wyoming’s schools dropped by 352 students for the 2022-23 school year. In a review of the data, 28 school districts had a dip in enrollment, 19 increased in size, and one district had no change.

October 24, 2022

2022 Wyoming NAEP Reading and Mathematics Scores Released

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) has released the state’s reading and mathematics results on the 2022 National Assessment of Educational Progress, known as the Nation’s Report Card, or NAEP.

October 19, 2022

WDE, PTSB Sign Teacher Apprenticeship Standards, Creating Additional Pathways for Candidates to Seek Teacher Certification

CHEYENNE – Representatives from the The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE), the Professional Teaching Standards Board (PTSB), and the U.S. Department of Labor have signed an agreement creating the standards for Wyoming’s Teacher Apprenticeship initiative, which will allow pilot school districts to begin taking applications from candidates for the spring 2023 semester.

October 14, 2022

WDE Releases ACT Results For 2022 Graduating Class

CHEYENNE – Wyoming’s graduating class of 2022 had an average composite score of 19.2 on the ACT according to The Condition of College & Career Readiness 2022. This is ACT’s annual report on the progress of U.S. high school graduates relative to college readiness.

WDE and PTSB to Host Teacher Apprenticeship Standards Signing Event

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education and the Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board will host representatives from the U.S. Department of Labor for a signing event starting at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 19 in the Capitol Complex Auditorium, Basement Level of the Herschler Building. The Wyoming Teacher Apprenticeship standards will be signed, allowing pilot school districts to begin taking applications from candidates for the spring 2023 semester.

Media partners wishing to view the signing can access it via the Zoom link here.

October 10, 2022

Chapter 26 Rules, Institutional School Accreditation, to be Repealed

CHEYENNE – Chapter 26 Rules, Institutional School Accreditation, will be repealed and removed from the Wyoming Department of Education’s (WDE) list of rules.

September 22, 2022

Zach Beam Named Wyoming’s 2023 Teacher of the Year

NEWCASTLE – Zach Beam, a physical science, physics, and advanced chemistry teacher at Newcastle High School, has been named Wyoming’s 2023 Teacher of the Year, in a surprise assembly at the school on Thursday.

September 14, 2022

2021-22 School Performance Ratings Released by the WDE

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) has released its school accountability results for the 2021-22 school year after a two-year hiatus from reporting. The 2018-19 determinations were held constant during the 2019-20 and 2020-21 school years. Full results are available online.

September 13, 2022

The WDE Releases 2022 Assessment Results

CHEYENNE – Results for the fourth administration of the Wyoming Test of Proficiency and Progress (WY-TOPP) are now available online.

August 19, 2022

WDE Promulgating Chapter 44 Rules; Public Comment Open

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education is promulgating Chapter 44 Rules, and now seeks public comment on the proposed rules.

July 8, 2022

WDE & PTSB Announce Wyoming Teacher Apprenticeship

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) and the Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board (PTSB) have announced the school districts chosen to participate in the Teacher Apprenticeship Pilot, which include Laramie County School District #1, Teton County School District #1, and Fremont County School District #24.

June 22, 2022

Updated Statement from Superintendent Schroeder on USDA Nutrition Funding

CHEYENNE – “On May 5, 2022, President Biden’s U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that all state and local agencies funded by its sub-agency, Food and Nutrition Services (FNS), ‘must’ update its non-discrimination policies to include new provisions for ‘gender identity and sexual orientation,’ or risk the loss of millions in federal lunch dollars.

June 8, 2022

WDE Position on the USDA’s Updated Discrimination Policy

CHEYENNE – Recently, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), through the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), Civil Rights Division (CRD) applied the U.S. Supreme Court’s holding in Bostock v. Clayton County to its updated discrimination statement. Specifically, FNS’s interpretation of discrimination on the basis of sex in programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance now includes discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

June 7, 2022

WDE To Host Roundtable Discussions With District Superintendents On School Safety

CHEYENNE – In response to the most recent school shootings in Uvalde, Texas, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder has directed Deputy Superintendent Chad Auer to host a series of roundtable discussions across the state with district superintendents, staff, and school board members in June and July.

June 3, 2022

Statement from Wyoming Superintendent Schroeder on Title IX Funding Mandate

CHEYENNE – “As Wyoming’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, I wish to denounce in the strongest terms possible, the Biden Administration’s recent reinterpretation of the USDA’s Title IX funding to update its nondiscrimination policies and signage ‘to include prohibitions against discriminations based on gender identity and sexual orientation.’

May 24, 2022

WDE Seeks Public Input on Wyoming Seal of Biliteracy

CHEYENNE – A Wyoming Seal of Biliteracy is being created for students proficient in two or more languages. An advisory committee of language educators will convene to recommend assessments and levels of proficiency on assessments that will enable students to earn a Seal of Biliteracy, including a seal with Advanced Distinction.

May 17, 29022

2022 Wyoming Summer Food Service Program to Begin Soon

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Summer Food Service program for kids offered through the Wyoming Department of Education kicks off soon. Every summer the program delivers thousands of meals to Wyoming children and teens.

May 2, 2022

Wyoming Charter School Application Now Available

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming legislature amended the Charter School statutes to allow for an alternative path for approval of charter schools (W.S. 21-3-301 through W.S. 21-3-314). This change allows for charter schools to apply to either the local district or the State Loan and Investment Board (SLIB) and will take effect July 1, 2022.

April 12, 2022

WDE Seeks Waiver for Extension of Community Eligibility Provision Deadlines

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education Child Nutrition Programs (CNP) has submitted a waiver request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service (USDA FNS) to extend the current Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) deadlines. The extension of the CEP deadlines is in response to the recovery of the pandemic to allow school districts time to collect the necessary data to participate in CEP for SY 2022–23.

February 28, 2022

The WDE Seeks Public Comment on Proposed Charter School

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks public comment on proposed changes to the state’s charter school rules.

February 11, 2022

Superintendent of Public Instruction Appoints Chief of Staff

CHEYENNE – Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder has appointed Chad Auer as the Wyoming Department of Education’s Chief of Staff. Auer will assume his role with the agency on Monday, February 14, 2022.

February 10, 2022

Wyoming Teachers Receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science

CHEYENNE – Two Wyoming educators – Katie McCue and Craig Williams – have received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). President Joe Biden made the winner’s announcement on Tuesday.

February 1, 2022

Schroeder to be Sworn in Friday as Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction

CHEYENNE – A formal swearing-in ceremony for Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder will take place in the Capitol Rotunda at 3:15 pm on Friday February 4, 2022. Chief Justice of the Wyoming Supreme Court Kate Fox will administer the oath of office. The ceremony is open to the public.

January 19, 2022

Wyoming High School Graduation Rate Improves for Eighth Consecutive Year

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) announced today that high school graduation rates increased to 82.4% in 2020-21, marking the eighth-consecutive year of improvement from the class of 2013, where 77.6.% of students graduated.

January 18, 2022

Wyoming Students Selected for United States Senate Youth Program

CHEYENNE – Cameron Nicholas Reckard and Tamica Lee Smith will join Senator John Barrasso and Senator Cynthia Lummis in representing Wyoming during the 60th annual United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) Washington Week, set for March 6-9, 2022.

January 14, 2022

Summer Food Service Programs Available Across Wyoming

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Summer Food Service program for kids offered through the Wyoming Department of Education served thousands of meals last summer to Wyoming children and teens.

January 13, 2022

Statement from Wyoming State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow

“I am honored, and deeply humbled, to announce that Virginia Governor-elect Glenn Youngkin has asked me to serve as Virginia’s Superintendent of Public Instruction. With a focused drive to lead on the front lines of educational transformation in this country, I have accepted. Therefore, I announce my resignation from the office of Wyoming State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Serving as State Superintendent for the last seven years has been the greatest honor and challenge of my life.”

Governor-elect Youngkin Announces Selection of Education Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent

RICHMOND, VA – Governor-elect Glenn Youngkin today announced he has chosen Jillian Balow as the next Superintendent of Public Instruction at the Virginia Department of Education, and Elizabeth Schultz as the next Assistant Superintendent of Public Instruction at the Virginia Department of Education.

January 10, 2022

The WDE Seeks Public Comment on Proposed Performance Standards for Math and Science

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education seeks public comment on the proposed Chapter 10 Rules, which include the proposed 2021 Science Performance Standards and the proposed 2021 Math Performance Standards. Performance standards are a subset of the content standards that all students are expected to learn and be assessed on, and specify the degree of understanding for that particular standard. Performance standards were first identified for Computer Science in 2021 and are now being identified in the other content areas by the State Board of Education.

December 14, 2021

Public Input Sought on Proposed Rules for School Accountability

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming State Board of Education (SBE) is promulgating Chapter 47 Rules on the Wyoming Accountability System and seeks public comment on the proposed rules.

December 8, 2021

WDE Announces Wyoming Child And Adult Care Food Program Sites for 2021-22

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education has announced the participating Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) organizations in Wyoming. The program reimburses participating organizations for nutritious meals and snacks served to children in child care centers and family day care homes. The program teaches good eating habits and assures that well-balanced, nourishing meals are served in these participating centers.

November 24, 2021

Public Comment Requested on Federal Accountability Changes

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education seeks public comment on an amendment to its state plan for federal accountability. Public comment will be collected through December 24, 2021.

November 8, 2021

Public Comment Open for Driver Education Program Rules Changes

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) is promulgating changes to Chapter 39 for Driver Education Program Approval. These changes are now open to public comment through December 24, 2021.

