Green River School Board faces controversy over proposed concealed carry policy

In a recent meeting of the Sweetwater County School District 2 Board, held on June 10, 2025, passionate discussions unfolded around two significant topics: the controversial policy regarding firearms in schools and proposed revisions to homeschooling regulations.

The atmosphere was charged as Steve Kaur, a resident of Green River, took the floor to express his strong opposition to the district's policy allowing personnel to carry concealed firearms on school grounds. Kaur emphasized that, despite legislation permitting such policies, the overwhelming majority of Wyoming school districts—44 out of 49—have opted against it. He argued that local control is being undermined by state legislators, particularly the Freedom Caucus, and urged the board to reject the policy. "Guns do not belong in schools," he stated, advocating instead for the presence of School Resource Officers (SROs) as a safer alternative. Kaur's remarks resonated with concerns about safety and the well-being of students, highlighting a community sentiment that favors a gun-free educational environment.

Following Kaur, Melissa Crowell addressed the board regarding proposed revisions to policy IGBD on homeschooling. She pointed out that while improvements had been made, the policy still did not align with Wyoming's recent legislative changes that prioritize parental rights in education. Crowell urged the board to clarify the notification requirements for homeschooling, arguing that the current language could lead to confusion and unnecessary burdens on families. Her call for clearer guidelines reflects a growing demand for educational policies that respect parental autonomy and align with state laws.

The meeting also featured a brief interjection from another community member who expressed support for the Second Amendment, reinforcing the divided opinions on the firearms policy. The discussions highlighted the complexities of balancing safety, parental rights, and legislative mandates within the school district.

As the board deliberates these pressing issues, the community remains engaged, eager to see how decisions will shape the educational landscape in Sweetwater County. The outcome of these discussions could have lasting implications for both school safety and the rights of families in the district.