School Board discusses new firearms policy amid safety concerns

In a pivotal meeting on June 30, 2025, the Laramie County School District 1 Board of Trustees confronted a contentious new policy regarding firearms on school property. As the board prepared to vote on the adoption of Board Policies, Chapter 3, Section 8, which would allow concealed carry in schools, emotions ran high among trustees and community members alike.

Trustee Burton opened the discussion with a heartfelt expression of concern, reflecting on the implications of the policy. "Tomorrow, we will be able to conceal carry guns in schools, and that makes me sad," she stated, highlighting the anxiety felt by parents and educators. She noted that some families might choose to withdraw their children from school due to safety fears, and some teachers have already left the state, unwilling to work in an environment where firearms are permitted.

Burton emphasized the need for rigorous training for anyone carrying a concealed weapon in schools, arguing that only highly trained individuals should be entrusted with firearms in such sensitive environments. She pointed out that research consistently shows a correlation between the presence of guns and increased violence, raising questions about the overall safety of students and staff.

The trustee shared personal anecdotes from her time in the classroom, recalling how even the mention of safety drills could instill fear in young children. "I can only imagine a person with a concealed carry gun having to wield that gun around children that are gathering around their feet would take a lot of training," she remarked, advocating for a policy that prioritizes the safety and well-being of students.

As the board members engaged in a thoughtful dialogue, it became clear that the decision at hand was not merely about policy but about the broader implications for the school community. The meeting underscored the delicate balance between individual rights and collective safety, leaving many to ponder the future of school environments in Wyoming as the policy moves forward.