In a vibrant gathering at the Lincoln County School District #2 meeting on November 13, 2024, school principals shared inspiring stories that highlighted the community's commitment to education and the celebration of local veterans. The atmosphere was filled with gratitude and pride as educators reflected on recent events that brought students and veterans together.

Danny Robinson, principal of Afton Elementary, kicked off the spotlight by recounting a heartfelt Veterans Day assembly featuring David Saltzman, a local veteran who shared his experiences in the Air Force with the students. Robinson emphasized the importance of connecting students with veterans, noting how the event fostered a sense of respect and appreciation among the children. The assembly included a moving performance of "God Bless America," led by music teacher Grama Shoemaker, which left many attendees emotional.

Jake Rich from Star Valley Middle School echoed Robinson's sentiments, sharing a touching story about a grandmother who praised the school's football coaches for their positive influence on her grandson. He recognized the dedication of the coaching staff, highlighting their role in shaping young lives both on and off the field.

Daniel Barnes, principal of State Elementary, also celebrated the school's Veterans Day assembly, where guest speaker Cal Neill distributed challenge coins to students, reinforcing the message that "you matter." The students' excitement over receiving these tokens was palpable, showcasing the impact of such initiatives on their morale and sense of belonging.

Tyler Jack from Osmond Elementary shared multiple "why not" moments, including a successful Red Ribbon Week that featured an obstacle course built by dedicated PTO moms. He also highlighted the school's after-school enrichment program, which saw an impressive turnout of 214 students participating in various activities, from archery to crafting.

Wendy McGinley, assistant principal at Star Valley High School, took a moment to commend School Resource Officer Bassett for his calm leadership during a recent incident, emphasizing the importance of safety in schools. She also mentioned the school's "Stand for Kind" assembly, which encouraged students to uplift one another.

The meeting concluded with Kenneth Dietz from Cokeville Schools, who used a fruit analogy to illustrate the unique strengths of his school. He celebrated the community's support for their high school football team, which competes at a higher level, and the impressive academic achievements of Cokeville Elementary, which ranked among the top schools in Wyoming.

As the meeting wrapped up, the collective message was clear: the Lincoln County School District #2 community is dedicated to fostering a supportive and enriching environment for its students, while also honoring the sacrifices of local veterans. The stories shared not only highlighted individual achievements but also underscored the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of education in the region.