Governor Mark Gordon’s Reimagining and Innovating the Delivery of Education (RIDE) group came to Afton to gather public comment last week. Lincoln County residents had the chance to share their thoughts with the Governor’s RIDE group during two listening sessions. 

Lachelle Brant, Governor Gordon’s Policy Advisor on Education, explained the purpose of the community meetings.

“He really wants to hear from the voices of communities, including parents, educators, business owners, students, and former students in thinking about how we make our education system one of the best in the nation,” Brant said.

The meeting was facilitated by Amy Starzynski. Members of the RIDE group, all volunteers, sat with each discussion group. Community members worked in small groups to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the school system, as well as their ideas for improvement. 

“We hope to come away with great recommendations from communities for the future of education, and that our students are prepared coming out of our school system,” Brant said.

When it came to specific strengths of the school district, participants praised the high caliber of local teachers and how much they care for the students. 

Many of the concerns revolved around standardized testing and better preparing children for life. Teachers in attendance mentioned the need for consistent funding and other resources. 

Discussions about how the community and the state can better support teachers were lively with many ideas offered. Overall, Brant said the group heard input that will be helpful in their final recommendations to the governor. 

“I think we heard a lot of great input on what’s working well and some possible changes that we can make.”

Community members can still participate in the statewide survey by visiting ride.wyo.gov