School Administrators of Montana

SAM Friday Update 10-11-24

SAM Update 10-11-24
Hello SAM Members,

The 4-Day School Week (4DSW):  As I make my travels to various regional membership meetings, I am hearing more questions and comments about this important topic. If you are wondering why this topic seems to be on the front burner right now, it may be helpful to know that OPI commissioned a research study that was completed by The University of Montana. The study is comprehensive and longitudinal. It covers data from 2008-2023 and seeks to answer 8 different research questions related to the 4DSW. I have linked two items below where you can find more information.

In summary, this statement came directly from the conclusion section of the report: 

"Data revealed that the 4dsw schedule has not been beneficial to most students in the state of Montana. The problems reside at the local level, but the solution will require state level action. The authors of this study recommend the revision of 20-1-301 MCA to mandate 180 school days."

October is National Principals Month and a Time to Celebrate MT School Leaders

Every October, National Principals Month shines a spotlight on the transformative power of our school principals. These dedicated leaders play an essential role in shaping their communities, paving pathways to success for every student and staff member in their schools. However, the principal’s role stretches far beyond administrative duties. Their leadership has a deep-seated impact on the very heart of education. Their influence radiates outwards, touching all facets of a school and significantly impacting student outcomes.  National Principals Month is a time for us all to celebrate and take action. Principals face very real challenges that urgently need our support. This month, we don’t just honor our principals, we advocate for them, urging for policy changes and strategic support that equip them to thrive in their pivotal roles.  Take a moment to thank a principal who has made a difference in your life!  

Visit https://www.principalsmonth.org/ and the social media toolkit to ideas to make this National Principals Month meaningful.

Stacy Lemelin, 2024 Montana National Distinguished Principal, was recently honored in Washington, D.C. with 36 other exemplary elementary and middle-level principals from across the nation and abroad as the 2024 class of NAESP National Distinguished Principals. The principals participated in two days of events, including a White House tour and meetings at the U.S. Department of Education, culminating in an awards banquet to honor their accomplishments. Stacy has served as Principal at Meadowlark Elementary in Billings for the past 12 years.  Find out more about Stacy and the NAESP National Distinguished Principal Program HERE.  Congratulations, Stacy!

MASSP delegates recently represented Montana at the National Association of Secondary School Principals Region 7 Fall Conference in Bozeman. NASSP Region 7 member states include Alaska, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah and Washington. This conference rotates locations annually.  NASSP Region 7 has developed a robust conference model for professional learning and networking.  

The meeting agenda included discussions on Strengthening and Supporting the Principalship, Developing and Elevating Student Voice and Leadership, AI, and presentations by Dr. Waded Cruzado, Dr. Jason Cummins, and a Student Association Panel featuring NASC and NHS students from Bozeman High School and Gallatin High School. 

Engaging with colleagues from surrounding states provided a vital opportunity for rich discussions and networking, and for informing priorities for national advocacy.

Representing Montana were MASSP President Rhiannon Beery, MASSP Federal Relations Coordinator Gordon Klasna, and MASSP Region Directors Peter Hamilton and Raymond DeBruycker.  Thank you for your leadership!

SAM Webinar Followup

10-10-24 Webinar Resources:
  • Evaluation and Renewal Unit Certificate:  Do you want to receive an OPI Renewal Unit Certificate for your participation in the webinar?  Did you miss the live webinar but want to earn renewal unit credits for watching the video?  Follow this link and submit the short evaluation. Your certificate will be generated and emailed to you upon completion of the evaluation form: SAM Webinar 10-10-24 Evaluation and Renewal Unit Certificate

The webinar resources are housed in the new SAM Online Learning Center and accessible to all SAM members.  Once logged in to the SAM website, you will be in the Members Only area.  To locate the webinar resources, click on Resources >Online Learning > Courses >2024-25 SAM Monthly Webinars.  You will not only find the resources from the 10-10-24 webinar, but also the 9-12-24 webinar.  We will continue to add resources as webinars are completed.  Here is a quick video to help you find this area of the website: Locating SAM Webinar Resources.  Experiencing difficulties?  Contact Kim at the SAM Office (samks@sammt.org)

Be sure to mark your calendars for the second Thursday of each month from 10:00 - 11:00 AM.  Connect to the webinars on the SAM Zoom meeting room:  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/3923446729

Upcoming SAM Webinars:

November 14: Reinvesting and recommitting to IEFA implementation in our schools

December 12: CTE and Work Based Learning opportunities

Join Us Virtually at MCEL

As we eagerly approach the Montana Conference of Education Leadership, taking place from October 16-18 at the Hilton Garden Inn in beautiful Missoula, Montana, we're thrilled to announce exciting enhanced and affordable options for virtual participation.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Exclusive Access for Larger Groups: If your district registers 5 or more attendees for in-person participation, we're pleased to offer complimentary, unlimited virtual access for all trustees, administrators, and business officials in your district.
  • Affordable Access for Smaller Groups: For districts registering fewer than 5 in-person attendees, enjoy full virtual access for your entire district at a discounted rate of only $1,500, minus any in-person registration fees. If you have already paid registration fees for in person attendees, this is a great way to extend affordable access to those whose schedules cannot accommodate in person participation. 
  • Recorded and On-Demand Learning: All presentations at MCEL will be recorded, giving you and your team unlimited access for 6 months post-event. Learn at your own pace with flexible viewing options!
  • Live Keynotes & Special Sessions: Experience the excitement of our keynote presentations streaming live on Thursday and Friday, along with our special joint session focusing on the funding goals of the Coalition of Advocates for Montana’s Public Schools. If you are interested in learning more about key funding proposals and honing your advocacy skills, our Friday morning joint session is something you won’t want to miss.

Plus, all sessions qualify for licensed educator renewal credits and contribute towards certification in MTSBA’s School Board Academy!

Explore More & Register Today! 

National CoSN Awards Nominations are Open

Do you know a school district championing digital equity? An inspiring Superintendent leveraging technology for student success? Or perhaps a remarkable district leadership team driving positive change? We're looking to recognize outstanding individuals and teams across the EdTech landscape.

This Year's Award Categories:

The deadline to submit nominations is November 18, 2024.

Winners will be officially honored at CoSN2025 in Seattle, WA, where they will receive complimentary conference registration(s). In addition to an honorarium, award recipients will gain valuable media coverage, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the EdTech field.

Nominate yourself, a colleague, or a deserving team today!

Learn More and Apply!

UM School Counseling Program Information Session

Do you want to find out more about the University of Montana School Counseling Program?  Applications are being accepted until January 15, 2025. 

Important Links:

Thanks for being a SAM member.

Please reach out to me directly if you have questions, comments, or if you need any assistance.

Rob Watson, Executive Director, SAM
email: samrw@sammt.org
cell phone: 406-570-4135
https://twitter.com/robwatson406

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robwatson406/