Back to my roots…

What’s in a name? I grew up in a small area of Wyoming known as Star Valley. The southernmost town is Smoot, and five miles south of Smoot is a little area known as Forest Dell. I grew up on family land on a hill with my parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins in Forest Dell. My family and I moved away when I was fourteen, but our family has continued to visit Star Valley as often as possible. My dad, his siblings, and his parents were all born and raised in Star Valley. My grandparents bought homestead land from another family in Forest Dell and farmed the land for many years. My dad has always put a lot of value on getting an education and working hard. His family did not all have the opportunity to receive as much education as they would have liked, but they all encouraged their children and grandchildren to do well in school and pursue getting an education. This school is a tribute to my roots and to both of my parents for encouraging my sister, brother, and I to do our best to get an education and to continue learning throughout our lives. I hope to pass that enthusiasm and love for learning on to my students.