U.S. Senator applauds Wagonwheel's Blue Ribbon Award

Last week, Sen. John Barrasso made an intentional choice: he left his cellphone in his vehicle. Not on silent. Not face down. Completely set aside.

The reason? The U.S. senator told Wagonwheel Elementary students that he wanted to be fully present, ensuring nothing, not even a call from the president himself, would interrupt his visit with the students and staff filling the gym at the Gillette elementary school.

“I’m so thrilled to be here,” he told the gym full of Wildcats.

The purpose of his visit was a meaningful one. Sen. Barrasso stopped by to personally congratulate Wagonwheel students and staff on earning their Blue Ribbon Award, an impressive distinction that placed them among just three schools recognized out of the hundreds of schools across the state.

During the visit, students had the opportunity to ask questions, step up to the microphone and hear a few words of wisdom. Sen. Barrasso shared two lessons passed down from his parents. First, that each year is the most important year of your life, and second, that there is something truly special about calling Wyoming home.

While no phones were checked during the assembly, plenty of inspiration was clearly received.

Principal Brandee Maurer closed out the event with a mission for students – to finish the year strong.

“It’s not about being perfect,” she said. “It’s about giving your very best effort and making sure you show up every single day at Wagonwheel to continue being good learners.”

Congratulations to Wagonwheel Elementary on this outstanding achievement and thank you to Sen. Barrasso for taking the time to connect and encourage some of Campbell County’s very own.