Wyoming’s Education System: A Political Battlefield as Freedom Caucus Threatens Public Schools and Nordic Lodge Sparks Controversy

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Dear Casper,

I want to back Alexis Worthen’s letter from January 21, 2025. She clearly explains the challenges our education system faces in Wyoming. I’m a lifelong resident and have seen our public education transform from a balanced space for learning to a battleground of political beliefs. The focus has shifted to limiting diverse viewpoints and promoting narrow definitions of acceptable ideas. Meanwhile, we’re seeing public funds redirected to support private religious schools.

Joe Rogers
Casper

Dear Casper,

As someone who grew up in Wyoming and has taught here for 20 years, it pains me to see the Freedom Caucus working to undermine our public schools. It’s troubling that a small percentage of voters—only about 9%—chose members of the Freedom Caucus in the primary, yet their agenda threatens the education system that many of us rely on.

Wyoming’s public schools rank among the best in the country, thanks to the bipartisan support from our Legislature. Both Republicans and Democrats have historically prioritized equitable education for all students.

As educators, we strive to make learning meaningful and responsive to student needs. While I believe in continuously improving education, I never expected to witness attempts to dismantle our public system by the Freedom Caucus.

They seem to want to mimic Arizona’s education model, but let’s remember that Arizona ranks 40th in public education, while Wyoming consistently holds a top-five position. If changes are needed, we should focus on adequately funding our existing public schools rather than following a failing model.

It’s concerning to see our State Superintendent supporting private and religious schooling. We need to choose leaders committed to enhancing Wyoming’s education, not those importing issues from other states or privatizing our schools.

Though most educators prefer to focus on teaching rather than politics, we will stand firm against efforts to politicize education.

Dirk Andrews
Casper

Dear Casper,

I was shocked to read about the fire suppression system at the Nordic Ski Trail Lodge. It seems everyone involved has come off looking foolish!

Jeff Haley
Casper

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