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Hello Colleagues,
I hope this message finds you well. Please accept our apologies for the delay in this week’s Communication. Last week, we attended the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) conference in Washington, D.C. This event provided valuable opportunities to hear federal updates and engage with our counterparts from other states. We are pleased to share that we received written reassurances from the Department of Education confirming that Title Funding and IDEA funding will remain unchanged. We talked about assessment including NAEP, reporting requirements, and strategies for improving mathematic outcomes. I also had the privilege of meeting with Secretary McMahon to advocate for Montana’s educational funding and resources, ensuring that our state remains a leader in education nationwide.
During my time in Washington, D.C., I also met with Representative Zinke, Representative Downing, and staff from Senator Daines’ office. These meetings focused on discussing Montana’s educational priorities, sharing our concerns about the potential of the Department of Education and addressing the impact of possible lost grant funding from potential grants the MT OPI has been successful with in the past.
Overall, it was a highly productive week in Washington, D.C. I was able to communicate directly with education leaders from across the country and our congressional delegation, emphasizing Montana’s priorities and advocating for our state to have a strong voice amid ongoing changes.
I had the privilege of opening for the IEFA conference in East Helena last week. It was an inspiring experience and a meaningful opportunity to support Indian Education efforts across Montana.
Thank you for your continued dedication and support.
Susie Hedalen
Superintendent of Public Instruction
OPI 2025 SUMMER INSTITUTE REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
REGISTER HERE
Only $69
Parking, on-campus housing, and graduate credit are also available for an additional cost.
Learn More about OPI 2025 Summer Institute Here
Tracks for: Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Educators, Administrators, Mental Health, Behavior, MTSS, Special Education
Sessions on: MAST, Proficiency-Based Education, AI, Indian Education for All, Restorative Practices, ELA and Math, Evidence-Based Practices, Data-Based Decision Making & Data-Based Individualization, Cell Phone Policies & School Safety Issues, Federal Programs & IDEA Compliance, Career Technical Education, and more.
WELLNESS ACTIVITY from Full Circle Wellness & TEAM TIME- MONDAY NIGHT
BEST PRACTICES EXPO- TUESDAY NIGHT
MOVIE NIGHT- WEDNESDAY NIGHT
QUESTIONS:
MSU CONFERENCE SERVICES CONTACT: Ryan Richer, ryan.richer@montana.edu, 406-994-3333
OPI CONTACT: Tammy Lysons, tamara.lysons@mt.gov, 406-431-2309
Empower Tomorrow’s Leaders: Register Now for American Legion Boys and Auxiliary Girls State
Montana high school juniors have a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills, gain firsthand experience in government operations, and make lifelong connections at the American Legion Boys State and Auxiliary Girls State programs. These premier programs provide students with an immersive, hands-on education in civic engagement, preparing them to be the leaders of tomorrow.
What is Boys and Girls State?
The American Legion Boys State and Auxiliary Girls State are weeklong programs where students create and operate their own state government. Participants campaign for office, draft and debate legislation, and engage in problem-solving scenarios that mirror real-world governance. Through this experience, students develop a deeper understanding of government structures, public service, and civic responsibility.
Why Participate?
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College & Career Readiness: Many colleges and employers recognize Boys and Girls State as a prestigious program that enhances applications and résumés.
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Scholarship Opportunities: Attendees may qualify for college scholarships, including the Samsung American Legion Scholarship.
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Networking & Leadership: Participants meet peers from across the state, building friendships and professional networks that last a lifetime.
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Civic Engagement: Students gain a greater appreciation for democratic processes and public service.
Who Can Apply?
Current high school juniors in Montana who are interested in government, leadership, and civic engagement are encouraged to apply. Schools are encouraged to nominate students who demonstrate leadership potential and an interest in public service.
Program Cost Covered
The $300 program fee is fully covered by American Legion Posts and Units across the state, ensuring that all eligible students have the opportunity to participate without financial barriers.
For more information or to register, visit our website Here [mtlegion.org]
OPI is pleased to announce that the Gifted and Talented State Grant Intent to Apply is now open in E-Grants.
Intent to Apply must be submitted through E-Grants before midnight on Thursday, May 1, 2025.
New for 2025, the grant will be allocated by OPI on a one-year basis rather than two, with a continuing application for districts between the two years of the legislative grant cycle.
School systems wishing to participate in the grant must:
- Be current on all reporting requirements for Gifted and Talented grants from previous years, if applicable.
- Update the Achievement in Montana (AIM) database to include all identified GT student in the school system.
- Agree to submit as part of the grant application a copy of the local Gifted and Talented Education Program Plan which must be in compliance with ARM 10.15.804
- List the actual local funding for the GT program as matching funds for the potential grant funds required in state law, MCA 20-7-903(3).
- Assure the OPI that items 1-4 have been completed and are accurate.
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Submit the completed Intent to Apply before midnight, May 1, 2025 (by the Authorized Representative).
Please refer questions to Jenny Jarvis, OPI Gifted and Talented Program Support Specialist and GT Grant Manager.
jenny.jarvis@mt.gov 406-410-1140
Additional Information
Achievement in Montana (AIM)
Assessment
Career, Technical and Adult Education
Coordinated School Health
Gifted and Talented
Indian Education for All
Montana Autism Education Project
Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)
School Finance
School Nutrition
Special Education
Standards, Instruction & Professional Learning
Title & Federal Programs
Questions? Contact:
McKenna Gregg, Communications Director
The OPI is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation, require an alternate format, or have questions concerning accessibility, contact the OPI ADA Coordinator, 406-444-3161, opiada@mt.gov, Relay Service: 711.
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