| SAM Calendar of Events - November 14, 10:00 AM:
SAM Monthly Webinar - Reinvesting and Recommitting to IEFA Implementation in our Schools OPI IEFA staff will be presenting making this an opportunity for school districts to use the webinar recording for required staff IEFA training. Everyone is invited, so feel free to share the information with others in your district. November is Native American Heritage Month - explore the resources linked in the article below. - December 12:
SAM Monthly Webinar - CTE and Work Based Learning Opportunities
Gabrielle Rowley, Reach Higher MT, and Shannon Boswell, OPI, will present. More information coming soon. - January 26-28:
2025 Montana Principals Conference, Redefining Education: In My Principal Era
View full SAM Calendar |
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SAM Board of Directors
SAM Carol Phillips
President
Julie Hornby
President Elect
Sara Novak
Past President
MASSP Rhiannon Beery
President
Jason Slater
President Elect
Matt Lewis
Vice President
Sheri Heavrin
Past President
MAEMSP
Mark Goyette
President
Kelly Kinsey
President Elect
Travis Niemeyer
Vice President
Julie Hornby
Past President
Ted Miller
Ben Lambert
SAM Representatives
MASS
Joel Graves
President
Dan Grabowska
President Elect
Dale Olinger Past President Hannah Nieskens
Federal Relations
MCASE
Taylor Salmi
President
MACSS
Katrina Chaney
President
META
Paul Kozlowitz
President
SAM Office
Dr. Rob Watson
Executive Director
Kim Scofield
Director of Professional Learning & Member Services
Marcus Meyer
Director of Operations, Membership & Finances
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| Navigating Challenges with Optimism by Taylor Salmi, MCASE President
As we stand on the brink of another legislative session, it’s important to reflect on the continued challenges facing public education while also embracing our optimism for the future. The landscape of education in the upcoming session may be complex and uncertain, but it also offers a profound opportunity for us to advocate for our students
and share our stories of success that can inspire change.
Recently, I had the privilege of witnessing an incredible demonstration of community support for public education when the Hot Springs community, despite being a small, rural area, came together to pass a $183,000 general fund levy. This accomplishment was not without its hurdles; it required relentless commitment, collaborative efforts, and a unified vision from all stakeholders. The turnout reflects not only the dedication of our educators but also the commitment of parents, students, and community members who recognize the value of strong public schools. I think this gives us a glimmer into the optimism we should continue to have in our fight for adequate funding, reasonable policy, and overall support from the state at large as we move forward. It is so easy to become disheartened, but I think this success story showcases the potential we have here in Montana to capitalize on the support still being shown toward public schools!
This success is a shining example of what we can achieve when we mobilize our supporters. However, we must be proactive in amplifying these voices, ensuring that our supporters are louder and more persistent than our opposition. Looking forward to the upcoming legislative session, we must capitalize on this momentous support and engage in open dialogues about our needs and aspirations for public education. We have the opportunity to advocate for necessary resources, innovative programming, and policies that uplift our students and prepare them to become productive members of our society as they leave our schools and enter the world. We talk about this often at I.E.P. meetings I attend when we are planning for transition for our students and I am always in awe at how wonderful our Montana graduates are as they enter the workforce or enroll in college. Often times I think our supporters are quiet and our opposition is loud, so we must empower and encourage that support to be the voice at the table that is louder.
As administrators, let us share our stories of success, whether that be innovative curriculum initiatives, standout student achievements, or community partnerships. These narratives not only highlight our collective efforts but also generate further support and inspire confidence in our public education systems to combat the all too frequent negative narrative that we see on social media, in local news outlet stories, or hear around our communities.
While the challenges facing public education remain significant, the recent success of the Hot Springs community is a reminder of the power of advocacy and public support. As we approach the legislative session, let us carry this momentum forward, advocating passionately for our students and ensuring that our voices resonate clearly in discussions that shape the future of public education. This sense of optimism and excitement has really rejuvenated my mindset moving through the school year and into the Spring legislative session and I hope it does that for you too!
Taylor Salmi MCASE President |
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Executive Director Message Join the School Administrators of Montana Legislative Network (SAMLN) and Amplify Your Voice in Education Policy!s
The upcoming legislative session is just around the corner, and the role of the School Administrators of Montana (SAM) in advocating for education policies that matter to our schools, students, and communities is more critical than ever. We’re calling on you, our members, to join the SAM Legislative Network (SAMLN) and be part of the essential work of shaping Montana’s education landscape.
