WSBA updates leadership and policy processes amid legislative changes in Wyoming education

The Laramie County School District #2 held a meeting on May 8, 2025, focusing on various updates and policy discussions relevant to the district's operations and governance. The meeting began with an update from the Wyoming School Board Association (WSBA), presented by regional representative Mike. He highlighted the nomination of Shane Bader from Sheridan as the president-elect for the Colorado Association of School Executives (COSBA), set to take office in 2026. Bruce Jolley will temporarily fill Bader's position as Wyoming's representative at the COSBA.

The WSBA also announced the termination of its exclusive agreement with Diligent, the company behind BoardDocs, due to the discontinuation of the software. In its place, WSBA plans to partner with Symbale, which promises better customer service and preferred pricing for member districts. School districts will still have the option to use Diligent's new product, Community.

The meeting addressed ongoing superintendent searches in various districts, including Bighorn and Hot Springs, with updates on recent interviews and appointments. Additionally, the WSBA is preparing for a law conference in Laramie this August, aimed at school board members.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the recalibration of graduation requirements and the frustrations expressed by school districts regarding recent legislative changes. Board members voiced concerns over new laws related to gender-specific facilities and gun-free zones, emphasizing the challenges districts face in adapting their policies to comply with these regulations.

The board also discussed the importance of public officer training for elected officials, noting the pressure to meet compliance deadlines. Members expressed a consensus that the upcoming summer would be busy with policy organization and updates.

In terms of policy procedures, the chair proposed a structured approach for policy adoption, emphasizing the need for thorough discussion and public comment before moving policies to first and second readings. The board agreed on the importance of accountability and clarity in the policy-making process.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the need for ongoing communication and collaboration among board members to navigate the complexities of policy changes and legislative updates effectively. The board aims to ensure that all members are informed and engaged in the decision-making process as they prepare for the challenges ahead.