WEA, Governor React to Ruling Ordering Changes In School Funding

The Wyoming Education Association is applauding a judge's Wednesday ruling that Wyoming is underfunding state schools, while Governor Mark Gordon said he is still reviewing the decision before deciding on a possible appeal.

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Laramie County District Court Judge Peter Froelicher has sided with the Wyoming Education Association in the latest court fight over education funding in the Cowboy State.

Wednesday's decision was the latest in a long line of court decisions on Wyoming school funding in legal battles that date back to 1980.

Judge Froelicher found the state has failed to meet it's constitutional requirements to pay for education across six different areas, siding with the WEA in each case. Those included adjusting school funding for inflation, funding for teacher and staff salaries; funding for nutrition, school safety and computers, not maintaining facilities and buildings, among other issues.

The judge also ruled the state has not done enough to pay for the "basket of educational goods and services" mandated by a 1995 Wyoming Supreme Court Ruling.

Froelicher on Wednesday ordered the state to make changes in how it funds schools to address the problem areas.

You can read Wednesday's ruling here.

Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon's Office issued the following statement on Froelicher's ruling:

We are still reviewing the ruling from the court on this matter to consider our issues on appeal.

Throughout his time in office, Governor Gordon’s budget has recommended funding the entire External Cost Adjustment, including in the current supplemental budget. The current Legislature did not agree with the Governor’s recommendation.

The Governor looks forward to working with the Legislature in the coming months to ensure that the state is meeting its Constitutional obligation to fund Wyoming education.

WEA President: Every Student Deserves Chance To Thrive

Wyoming Education Association President Kim Amen issued the following statement:

"Meeting the constitutional requirement means giving every student the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances,” Amen added. “It’s about empowering educators with the resources, support, and respect they deserve, and ensuring that students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and critical thinking abilities necessary to succeed.”