Last week, the Hot Springs County School District #1 in Thermopolis posted a picture of fifth and sixth graders using air rifles in a school gym on their Facebook page. The picture was from an air rifle unit, which is part of the district's physical education curriculum.
The photo was picked up by media channels across the nation and the state, some supporting and others criticizing. The school district issued a statement saying they regret that the content was found offensive by others. It emphasized that the vast majority of households in Wyoming have firearms so it is important for students to learn safety and respect.
The release went further to say the specific air rifle unit portrayed in the photo is a three-week program and students wishing not to participate are able to complete another assignment. It ended by saying it will review and evaluate social media protocols in the future.
