Teachers give their communities far more than what happens during the school day.

Behind the lessons, assignments and classroom routines are countless hours spent preparing, planning and finding new ways to help students learn. Many educators also put their own money toward classroom needs and continue giving their time long after the school day ends. This year, Wings of Renewal is creating an opportunity for Casper and Natrona County to recognize that dedication.

The Casper-based, peer-led support program, which is dedicated to supporting survivors of trauma and abuse, has launched its first-ever Teacher Appreciation Celebration through its “Wings of Renewal” Teacher Giveback.

The initiative is designed to shine a light on local educators and the commitment they bring to their students every day.

Rather than simply recognizing teachers within their schools, the Teacher Giveback is inviting the broader community to take part. Residents are encouraged to nominate educators who have made a difference through their compassion, time, personal investment or dedication to their students.

That invitation gives people an opportunity to recognize a teacher who may have gone above and beyond without expecting anything in return. It could be the educator who stayed late to help a student, purchased something for their classroom out of their own pocket, encouraged a child through a difficult moment or simply made their classroom a place where students felt supported.

Community nominations will remain open through September 20, 2026. Once nominations close, the community will have another opportunity to participate when public voting opens September 21.

The celebration will ultimately recognize three teachers selected through the voting process. Each of the top three educators will receive a hand-crafted custom Epoxy award along with a $20 movie gift card.

While the gifts themselves are modest, the meaning behind the recognition is much bigger. For educators who spend much of their time investing in other people, being reminded that their work is noticed can be meaningful in its own right.

The Teacher Giveback also creates an opportunity for students, parents, former students, coworkers and community members to pause and think about the educators who have left a lasting impression. In a community the size of Casper, those connections can reach far beyond a single classroom.

A teacher's influence may not always be immediately visible. Years later, students may still remember the person who believed in them, encouraged them to keep trying or made them feel capable of something they weren't sure they could accomplish. Recognizing those educators is one small way a community can say thank you for work that often extends well beyond a job description.

With nominations open through September 20, Casper residents still have an opportunity to put forward an educator they believe deserves to be recognized. Public voting will follow beginning September 21, giving the community a chance to help determine the three teachers who will receive this year's awards.

The Wings of Renewal Teacher Giveback is more than a competition. It is an invitation to recognize the people who spend their days helping shape the next generation of Natrona County.

Sometimes, a simple thank-you can remind someone that the work they do matters.

And for the teachers who have spent countless hours making a difference for local students, this celebration gives Casper a chance to make sure they know they haven't gone unnoticed.

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Photo Credit: WingsOf Renewal