Meet the New Faculty

By Brittany Trandahl 
Gazette Reporter 

Weston County School District #7 (WCSD #7) will be welcoming three new staff members this year. First day of classes for students is Monday, August 24th at 8:00 a.m.

Alyssa Jackson will be teaching fourth grade. She has her Bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Wyoming. She and her husband, Chase, have four children, Lilly, Sadie, Eva, and Colt. Alyssa’s hobbies include running, camping, hunting, and swimming.

“I am beyond excited to have this opportunity to be working for Weston County School District #7,” commented Alyssa. “Upton is truly the best town on earth!”

Bridget Otto will be WCSD #7’s new art teacher. She was born and raised in Riverton where she spent most of her time exploring the outdoors. She discovered the benefits of art as an outlet for emotion and self expression while studying at Central Wyoming College and decided then that she would share her newfound passion by teaching. Bridget graduated from the University of Wyoming and began working at Cathedral Home for Children as a teaching assistant. There she got to help at risk youth learn everything from geometry to how to ride a horse.

“I’m excited to continue my journey here with my new enchanting community,” added Bridget.

Valerie Samuelson will be Upton Elementary and Middle School’s new music teacher. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in kindergarten through eighth grade education from Black Hills State University. She’s previously taught as an elementary rural teacher in Faith, South Dakota and taught kindergarten in Newell, South Dakota.

Valerie is married with four grown children, three of which are married and she has four grandsons with another grandbaby on the way. Her favorite activity is spending time with her family and friends. She loves being called “Grammy.” She loves to visit her daughter and her family in San Antonio, Texas. She also enjoys garden- ing, reading, and following politics closely.