October 11, 2021

Public Comment Sought on Removal of Rules Chapters 4 and 45

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education invites the public to comment on the proposed removal of Rules Chapters 4 and 45.

September 22, 2021

Brittney Montgomery Named Wyoming’s 2022 Teacher of the Year

CHEYENNE – Brittney Montgomery, a first-grade teacher at Sweetwater County School District #2’s Harrison Elementary School in Green River, was named Wyoming’s 2022 Teacher of the Year during Wednesday’s Wyoming Education Summit.

September 20, 2021

WDE Seeks Public Input on Proposed Fine and Performing Arts Standards

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education is collecting public input on proposed changes to the 2022 Wyoming Fine and Performing Arts Content and Performance Standards at the request of the State Board of Education (SBE). The collected input will be shared with the SBE.

September 15, 2021

Racines, Balow to Make History, Compete in Wyoming’s One Shot Antelope Hunt

CHEYENNE – State Auditor Kristi Racines and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow will compete in the 2021 Wyoming One Shot Antelope Hunt September 15-18. While notable past shooters include the likes of General Norman Schwarzkopf, Roy Rogers, Senator Al Simpson, and Vice President Dick Cheney, this is the first year that women will participate as hunters.

September 10, 2021

Wyoming Senators Driskill and Dockstader Join State Superintendent Jillian Balow to Lead Fight Against Critical Race Theory in Wyoming

CHEYENNE – Wyoming Senator Ogden Driskill will introduce state legislation to fight back against Critical Race Theory (CRT) in Wyoming; with Senate President Dan Dockstader co-sponsoring the bill.

September 8, 2021

Senate Majority Floor Leader Driskill, President Dockstader and State Superintendent Balow to Host Media Conference Friday

CHEYENNE – Wyoming Senators Dan Dockstader and Ogden Driskill will join State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow outside the Superintendent’s Capitol Office to host a media conference at 10 a.m. on Friday, September 10. They will discuss proposed legislation to fight back against Critical Race Theory in Wyoming’s K-12 classrooms.

September 1, 2021

Summer Food Service Program Delivers Nearly One Million Meals to Wyoming Youth

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Summer Food Service program for kids, offered through the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE), served nearly one million meals to Wyoming children and teens in 2021.

August 27, 2021

Superintendent Balow Mourns Death of U.S. Marine from Jackson

CHEYENNE – Upon learning that Rylee McCollum, a 2019 graduate of Jackson Hole High School, was one of the U.S. Marines killed in Afghanistan on August 26, 2021, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow released the following statement:

“Saying that I am grateful for Rylee’s service to our country does not begin to encapsulate the grief and sadness I feel today as a mother and as an American. My heart and prayers are with Rylee’s family, friends, and the entire Jackson community.

“We will find many ways to honor Rylee for this ultimate and untimely sacrifice in the coming months and years – but for now, my arms are wrapped around Rylee’s loved ones from afar and I pray they find some comfort.”

August 24, 2021

State Releases Assessment Results

CHEYENNE – Results for the third administration of the Wyoming Test of Proficiency and Progress (WY-TOPP) are now available online.

August 20, 2021

Wyoming Achieves 96.46% Participation Rate on 2020-21 Statewide Assessment

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) will release the 2020-21 statewide assessment results on Tuesday, August 24, 2021. Wyoming successfully administered the statewide assessment to 96.46 percent of its students in spring of 2021.

July 14, 2021

Summer Food Service Programs Available Across Wyoming

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Summer Food Service program for kids offered through the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) has already served thousands of meals this summer to Wyoming children and teens.

July 12, 2021

Public Comment Open for Hathaway Scholarship Rules

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education is promulgating changes to the Chapter 38 Rules regarding the Hathaway Scholarship Program, and now seeks public comment on the proposed rules. The comment window is open from July 12-August 30, 2021.

June 8, 2021

Wyoming Submits Plan for Federal Relief Dollars for Education

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) submitted its ARP ESSER State Plan to the U.S. Department of Education and is now collecting public comment on the plan. The American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act includes $303,709,391 in ARP Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds for Wyoming. Funds will be distributed by the WDE directly to school districts based on the formula already established by Title I, Part A.

June 7, 2021

WDE Seeks Public Input on Health and Physical Education Content and Performance Standards

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education is collecting public input on the 2021 Wyoming Health Education Content and Performance Standards and the 2021 Physical Education Content and Performance Standards at the request of the State Board of Education (SBE). The input collected on the Health and Physical Education Standards will be shared with the SBE.

May 17, 2021

WDE Seeks Public Comment on Chapter 2 Rules for Minimum Standards for Student Transportation Vehicles

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) is receiving public comment regarding changes to the Chapter 2 Rules regarding the Minimum Standards for Wyoming Student Transportation Vehicles.

May 4, 2021

State Superintendent Jillian Balow’s Statement on Proposed U.S. Department of Education Rule Prioritizing Critical Race Theory Curriculum in K-12 Schools

CHEYENNE – The U.S. Department of Education has proposed priorities for American History and Civics Education grant programs published in the Federal Register. Those priorities include encouraging districts to use curriculum related to divisive author Ibram X. Kendi and the New York Times “1619 Project.” This is an alarming move toward federal overreach into district curriculum and should be rebuked across party lines.

April 30, 2021

Wyoming Student Selected to Attend the 2021 National Youth Science Camp

CHEYENNE – Governor Mark Gordon has announced that Danielle Jones has been selected to represent Wyoming at the 2021 National Youth Science Camp.  Jones will graduate in May from Thunder Basin High School in Gillette.

April 19, 2021

Public Input Requested for Foreign Language Standards

CHEYENNE – The 2013 Wyoming Foreign Language Content and Performance Standards are up for review, and the Wyoming Department of Education seeks public input for the committee’s consideration during its review.

April 13, 2021

WDE Announces ESSER I Reserve Grant Opportunity

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education has announced an opportunity for Wyoming school districts to apply for remaining ESSER I State Education Agency Reserve (SEA reserve) funds. The intent of ESSER I funding is to address the impact that COVID-19 has had, and continues to have, on elementary and secondary schools. The authorizing federal legislation identifies allowable uses of funds related to preventing, preparing for, and responding to COVID-19.

March 31, 2021

Public Comment extended on Proposed Changes to Accreditation Rules

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education is extending the public comment period on the proposed changes to the Chapter 6 Rules, District and School Accreditation. Public comment may be submitted online, in person, or by mail until 12:59 p.m. on May 6, 2021.

March 5, 2021

Public Input Requested on Math Performance Standards

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education  is collecting public input on the Performance Standards identified for the 2018 Wyoming Math Content and Performance Standards at the request of the State Board of Education (SBE). Previously, all Performance Level Descriptors (PLDs) were deemed the Performance Standards to measure student proficiency. The SBE asked the Math Standards Review Committee to identify a subset of PLDs to be the Performance Standards, on which students will be assessed through the district assessment system.

March 2, 2021

Public Input Sought on 2021 State System of Support, Federally-Funded Title Programs

CHEYENNE – Wyoming school personnel, parents, and community members are invited to participate in four education program surveys to help determine what activities and pertinent professional development training is offered by the Wyoming Department of Education to further support school districts through the State System of Support and specific federally funded Title programs.

February 22, 2021

Wyoming Students Selected for United States Senate Youth Program

CHEYENNE – Zoe Marie Crisp and Grace Fain Steenbergen will join Senator John Barrasso and Senator Cynthia Lummis in representing Wyoming during the 59th annual United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) Washington Week, set for March 14—17, 2021.

February 18, 2021

Statement to President Biden Penned by Five State Superintendents and Commissioners of Education

CHEYENNE – On February 17, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow submitted a letter to President Joe Biden on behalf of State Superintendents and Commissioners representing North Dakota, Montana, Alaska and Utah. The letter, which follows, expresses the five education representatives opposition to the actions taken to ban oil and gas leases on federal land and to curtail production and transmission of the commodities.

February 1, 2021

Public Input Requested for English Language Arts Standards

CHEYENNE – The 2012 Wyoming English Language Arts (ELA) Content and Performance Standards are up for review. The Wyoming Department of Education is collecting public input for the committee’s consideration during its review.


Public Input Requested for Proposed Science Performance Standards

CHEYENNE – The 2016 Wyoming Science Content and Performance Standards have been updated to meet the request of the State Board of Education (SBE) to identify Performance Standards. Content Standards are what students should know and be able to do, and Performance Standards specify the degree of understanding. Districts are expected to assess students on Performance Standards through the District Assessment System. 

January 26, 2021

Wyoming High School Graduation Rate Improved for Seventh-Consecutive Year

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) announced today that high school graduation rates increased to 82.3% in 2019-20, marking the seventh consecutive year of improvement from the class of 2013, where 77.6% of students graduated.

Full graduation rate statistics are available here.


Statement from State Superintendent Jillian Balow on the Biden Administration Defunding Schools with a Federal Ban on Oil and Gas Leasing

CHEYENNE – “I was taken aback by swift orders executed by the Biden Administration last week after months of rhetoric around bringing unity to our nation. Funding for public education in Wyoming and other states has been eviscerated by an order issued by Acting U.S. Interior Secretary de le Vega. A federal ban on oil and gas leases will defund schools. Wyoming depends on some $150 million a year in oil and gas federal mineral royalties to fund our K-12 schools.

