Help Grow Mathematical Thinkers: Register by October 12

You already make a difference in how young people see themselves. The Uncommon Math Heroes Community of Practice is four free, 45-minute Zoom sessions for Wyoming programs that work with young people, designed to build on what you already do well. Programs that complete all four receive a $500 stipend.

No math expertise is needed. We'll start with our own math stories, then explore simple ways to notice the math young people are already doing, to treat struggle as a sign someone needs support rather than a sign they can't, and to show that asking for help is a strength. It's grounded in real stories from Wyoming people, from a tennis pro to a rancher to an engine builder and backed by research. Register by October 12!

Meet Uncommon Math Hero Lainie McElwee

Most people would see a tangled horse halter and reach for patience. Lainie McElwee saw a Möbius strip. One afternoon, while untwisting a grazing muzzle for one of her horses, she remembered a lesson from childhood. The way the straps had twisted reminded her of a mathematical shape with only one side and one edge. Instead of feeling frustrated, she found herself thinking through the problem like a puzzle.  That moment captures how Lainie sees math as a way to understand the world around her. 

Build Stronger Bridges for Young Learners 

The Early Childhood Collaborative Conference will be held October 23–24 at the Best Western Downtown Casper Hotel. It's a chance to learn, connect, and bring fresh ideas back to your program! For out-of-school time professionals, one session offers a particularly practical opportunity: “Bridging the Gap: Evidence-Based Transitions from Early Childhood to OST,” led by Rosemary McBride, 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program Consultant with the Wyoming Department of Education. In this hands-on session, participants will explore how to support young learners as they transition into K–2 out-of-school time programs—building bridges between early learning and OST through stronger routines, family engagement, and continuums of care. Reserve your spot by Friday, October 9.

Let’s Light Up the Equality State for Afterschool 

Happy Lights on Afterschool Month! On Thursday, October 22, communities across the country will celebrate the 27th Annual Lights On Afterschool and we want to see Wyoming shining bright. Whether you’re hosting an open house to invite families in to showcase your work and host or doing the Lightbulb Challenge, there are plenty of ways to join the celebration. Register your event, grab some Lights On resources, and help us light up the Equality State! Then share your celebration with #LightsOnAfterschool so Wyoming can be part of the national spotlight. 

Bring Real-World Problem Solving into Your Program 

Looking for a new way to bring real-world problem solving into your afterschool program using technology? The TECH Quest activities from STEM Next are designed to help afterschool and summer educators guide youth through hands-on challenges that connect tech learning to real community and global issues. Explore three ready-to-use lessons designed for grades 5-8. 

Start the Conversation About Planned Giving 

Join the Wyoming Community Foundation, Colorado Planned Giving Roundtable, and Wyoming Nonprofit Network for a free webinar on Tuesday, October 20 from 12:30–2:00pm. “Starting the Conversation About Planned Giving” will explore how to identify potential donors, begin and continue planned giving conversations, and steward planned gifts. Participants will also receive practical resources and an invitation to a follow-up session with Wyoming Community Foundation staff on Thursday, November 19. Registration is required. Be sure to select Wyoming when registering.