Public commenter urges LCSD1 to implement legislature's 2025 raises and to follow new concealed-carry rules

Patricia McCoy, a member of the public, addressed the Laramie County School District No. 1 Board of Trustees during non‑agenda public comment to ask that the district implement teacher and staff raises from the 2025 legislative session and to craft any new concealed‑carry rules within the limits of recently passed state law.

“House Bill 0316 adjusts school funding for the 2025‑26 mandating an 8.5% raise for teachers, principals, aids, and custodial staff,” McCoy told trustees, asking how the district would “show transparency so our community can trust these funds reach our staff.” She said many teachers reported not receiving a pay increase in more than a decade.

McCoy also urged the board to consider House Bill 0172, the Wyoming Gun Free Zones Act, which she said becomes effective July 1, 2025. She described the law as restoring concealed‑carry rights for permit holders and noted it allows school boards to adopt regulations for employees and volunteers carrying concealed weapons while limiting what districts can require in training. McCoy referenced “statutes 21‑3‑135 and 21‑3‑136” and said the Wyoming Department of Education would accept reimbursement submissions for firearm training costs beginning June 2 with a June 30 deadline, citing a superintendent update.

McCoy urged the board not to shift training costs to employees if the state offers reimbursement and asked trustees to be “responsible with the authority you've been given.” The board did not respond substantively during public comment, and no policy vote occurred at the meeting. The superintendent and board later discussed other agenda items and follow‑up steps but did not take an immediate action on the concealed‑carry question.