January 21, 2021

WDE Media Conference Tuesday to Discuss 2020 Graduation Rates

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) will host a virtual media conference at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 to discuss the 2019-20 Wyoming high school graduation rate. State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow and other WDE staff will be available to discuss the graduation rate and answer questions.

January 8, 2021

Temporary Federal Accountability Changes Open for Public Comment

CHEYENNE – Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Wyoming Department of Education seeks public comment on temporary changes to its federal accountability plan. Public comment is being accepted from January 8-25, 2021. A summary of the changes, copy of the draft document and waiver can be found here.

January 6, 2021

SPECIAL STATEMENT: State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow’s Statement on the Events of January 6

CHEYENNE – “Like most Wyomingites right now, I am deeply saddened and concerned at the events that transpired in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday. As an educator, I cannot help but recognize the complexity of the situation and how difficult it must be for thousands of kids across Wyoming to sort through. As parents, state leaders, educators, and adults, we all have a responsibility to lead by example. The example made by some adults yesterday rioting at our nation’s capital was disgraceful.

Past Releases

2020

December 21, 2020

Student Enrollment Down 1,894 for 2020-21 School Year

CHEYENNE – Fall school enrollment in Wyoming’s 48 school districts dropped from 93,832 students in the 2019-20 school year to 91,938 during the 2020-21 school year – the first time enrollment has dipped below 92,000 students since 2012. Fall K-12 enrollment data for Wyoming public schools for the 2020-21 school year is available online.

December 1, 2020

WDE Announces Wyoming Child And Adult Care Food Program Sites for 2020-21

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education announced the participating Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) organizations in Wyoming. The program reimburses participating organizations for nutritious meals and snacks served to children in child care centers and family day care homes. The program teaches good eating habits and assures that well-balanced, nourishing meals are served in these participating centers.

November 4, 2020

Leaders, Educators Selected for 2020 Digital Learning Innovations Awards

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) has selected the winners for the 2020 K-12 Digital Learning Innovations Awards. These awards were created to honor leaders and educators to create cultures of innovation and forward-thinking through effective uses of digital, 21st century technologies to engage students while empowering them in owning their learning.

October 29, 2020

WDE Receives $93,245 Microsoft Grant For Computer Science Initiatives

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) has received $93,245 from Microsoft Corporation’s TechSpark initiative and the Digital Skills for Youth program. The award will support Computer Science teacher training as part of Boot Up Wyoming, a statewide initiative launched in 2018 to implement Computer Science in Wyoming K-12 schools.

October 2, 2020

WDE Seeks Public Comment on Proposed Computer Science Performance Standards and Math Extended Standards

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education seeks public comment on the proposed Chapter 10 Rules, which include the proposed 2020 Computer Science Performance Standards and 2020 Math Extended Standards. Public comment may be submitted online, in person, or via mail, October 2-November 30, 2020.

September 23, 2020

WDE Seeks Public Comment on 21st Century Community Learning Center Waiver

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) intends to apply for a Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers waiver for the 2020-21 school year, and will take public comment starting on September 23, 2020 and ending on October 7, 2020.

September 22, 2020

Alexis Barney Named Wyoming’s 2021 Teacher of the Year

CHEYENNE – Alexis Barney, a fourth- and fifth-grade teacher at Evansville Elementary School in Natrona County School District #1, was named Wyoming’s 2021 Teacher of the Year Tuesday, during the Wyoming Education Summit.

September 21, 2020

Last Chance to Apply for Roadtrip Nation Adventure

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Roadtrip is scheduled to roll in April of 2021. In anticipation of the Wyoming Roadtrip, the application and selection process for Roadtrippers has begun. Wyoming youth who could use some insight or inspiration for their future, and are ages 18-24, can apply here by October 4, 2020.

September 18, 2020

Superintendent Balow Announces $43.3 Million Federal Literacy Grant

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) has received the Striving Readers Comprehensive Literacy grant, which is awarded by the United States Department of Education (USED). Year one funding for Wyoming will be $8.6 million; with continued eligibility over the next five years, the total could reach $43.3 million.

September 16, 2020

Superintendent Balow to Announce Receipt of a $43.3 Million Federal Literacy Grant

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education will host a media conference at 11 a.m. Friday, September 18 to discuss the Striving Readers Comprehensive Literacy grant awarded by the United States Department of Education (USED). Year one funding for Wyoming will be $8.6 million. With continued eligibility over the next five years, the total could reach $43.3 million. State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow and other WDE staff will be available to discuss the grant and answer questions.

September 2, 2020

WDE Receives Daniels Fund Grant For Wyoming Road Trip Project

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE), along with the Wyoming Workforce Development Council, will sponsor a Wyoming Road Trip project through Roadtrip Nation that will help empower Wyoming residents to identify their interests and explore pathways aligned with their unique aspirations and skills. The project will be funded through a Daniels Fund grant.

August 11, 2020

WDE Seeks Educator Input on the Proposed Wyoming Computer Science Performance Standards

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) will host two virtual meetings to collect public input on the proposed 2020 Computer Science Performance Standards. Previously, all Performance Level Descriptors (PLDs) were deemed the Performance Standards to measure student proficiency.

August 4, 2020

Two Wyoming Teachers Receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

CHEYENNE – Two Wyoming educators – Aimee Kay and Jennifer Kelley – have received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). President Donald J. Trump made the announcement of the 2019 winners on Monday.

July 28, 2020

WDE Seeks Public Comment on Hathaway Scholarship Program Rules

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks public comment on proposed revisions to Chapter 38 rules regarding the Hathaway Scholarship Program.

July 27, 2020

State Agencies Collaborate to Provide 500,000 Face Coverings to School Districts

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Office of Homeland Security (WOHS), the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH), and the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) have announced a joint effort to deliver 500,000 face coverings to school districts around the state. The cloth face coverings are washable, and will help school districts meet safety needs for reopening schools this fall. According to current state public health orders, face coverings are required in schools when six feet of physical distancing is not practical.

July 15, 2020

Computer Science Performance Standards Public Input Period Open

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) is accepting public input on the proposed 2020 Computer Science Performance Standards. Previously, all Performance Level Descriptors (PLDs) were deemed the Performance Standards to measure student proficiency.

July 7, 2020

Wyoming Receives Federal Waiver From Perkins Funding Requirements

CHEYENNE – The U.S. Department of Education (USED) granted Wyoming a waiver on Wednesday, June 24, 2020 of section 421(b) of the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA), commonly referred to as the “Tydings Amendment,” to extend the period of availability of Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 funds for obligation for programs, in which the SEA participates as the eligible agency until September 30, 2021, due to widespread school and program closures and disruptions related to the Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). The flexibility afforded through the waiver extends the use of fiscal year (FY) 2018 State grant  authorized by Title I of the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 through September 30, 2021.

July 1, 2020

Superintendent Balow Releases Smart Start Guidance for Fall School Reopenings

CHEYENNE – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow released the Smart Start guidance document Wednesday at a joint press conference with Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon. The guidance provides requirements, recommendations, and considerations based on three tiers of possible reopening and operating scenarios schools may face this fall.

June 29, 2020

Superintendent Balow to Join Governor Gordon Wednesday to Discuss Smart Start School Reopening

CHEYENNE – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillan Balow will join Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 1 to provide an update on the Smart Start Working Group. The Smart Start group is a committee charged by the Governor’s COVID-19 Education Task Force to develop guidance for reopening schools in the fall. The guidance is to assist school and district leaders in their efforts to reopen schools next school year. The group started their work in early June and consists of school district leaders and educators, health professionals, representatives from the Governor’s Office, and technology partners.The Task Force is co-chaired by Wanda Maloney, Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) Accountability Director and Stephanie Pyle, Senior Administrator of the Public Health Division with the Wyoming Department of Health.

June 4, 2020

Smart Start Working Group Looks Ahead to Fall School Openings

CHEYENNE –  Planning for school openings this fall is underway. Smart Start, a working group composed of educators, healthcare professionals, and technology partners, was recently put into place by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow. The group will consider key issues and make recommendations related to reopening schools for the 2020-21 school year to Governor Mark Gordon’s COVID-19 Education Task Force, which is chaired by Superintendent Balow.

April 24, 2020

Wyoming receives Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund Monies from the U.S. Department of Education

CHEYENNE – Wyoming will receive $32,562,651, part of about $13.2 billion allocated to the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER Fund), authorized under section 18003 of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

April 23, 2020

Superintendent Jillian Balow’s Statement on School Reopening Plans

CHEYENNE – Superintendent Jillian Balow issued the following statements on the reopening of schools in the weeks or months ahead:

“School districts have implemented their Adapted Learning Plans, approved by the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE). These plans are authorized for use until the end of the school year, if needed. ”

WDE Seeks Grant Reviewers for the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks qualified peer-reviewers for the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program (21stCCLC) competitive grant review process that will be conducted online in August 2020.

April 14, 2020

Wyoming Receives Federal Waiver from Education Funding Requirements

CHEYENNE – The U.S. Department of Education (USED) granted Wyoming a waiver Tuesday, April 7, 2020 from certain federal funding and programmatic requirements related to title-funded programs in light of the widespread school closures due to the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

April 3, 2020

Superintendent Balow’s Statement on School Closure Extension

CHEYENNE – Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow issued the following statement in light of the recent order by Governor Mark Gordon and the Wyoming Department of Health to extend school closures until the end of April.

