School Administrators of Montana

SAM Update 8-29-25

Where did August go?  Where did the summer go?  I hope everyone is experiencing a smooth start to your 2025/26 school year.  I know this time of year brings stress, long days, and restless sleep.  To take care of others we have to take care of our self FIRST!

We have created another way to digest the valuable information in our SAM update - The SAM Weekly Podcast.  Crunched for time?  Too many emails?  Looking for something to listen to on your drive home from work?  Check out the SAM Podcast on youtube!

Save the Date:  2025-26 SAM Webinar Series
New Laws, New Responsibilities:  
Implementing Montana's 2025 Education Legislation

Montana schools face big changes after the 2025 legislative session. Join the School Administrators of Montana on Thursday, Sept. 11 at 10 AM for a webinar unpacking new laws on curriculum, funding, student safety, special education, and staffing. Gain clear, practical guidance to help your district stay compliant and prepared.

This interactive session will highlight practical steps for compliance, clarify timelines, and offer strategies for aligning district practices with the new laws. Administrators, will leave with a clear roadmap to navigate these legislative changes effectively.

SAM Zoom Link
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/3923446729
Meeting ID: 392 344 6729

SAM webinars are scheduled for the 2nd Thursday of each month at 10:00 AM. Join us all year to stay informed and connected!

Don't Miss the 2025 SAM Fall Conference - Register Today!
Plans are in full swing for the Fall Conference, hosted by MASS, MCASE, and MACSS, coming up September 22–23 at the GranTree Inn in Bozeman.  Hotel rooms are filling quickly — make sure to reserve yours soon.

Inspiring Keynotes

  • Rachel White, The Superintendent Lab - Administrator turnover and the cost of conflict
  • Jeff Utecht - Generational leadership and  the role of AI

Deep Dives into critical issues

This year’s program highlights many timely topics, including:

  • Montana’s teacher pipeline
  • The school funding (decennial) study
  • MTDA resource updates
  • And several more sessions focused on the most pressing education issues in Montana

Post-Conference opportunity

On Tuesday afternoon, join us for an optional post-conference—More AI and Other Curriculum & Instruction Topics.  While tailored for curriculum directors, all are welcome—and you don’t have to attend the main conference to participate. Please share this opportunity with colleagues in your district who may be interested.  

Ready to Register?

Award/Scholarship Deadlines are Approaching - Who will you nominate?

Who will you nominate to be recognized for their dedication, leadership, and commitment to student success?  Submit your nominations today and help celebrate the educators who inspire and support great learning every day. Follow the links below or more information about each award and to access the forms.

SAM Award/Scholarship  (Deadline  Friday, September 12, 2025):

MASS Awards (Deadline  Friday, September 12, 2025):

MASSP Awards (Deadline Friday, October 3, 2025):

Registration is Open for the 2025-26 SAM Leaders Professional Learning Program

Step into the new year knowing you don’t have to lead alone. The SAM Leaders Professional Learning Program (LPLP) is here to support you every step of the way during the 2025–26 school year.

Whether you’re a new administrator eager for guidance, or a leader seeking a trusted mentor to help you grow as a leader, LPLP is designed with you in mind.

Why Join LPLP?

  • Personalized Mentorship: You’ll be paired with an experienced leader who is committed to your success.
  • Ongoing Support: Through one-on-one conversations and regular check-ins, you’ll have a partner to help you navigate challenges, celebrate wins, and reflect on your practice.
  • A Trusted Connection: Leadership doesn’t have to feel isolating. LPLP ensures you always have someone in your corner—whether you need advice, encouragement, or simply a listening ear.

Take the the next step and invest in your professional learning this year!

SAM LPLP Registration Form

From Our Education Partners

  • MFPE Offers Para-Professional Training

    MFPE PASS (Paraprofessional Achieving Standards Successfully) training, developed for Montana paraprofessionals, provides participants with skills and proven strategies in reading, writing, and math instruction. PASS is a two-part online, guided course taught by experienced, dynamic, and fun instructors. Participants will demonstrate evidence of content proficiency through a nationally developed assessment.

    DESIGNED FOR:
    • Any paraprofessional seeking to gain new skills and capacity for helping
    students.
    • Any paraprofessional who needs to be deemed “highly qualified” following Title I requirements. (Check with the school district or local union president to ensure you are affected by these requirements and that the employing school district recognizes PASS.)

    COST:  MFPE Member: $100 Non-members: $150

    UPCOMING FALL COURSE DATES:
    September 29 – December 21, 2025
    • Reading: September 29 – November 16, 2025
    • Math: November 17 – December 21, 2025

    Registration deadline is September 22, 2025.  Register HERE or use the QR code.