Dear Superintendents,

Wyoming’s science standards have met another milestone as the final public comment period closed. Throughout the process more than 350 comments were taken making this last step more of a formality.  As we near the finish line, work on building teaching resources around Wyoming-specific science has already begun. Wyoming Agriculture in the Classroom (WAIC) is working with educators, families, and others on the Wyoming Stewardship Project.  Notably, educators gathered in July to align unique teaching and learning resources to the standards.  I had an opportunity to highlight this important work at the 2016 Agriculture Hall of Fame picnic.  Also, during the picnic, Teresa Brown of Crook County was recognized for her leadership on the WAIC Board and Diane Hellbaum, an elementary teacher from Chugwater, received the WAIC Educator of the Year award.

This week is also the Wyoming State Fair which, for me at least, is a final signal that school is actually going to start.  It also marks my promotion from “county fair mom” to “state fair mom.”  My daughter won reserve champion Hereford steer on Wednesday at the state fair and I am shamelessly proud!

I wish you and your staff the best as students return to school and to help with the transition WDE staff developed a back-to-school toolkit, a handy reference for savvy veteran education leaders and more of a mainstay for new and aspiring leaders.  There is information about accountability, the Hathaway Scholarship Program, and more.

Superintendent Balow speaking at an outdoor picnic for the Agriculture Hall of Fame at the State Fair in Douglas

Chapter 31 Rules on Graduation Requirements

The rules were rescinded by the State Board earlier this week amid inconsistencies with rules in other chapters. Our work with you, the governor’s office, and the LSO to provide clear guidance to districts will continue. Your input is appreciated.

Memos to be released on Monday, August 22:

Jillian

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