April 2, 2020

WDE Approves all 48 School District Adapted Learning Plans

CHEYENNE – As of Thursday, the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) approved the Adapted Learning Plans for all 48 school districts. Each district was required to submit a unique plan that lays out the strategies each district is implementing to continue to educate students while schools are closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

March 27, 2020

State Superintendent Issues Guidance For Continuing Education During School Closures

CHEYENNE – In light of the extension of the three existing orders by Governor Mark Gordon and the Wyoming Department of Health to keep schools closed through April 17, Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow has issued guidance for school districts’ safe, but continued, operation during the extended closure.

March 20, 2020

Wyoming Receives Federal Waiver from Assessment and Accountability Requirements

CHEYENNE – The U.S. Department of Education (USED) granted Wyoming a waiver Friday from certain federal assessment and accountability requirements in light of the widespread school closures due to the spread of the COVID-19 virus. As a result, Wyoming students will not take the statewide assessment, WY-TOPP, this spring and no formal accountability determinations will be made for the 2019-20 school year.

March 15, 2020

Governor Gordon and State Superintendent Balow Issue a Recommendation on School Closures

CHEYENNE – Due to the unprecedented circumstances facing our state, Governor Mark Gordon and State Superintendent Jillian Balow recommend that all schools remain closed to students through at least April 3.

March 4, 2020

Superintendent Balow’s Statement on New UW President Ed Seidel

CHEYENNE – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow said she enthusiastically supports Ed Seidel’s selection as the 28th president of the University of Wyoming – and looks forward to working with him. Balow’s statement:

March 3, 2020

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow’s Statement on the COVID-19 Virus

CHEYENNE – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow joined Governor Mark Gordon and representatives from Homeland Security, the Wyoming Department of Health and Wyoming Military Department to discuss the COVID-19 virus and plans to be ready should cases of the virus show up in Wyoming.

February 28, 2020

WDE Announces Wyoming Child And Adult Care Food Program Sites

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) has announced the participating Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) organizations in the State of Wyoming Friday. The program reimburses participating organizations for nutritious meals and snacks served to children in child care centers and family day care homes. It also teaches good eating habits and assures that well-balanced, nourishing meals are served in these participating centers.

February 7, 2020

Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Center Cohort 13 Grants Awarded

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) is pleased to announce the recipients of the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) Cohort 13 grants. With $2.05 million in funding available, the WDE awarded a grant to each of the following school districts and community-based organizations across the state:

January 31, 2020

Help Prevent Childhood Hunger and Poor Nutrition in the Summer

CHEYENNE – In an effort to head off hunger and poor nutrition across the state, the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks sponsors for the Summer Food Service Program. This is a federally funded program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that provides nutritious meals and snacks to children in low-income areas during the summer months.

January 21, 2020

Wyoming High School Graduation Rate Improves for Sixth Year

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) announced today that high school graduation rates increased to 82.1% in 2018-19, marking the sixth consecutive year of improvement from the class of 2013, where 77.6% of students graduated.

January 16, 2020

Media Teleconference Tuesday to Discuss 2019 Graduation Rates

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) will host a media call-in at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, January 21 to discuss the 2018-19 Wyoming’s high school graduation rate. State Superintendent Jillian Balow and other WDE staff will be available to discuss the graduation rate and answer questions.

January 8, 2020

Wyoming K-12 Enrollment Adds 803 Students

CHEYENNE – Fall enrollment rose from 93,029 in 2018-19 to 93,832 students in the 2019-20 school year. Fall K-12 enrollment data for Wyoming public schools for the 2019-20 school year is available online.

2019

December 19, 2019

Pathways Innovation Center Students Hand-craft Cutting Boards for Charity

 CHEYENNE – A joint project between high school students at Casper’s Pathways Innovation Center and Casper College faculty has led to the creation of exquisite, handmade wooden cutting boards with laser-engraved signatures of all five of Wyoming’s elected officials.

December 12, 2019

Six Wyoming Teachers Named 2019 Finalists for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

CHEYENNE – Six Wyoming teachers – Aimee Kay, Cheryl Anderson, Jennifer Kelley, Kristy Palmer, Isaac VanDyke, and Cris Williams – have been selected as the 2019 state finalists for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

December 2, 2019

Perkins V Wyoming State Plan Public Comment Period Open

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) is taking public comment on the proposed Wyoming state plan for the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V). The act provides federal funding for secondary and postsecondary career and technical education in Wyoming.

November 14, 2019

Balow Becomes First Wyoming Superintendent to Lead National Organization

CHEYENNE – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow assumed the presidency of the Council of Chief State School Officers’ (CCSSO) Board of Directors on Tuesday, during the organization’s annual policy forum in Atlanta.

November 6, 2019

WDE Offers Support for Teachers to Lead Digital Age

CHEYENNE – One hundred Wyoming educators will have the opportunity to earn the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Certification for Educators with financial support from the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE). The certification is the only competency-based certification focused on digital-age teaching practices.

November 4, 2019

WDE Seeks Public Input on Extended Math Standards and WY-TOPP Science Student Performance Level Indicators

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks public input on the Proposed 2020 Wyoming Math Extended Standards and the Proposed WY-TOPP 2021+ Science Performance Level Descriptors (PLDs) that will be implemented in 2021. Standards and performance level descriptors for all subjects must be adopted by the Wyoming State Board of Education (SBE) on a periodic basis. Public input received for the Math Extended Standards and the Science PLDs will be considered by the SBE prior to making a decision to adopt at its January meeting.

October 30, 2019

2019 NAEP Scores Show Wyoming Students Benefit from Equitable Funding

CHEYENNE – Several student groups continue to outperform their peers’ test scores around the country, which helped keep Wyoming above national public school averages on the 2019 National Assessment of Educational Progress, also known as the Nation’s Report Card or NAEP.

October 21, 2019

The WDE Seeks Public Comment on Amended Chapter 29 Rules Leader and Teacher Evaluations Systems

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks public comment on revised Chapter 29 Rules: Evaluation Systems for District and School Leaders and Teachers. The rules are being revised following passage of HEA0061 during the 2019 legislative session, which requires the implementation and administration of a comprehensive teacher evaluation system. The new statutes went into effect on July 1, 2019. Since going into effect, the WDE has engaged stakeholders from across the state to develop draft rule changes.

October 18, 2019

Four Wyoming Teachers Receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

CHEYENNE – Four Wyoming teachers – Necole Hanks, Amy Kassel, Helen Ommen, and Jim Stith – have received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). President Donald J. Trump made the announcement of the 2017/2018 winners on Tuesday.

October 9, 2019

WDE Receives Federal Grant to Strengthen Computer Science Education

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) is one of nine entities across the country to be awarded federal grant money for Career and Technical Education (CTE); the WDE will receive $489,714 over the next three years to strengthen Computer Science education across the state.

October 2, 2019

Dane Weaver Named Wyoming’s 2020 Teacher of the Year

CHEYENNE – Dane Weaver, a grade 7-12 social studies teacher at Ten Sleep K-12 School in Washakie County School District #2, has been named Wyoming’s 2020 Teacher of the Year, during the Superintendent’s Policy Summit in Laramie Wednesday.

September 19, 2019

2018-19 School Performance Ratings Released for Wyoming Schools

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) has released school accountability results for the 2018-19 school year. Full results are available online.

September 13, 2019

REVISED: WDE Seeks Public Comment on Perkins V Performance Assessment Targets

This news release was revised to include updated postsecondary targets (highlighted in yellow), indicator definitions, and an extended public comment period closing date.

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) is taking public comment on proposed performance assessment targets for the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V). Perkins V (five) provides federal funding for secondary and postsecondary career and technical education in Wyoming. The 2019-20 federal award to Wyoming is $5,037,372.

September 9, 2019

WDE Seeks Public Comment on Perkins V Performance Assessment Targets

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) is taking public comment on proposed performance assessment targets for the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V). Perkins V (five) provides federal funding for secondary and postsecondary career and technical education in Wyoming. The 2019-20 federal award to Wyoming is $5,037,372.

September 5, 2019

National Education Quality Report Ranks Wyoming System Sixth in Nation

CHEYENNE – Education Week’s 23rd annual report card, Quality Counts 2019, ranks Wyoming sixth nationally in education quality – up one spot from seventh nationally in 2018. Once again, Wyoming scored the highest among western states, and first in the nation in school finance.

August 28, 2019

2019 WY-TOPP Results Available Online

CHEYENNE – Results for the second administration of the Wyoming Test of Proficiency and Progress (WY-TOPP) are now available online. The results indicate an increase in proficiency rates over most grade levels and content areas.

August 19, 2019

WDE Seeks Public Comment on Chapter 46 Rules on Early Childhood Community Collaboration Grants and Requests Applications

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks public comment on proposed Chapter 46 rules concerning the process to award Early Childhood Community Collaboration Grants to early childhood providers.

WDE Seeks Public Comment on Chapter 38 Rules on the Hathaway Success Curriculum

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks public comment on proposed revisions to Chapter 38 rules concerning changes to the Hathaway Success Curriculum, which students are required to take in order to earn a Hathaway Scholarship.

August 1, 2019

Wyoming STEAM Educators Of The Year Recognized At Conference

CHEYENNE – The 2018-19 Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) Educators of the Year were honored Wednesday at the 2019 Roadmap to STEAM Conference in Laramie.

