Supreme Court finds Wyoming must spend more on teachers, strikes down other funding demands

September 20, 2026 - 00:40

The Wyoming Supreme Court ruled Thursday that the state must increase spending on teacher salaries, delivering a partial victory to education advocates who argued the current funding model fails to attract and retain qualified instructors. The decision, issued after months of deliberation, strikes down several other funding demands tied to school construction and operational costs.

The court found that Wyoming's school finance system does not adequately account for the rising cost of living and competitive wages needed to bring teachers into the state. Justices pointed to data showing districts struggle to fill positions, particularly in rural areas, and that salary stagnation has pushed experienced educators toward retirement or jobs in neighboring states.

However, the ruling rejected claims that the state must overhaul its entire capital construction funding formula. The court said those arguments lacked sufficient evidence and fell outside the scope of the current lawsuit. Education groups expressed disappointment but called the salary mandate a critical step.

Lawmakers now face pressure to adjust the funding model during the next legislative session. Some have warned that increasing teacher pay could strain the state budget, while others argue the court's order leaves little room for delay. The decision marks the latest chapter in a long legal battle over how Wyoming funds its public schools.