UW Lab School

Originally opening in 1887, the University of Wyoming Lab School opened 3 years before Wyoming was officially a state. Beginning as a “prep” school, and later signing a partnership with the school district in Laramie, the school evolved over the years. The final Memorandum of Understanding between the university and the school district expired, making the last official school year 2024-25.

The closing of the school had an emotional impact that spanned across individuals young and old. Staff left with no job, students and parents faced with life-changing decisions about their future education. The emotional trauma of the lab school closing will stand as a lasting effect on many in the community. Former staff reflect over leadership's lack of empathy for the students, teachers, staff, and families.  

The University of Wyoming Lab School is on its way to being a forgotten memory in the community despite its longstanding contributions to the community and its youth in education. The school has no firm plan for the beautiful long-standing building, as of now it is abandoned and silenced.

Contributed by Hannah Durgin