Dear Superintendents,
There are a number of pertinent memos this week. The WDE staff has worked diligently to interpret new state legislation and provide initial guidance for districts. Please know that our staff is available to answer questions, problem solve with you, and to work through challenges throughout implementation. In the coming weeks, we will hold a legislative session debrief, via webinar, to discuss legislative changes.
U.S. Department of Education Update
On March 16, the Trump Administration released a preliminary budget proposal, referred to as the “skinny” budget. We are still evaluating potential implications for Wyoming education. Philosophically, I support efforts to trim bureaucracy at the U.S. Department of Education but oppose efforts to cut back on money we currently receive for the operation of federal programs that benefit our students. Congress is ultimately responsible for writing and passing the budget and appropriations bills. Below is a memo summarizing the President’s proposal:
Memo from the Council of Chief State School Officers on the FY2018 Skinny Budget
Secretary DeVos has worked congenially with the state superintendents. I look forward to working with all entities, including Congress, to help ensure that a final budget allows us to continue to serve all students equitably and make policy decisions that are best for our state and communities.
Wyoming Investments
For 2.5 days this week the State Loans and Investment Board (SLIB), comprised of the governor, auditor, treasurer, secretary of state, and myself, met to discuss investment policy changes for the state. The work session was prompted, in part, by the passage of Amendment A that allows Wyoming to better diversify its portfolio. I share this because the Common School Fund, Higher Education Endowment, and the Hathaway Scholarship Fund were all part of the discussion. Education was well represented by WDE staff and advocates for trust lands. Once policy changes are out for public comment, I will send the link to superintendents and business managers. In the meantime, please feel free to contact Jed Cicarelli, in my office, or me if you have questions or comments about this topic.
Memos to be released Monday, May 20:
- 2017-032: Alternative School Moratorium
- 2017-033: Bridges Program Changes
- 2017-034: Chapter 42 Public Comment
- 2017-035: WDE950 Graduating Student Transcripts Reports
- 2017-036: Anti-bullying Grants
- 2017-037: Suicide Prevention Resources
- 2017-038: Virtual Education Needs Survey
- 2017-039: WAPSD Meeting
- 2017-040: E-Rate 101 and Essentials Workshops
Jillian
