Senate Education panel advances bill to send a portion of district funds directly to charter schools

CHEYENNE — The Senate Education Committee voted to advance Senate File 73 on Jan. 20, a bill that would direct a proportional share of certain district-level funding to charter schools rather than retaining that portion at the district level.

Supporters told the committee the change would correct an inequity that leaves state-authorized and some district-authorized charter schools with fewer resources for essential school-level and personnel items. Opponents — including district finance officials and the Wyoming School Boards Association — said the bill risks underfunding district services and creating uneven funding across districts.

Tristan Green, chief financial officer for Albany County School District, testified he supports the policy goal but warned of consequences for district budgets. “I am in favor of this bill,” Green said, “but not at the expense of the districts.” He said some districts already struggle to cover rising costs and called special education spending a growing pressure; he offered to provide specific data later to committee staff.…