Back to school fashions change from year to year but at one Casper school, style got a whole new look. Woods Learning Center was treated to a unique fashion show based on the Values taught through Be Somebody: Cowboy Ethics. As the first school to implement Cowboy Ethics school-wide, this fashion show served as the kick off blitz for the K-8 school.

Through creative costuming, each model represented one of the eight Cowboy Ethics Values.  The kids showcased RESPECT and COMMUNITY, DUTY, OPTIMISM, HONOR, HEART, FAIRNESS, COURAGE, and AUTHENTICITY.

“The fashion show was an exciting way to include the students and give them a little ownership in the program, introduce the Values in a new and ‘fashionable’ way, and make a lasting impression that can be referred back to throughout the year” said Sara Beth Lyon, Be Somebody: Cowboy Ethics Outreach Coordinator, BGCCW.

Woods applies Cowboy Ethics programming year round within its classrooms. Most of the school’s teachers have been trained and provide a lesson once a month to the students. It is supplemented a second time each month with a lesson through BGCCW’s outreach.

“Using Cowboy Ethics in the classroom is a natural way to integrate character education. Cowboy Ethics Values are vocabulary words that students can understand and learn to use on a daily basis,” said Deyonne Jackson, primary teacher, Woods Learning Center. “The fun and engaging activities allow students to learn about themselves, strive to be their best, and see the good in others.”

In addition to Woods Learning Center, Be Somebody: Cowboy Ethics is taught at Natrona County High School, Kelly Walsh High School, plus many other teachers in Natrona County are trained and incorporate lessons into their classroom activities. Burns Elementary and Carpenter Elementary in southeast Wyoming are currently piloting a school-wide program.

“We are incredibly excited about partnering with two new schools who are sold on and committed to the Be Somebody: Cowboy Ethics program!  We look forward to coming alongside them and helping them build a generation of confident, resilient young people,” said Jessica Baxter, Director of Operations, BGCCW.

Be Somebody: Cowboy Ethics is also taught within the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming and in Clubs around the state and region.

---

To see more from the Woods Learning Center Fashion Show, view our gallery.