Mary Alice Bruce (Democratic)

1076 N Duna Dr
Laramie, Wyoming 82072-5017
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Although my journey in life has taken me all over the world, Albany County has been my home for over 30 years. Education is one of the great passions of my life, and I have years of experience working in the public school system as a math teacher and school counselor. I have first-hand experience serving in both urban and rural schools, and have taught math as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Kenya. My work in education led me to become a university Professor, Licensed Professional Counselor, and now Emeritus Professor of Counselor Education at the University of Wyoming.

For more than 25 years I have been married to John Stellern, a UW Emeritus Professor of Special Education. We greatly enjoy our blended family with 4 children (2 LHS grads) and are blessed with 12 grandchildren. I was honored to be appointed to the Albany County School Board in January 2022, and I ask for your vote to continue serving students and families as an experienced Trustee of Albany County School District #1.

As a current member of our ACSD #1 Board, I respectfully listen to stakeholders’ voices to make democratic, realistic decisions that work for the greater good. I have taught math and served as a school counselor at all levels of public schools. As a Professor of Counselor Education at the University of Wyoming, I supervised and mentored mental health and school counselors. Also, I have been a member and chaired numerous accreditation teams for both public schools and universities.

• Ph.D. degree, Iowa State University, Counselor Education
• M.S. degree, Iowa State University, Counselor Education
• B.S. degree, Purdue University, Honors Mathematics, Chemistry
• Wyoming Licensed Professional Counselor
• National Certified Counselor
• Level I Certified EMDR therapist
Georgetown University awarded me a scholarship to enroll in their virtual “School Board Member Finance Workshop” for 4 days by which to hone my strategic financial skills and abilities as a Board Trustee.

I was honored to be appointed to the Albany County School Board, and I ask for your vote to continue serving students and families as an experienced Trustee.
As a member of Laramie Women’s Club, I am Recording Secretary serving on the Board of Directors and Executive Board.
I am a member of PEO, an International Women’s Organization.For our local chapter, I head the Scholar Award project and am on the Membership Committee.
I belong to a local Investment Club affiliated with Better Investing

Education is one of the great passions of my life. As a current ACSD#1 School Board Trustee, I want to continue to contribute to our community in ways that are a best fit for my experience, training, education and passion. I am a creative problem solver, energetic advocate, and skilled communicator, as I have been shaped by my valuable experiences as a mother, spouse, teacher, Peace Corps volunteer, school counselor, and University of Wyoming professor. Acknowledging my conflict management skills and experiences, I was appointed by the UW President as the University Conciliator. As a mental health professional, I listen very carefully to fully understand and comprehend.
As a proponent of democratic and collaborative decision making, I believe that respectfully hearing the voices of appropriate stakeholders is the best strategy by which to achieve a practical solution. I am available and willing to communicate with stakeholders to find solutions and make reasoned decisions that benefit our students and community. I have lived in Albany County for more than 30 years, and I ask for your vote to continue my advocacy for higher graduation rates by enhancing the academic achievement, mental health and social development of our students.

With the overall goal of increasing graduation rates, I advocate for enhancing the academic performance, mental health, and social development of our students, which clearly reflects commitment to a holistic philosophy of education.

Boosting academic performance involves creating a safe, therapeutic environment in our schools wherein students and staff can regain ground that has been lost. The severe stress of COVID-19 school shutdowns and school shootings necessitates rebuilding support for staff and students to focus on teaching and learning. Providing adequate compensation for all staff demonstrates appreciation and encourages rededication to innovative teaching strategies with equal access for all students.

Mental health is a crucial priority in today’s world. Disruption of normal routines has occurred. The usual support that teachers, counselors, and others offer students has not been available. Financial instability of families and now inflation contribute to food insecurities. We need to identify current interventions, support and gaps in the school as well as community, then use resources to ensure all students and staff feel valued and capable.

Social development necessitates staff joining with families to incorporate Social-Emotional Learning into everyday activities. Students need guidance to set goals, manage their emotions and create supportive relationships. Skills of communication, citizenship and life must be nourished for everyone’s well-being.