On Tuesday of this week, my day started with schools and ended with schools.

The first meeting was early with the Select Committee on School Facilities in Casper. The second, at the end of the day was the annual Scholarships Awards Presentation in Star Valley. Using my trusty truck, I found a way to  attend both — in person.

As for the first meeting, our Wyoming schools, the actual buildings, the facilities, are a vital part of our lives in Star Valley, Cokeville, Kemmerer, and all of Wyoming. Think of how many times you attend events in our schools, locally and around the state.

A developing challenge will be adjusting those schools to declining student enrollments.

As we make these changes, there are plans to work closer with facility managers and ultimately create a Community of Facility Managers across the state to ensure that we get a long life with our existing buildings.

While I don’t see it as exciting as some topics, it’s crucial to keep our buildings in good operating condition.

Continuing with schools, the evening hours are more enjoyable as I attend and participating in the Annual Scholarship evening back in Star Valley.

This is the opportunity to honor our students as they take the next step in their education.

This scholarship program continues to grow. An estimated $200,000 was distributed from the LCSD2 Education Foundation

Over the years, I’ve watched students apply this assistance wisely to continue with their education or launch successful careers.

Thanks to the mineral and energy industry for primarily making our Wyoming’s school buildings possible in our communities.

Thanks to Wyoming residents for helping our students with scholarship programs.

The schools — a big part of our life in Wyoming.