July 24, 2019

Superintendent Balow Chosen as National Leadership Fellow

CHEYENNE – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow has been selected as a Fellow in the Hunt-Kean Leadership program. The program is part of the Hunt Institute, a national leader in education policy. Numerous governors, members of Congress, and state education chiefs are alumni and board members of this program.

July 17, 2019

WDE Seeks Public Comment on Chapter 3 Rules on Informal Reviews of School Performance Ratings and Citizen Petitions of WDE Rules

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks public comment on proposed revisions to Chapter 3 rules concerning parameters under which a school district may seek an informal review of its annual school performance ratings. The revisions to the rules are a result of the passage of House Enrolled Act 43 in 2019.

July 3, 2019

WDE Seeks Public Comment on Chapter 20 and Chapter 2 Rules On Student Transportation

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks public comment on Chapter 20 and Chapter 2 rules concerning student transportation.

June 17, 2019

WDE Seeks Public Comment on Chapter 29 Rules: Evaluation Systems for District and School Leaders and Teachers

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks public comment on the Chapter 29 Rules: Evaluation Systems For District And School Leaders And Teachers. These rules are being revised following the passage of HEA0061 during the 2019 Legislative session, which requires the implementation and administration of a comprehensive teacher evaluation system.

June 3, 2019

WDE Seeks Public Comment on Chapter 45 Rules for Special Education

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks public comment on proposed Chapter 45 Rules: Special Education Out-of-District Placement Appropriation. The comment period is open from June 3, 2019 through July 19, 2019.

May 13, 2019

WDE Seeks Public Comment on Chapter 10 Rules and Computer Science Standards

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks public comment on proposed revisions to the Chapter 10 Rules: Wyoming Content and Performance Standards. In addition, the WDE is seeking public comment on the revised proposed Computer Science Content and Performance Standards that will be incorporated into the Chapter 10 rules.

April 9, 2019

WDE Teams Up with Microsoft and CSforALL to Offer Computer Science Strategic Planning

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) is pleased to announce key support from Microsoft Corp. enabling the department to offer computer science implementation and planning training to school districts. Wyoming will receive over $95,000 in grant funding from Microsoft’s TechSpark initiative to offer Strategic CSforALL Resource & Implementation Planning Tool (SCRIPT) training for school districts. CSforALL is an organization dedicated to making computer science part of every K-12 student’s education.

April 8, 2019

Call for Participants and Community Input on Standards for Health, Physical Education, Fine & Performing Arts, and Mathematics Extended Standards

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks Wyoming residents who are interested in serving on the following standards review committees: Health/Physical Education (Health/PE), Fine & Performing Arts (F&PA), and Math Extended.

April 1, 2019

Public Listening Sessions Scheduled to Inform CTE Plans for Wyoming

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) will host stakeholder listening sessions throughout the state in April to gather feedback on how Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education grant funding will be administered in Wyoming over the next five years. The Perkins Act provides the majority of funding for Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Wyoming. Congress passed the latest version of the Perkins Act (Perkins V) in July 2018, known as the “Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act.” Originally passed as the Vocational Education Act of 1963, it was renamed the Carl D. Perkins Act in 1984 and reauthorized in 1998 and 2006.

March 15, 2019

WDE Seeks Public Comment On Chapter 14 Rules

The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks public comment on proposed revisions to the Chapter 14 Rules: Education Program Approval of Public and Private Institutions Receiving State Funds for the Education Costs of Students. The revisions are a result of the passage of Wyoming Statute 21-13-336 in 2016 (SEA 0034).

February 15, 2019

State Superintendent Partners with Industry and CTE Teachers to Improve Hathaway Scholarship

CHEYENNE – Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow applauds a new law that provides greater flexibility for Wyoming students to qualify for a Hathaway Scholarship.

February 13, 2019

WDE Helps Champion Wyoming Cowboy ChalleNGe Academy’s Educational Accreditation

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) announced Tuesday the Wyoming Cowboy ChalleNGe Academy (WCCA) in Guernsey received its educational accreditation from AdvancedEd, a national non-profit organization that accredits educational institutions based on standards of quality. Of all the National Guard-sponsored ChalleNGe programs, WCCA is the seventh academy to gain full accreditation.

January 22, 2019

Wyoming High School Graduation Rate Improves for Fifth Year

The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) announced today that high school graduation rates increased to 81.7 percent in 2017-18, which marked the fifth consecutive year of improvement from the class of 2013’s 77.6 percent graduation rate.

January 18, 2019

Public Input Requested on the Proposed Computer Science Standards

The State Board of Education (SBE) requests public input on the Proposed 2019 Wyoming Computer Science Content and Performance Standards. The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) will collect public input through an online survey until 11:59 p.m. on March 5, 2019 and also at regional meetings.

January 15, 2019

Support Needed for Summer Food Service Program

In an effort to head off hunger and poor nutrition across the state, the WDE seeks sponsors for the Summer Food Service Program. This is a federally funded program of the USDA that provides nutritious meals and snacks to children in low-income areas during the summer months.

January 10, 2019

21st Century Learning Centers Seek External Organizations

The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) is developing a list of prescreened nonprofit organizations that provide expanded learning programs, curriculum, and activities to youth. Eligible organizations interested in supporting the work of after school and summer learning, are invited to submit a profile survey by February 8, 2019.

2018

December 31, 2018

New State Report Card Offers Information on Wyoming Schools

A new tool for parents, educators, and others to access information about Wyoming schools and districts is now available at wyomingmeasuresup.com. The Wyoming Department of Education created the user-friendly website to house its State Report Card, a requirement of the federally mandated Every Student Succeeds Act.

December 21, 2018

Wyoming K-12 Enrollment Adds 53 Students

Fall K-12 enrollment data for Wyoming public schools for the 2018-19 school year is available online. Fall enrollment rose from 92,976 in 2017-18 to 93,029 students this year.

December 19, 2018

Wyoming Delegates Chosen for U.S. Senate Youth Program for 2019

Easton Countryman, a junior at Kemmerer Junior/Senior High School, and Toby Arment, a senior at Rawlins High School, will serve as Wyoming’s 2019 delegates for the U.S. Senate Youth Program.

November 15, 2018

Superintendent Balow Chosen President-Elect of CCSSO

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow was unanimously chosen as president-elect of the Council of Chief State School Officers’ Board of Directors on Wednesday.

November 7, 2018

Revisions to ESSA State Plan Open for Public Comment

The WDE seeks public comment on proposed changes to its Consolidated State Plan for the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). Public comment is being accepted for 30 days, and at a series of public meetings.

November 1, 2018

New State and Federal Accountability Results Available

The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) has released school accountability results for the 2017-18 school year. Full results are available online.

October 19, 2018

WDE, UW, Community Colleges Agree to Share Information

A new partnership involving Wyoming community colleges, the University of Wyoming and the Wyoming Department of Education has set the stage for an increased level of information sharing aimed at improving the performance of the state’s education system.

October 16, 2018

Valerie Bruce Named 2019 Wyoming Teacher of the Year

Valerie Bruce, a first grade teacher at Rozet Elementary School in Campbell County School District #1, has been named Wyoming’s 2019 Teacher of the Year.

October 10, 2018

Public Hearing on Proposed Rules for Special Education Funding

A public hearing will be held on the proposed Chapter 44 Rules regarding the Special Education Component within the Education Resource Block Grant Model. The hearing is set from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, October 23 in the Laramie County School District #1 boardroom, 2811 House Avenue in Cheyenne.

September 26, 2018

2018 WY-TOPP Results Available

Results for the first administration of the Wyoming Test of Proficiency and Progress (WY-TOPP) are now available online.

August 23, 2018

Statewide ACT Results Available

State, district, and school-level results are now available online for the ACT taken by students in grade 11 in the spring of 2018.

August 17, 2018

Governor Approves Update to Math and Social Studies Standards, Graduation Requirements, and Accreditation Rules

Governor Matt Mead has signed and approved amendments to rules and regulations regarding Wyoming’s statewide standards for Math and Social Studies, high school graduation requirements, and district and school accreditation.

August 1, 2018

School Safety and Security Summit to Follow Federal Listening Session in Cheyenne

The WDE will be holding a School Safety and Security Summit in Cheyenne on August 7-8, 2018. The Summit will follow an afternoon of roundtable discussions and a public input session hosted by the Federal Commission on School Safety (FCSS) in Cheyenne on August 7.

July 30, 2018

Public Comment Open On Proposed Leader Evaluation Rules

The WDE seeks public comment on the Chapter 29 Rules: Evaluation Systems For District And School Leaders And Other Certified Personnel. These rules are being revised following the passage of SEA0031 during the 2017 Legislative session, which requires the implementation and administration of a comprehensive leader evaluation system.

July 20, 2018

Grant Awards $295,000 for Computer Science Implementation

Seven innovative education programs across Wyoming have been selected to receive 2018 Wyoming Education Trust Fund grants, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow announced Friday.

July 18, 2018

21st Century Community Learning Centers-Cohort 12 Awards

The WDE is pleased to announce the recipients of the 21st Century Community Learning Center Cohort 12 grants. With $1.63 million in funding available, the WDE is awarding a grant to ten school districts and community-based organizations across the state.

June 25, 2018

Wyoming Awarded USDA Grant to Expand Farm to School Programs

The Wyoming Department of Education has been awarded a Farm to School Grant by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service to expand and evaluate Farm to School Programs in Wyoming.

May 11, 2018

Public Comment Open on Proposed Rules

The Wyoming Department of Education seeks public comment on changes to several rules and regulations including accreditation, statewide standards, graduation requirements, the Hathaway Scholarship Program, and a school nutrition project.

