Christy Klaassen (Republican)

7402 Daniel Ct
Cheyenne, Wyoming 82009-1871
Map It

I grew up in California and completed my Bachelor's and Master's of Arts Degrees at the University of California, Fullerton before moving to Washington, D.C. to pursue a career in foreign policy. I met my husband, a Wyoming native, there and we moved back to Wyoming to raise our three children 13 years ago. When my children were younger, I worked as a substitute teacher. I met a number of students who struggled to read at grade level. I also witnessed how teachers were asked to do much more than teach in their daily duties. With a background in policy, I decided to run for the Board to address these and other needs in our schools. Over the last four years, I have redirected resources to early reading literacy and professional development, banned personal use of cell phones in class, and encouraged parental involvement. I have also sponsored resolutions on curriculum transparency and devotion to American democratic ideals, and avoidance of district partisan affiliations.

I am a current Trustee. As a policy analyst for the Wyoming Community College Commission, I possess knowledge of higher education issues and how they relate to K-12 student pathways. Before going back to work fulltime, I was a substitute teacher and worked in almost two dozen schools in all grade levels and understand the district's challenges and strengths. I've also had a government affairs career in Washington, D.C. and possess necessary skills to be an effective leader on the Board.

Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in History, California State University, Fullerton
Master’s of Arts Degree in History, California State University, Fullerton

I am a current LCSD1 Board Trustee and have served our community in that role for four years. Before running for the Board, I served as a Parent Advisory Committee representative for Pioneer Park Elementary School’s PTO. I've served as a parent advisor for the Trail Blazer program’s working group tasked with finding ways to reinvigorate the district’s gifted and talented program. In addition, I volunteer in my church in various community outreaches and have coached youth recreational soccer.

As a parent with three children in our school system, I have a vested interest in seeing our schools maximize the potential of every student. The Board also needs members who will be responsive and effective voices for our professional educators and support staff, families and the community. I feel that it is important to manage our resources responsibly and to plan for challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. It is a critical time in our state as leaders grapple with funding for education, teacher shortages, social agendas, and over reaching federal regulations. Board members need to have a commitment to accountability, transparency, and thoughtful long-term planning.

The district must improve student outcomes. Average test scores per grades K-12 in both math and English language arts hover around 50%. We must maintain a focus on academic growth and proficiency, expand career pathway opportunities for students, and support policies that give students the individualized instruction they need to maximize their potential. Professional development and support for teachers is also an important piece.

The Board of Trustees is the community’s elected voice in the district. I am committed to listening to the concerns and input of parents, our community, and LCSD1’s dedicated educational professionals and support staff. As part of that commitment, we must strive to improve communication and transparency. We should also avoid expressing particular worldviews or partisan viewpoints, but rather fairly present issues and information that help students develop the skills necessary to think for themselves.

The district has done a lot to improve the safety and security of our schools. I remain committed to continually evaluating and implementing measures for securing district facilities, and to districtwide positive school climate initiatives.