School Administrators of Montana

SAM Friday Update 10-31-25

Dear SAM Members,

Today is the last day of National Principal Appreciation Month!  Perhaps the greatest "thank you" for our school leaders? - Halloween falls on a Friday, which means the day after, typically a tough day at schools, is on a Saturday.  I hope everyone enjoys the weekend.

As you have probably heard, the SNAP benefits are scheduled to expire on Saturday. I was surprised to hear that as many as 45,000 MT kids could be impacted by loss of SNAP benefits. SAM joined several other state-wide organizations in advocacy to use state funds to keep the SNAP program going during the federal shutdown. HERE is the advocacy letter.

I know that many of you are working with your local food banks to support your students and families during this difficult time.  Thank you for all you do for your communities.

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:  SAM November 13 Webinar

Join us for the next SAM Webinar on Nov. 13 - The STARS Act, Future Ready Incentive:  PK-12 supports available to maximize incentive payments.  Representatives from OCHE, DLI, and OPI will share updates on their progress in developing guidelines for the STARS incentive payments available to both elementary and high school districts.

We will explore resources available to Montana schools through the Montana Digital Academy and Collegiate Edu-Nation (CEN). Aligned with Montana’s initiatives, CEN’s P-20 model creates a seamless, career-connected pathway from Pre-K to the workforce—empowering and transforming rural communities.

You’ll discover how the model:

  • Embeds high-quality instruction and experiential, project-based learning from the earliest grades
  • Builds seamless pathways from PK–12 to postsecondary, including dual-credit and CTE programs, associate degrees, and industry certifications
  • Connects education and workforce development, aligning learning with regional workforce needs
  • Strengthens rural communities by ending generational poverty through education and opportunity

Join this webinar to learn how to plan strategically and maximize your district’s future-ready incentive payments.

Get Ready for the 2026 Montana Principals Conference - January 25-27 in Bozeman!

We're getting ready for the 2026 Montana Principals Conference January 25-27 in Bozeman!  Room blocks are filling quickly, so be sure to make your hotel reservations as soon as possible to secure your spot.

Conference registration launches next week, and we can’t wait to welcome Montana school leaders for three days of learning, connection, and inspiration.

Call for Presenters - Deadline:  December 2
Share your expertise and inspire your peers! We’re seeking breakout session presenters for the conference. Presentations should focus on one of the following areas: 

  • Leadership - Brave on the Frontier: Courageous Leadership in Shifting Times
  • Advocacy - From Grit to Policy: Turning Belief into Bootstraps Change
  • Innovation - From Campfire Sparks to Wildfire Change
  • Curriculum & Instruction - Beyond the Fence Line: Teaching That Lasts a Lifetime
  • School Culture - Keeping Joy in the Saddle: Sustaining Purpose on the Trail

Complete the Call for Presenters application by December 2 to be considered for a breakout session.

Celebrate Montana’s Education Leaders - Award/Scholarship Deadline is December 5!
Nominations and applications are now open for MASSP and MAEMSP awards and scholarships! Whether you’re nominating a colleague for their dedication or encouraging an aspiring leader to apply for a scholarship, your nomination helps shine a light on those shaping the future of Montana’s schools. Don’t wait—submit your nominations and applications by Friday, December 5, 2025. Awards will be presented at the 2026 Montana Principals Conference January 25-27 in Bozeman. Review award information and access the nomination/application forms HERE!

Opportunities from Education Partners

Free Special Session for K–12 Leaders with Dr. Richard Reeves
Thursday, November 6 | 3:30–4:30 p.m. (In Person or Webinar)

Join renowned scholar Dr. Richard V. Reeves for an engaging conversation on how schools can better support boys and young men in today’s world. Dr. Reeves is the author of the acclaimed book Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It, which explores the growing challenges facing males in education, employment, and family life. His research, widely featured in The New York Times, The Atlantic, and on NPR, offers data-driven insights into gender gaps in learning and achievement — and practical ideas for change.

This special meeting for K–12 school leaders will provide a focused opportunity to explore how Dr. Reeves’ research applies directly to educational settings. Participants will discuss actionable strategies for improving engagement, belonging, and success among male students, and how school systems can foster environments that help every student thrive.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with Dr. Reeves and other Montana education leaders as we explore one of the most pressing — and often overlooked — issues in schools today.

K12 leaders have two options to engage in this valuable workshop with Dr. Reeves:

  1. In Person at UM, University Center - Room 225
  2. Remote participation - register at this link.

November is Native American Heritage Month

November is Native American Heritage Month, and is also referred to as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. Let us acknowledge and celebrate this month by highlighting resources where you can access authentic materials to support your culturally relevant instruction.  Follow these links for resources:

MSU Superintendent Certification Program and M.Ed Principal Prep Program Applications Available - Click images below for more information