District News

20 hours ago

LCSD1 Nutrition Services hosts recipe contest for students

Laramie County School District 1 Nutrition Services Smart Spoon Café is hosting a recipe contest for students. The contest is divided into two age groups: Junior Chef (kindergarten through sixth grade) and Iron Chef (seventh through 12th grade).

Recipes will be judged based on common ingredients, ease of preparation in school kitchens, visual appeal, flavor, nutrition and cost. Three finalists from each group will be selected by Feb. 14. Finalists will then prepare their recipes for a panel of judges on Feb. 26. The winning recipes will be featured on school lunch menus in May.

Recipe guidelines are as follows: 

  • The recipe must be an entrée containing grains and proteins.
  • Ingredients must include exact measurements, with at least three items from the common ingredients list (one must be a protein).
  • Recipe should be cookable in one hour or less.
  • Step-by-step preparation instructions are required.
  • Include the number of servings the recipe yields.
  • Recipe should be low sodium, low fat and may be adjusted to meet USDA guidelines.
  • Optional: Include a photo or drawing of the completed dish.

For a list of approved ingredients, contact Smart Spoon Café at smartspooncafe@laramie1.org.

All entries must be submitted by Jan. 13 via mail or email:

Mail: 3320 Maxwell Ave.

Email: smartspooncafe@laramie1.org


LCSD1 students attend leadership conference

 South High SkillsUSA students recently attended the Wyoming Fall Leadership Conference at Eastern Wyoming College in Torrington. 

Twelve members of the team received the SkillsUSA Statesman Award at the conference. 

This award is a prestigious recognition presented to members who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of SkillsUSA’s mission, values and framework. Recipients exhibit knowledge of the organization’s history, structure and the significance of its emblem components. They also showcase leadership skills and a commitment to personal and professional development.

This is the first year SkillsUSA Wyoming has offered this award, making South students the first LCSD1 students to receive it.

The recipients of the award are Abby Chavez, Abigail Belknap, Jack Boose, Jaelyn Brown, Araya Feazell, Hannah Fisher, Forrest Heschke, Keely Henderson, Ziva Shank, Keegan Potter and Evan Van Kirk.


Cheyenne East speech and debate team wins first place

The East High Speech and Debate team recently competed at the Evergreen Classic in Green River, Wyoming. The team took first place in the 4A Sweepstakes. This marks their third consecutive win this year. 

According to East High Speech and Debate Coach Marcus Viney, the team showcased exceptional talent, with students earning a record-breaking 25 individual first place finishes—an achievement that highlights their hard work, dedication and skill.

Individual results are as follows:

