CASPER, Wyo. — A Laramie County judge has ruled that the state has fallen short of its constitutional mandate to properly fund its schools and keep up with trends in costs and salaries.
The Wyoming Education Association brought the suit in 2022 with the support of eight school districts, and the case went to a four-week trial before District Judge Peter Froelicher in July.
Article 7 of the Wyoming Constitution states that the Legislature “shall provide for the establishment and maintenance of a complete and uniform system of public instruction.”
A lineage of court cases has refined the state’s responsibilities in meeting that demand, eventually leading to the court requiring that the Legislature “consider education as a paramount priority over all other considerations,” according to WyoFile.
The WDA’s present suit said the state had fallen behind on cost adjustments, salaries, and maintenance. Judge Froelicher ordered that the state now must take steps to modify the funding model and address the state of the facilities.
“The Court notes, because 2025 is a recalibration year, there is an excellent window of opportunity to address these issues,” Froelicher wrote.
“Meeting the constitutional requirement means giving every student the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances,” WEA President Kim Amen said. ”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.”
