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New Administrator Webinar - Kicking Off the SAM Webinar Series
Thank you to everyone who joined our New Administrator Webinar on Thursday, August 14. This session introduced services and support offered by SAM, as well as highlighted key education-related topics for the new school year.
If you missed it—or would like to revisit the discussion—the recording is now available: Watch the Webinar Recording.
Resources shared during webinar:
Mark Your Calendar – SAM Webinars Begin September 11
Get ready for another year of engaging and informative SAM webinars! Our first session of the 2025–26 program year will be held on Thursday, September 11 at 10:00 AM. We’ll kick things off with a timely discussion on implementing legislation—a critical topic as schools address new requirements and opportunities from the 2025 legislative session.
SAM webinars are scheduled for the 2nd Thursday of each month at 10:00 AM. Join us all year to stay informed and connected!
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SAM Fall Conference Registration is Open!
Registration is now open for the Fall Conference, hosted by MASS, MCASE, and MACSS, scheduled for September 22–23 at the GranTree Inn in Bozeman—be sure to book your hotel room soon.
We’re planning an outstanding event with two dynamic keynote speakers: Rachel White from The Superintendent Lab will speak on administrator turnover and the cost of conflict, and Jeff Utecht will present the topic of generational leadership and AI.
In addition, there will be sessions on Montana's teacher pipeline, the school funding study (AKA decennial study), resource update from MTDA, and many more hot topics relevant to education issues in Montana.
On Tuesday afternoon, we will host an optional post-conference—More AI and Other Curriculum & Instruction Topics. Although it is designed with curriculum directors in mind, all are welcome. Attendance at the main conference is not required to participate in the post-conference. Please forward this information to those in your district who may be interested in attending.
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Registration is Open for the 2025-26 SAM Leaders Professional Learning Program
SAM is proud to continue its long-standing tradition of offering affordable, high-impact professional support through the Leaders Professional Learning Program (LPLP). Whether you’re stepping into a new leadership role or simply seeking the guidance of an experienced mentor, LPLP is designed for you.
Each participant is matched with a knowledgable mentor who provides personalized support through one-on-one conversations and regular check-ins throughout the school year. Leadership can sometimes feel isolating—LPLP offers a trusted partner to help navigate challenges, offer timely advice, or simply serve as a confidential sounding board when you need one most.
Take advantage of this opportunity to grow, reflect, and lead with confidence.
Register here: 2025-26 SAM LPLP 1-1 Leadership Coaching & Mentoring Registration Form
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Bridged Health Alliance Update: Built for Montana Schools. By Montana Schools.
Over the past year, the vision behind House Bill 332 has taken shape — evolving from concept to an actionable plan for a school-led health and wellness benefits trust designed by and for Montana schools. The Bridged Health Alliance is now moving full steam ahead, with key partnerships in place, cost-saving strategies underway, and a focus on keeping every dollar possible in education. We invite you to read the latest update on our progress, upcoming milestones, and how your district can get involved.
Read the full update here: Bridged Health Alliance August 2025 Update
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Cognia Seeks Volunteers to Serve as Team Members on Montana Accreditation Reviews
With the new agreement with the State Board of Education and the Montana Office of Public Instruction regarding an alternate path to Montana Accreditation, Cognia is seeking volunteers to serve as team members for on-site reviews at Cognia-accredited schools in Montana. (NOTE: You do not need to be a member of a Cognia school or district to participate as an on-site team member.) If you are interested in serving as a volunteer team member, please email Daniel Sybrant at daniel.sybrant@cognia.org
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Growing Talent From Within: How Districts Are Developing Their Own Educator Talent
Thursday September 18 | 2 PM ET
Finding and retaining talented teachers and leaders has never been more important—or more challenging. But what if the solution was already within your district? Join us for an inspiring webinar where we’ll share how school districts are taking proactive steps to build their own teacher talent, developing homegrown educators who are uniquely invested in their communities.
Registration Link: https://info.discoveryeducation.com/webinar-registration-courageous-leaders-growing-talent-from-within.html
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Information on New Law Authorizing Montana Schools to Stock Albuterol
A Montana law, passed during the 2025 legislative session, allows K–12 schools to stock and administer albuterol—a fast-acting medication used to treat asthma attacks and other respiratory distress. This change allows trained school staff to respond quickly in emergencies, even for students without a prior asthma diagnosis. The law also provides liability protections for schools and staff who act in good faith and follow established protocols.
Read the full details and guidance here: Stock Albuterol Information and Guidance
For assistance — including guidance on protocols, staff training, communication templates, or
instructions on obtaining albuterol, visit dphhs.mt.gov/schoolhealth/chronichealth/asthma or contact BJ Biskupiak, Asthma Control Program Manager, at WBiskupiak@mt.gov
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