Emma Andrews, Semifinals Drama, Semifinals POI

Taylor Grace Byers, tied for 1st Novice LD, 4th Novice Info

Donovan Carll, 1st Novice Extemp

Sadie Casey, Semifinal Duo, Semifinals Oratory

Cadie Cooper, 5th Novice Congress, tied for 1st Novice LD

Leila Cuthbert, Semifinals Novice Impromptu , 3rd Novice Oratory

Bridget DeMelfi, 5th Duo, 5th POI, 4th Poetry

Madi Dyl, 6th Duo, 7th Info

Bri Elwood, 5th Poetry

Ethany Frint, tied first 1st Novice LD

Mikkel Gortel, 5th Info

Ella Golwitzer, 1st PF

Lillian Gonzalez, Semifinals Novice Impromptu, 2nd Novice Extemp, 2nd Novice Duo

Addison Goodman, Semifinals POI, 4th Drama, 2nd Humor

Uriah Graham, Semifinals Duo

Rebekkah Greenwalt, Semifinals Oratory, Semifinals Impromptu, 1st PF

Damien Harwell, 6th Novice Humor

Jared Haynes, Supers Congress, 1st PF

Samantha Jordan, 1st Drama, 5th Duo

Carter Kennedy, 1st Novice Congress

Ellie Kerschner, Semifinals POI, 1st Oratory, 2nd Humor, 4th Info, 2nd Duo

Layla Kling, 1st Duo, 3rd POI

Finn Knepper, Semifinals Extemp, Semifinals Impromtu, 1st PF,

Natalyia Kopak, 7th Congress, 5th LD

Austin LaVanway, Semifinals Drama

Joselyn LaVanway, 1st Novice Poetry, 2nd Novice Drama

Danica Lees, Semifinals Oratory

Raeley Lind, 2nd Novice Humor, 1st Novice Info, 1st Novice PF

Maci Little, Semifinals Oratory, 6th Duo

Anh Luu, Supers Novice Congress, 1st Novice Duo

Brayden Lyday, Semifinals Congress

Vittorio Montenovo, 1st Novice Oratory, tied for 1st Novice LD

Theo Martin, Semifinals Info

Jazzy Matthews, Semifinals Info, 5th Humor

Meiya McQueen, Semifinals Oratory, 1st Duo

Cloee Miller, 1st Novice Duo

Killian Mills, 3rd Novice PF

Braxton Monteagudo, 3rd Novice Congress

Tatiana Nigh, 4th Novice Duo

Sandi Nigh, 3rd Novice PF, 4th Novice Poetry, 1 Novice Humor

Abby Petri, 5th Oratory

Adam Pierson, 1st Policy

Jonathan Quintana, 4th Humor

Deanna Roccabruna, 6th Oratory

Taylor Schmidt, Semifinals Novice Oratory, 6th Novice Duo, 4th Novice Drama

Andrew Schulz, Semifinals POI, 2nd Oratory, 5th Drama, 1st Poetry

Jacob Schwartz, 3rd Congress, 3rd LD

Isabella Smario, 1st Novice PF

Kyler Smith, 4th Novice Duo

Lillian Strang, 1st Policy

Allison Tiegs, 2nd POI

Melissa Uber, 7th Humor

Charlette Vasey, 2nd Novice Duo, 3rd Novice Extemp, Semifinals Novice Impromtu

Sebastian Vasquez, Supers Novice Congress

Renna Walker, Semifinals Novice Oratory, 3rd Novice Drama, 6th Novice Duo

Courtney Walton, 2nd Novice Info, 1st Novice PF

Zimrah Weiss, 2nd Novice Poetry, 4th Novice Oratory, 1st Novice PF

Cristina Welch, 3rd Drama, 2nd Duo, 1st POI

Wyatt Wilson, Semifinals Duo, Humor

Sadie Zwontizer, 5th Extemp, 3rd LD, 1st Impromptu


LCSD1 to partner with Care Solace 

The Laramie County School District 1 is partnering with Care Solace, a resource dedicated to helping students, staff and family members access mental health services.

This collaboration aims to simplify the process of finding appropriate support, offering 24/7 assistance to those in need. Care Solace connects users with a large network of providers, including options that accept various insurance plans, Medicaid, Medicare and sliding scale fees for those without insurance.

The Wyoming Department of Education is sponsoring this service and making it available to school districts across the state. 

With parent permission, LCSD1 counselors, social workers and psychologists are using Care Solace as a tool to help families find support.

The process for using this resource includes three steps: 

  1. Screening: Users will complete a brief screening form online or by phone to provide basic information about their needs. 
  2. Matching: Care Solace will seek providers, present at least two options and assist with appointment scheduling. 
  3. Follow-up: After appointments, Care Solace will check in to ensure satisfaction and continue the search if needed. 

Care Solace’s services are confidential and provided at no cost. 

For more information, call 888-515-0595 or visit caresolace.com/lcsd1. 


East students compete in national SkillsUSA competition

East High School’s SkillsUSA team earned the title of Reserve National Champions in Chapter Business Procedure at the national contest in Atlanta, Georgia. The team qualified after winning the state championship in April. 

Team members include Callie Rosner, Cierra DiCamillo, Bradley McCurdy, Regan Allen, Brody Medina and Hannah Schick. 


Central High honors Dr. Michael J. Thomas with Distinguished Alumni Award


Central High School is proud to announce Dr. Michael J. Thomas as the recipient of this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award. A graduate of Central High in 1990, Dr. Thomas has been recognized for his exceptional service to others throughout his respected career in law enforcement.

Currently, Dr. Thomas serves as the deputy assistant director for the United States Marshals Service in the Prisoner Operations Division in Arlington, Virginia. Over his 27-year career, he has held various impactful roles, including juvenile probation officer with the City of Cheyenne’s Office of Youth Alternatives, probation and parole officer for the Wyoming Department of Corrections, and deputy sheriff with the Laramie County Sheriff’s Department.

Dr. Thomas holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, a master’s degree in government business relations, and a PhD in public policy and administration with a concentration in criminal justice. His education demonstrates a commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity, justice and community service. 

Throughout his career, Dr. Thomas has focused on ensuring public safety, safeguarding the judicial system and supporting the law enforcement community. His dedication to these principles exemplifies the spirit of service that Central High School aims to inspire in its students.


South High student excels in American Legion Auxiliary programs

This summer, Deanna Davis, a senior at South High, participated in the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State and Girls Nation programs. These programs provide hands-on experience in understanding the workings of the federal government.

In June, Davis attended Girls State leadership camp in Cheyenne, where she received training on her responsibilities as an American citizen. During her time there, she was selected as one of Wyoming’s two representatives at Girls Nation.  

Girls Nation took place in July in Washington, D.C., where Davis joined students from across the country for a mock Senate session, gaining an in-depth perspective on the national government.

School counselor Justin Roadifer and social studies teacher Erin Lindt supported Davis through her application process for these opportunities. 


Central High students tour France

This summer, 21 Central High students in French levels 3-5 participated in a 26-day educational tour around France, granting them the opportunity to put their language skills to the test and experience another culture.

