School Administrators of Montana

SAM Update 10-17-25

Dear SAM Members,

CONGRATS to all our members and school board that received recognition at MCEL this week!

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!

SAM Presents Awards at MCEL

2025 G.V. Erickson Award

Helena Public Schools Superintendent Rex Weltz was recognized as the recipient of the G.V. Erickson Award, SAM’s highest honor. He was honored for his exemplary leadership, commitment to public education, and dedication to strengthening Montana’s schools and communities. His visionary work —leading a historic bond initiative, expanding student and staff supports, and fostering collaboration across districts—reflects the spirit of the G.V. Erickson Award.

2025 Montana Superintendent of the Year

MASS proudly announces Dr. Laurie Barron, Superintendent of Evergreen School District in Kalispell, as the 2025 Montana Superintendent of the Year. Dr. Barron was recognized for her visionary leadership, advocacy for inclusion and early learning, and strong community partnerships that support student success. Her leadership exemplifies the highest standards of educational excellence in Montana. Dr. Barron will represent the state at the AASA National Conference on Education in February where the national Superintendent of the Year will be announced.

2025 MASS Honor School Boards

Three Montana school boards were recognized as MASS Honor School Boards of the Year for their exceptional leadership and service to students. The Polson School Board, Lavina School Board, and Browning School Board were celebrated for their achievements in board policy, infrastructure for learning, and innovative educational programs. Their efforts reflect the best of Montana’s public education—strong vision, community partnership, and unwavering commitment to student success.

CAMPS Releases 2025 GREAT Work of Montana Public Schools

The Coalition of Advocates for Montana’s Public Schools (CAMPS) has released the 16th annual edition of The Great Work of Montana’s Public Schools, highlighting the strength, trust, and efficiency of our state’s K-12 system.  This year’s report reveals that Montanans deeply value their local schools and overwhelmingly support well-rounded education and increased investment in public schools. The publication highlights how educators’ commitment to excellence and innovation continues to shape a brighter future for every Montana student.
Read the full report here: The Great Work of Montana’s Public Schools 2025

Montana Principals Conference Room Blocks are Open 

The Montana Principals Conference is scheduled for January 25 - 27, 2026, in Bozeman.  Conference registration will open soon, but don’t wait—make your travel plans today and secure your spot at the most accessible hotels to the conference.

Reserve yours now to lock in the discounted group rate at the following hotels:

We look forward to seeing you in Bozeman in January!  

Opportunities from Education Partners
  • 2025 EconoQuest Conference Registration 

    The Montana World Affairs Council is excited to invite your school to the 2025 EconoQuest Conference, taking place October 27–28 at Montana State University in Bozeman. This two-day, hands-on event gives students the chance to explore exciting careers in Montana through lab tours, industry panels, and networking with professionals in bioscience, photonics & quantum, agriculture, and more! Highlights include a scavenger hunt at the Museum of the Rockies, an international trade competition with a $1000 grand prize, and a banquet with state leaders and innovators. There’s no registration fee and all meals are included - register at montanaworldaffairs.org/econoquest today!
  • MSCA Statewide School Counselor Survey

    The MSCA Statewide School Counselor Survey is an opportunity to help guide the future of school counseling in our state. By sharing insights, participants help shape programs, advocacy, and professional development that truly meet local needs.  The survey takes bout 20 minutes to complete and responses are completely confidential
    Who Should Take It:
    Current Montana school counselors and administrators in schools without a counselor. MSCA membership not required.
    Why Participate:
    The input helps MSCA understand the real challenges and successes across the state—so we can work for meaningful, lasting change that supports both counselors and students.

    Incentives:
    Every participant receives a $5 Amazon gift card and is entered into weekly prize drawings totaling over $4,000 (Sept. 26–Dec. 19). Enter early—names stay in for all future drawings!
    Click here to take the survey