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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 18th, 2025
Contact: McKenna Gregg, Montana Office of Public Instruction
Superintendent Hedalen Announces Judge Granting A Full Stay Allowing ESA Reimbursements
HELENA, Mont.—Superintendent of Public Instruction Susie Hedalen announced today that a judge has granted a full stay through the end of the school year in the case Montana Quality Education Coalition and Disability Rights Montana v. State of Montana, allowing the Education Savings Account (ESA) program to continue operating for the remainder of the school year.
Under the court’s order, the Office of Public Instruction (OPI) will continue administering the ESA program, including processing approved reimbursements and payments, through June 30, 2026. The stay provides important stability and continuity for participating families and ensures that students particularly those with special education needs, can continue receiving the educational services that best meet their individual needs without disruption.
This stay is welcome news for families who rely on the ESA program. It allows students to remain in their educational placements and gives parents the certainty they need to plan for the rest of the school year.
OPI remains committed to serving Montana students and families, maintaining continuity for ESA participants, and administering the program with transparency and accountability. The State is also preparing to file an appeal of the underlying ruling. The agency will continue to comply fully with all court directives and will provide additional updates as the legal process moves forward.
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