Dear ACSD#1 Community,
We are writing to share important information regarding a new state law and its impact on our schools.
During the most recent legislative session, the Wyoming Legislature passed House Bill 0172, which significantly changes the legal landscape surrounding firearms in our state. Most notably, the law eliminates many of Wyoming’s previously established gun-free zones, including those that applied to elementary and secondary school properties. As a result, school districts no longer have the authority to prohibit members of the public from carrying concealed firearms on school grounds, provided they comply with state concealed carry laws.
While the law removes the District’s ability to regulate the concealed carry of firearms by members of the public, it does allow school districts to impose certain requirements on employees and volunteers. In response, we have drafted ACSD#1 District Policy 5050 – Firearms on School Property, which outlines the limited restrictions we are legally permitted to enforce. The proposed draft of District Policy 5050 can be found here. Additionally, the District will begin the process of revising ACSD#1 District Policy 4023 - Weapons in June. A copy of the proposed draft of this policy can be found here.
Prior to drafting this policy, the District held a community forum to gather input and better understand the concerns of our students, families, staff, and community members. That forum made it clear that many in our community have serious and valid concerns about both the new state law and the implications of any policy developed to comply with it.
The policy we have drafted reflects our commitment to safety while complying with the legal limitations placed on us. We have taken every possible step—within the bounds of state law—to put safeguards in place and to protect our students, staff, and visitors. While we acknowledge that the policy cannot address every concern raised, we believe it represents the most responsible course of action available to us under the law.
As the Board of Trustees continues the process of reviewing and potentially adopting this policy, we welcome continued input from our community. Your voices remain a vital part of this process, and we are committed to ongoing dialogue as we move forward together.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support as we work to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment for all.
Sincerely,
ACSD#1 Policy & Governance Committee