Michelle Aldrich

This strategic plan outlines the vision, mission, and values of the Wyoming State Board of Education, aiming to support an education system that prepares all Wyoming students for their futures through bold, student-focused leadership. A central goal is to establish a 'Profile of a Graduate' to guide educational excellence and continuous improvement. The 2025/26 priorities include supporting the implementation of the Profile, adopting graduation standards, reviewing state standards, refining accountability and assessment systems, studying accreditation, fostering collaboration, enhancing Career and Technical Education (CTE) efforts, and actively participating in the Wyoming Future of Learning Partnership.

The meeting included discussions on various topics, such as the application timeline, performance framework, and updates from Alpine. The board also discussed the administrative fee rate for the current school year and a draft letter addressing the joint appropriations committee on budget construction. The finance committee discussed the possible realignment internally, June financial statements for both WDE and the governor's office.

The meeting included discussions on the monthly summary produced by Mr. Carol, which the finance committee didn't have a chance to review beforehand. The application committee discussed the implications of having satellite schools associated with existing charters, including legal challenges and concerns about overreach. They plan to invite legal counsel to their next meeting to delve deeper into what is permissible under existing policy and statute. There were questions about how the board is looking at Alpine and Casper, and the process for changing the application, as well as the implications of opening the door for other satellite schools. The committee also touched on the use of an abbreviated renewal application form and incorporating parts of the original application by reference.

The Wyoming Department of Education's (WDE) Continuous Improvement plan focuses on establishing a robust system for evaluating and refining the Wyoming Language and Literacy Plan (WLLP). Key areas of focus include data collection and analysis, setting statewide benchmarks, and providing targeted support to Local Education Agencies (LEAs). The plan aims to ensure that literacy initiatives are evidence-based, aligned with state goals, and responsive to the evolving needs of students and educators across Wyoming. The WDE employs a Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle for continuous refinement, emphasizing stakeholder involvement and data-driven decision-making to promote equitable and sustainable literacy outcomes.

The Wyoming Language and Literacy Plan (WLLP) aims to improve literacy outcomes statewide through aligned initiatives, evidence-based practices, and collaboration. It focuses on enhancing instruction, providing targeted interventions, and strengthening professional learning for educators. The plan addresses the needs of diverse learners, including multilingual learners, students with disabilities, and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds, by promoting equitable access to high-quality literacy instruction and support.