Parents, students and staff urge board to keep Woods Learning Center, Barnum Elementary as trustees weigh closures

Dozens of parents, students, teachers and local officials urged the Natrona County School District #1 board on Oct. 27 to reverse or delay a staff recommendation that the board consider closing Woods Learning Center and Barnum (Bar None) Elementary beginning in the 2026–27 school year.

The public-comment period lasted more than two hours and included former students, current staff, PTA leaders and two young students who described the schools as "family"; many speakers said small class sizes, multi-age pods, project-based learning and on-site supports are essential for students with learning differences. The board did not vote on closures; trustees said the infrastructure planning committee’s recommendation will be considered at the board’s Nov. 10 meeting.

Why this matters: district staff told trustees the district is facing a rapid…