The students stayed with host families in Mende, France; attended French school, and visited many important historical and cultural sites around France.

Sarah Evans, Central High’s French teacher, said the students were almost fully immersed in the French language during this time.

“It gave students a tremendous opportunity to use their learning in a real-world setting,” Evans said.

While absorbing French culture, the Central students also shared the culture of Wyoming with French students. Four hundred French students attended their “Wyoming Day” event, during which they received gifts from Visit Cheyenne, the Wyoming Historical Society, the Wyoming State Museum and the Laramie County Library. Members of the Central High cheer squad taught cheers and group dances.

The tour of France continued Central High’s partnership with Lycée Chaptal, a school in Mende. Lycée Chaptal students were hosted by Central High families in Cheyenne last year, and the Central French students hope to continue building ties with their French partner students.

Two students, Ryan McNees and Saimaa Widi, were selected to receive $2,000 scholarships for their travel experience from the Société Honoraire de Français, a national French honor society organization that Central has hosted a chapter of for the last six years. They were two out of nine total award winners from the United States this year.

“We are grateful to Central teachers, parents and administration for their ongoing support of this unique opportunity for our students,” Evans said.


South High student places fifth at FBLA National Leadership Conference

South High junior Neal Hushbeck placed fifth in the country in an event at the Future Business Leaders of America, Inc.’s (FBLA) National Leadership Conference held in Orlando, Florida, June 24-July 2.

The conference brought more than 12,000 students from across the U.S. together to compete in business-related events. Hushbeck placed fifth in one event after creating a 30-second public service announcement video, presenting it to the judges and describing how he created the video.

Kate Tietjen, South High’s FBLA adviser, said Hushbeck has a passion for the media industry and intends to pursue a career there. 

“He will gain a lot of recognition and possible scholarships from colleges based on his national award,” Tietjen said. “I am so proud of him.”

Fifteen South High students competed in 17 team and individual events throughout the conference.


News Briefs

20 hours ago

Tutoring sessions offered during winter break


During winter break, Central, East and South High schools will be offering tutoring sessions for students who wish to catch up on schoolwork before the end of the semester.

Students are welcome to recover credits by making up tests, quizzes or other assignments. Additionally, they can receive help with coursework or simply take time to study.

 

Central High, 5500 Education Drive

The Chief Morning Star Academy will be open Friday, Dec. 27, Saturday, Dec. 28 and Monday, Dec. 30 from 8–11 a.m. Sessions will be held in Room 513. Any secondary school student wishing to complete make-up assignments, including tests and assessments, is welcome. Certified English, math, science and social studies teachers will be available to assist with specific content areas. Students should enter through the north doors.

 

East High, 2800 E. Pershing Blvd.
Tutoring will be offered for East students Monday, Dec. 30, Tuesday, Dec. 31, Thursday, Jan. 2 and Friday, Jan. 3 from 8 a.m.–noon. Sessions will be held in the T-Bird Academy, Room 347. Students should enter and leave the building through the front doors and are required to bring their own work and textbooks to the sessions. English, math and science tutors will be available. Students may work on any subject.

 

South High, 1213 W. Allison Road
Tutoring will be offered in the library for South students Friday, Dec. 27, Monday, Dec. 30 and Tuesday, Dec. 31 from 8-11 a.m. Students should enter and leave the building through the main office and should bring their own work and iPad to sessions. Tutoring will be available to all students in any subject.


Johnson Junior High students to perform “Bad Auditions by Bad Actors”

The Johnson Junior High theatre students will be performing “Bad Auditions by Bad Actors” Friday, Dec. 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the South High School auditorium, 1213 W. Allison Road.

The play, which is a comedy, shows some of the most outrageous choices actors can make during an audition.

“Contrary to the title, this play shows how amazing our Johnson Junior High School actors are,” Johnson drama teacher Annika Nelson said.

Admission is free and donations are welcome. 


LCSD1 accepting applications for “Navigating Laramie 1” community outreach program 

Community members and parents who are interested in learning more about Laramie County School District 1 are encouraged to apply for LCSD1’s community outreach program, “Navigating Laramie 1.” Applications will be accepted through Dec. 13, 2024. 

Through monthly, three-hour educational activities, participants will learn more about the district, make connections and increase their involvement with the district and its schools. The program courses will run from 9 a.m. to noon on the following dates: 

Finance—Jan. 16, 2025 

Human Capital & Talent—Feb. 20, 2025 

Academic Learning Session 1—March 13, 2025 

Academic Learning Session 2—April 17, 2025 

Facilities—May 15, 2025 

Space is limited and participants will be selected for the program following an application process. Application forms are available on the LCSD1 website, www.laramie1.org. 

For more information, contact Megan Case at megan.case@laramie1.org or 771-2326.