April 10, 2018

Wyoming NAEP Scores Continue to Outpace Nation in Reading and Math

Overall, Wyoming’s fourth and eighth grade students in 2017 continue to outperform national average test scores in reading and mathematics on the 2017 National Assessment of Educational Progress, known as the Nation’s Report Card or NAEP. The WDE today released the state’s reading and mathematics results.

April 2, 2018

Boot Up Wyoming 2022 Aims to Implement Computer Science

The WDE announced today the launch of Boot Up Wyoming 2022, an initiative to implement computer science in all Wyoming schools. Boot Up Wyoming 2022 will focus on analyzing the costs and district needs to offer computer science, ensuring teachers are trained to teach the subject, and facilitating the development of statewide standards.

March 6, 2018

Wyoming Academic Bowl Team of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students Headed Back to Nationals

For a fourth consecutive year, Wyoming will send a team of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing students to the Gallaudet University National Academic Bowl competition in Washington, D.C.

February 26, 2018

Public Input Sought On Proposed Math, Science Extended, And Social Studies Standards

The Wyoming State Board of Education has requested public input on the proposed 2018 Wyoming Math Standards, Science Extended Standards, and additions to the 2014 Social Studies Standards. The WDE will collect the public input through an online survey and regional meetings.

February 8, 2018

Wyoming Students Selected for United States Senate Youth Program

Thomas Lubnau III of Gillette and Harriet Pimentel of Powell have been chosen to serve as Wyoming’s delegates for the United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP). The delegates will represent Wyoming in the nation’s capital during the 56th annual USSYP Washington Week, set for March 3-10, 2018. Each student also will receive a $10,000 college scholarship from the William Randolph Hearst Foundation.

February 1, 2018

WDE Developing List of Prescreened Expanded Learning Programs

The WDE is developing a list of prescreened expanded learning programs in order to increase awareness of these opportunities. Nonprofit organizations in Wyoming can be included on the list by submitting a profile survey to the WDE.

January 29, 2018

Support Needed for Summer Food Service Program

The WDE is seeking local sponsors to participate in the Summer Food Service Program for the summer of 2018. This federally-funded U.S. Department of Agriculture program provides access to nutritious meals and snacks for children up to the age of 18 during summer months, when access to other school meal programs is not available.

January 22, 2018

Wyoming High School Graduation Rate Improves for Fourth Year

The WDE announced today that high school graduation rates increased slightly to 80.2 percent in 2016-17, which marked four years of improvement from the class of 2013’s 77.6 percent graduation rate.

Public Comment Open On Proposed School Finance Rules

The WDE seeks public comment on changes to the Chapter 8 Rules: School Finance, which govern the administration of the Wyoming education block grant model, and the repeal of Chapter 25: Reimbursable Expenses Pursuant to School District Organization and Chapter 33 Wyoming Bridges Summer School and Extended Day Grant Program.

January 17, 2018

Quality Counts 2018 Report Ranks Wyoming Seventh In Education Quality

Wyoming was ranked seventh nationally in education quality by Education Week’s 22nd annual report card. Quality Counts 2018 gave Wyoming an overall score of 81.1 out of 100 points and a grade of B-minus. Wyoming was scored the highest among western states, and first in school finance. The nation as a whole received a grade of C.

January 16, 2018

U.S. Department Of Education Approves Wyoming ESSA Plan

The U.S. Department of Education today approved the Wyoming Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Plan.

January 9, 2018

Additional Input Sought On Social Studies Standards Review; Public Meeting Set For January 16 In Riverton

The WDE will host a public discussion and meeting on the state’s Social Studies Standards in relation to the American Indian Education bill. The meeting on January 16 in Riverton will provide the community with an update on the review committee’s work, and allow for additional input on the standards.

2017

December 28, 2017

Public Comment Open On Proposed Virtual Education Rules

The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) seeks public comment on the Chapter 41 Rules: Virtual Education. These rules establish the minimum requirements that districts must meet to provide part-time or full-time virtual education to Wyoming students.

December 21, 2017

Wyoming K-12 Enrollment Dips To 92,976

Fall K-12 enrollment data for Wyoming public schools for the 2017-18 school year is available online. Fall 2017 enrollment fell 0.3 percent to 92,976 students from 93,261 in the fall of 2016.

Superintendent Balow Appointed Treasurer Of Education Commission Of The States

State Superintendent Jillian Balow has been appointed Treasurer of Education Commission of the States, a nonprofit organization that serves as a partner to state policymakers across the 50 states, District of Columbia and territories.

December 4, 2017

Computer Science Education Week Kicks Off In Wyoming

Governor Matt Mead will sign a proclamation on Tuesday declaring December 4-11 Computer Science Education Week. Wyoming schools have been encouraged to celebrate by participating in Hour of Code, a one-hour introduction to computer science.

November 21, 2017

WDE Announces Wyoming Child And Adult Care Food Program Sites

The Wyoming Department of Education announced the participating CACFP organizations in the State of Wyoming today. The program reimburses participating organizations for nutritious meals and snacks served to eligible children in child care centers and family day care homes, as well as eligible adults in adult care centers.

 

October 24, 2017

Superintendent Balow Recognized with National Award

State Superintendent Jillian Balow was honored by the State Education Technology Directors Association (SETDA) on Monday as the recipient of the SETDA State Policy Maker of the Year Award during their 2017 Leadership Summit: Leveraging Technology to Personalize Student Learning.

October 10, 2017

Sara Reed Named 2018 Wyoming Teacher of the Year

Sara Reed, a kindergarten teacher at Hillcrest Elementary School in Campbell County School District #1, has been named Wyoming’s 2018 Teacher of the Year. As the 2018 Wyoming Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Reed will serve as an education ambassador for the state. Wyoming’s Teacher of the Year automatically becomes the nominee for the National Teacher of the Year Program.

September 20, 2017

Call for Participants: Social Studies Standards Review Committee

The WDE is seeking state residents interested in serving on the Wyoming Social Studies Standards Review Committee. The committee will review the state social studies standards to ensure the cultural heritage, history, and contemporary contributions of American Indians are addressed.

September 7, 2017

ACT Results Available for the Class of 2017

The Wyoming graduating class of 2017 had an average composite score of 20.2 on the ACT according to The Condition of College & Career Readiness 2017, released today by ACT, Inc.

August 31, 2017

2017 School Performance Ratings Released for Wyoming Schools

The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) released school performance ratings today. The state accountability measure shows that the majority of Wyoming schools are Meeting or Exceeding Expectations, and the number of schools Not Meeting Expectations is dropping.

August 18, 2017

Wyoming’s ESSA State Plan Submitted to USED

Today State Superintendent Jillian Balow has submitted Wyoming’s consolidated state plan for the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) to the U.S. Department of Education (USED).

August 16, 2017

2017 Statewide High School Assessment Results Available

Results are now available online from the 2017 statewide high school assessments administered to students in grades 9 through 11. The results show similar performance to prior years with statistically insignificant increases in grades 9 and 10, and statistically insignificant decreases in grade 11.

August 11, 2017

New Chief Policy Officer Joins WDE

State Superintendent Jillian Balow is pleased to announce the hiring of Megan Degenfelder as the new Chief Policy Officer at the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE). Megan’s official start date was August 1. She is in charge of all legislative and other policy work including accountability, standards and assessment at the WDE.

 

July 13, 2017

2017 PAWS Results Available

Spring 2017 statewide testing results were released today by the WDE. School, district, and state results are available on the WDE’s Fusion site. These include results for the Proficiency Assessments for Wyoming Students (PAWS) and alternate assessments in reading and mathematics for students in grades 3 through 8, and in science for grades 4 and 8.

June 5, 2017

Community Input Meetings on American Indian Education

The WDE will conduct community input meetings on Wyoming’s Social Studies Content and Performance Standards as they pertain to Wyoming’s new “American Indian education program” legislation. These meetings will inform the public of the standards review process and gather public input to be shared with the Social Studies Standards Review Committee for their consideration prior to their work.

June 2, 2017

Public Comment for Chapter 43 Rules: School Nutrition Pilot Project

The WDE is seeking public comment on the Chapter 43 Rules, School Nutrition Pilot Project, which can be viewed online along with the Statement of Reasons. These rules establish the minimum requirements that districts must meet to be eligible for financial assistance in acquiring Wyoming-grown meat for school lunches.

 

May 25, 2017

Cheyenne Student Wins Contest to Name New Statewide Assessment

The WDE announced today that Aiden Weinzierl, a sixth-grade student at Anderson Elementary School in Cheyenne, has won the contest to name the new statewide assessment with his submission, WY-TOPP, for Wyoming Test of Proficiency and Progress.

May 23, 2017

Arts Added to the 2017 Roadmap to STEM Conference

The fourth annual Roadmap to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Conference will include a focus on the Arts. The conference will feature the theme “STE(a)Ming into the Future” at Gillette College August 2-4, 2017.

May 2, 2017

Public Meetings Set on Draft ESSA State Plan

The WDE has scheduled a series of public meetings for gathering input of the draft state plan for the Every Student Succeeds Act. These meetings will inform the public of the draft ESSA State Plan and gather input to be shared with WDE staff for their consideration as they continue work on the plan.

 

April 28, 2017

Regional Community Meetings on Math Standards

The WDE will conduct regional community meetings on Wyoming’s Mathematics Content and Performance Standards. Meetings will take place in Powell, Casper, Rock Springs, and Cheyenne.

