Wyoming Public Media received a CPB grant to strengthen education reporting in Wyoming as part of the national American Graduate: Let’s Make It Happen program. This long term national public media commitment, supported by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), assists public broadcasting stations in reporting on a wide array of education issues that impact graduation rates in their communities. The grant provides partial support for a full-time education reporter for WPM and encourages WPM to build partnerships with education stakeholders in the state.
“Building a strong education culture in communities starts with public awareness and involvement. Public radio reaches thousands of listeners and can play a significant role in building awareness and focusing public attention on issues that shape education in Wyoming,” WPM General Manager Christina Kuzmych says.
Several Wyoming foundations have already committed support to this project including the John P. Ellbogen Foundation, the Homer A. and Mildred S. Scott Foundation, the Joe and Arlene Watt Foundation, The B.F.and Rose H. Perkins Foundation, and from the Seidler Foundation -- Carol and Sam Mavrakis.
WPM’s long term goal is to make this position a permanent part of the network’s reporting team supported through grant, corporate, and individual funding. “We are seeking support from individuals and entities who have a passion for education, and who want to make a difference in Wyoming’s future,” Kuzmych says.