Wyoming Education Committee prioritizes K-3 literacy and Hathaway scholarship reform

The Joint Education Committee of the Wyoming Legislature convened on March 5, 2025, to discuss several key topics concerning education in the state. The meeting focused on K-3 literacy initiatives, the Hathaway scholarship, and the role of community colleges in workforce development.

The session began with a discussion led by the superintendent regarding K-3 literacy. The superintendent emphasized the importance of addressing recent National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results, which indicated a 2% decline in fourth-grade reading scores nationally. While Wyoming ranked third in the nation for fourth-grade reading proficiency, the superintendent noted that only 36% of students were deemed proficient. This prompted a call for comprehensive reform of the literacy statute to align with national best practices and improve educational outcomes. The superintendent also highlighted the impending loss of federal funding for literacy programs, which would impact staffing and resources.

Following the literacy discussion, the committee turned its attention to the Hathaway scholarship. The superintendent noted ongoing discussions about potential changes to the scholarship's use, particularly regarding non-degree courses and the need for a holistic review of the scholarship statutes. The committee acknowledged the rising tuition costs at the University of Wyoming and the need to reassess the scholarship's structure and funding mechanisms.

The meeting also included input from committee members and representatives regarding the use of restraints and seclusion for students with severe behavioral issues, suggesting that this topic could be integrated into broader discussions on school discipline.

Senator Olson proposed a comprehensive review of charter school statutes, emphasizing the need for alignment in funding, accreditation processes, and the operational independence of charter school boards. This proposal was met with support from other committee members, who recognized the growing presence of charter schools in Wyoming.

The session concluded with a presentation from Erin Taylor, Executive Director of the Wyoming Association of Community College Trustees, who offered insights into the role of community colleges in workforce development and their governance. Taylor extended an invitation for the committee to engage with community colleges to better understand their contributions to education and the economy.

Overall, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to enhancing literacy, reviewing scholarship structures, and addressing the evolving landscape of education in Wyoming. The discussions set the stage for further exploration of these critical topics in future sessions.