April 24, 2017

Draft ESSA State Plan Released for Public Review

The WDE today announced the release of Wyoming’s draft Every Student Succeeds Act State Plan for a 45-day public comment period. Comments can be submitted to the WDE through June 8, 2017 through an online survey, public meetings, or by mail.

 

March 29, 2017

Public Input Sought on Math Standards

The WDE and State Board of Education are taking public input on Wyoming’s current math standards. The Math Standards Review Committee will consider this input as they begin the standards review process. Input can be given online through May or at regional community meetings.

March 15, 2017

Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students Advance to National Academic Bowl

Wyoming’s Academic Bowl Team of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (D/HH) high school students will advance to Gallaudet University 2017 National Academic Bowl competition in Washington, D.C., in April for the third consecutive year after a triumphant second place finish in the West Regionals.

March 13, 2017

Call for Participants: Math Standards Review Committee

The WDE is seeking residents who are interested in serving on the Wyoming Math Standards Review Committee.

March 3, 2017

School Protein Enhancement Pilot Project Launched

A pilot project to encourage schools to serve local meat products is being established at the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) following the signing of SEA0052 School Nutrition Pilot Project into law on Friday. The bill allows the WDE to spend up to $25,000 to provide matching funds to school districts for the processing costs for livestock donated during the 2017-18 school year.

 

February 6, 2017

Career Technical Education Month Recognized in Wyoming

Faculty and students across Wyoming are demonstrating the rigor and importance of Career Technical Education (CTE) courses by celebrating CTE Month this February.

 

January 25, 2017

Summer Food Service Program Seeking Sponsors

The Wyoming Department of Education is seeking sponsors for a federally funded program that provides nutritious meals and snacks to children in low-income areas during the summer months to combat hunger and poor nutrition.

January 17, 2017

Wyoming High School Graduation Rate Rises to 80%

High school graduation rates in Wyoming increased slightly for the fourth consecutive year, according to information released by the Wyoming Department of Education today. Students achieved an “on-time” graduation rate of 80.0 percent in 2015-16, the highest since 2009-10 when it reached 80.4 percent.

January 4, 2017

Wyoming Ranked Seventh in Education Quality

Wyoming was ranked seventh in the nation in Education Week’s 21st annual report card. Quality Counts – Under Construction: Building on ESSA’s K-12 Foundation gave Wyoming an overall score of 80.3 out of 100 points and a grade of B-minus. Wyoming was scored the highest among western states and above the nation’s grade of C.

January 3, 2017

Public Comment on Rules for Wyoming Graduation Requirements

The Wyoming Department of Education is seeking public comment on the Wyoming Graduation Requirements of Chapter 31, which can be viewed here. These rules establish the minimum requirements for a student to receive a high school diploma, along with a process for the State Board of Education to consult with school districts on the establishment of high school diploma policies.

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2016

December 21, 2016

Wyoming Delegates Chosen for U.S. Senate Youth Program

Nicole Sanders, a senior at Powell High School, and Grace Anderson, a junior at Wyoming Virtual Academy, have been chosen to serve as Wyoming’s delegates for the USSYP. The delegates receive an all-expenses paid trip to Washington, D.C. for an intensive educational experience, and a $10,000 scholarship from the William Randolph Hearst Foundation.

December 7, 2016

Two Wyoming Schools Selected for the National Title I Distinguished School Award

Woodland Park Elementary School in Sheridan County School District #2 and Evansville Elementary School in Natrona County School District #1 have been selected for the National Title I Association Distinguished School Award.

December 5, 2016

Wyoming Schools Celebrating Computer Science Education Week

Governor Matt Mead signed a proclamation today declaring Dec. 5-11 Computer Science Education Week. Wyoming schools have been encouraged to celebrate this inaugural event by participating in Hour of Code, a one-hour introduction to computer science.

December 2, 2016

WDE Announces Wyoming Child and Adult Care Food Programs Sites

The Wyoming Department of Education announced the participating CACFP organizations in the State of Wyoming today. The CACFP provides reimbursement for nutritious meals and snacks served to eligible children in child care centers, family day care homes, as well as to eligible adults in adult care centers.


November 17, 2016

New Wyoming Science Standards Finalized

Governor Matt Mead has signed and approved the new Wyoming Science Content and Performance Standards, marking the first update to the science standards since 2003.


October 28, 2016

2015 Wyoming NAEP Science Scores Released

The WDE today announced the state’s science results on the 2015 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as the Nation’s Report Card. Overall, Wyoming’s fourth and eighth-grade students in 2015 continue to outperform national average test scores in science.

October 24, 2016

Superintendent Balow Honored with Patrick Henry Award

State Superintendent Jillian Balow has been recognized with the Patrick Henry Award for her contributions to the Wyoming Military Department. Major General Luke Reiner, Wyoming’s Adjutant General, presented her with the award on Saturday at the Wyoming Military Department’s annual Governor’s Reception.

October 21, 2016

Wyoming Department of Education Seeks More Public Input on the Every Student Succeeds Act

The WDE is offering multiple ways for the public to give more input on ESSA. A statewide listening tour and an online survey have been launched to continue stakeholder engagement on the implementation of ESSA in Wyoming.

October 18, 2016

Community Roundtable on the Every Student Succeeds Act to be Held in Casper

U.S. Senator Mike Enzi and State Superintendent Jillian Balow announced today that officials from the U.S. Department of Education (USED) will participate in a Community Roundtable on implementation of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) at Casper College onOctober 26.

October 3, 2016

Digital Learning Plan Released

The Wyoming Department of Education has released the final draft of the 2017 Digital Learning Plan. The plan provides guidelines for the incorporation of effective data and technology use in curriculum and instruction, as well as strategies to boost technology infrastructure within schools.


September 30, 2016

Ryan Fuhrman Named 2017 Wyoming Teacher of the Year

Sheridan County School District #2 seventh grade science teacher Ryan Fuhrman has been named Wyoming’s 2017 Teacher of the Year.

September 13, 2016

Wyoming Launches Future Ready Initiative

The Wyoming Department of Education announced today the launch of the statewide Future Ready Initiative. Wyoming joins a cohort of 17 states dedicated to preparing students for success through personalized student learning.

September 6, 2016

2016 School Performance Ratings Released for Wyoming Schools

The Wyoming Department of Education released school performance ratings today. The state accountability measure shows that over half of Wyoming schools are meeting or exceeding expectations.


August 24, 2016

Class of 2016 ACT Results Available

The Wyoming graduating class of 2016 had an average composite score of 20.0 on the ACT according to The Condition of College & Career Readiness 2016, released today by ACT, Inc.

August 19, 2016

Majority of State Board of Education Votes to Keep Superintendent’s Vote

At a meeting yesterday, members of the State Board of Education voted to recommend keeping the State Superintendent as a voting member of the board. This represents a significant change from two years ago when the board recommended to the legislature that the State Superintendent be stripped of their vote.

August 15, 2016

2016 Statewide High School Assessment Results

Results are now available online from the 2016 statewide high school assessments administered to students in grades 9 through 11. Eleventh grade students showed improvement in every subject tested, while 9th and 10th grade students exceeded the benchmark in English, indicating a high probability of success in first year college courses.

August 3, 2016

Special Education Director of the Year Honored at WAVE Conference

Wyoming’s 2016 Special Education Director of the Year, Carolyn Conner, was honored on Wednesday morning at the Week of Academic Vision and Excellence (WAVE) Conference in Cheyenne.

August 2, 2016

STEM Educators of the Year Recognized at Conference

The 2015-16 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Educators of the Year were honored at the 2016 Roadmap to STEM Conference in Rock Springs August 1.


July 14, 2016

2016 PAWS Results Available

Spring 2016 statewide testing results released today by the Wyoming Department of Education indicated proficiency rates increased across most grade levels and content areas when compared to results achieved in 2015.


June 27, 2016

2016 Roadmap To STEM Promises Lots of Action and a Little Magic

Educators joining this year’s 2016 Roadmap to STEM Conference can expect three whirlwind days of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) experiences, active learning, and practical classroom ideas.

June 14, 2016

Superintendent Balow Testifies Before House Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources

State Superintendent Jillian Balow testified today at a legislative hearing on the Certainty for States and Tribes Act held by the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources, in Washington, D.C.

June 9, 2016

Standards Revisions Enter Final Public Comment Period

The Wyoming Department of Education is now taking public comment on Chapter 10 Rules on Wyoming Content and Performance Standards. Proposed revisions include Science Standards and K-1 English Language Arts Extended Standards.

June 7, 2016

Superintendent Encourages Public Engagement in ESSA Implementation

The Wyoming Department of Education announced today ways for the public to give input on the development of the state plan for implementation of the Every Student Succeeds Act.

June 1, 2016

Superintendent Balow Attends Army Educator Tour

State Superintendent Jillian Balow recently traveled to Fort Hood, Texas for the 2016 Army Educator Tour.


May 13, 2016

Superintendent Issues Statement on Federal Guidance Regarding Transgender Students

State Superintendent Jillian Balow released a statement today regarding guidance from the U.S. Departments of Education and Justice on the civil rights of transgender students.

May 2, 2016

Wyoming Discontinues Affiliation with Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium

Wyoming has discontinued its Affiliate member status with the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium in order to enter the procurement process without perception of conflict.


