Together, we will move LCSD1 forward
Dr. Paul Bankes is a long-time educator with a proud Wyoming background.
Passionate focus on one objective: Serve Laramie County Schools
Dr. Paul Bankes is a long-time educator with a proud Wyoming background. He graduated from Sheridan High School and received his undergraduate degree from the University of Wyoming. He received both a master’s degree and a doctorate degree in education from Texas Tech University.
- 30+ years championing public education
- Successfully turned around three academically challenged schools
- Former teacher, principal, district-level administrator and board trustee
- Married 27 years with two daughters
Committed to Public Education for over 30 years
Dr. Paul Bankes is a long-time educator with a proud Wyoming background. He graduated from Sheridan High School and received his undergraduate degree from the University of Wyoming. He received both a master’s degree and a doctorate degree in education from Texas Tech University.
Paul's wife of 27 years, Carla, was born and raised in Cheyenne and, as a registered dietician, serves as the Child Nutrition Program Supervisor within the Wyoming Department of Education. Dr. Bankes has two daughters, one attending the Mayo Clinic medical school, and the other pursuing the nursing program at the University of Wyoming next year.
For over thirty years, Paul has championed public education while serving as an elementary school teacher, middle school and elementary school principal in Texas schools, and as a principal and Executive Director for Elementary Education for the Thompson School District in Loveland, Colorado. He was also elected to serve on that district’s education board for one term.
As a principal, Paul led his teams to state recognized levels of achievement in three different high poverty, academically challenged schools. In the process, the Foundation for Critical Thinking recognized him as the national leader in critical thinking and now utilizes Paul to teach college-level education courses and provide professional development.
Dr. Bankes decided to return to his Wyoming home three years ago and is committed to community service. Paul is already involved in the Cheyenne Sunrise Lion's Club, serves as a board member for the Cheyenne Boy's and Girl's Club, as well as puts in time at organizations such as the animal shelter and Habitat for Humanity. He now wants to offer his extensive experience in education to our District, our students, and our teachers while also engaging our parents, businesses, and other stakeholders in the educational process. Fiscal Responsibility, Empowerment of Stakeholders, and Instructional Excellence are Paul’s primary areas of interest and expertise that he hopes to offer in service to the Board.