Committee advances bill to reestablish University of Wyoming lab school as K‑8 public lab school

The Joint Education Committee voted 5‑4 to pass Senate File 126, a bill that would reestablish the University of Wyoming lab school as a K‑8 public lab school governed by an independent board and reporting annually to the joint committee.

Sponsor Senator Chris Rothfuss opened the hearing by saying the bill is an effort to preserve a 138‑year university institution and restore the lab school’s role in teacher preparation. "This legislation comes from, honestly, a little bit of conflict that took place with regard to the lab school," Rothfuss said, and described the measure as an opportunity "to really improve the lab school above and beyond what its best days were."

Supporters — including parents, alumni and current and former lab teachers — said the school provides hands‑on practicum opportunities for University of Wyoming education majors and a distinct learning environment for K‑8 students. "Lab has allowed us to work hands on with students and try out different teaching styles," testified Julia Crossland, a recent UW alum. Former and current parents said the lab school’s campus location makes frequent, short observations and practicum engagements possible in ways typical district schools do not replicate.

Opponents included the Albany…