April 21, 2016

Superintendent Balow Honored by National AfterSchool Association

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow has been named one of the 2016 Most Influential in State & Local Government honorees by the National AfterSchool Association. The prestigious award recognizes state and local officials who are strong advocates for afterschool and out-of-school time programs.


March 28, 2016

Class of 2015 Posts 79.4% Four-Year Graduation Rate

High school graduation rates in Wyoming increased slightly for the 2014-15 school year, according to information released by the WDE today. Full graduation rate statistics are available at edu.wyoming.gov/data/graduation-rates/.

March 22, 2016

Public Input Being Taken on Proposed Standards Revisions

The Wyoming State Board of Education has requested public input on the proposed 2016 Wyoming Science Content and Performance Standards, as well as recommended changes to the K-1 English Language Arts (ELA) Extended Standards. The WDE will collect the public input through online surveys and regional meetings.

March 18, 2016

Wyoming to Submit Waiver on Speaking and Listening Assessments

The WDE will submit a waiver application request to the U.S. Department of Education from the requirement to assess students’ speaking and listening skills for the 2015-16 and 2016-17 school years. Public comment on this waiver request is being taken until April 19, 2016.

March 11, 2016

Draft Science Standards Available to the Public

The 2015-16 Science Standards Review Committee is recommending a draft set of science standards, which can be viewed here. The draft 2016 Wyoming Science Content and Performance Standards will be discussed by the Wyoming State Board of Education during their meeting at the Hulett Community Center on March 17-18.


February 1, 2016

WAPSD Agenda Changed Due to Weather

Due to winter weather conditions, the Wyoming Advisory Panel for Students with Disabilities has changed the agenda for their meeting scheduled for February 2-3, 2016 at Casper College.


January 28, 2016

WAPSD to Meet and Take Public Comment Feb 2-3

The Wyoming Advisory Panel for Students with Disabilities will hold a public meeting February 2-3, 2016 at Casper College. The WAPSD panel serves as a forum through which issues regarding current and potential services to individuals with disabilities are discussed.

January 26, 2016

Help Prevent Poor Nutrition and Childhood Hunger in the Summer

In an effort to combat hunger and poor nutrition, the Wyoming Department of Education is seeking sponsors for a federally funded program to provide nutritious meals and snacks to children in low-income areas during the summer months.

January 22, 2016

Department Publishes List of Food Program Participants

The WDE published today an updated list of all the participating Child and Adult Care Food Program organizations in Wyoming. The CACFP reimburses these organizations for meals they serve according to program requirements.

January 21, 2016

WDE Launches Statewide Listening Tour

The WDE is holding meetings across the state to gather public input as the Statewide Digital Learning Plan is being prepared for presentation to school districts and legislators.

January 7, 2016

Wyoming Graded Eighth in Education Quality

Wyoming was ranked eighth in the nation in “Education Week”‘s 20th annual report card. “Quality Counts 2016 – Called to Account: New Directions in School Accountability” gave Wyoming an overall score of 80.2 out of 100 points and a grade of B-minus.

2015

December 10, 2015

Superintendent Balow Praises Rewrite of No Child Left Behind

State Superintendent Jillian Balow released a statement on the Every Student Succeeds Act.

See also: Updated Accountability FAQ


November 18, 2015

Wyoming’s State Plan to Ensure Equitable Access to Excellent Teachers Approved

The U.S. Department of Education announced today that Wyoming’s State Plan to Ensure Equitable Access to Excellent Educators has been approved.

November 16, 2015

“Wyoming Adventures” Coloring Book to Promote Every Kid in a Park Initiative

The Wyoming Department of Education has published a “Wyoming Adventures” coloring book to help spread awareness of the Every Kid in a Park initiative. Through this initiative, all fourth graders can get a pass through everykidinapark.gov, which will allow them free access to all federally-managed lands and waters.

November 13, 2015

Spring Creek Elementary School Celebrates National Blue Ribbon Award

Spring Creek Elementary School held a celebration on Friday for being named a 2015 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.

Philanthropist to Visit with Wyoming Business and Education Leaders

The WDE and the Wyoming Business Alliance/ Wyoming Heritage Foundation will host Ted Dintersmith in Cheyenne on November 16 to discuss how the employer community will play a stronger role in educating our youth for the demands of a global economy.


October 28, 2015

2015 Wyoming NAEP Scores Released

The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) today announced the state’s results on the 2015 National Assessment of Educational Progress, known as the Nation’s Report Card or NAEP. Overall, Wyoming’s fourth and eighth grade students in 2015 continue to outperform national average test scores in reading and mathematics.

October 1, 2015

Amy Pierson Named 2016 Wyoming Teacher of the Year

Amy Pierson, a fourth grade teacher at Cloud Peak Elementary in Johnson County School District #1, has been named Wyoming’s 2016 Teacher of the Year.


September 28, 2015

Superintendent Balow Announces Action to Advance Career Pathways

The Wyoming Department of Education has committed to improve career readiness for all Wyoming students, by adding rigor and value to programs that prepare high school students for careers.

September 8, 2015

2015 Accountability Determinations Released for Wyoming Schools

State accountability measures show most Wyoming schools are meeting or partially meeting expectations.

See also: Accountability FAQ


August 26, 2015

2015 Wyoming Seniors Show Improvement on ACT

A higher percentage of Wyoming high school seniors are prepared for college and career, according to reports released by ACT, Inc.

August 18, 2015

STEM Educators of the Year Recognized at Conference

The 2014-15 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Educators of the Year were honored at the 2015 Roadmap to STEM Conference in Sheridan on August 3.

August 18, 2015

2015 Statewide High School Assessment Results

Results are now available online from the 2015 statewide high school assessments administered to students in grades 9 through 11. Overall, the data indicate stable performance across the years.


July 31, 2015

Informational State Board Meeting Called on Statewide System of Support

There will be a special meeting of the State Board of Education at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 5, 2015 to discuss the statewide system of support.

July 16, 2015

2015 PAWS Results

Spring 2015 statewide testing results are available on the WDE’s Fusion site. The scores are for Reading and Mathematics in grades 3 through 8, and for Science in grades 4 and 8.


June 25, 2015

STEM Conference to Unite Education with Business

A conference will bring educators and industry together to learn how to implement Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) programs in Wyoming schools. The 2015 Roadmap to STEM conference will take place August 3-5, 2015 at Sheridan College.

June 15, 2015

WDE Seeks Public Comment on Chapter 43 Rule Promulgation

The Wyoming Department of Education is promulgating the Chapter 43 Reading Intervention and Response Rule. A public comment period is taking place on the proposed rule, as well as on a comprehensive list of tests to screen for dyslexia and language disability.

June 10, 2015

WAPSD Public Meeting

The Wyoming Advisory Panel for Students with Disabilities (WAPSD) will hold a public meeting in Riverton on June 26. The WAPSD discusses issues regarding services to individuals with disabilities.


May 14, 2015

Public Input Welcome at Community Meetings on Science Standards Review Committee

The Wyoming Department of Education and State Board of Education will hold five regional community meetings to allow an opportunity for Wyoming residents to give input to the Science Standards Review Committee.

May 7, 2015

Superintendent Balow Selected to Visit China for International Education Leaders Dialogue

Superintendent Balow will travel with seven other state superintendents to Shanghai, China for the U.S. – China State/Provincial Education Leaders Dialogue.

May 4, 2015

Proposed Revision to Hathaway Scholarship Program’s Chapter 38 Rules

The Wyoming Department of Education will be accepting public comment from May 4, 2015 through June 19, 2015.


April 20, 2015

WDE Receives USDA Farm to School Grant

More Wyoming Schools will be able to serve local food to students.

April 16, 2015

WyTECC Conference in May

WyTECC (The Wyoming Technology-Engagement-Curriculum-Connection) will host a conference May 1-2 in Rock Springs.

April 10, 2015

Distance Education Task Force Meeting

The Distance Education Task Force will meet April 16-17, 2015 in Casper, Wyoming, at Casper College.

April 6, 2015

Superintendent Balow on the Passing of Rep. John Patton

Along with the entire Wyoming Department of Education, Superintendent Balow sends her condolences to the Patton family and the Sheridan community.

April 3, 2015

Call for Participants: 2015 Science Standards Review Committee

Wyoming residents interested in serving on the 2015 Wyoming Science Standards Review Committee are asked to take a short survey.


March 16, 2015

WAPSD Meeting, Opportunity for Public Comment March 20

The Wyoming Advisory Panel for Students with Disabilities (WAPSD) will hold a public meeting March 20, at Casper College, in room 312 of the Gateway Building.

Wyoming Deaf, Hard of Hearing Students Advance to Academic Bowl Nationals

Wyoming’s Academic Bowl team of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (D/HH) high school students have advanced to Gallaudet University’s National Academic Bowl competition in Washington.

March 4, 2015

2013-14 Wyoming Four Year Graduation Rate

Graduation rates in Wyoming increased slightly for the 2013-14 school year, according to data compiled and released by the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) today.


February 23, 2015

Reimbursement for Serving Summer Meals to Children

The WDE announces it is seeking sponsors to participate in the Summer Food Service Program for the summer of 2015.

February 9, 2015

2014-2015 Student Enrollment Passes 93,000 Mark

Laramie County #1 is the largest district, while Sheridan #3 is smallest.


January 20, 2015

Wyoming Students Selected For US Senate Youth Program

Senators Enzi and Barrasso announced the students selected as delegates to the 53rd annual United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP).