What's Happening?
Steve Harshman, recently elected as Wyoming’s next superintendent of public instruction, is balancing his transition into state leadership with his ongoing role as head football coach for Natrona County High School. Despite his election victory, Harshman remains
focused on leading his undefeated Mustangs through their playoff run, demonstrating his commitment to his team before fully assuming his new state duties. Harshman has a long history of public service, having served for decades in the Wyoming House of Representatives, including two terms as Speaker of the House, alongside his coaching career. He emphasized that his philosophy, honed through years in education and sports, centers on providing direct, practical support to teachers, students, and families. His administration plans to prioritize the implementation of literacy legislation in classrooms and prepare students for post-graduation life, whether through college, vocational trades, apprenticeships, or military service. Harshman also expressed intentions to open discussions on early childhood education, noting Wyoming's lack of a statewide pre-kindergarten program for 4-year-olds.
Why It's Important?
Harshman's dual commitment highlights a unique transition into a critical state role, underscoring his dedication to both his current responsibilities and future public service. His extensive background in both education and legislative policy positions him to bring a practical, classroom-focused perspective to the Wyoming Department of Education. His emphasis on direct support for teachers and students, along with prioritizing literacy and post-graduation readiness, could significantly impact educational outcomes across the state. Addressing early childhood education is particularly vital, as research consistently shows its long-term benefits for student success and societal development. Furthermore, Harshman's critical stance on recent school funding recalibrations, particularly regarding teacher salaries and local district flexibility, signals potential legislative advocacy for changes that could better support Wyoming's educators and school systems. His leadership could shape the future direction of public education in Wyoming, influencing curriculum, teacher retention, and student preparedness for the workforce or higher education.
What's Next?
Upon the conclusion of his football season, Steve Harshman will fully transition into his role as Wyoming's superintendent of public instruction. His immediate agenda will likely involve assembling his administrative team and initiating efforts to implement his stated priorities. This includes working to translate literacy legislation into effective classroom practices and fostering discussions around early childhood education funding and programs. Harshman is also expected to engage with the incoming Legislature to address concerns he raised about school funding formulas, particularly those affecting teacher compensation and local district autonomy. He plans to encourage districts to share successful programs, especially in career and technical education, to retain young talent within Wyoming. His tenure will likely see a focus on practical support for educators and students, aiming to prepare students for diverse post-graduation pathways and to strengthen the state's educational foundation for future generations.
Beyond the Headlines
Harshman's approach to leadership, rooted in his coaching philosophy of attitude and effort, suggests a focus on fundamental principles and practical outcomes within the education system. His emphasis on teacher appreciation and retention, beyond just compensation, points to a holistic understanding of educator morale and its impact on student learning. This perspective could lead to innovative programs aimed at recognizing and supporting teachers, potentially counteracting negative narratives often found on social media. Furthermore, his vision for preparing students for various post-graduation paths—college, vocational trades, apprenticeships, or military service—reflects a pragmatic view of education's role in economic development and workforce readiness, aiming to keep young talent within Wyoming. His call for foresight in state leadership, drawing parallels to the Permanent Wyoming Mineral Trust Fund, indicates a long-term strategic mindset for investing in education as a foundation for the state's future prosperity, beyond immediate political cycles.
