JACKSON, Wyo. — During State Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder’s visit to Jackson Hole High School (JHHS) on Wednesday, March 12, she spoke to Buckrail about her vision for the future of education in the state.
Degenfelder praised Teton County School District (TCSD) for incorporating a more student-centered teaching model.
“I think Teton County does an exceptional job at the individualized learning that we’re trying to scale across the state,” Degenfelder said. “Instead of that one-size fits all model that is traditional education, they’ve been really innovative and wanting to jump on these pilots that are about kids moving at their own pace. That’s what is really great about JHHS.”
In February, in line with Degenfelder’s vision, the TCSD amended the school schedule to allow for a more individualized learning approach. The new school schedule, which prioritizes teacher efficiency and collaboration time, goes into effect in 2026.
Degenfelder also shared that this year’s recalibration of Wyoming’s K-12 block grant could change how much funding is distributed to each school district in the state. She said that every five years, Wyoming recalibrates its education funding model.
“We’re bringing in consultants and they are identifying what the updated costs are to provide an adequate education,” Degenfelder said. “Then, based on what community you’re in — Jackson is going to be more expensive than say, Gillette — we balance it out based on that.”
During the recalibration process, which begins in April, a legislative committee will evaluate funding needs in Teton County, including possible safety measures after the passing of HB0172- Repeal gun free zones and preemption amendments. The new statute will allow all those who have a concealed carry permit to concealed carry in any K-12 school.
Degenfelder said that assessing the need for school resource officers and safety equipment, including metal detectors, will be discussed as a part of the recalibration process.
“I am a proponent of the Second Amendment,” Degenfelder said. “We can’t restrict rights just based on the door of the building … but (we can) allow protection and prevention for those who prefer to waive their rights to concealed carry. If someone waives their Second Amendment rights, they have metal detectors and an armed guard to protect them.”
