GOSHEN COUNTY – With nearly 30 years as center coordinator at Torrington Learning Center, previous work as a substitute teacher, and time as a stay-at-home mother, Goshen County School District’s newest trustee has a wealth of experience in shaping young minds.

Kerry Bullington was born and raised in Wyoming, and has lived in the area since second grade, graduating from Lingle-Fort Laramie High School. She then attended Eastern Wyoming College and Chadron State College, where she received her secondary education degree.

“My grandchildren,” Bullington said of her inspiration to run for a seat on the school board. “I just want them to know the importance of education, and I believe that modeling is more important than just saying it.”

Goshen County voters cast 2,272 votes, or 19.91 percent of the vote, for Bullington during the Nov. 6 General Election. She was the only challenger to secure a spot on the board.

“Budget cuts are probably the biggest (issue) facing all schools in Wyoming, as well as non-profits like (TLC),” Bullington said. “In Goshen County, I think finding quality, competent, professional staff and retaining them – many times we see teachers moving in for a year and then leave. There’s a disconnect in there somewhere.”

Bullington has deep roots in the school district, her husband, Mark, teaches at Southeast High School; her son, Matt, is an educator at Torrington High School; daughter, Jamie Kistler, teaches at Lincoln Elementary; and her nephew, Cory Gilchriest, is Lingle-Fort Laramie Schools principal. Another son, Steven Bullington also lives in the area. She has five grandchildren.

“I believe in the mission of the school board and the goals set forth,” she said. “I will work hard to promote their goals and their mission.”

On Dec. 20, Bullington will officially retire from TLC and begin providing daycare for her grandchildren, in addition to serving her four-year term as a trustee.

“I’m very excited,” she said. “I know I’ve got a lot to learn, and we’ll move forward.”