Reynaldo Martinez Teacher Inspiration Fund to Recognize Wyoming Biliterate Graduates

Casper, WY — [December, 2025] — The Casper Area Education Foundation is pleased to announce that it has received a donation in recognition of the Reynaldo Martinez Teacher Inspiration Fund to support an initiative that celebrates student achievement in language proficiency. The Wyoming Association of Language Teachers (WALT) will receive $1500 to purchase graduation cords for students who earn the Wyoming Seal of Biliteracy or the Seal of Biliteracy with Advanced Distinction.

The Seal of Biliteracy recognizes high school seniors who demonstrate high-level proficiency in English and at least one additional world language. Graduation cords are a simple yet powerful way to mark biliteracy achievement during commencement. The cords celebrate the students’ hard work and serve as a source of pride for their families and communities, while inspiring younger students to pursue language learning.

The Reynaldo Martinez Teacher Inspiration Fund supports teachers with opportunities that spark curiosity, strengthen student achievement, and broaden what’s possible beyond the classroom. Named in memory of Reynaldo L. Martinez, a humanitarian and former high school government teacher whose leadership—culminating in his role as the first Hispanic Chief of Staff in the U.S. Senate—advanced educational access and equity in Nevada, Wyoming, and nationally, the Fund seeks to “empower teachers, inspire students, and give every child the chance to rise, no matter their starting point.”

“We are deeply grateful to the Reynaldo Martinez Teacher Inspiration Fund for investing in our students,” said Roger Wagner, Casper Area Education Foundation President. “These cords not only signify an academic achievement, but they also honor students’ dedication to mastering more than one language. These graduates will carry visible recognition of their hard work and the value of biliteracy into their next chapters.”

To learn more about the Reynaldo Martinez Teacher Inspiration Fund, its mission, and impact, visit rlmfund.org.