House Education Committee backs resolution declaring support for rural schools

The House Education Committee on Jan. 22 voted to pass House Joint Resolution 3, a joint resolution expressing legislative support for rural schools in Wyoming.

The measure, read into the record by Vice Chair Lalley, cites Article 7, Section 1 of the Wyoming Constitution and language stating the Legislature must provide a "complete and uniform system of public instruction." The resolution notes Wyoming has several very small rural schools — the text read that "15 schools within 3 rooms or less" educate 102 students in grades K–8 across 12 different districts — and affirms support for keeping rural families and communities together by maintaining local schools.

Supporters told the committee rural schools provide small-group instruction and keep ranching families tied to their communities. Anna Anderson, who testified by video as a resident of northern Albany County and a parent at the Antelope Creek one‑room school, said the local certified teacher was "a true blessing" and that the school allowed her family to remain on their ranch. Holly Kennedy, speaking as a private citizen and volunteer, described growing up on remote dirt roads and said a one‑room school behind her family's barn provided the only practical route to a basic education. Jim McGavin of the Wyoming Stockgrowers Association said local schools were a factor in keeping the next generation on ranches.

Committee members who spoke in favor described rural schools as community hubs. Vice Chair Lalley said local schools help "keep Wyoming, Wyoming," and cited the new school in her district as an example of community importance. Representative Singh and others recounted personal experience growing up in small communities and supported the resolution.

There were no agency comments on the resolution during the committee hearing. After public testimony the committee voted. The motion to recommend the resolution pass was made by Vice Chair Lalley and seconded by Representative Strock. The roll call recorded nine ayes and the resolution passed the committee.

The resolution is symbolic — it asks the Secretary of State to submit copies to the Department of Education for distribution to schools and districts — and does not appropriate funds or change statute. Supporters said the resolution signals the Legislature's intent to continue backing the existence and funding of rural schools, while witnesses urged lawmakers to remember practical access issues such as bus time and local teacher availability when considering policy and budgets.

The committee moved next to other bills on the agenda.