Why Join SAMLN? The purpose of the SAM Legislative Network is to foster effective communication between SAM leadership, its members, and legislators. SAMLN members provide a direct link between the concerns of school administrators statewide and SAM’s representation in Helena, ensuring that every region’s voice is heard.
Who Makes Up SAMLN? SAMLN is designed to be representative of SAM’s diverse membership, with a regional representative from each of our six SAM affiliates: MASS, MAEMSP, MASSP, MACSS, MCASE, and META. With this structure, we achieve a statewide reach, and our members are equipped to address and advocate for the specific issues impacting every corner of Montana.
What Will You Do as a SAMLN Member? As part of the SAMLN, members play an active role in our legislative efforts by: - Reviewing requests and updates from the SAM Executive Director or SAM Delegate Assembly Steering Committee.
- Collecting and communicating feedback from your region, ensuring local concerns are passed onto SAM leadership.
- Leading regional responses during critical moments, such as coordinating "Calls to Action" to reach out to legislators.
- Working with representatives from your region to testify in Helena at pivotal points during the session, advocating for the issues that matter most to Montana’s schools.
Why Your Voice Matters? The issues impacting our schools, from funding and special education to student mental health, need advocates who understand the unique challenges faced by administrators in Montana. By joining the SAMLN, you contribute to a proactive, unified voice for education across the state.
How do I sign up to be part of SAMLN 2025? Just complete this short google form. SAMLN25 Registration Be sure to include your personal email and your cell phone for texting purposes during calls of action.
Rob Watson, SAM Executive Director |
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MASSP and MAEMSP Awards are Open for Nomination Nominations are now being accepted for the following awards and scholarships. Who will you nominate to be recognized for their outstanding dedication to the education of the children in their school/district? Please encourage aspiring administrators in your district to apply. Awards will be presented in January at the 2025 Montana Principals Conference. Nominations and applications will be accepted until Friday, December 6, 2024 for the following awards:
MASSP Awards MASSP Principal of the Year - This award recognizes outstanding secondary principals who have succeeded in providing high-quality learning opportunities for students as well as demonstrating exemplary contributions to the profession. An eligible candidate must have been an active principal for at least three consecutive years. NASSP Conference Incentive Award - The award is offered to one member and will consist of paid registration to the Conference and round-trip airfare to the site of the Conference. The date/location of the 2025 National Principals Conference is July 11-13, Seattle, WA. MASSP Community Partner in Education - The Community Partner in Education Award is presented to a private citizen outside of the professional educational organization who is always there to support education and youth through his/her involvement in activities or projects that truly impact the schools and communities. The recipient is announced and recognized at the Montana Principals Conference in January. MASSP Future Administrator Scholarship - MASSP offers a Future Administrators Scholarship in the amount of $1,100.00 to a graduate student in at least the second semester of an approved course of study for the Master of Education Leadership Degree. The candidate cannot be financially supported by a school district, cannot receive both the MAEMSP and MASSP scholarships, and must intend to continue working in Montana. The candidate must have completed three years of successful teaching in middle school, high school, or counseling experience and hold a current Montana certificate.
MAEMSP Awards MAEMSP/NAESP National Distinguished Principal - The NDP program recognizes excellence in elementary and middle level school leadership and is sponsored by NAESP. It was established in 1984 to recognize elementary and middle level principals who set high standards for instruction, student achievement, character and climate for the students, families and staffs in their learning communities. Adrian Langstaff Award - This award is one of the highest recognitions that can be given to a deserving member of MAEMSP. The award is in the name and memory of Adrian Langstaff. Adrian was an outstanding elementary principal who was a very recognized leader in his school, community and state NAESP Conference Incentive Award - This award is given to an MAEMSP member who has never attended an NAESP Conference. The 2025 NAESP Pre-K–8 Principals Conferences will be held July 11-13, 2025 in Seattle, WA. The recipient will receive: Paid registration to the National Conference, paid round trip airfare to the conference. MAEMSP Aspiring Principal Scholarship Award - MAEMSP provides an annual Scholarship/Incentive Grant of $800 to a student successfully applying to or currently enrolled in an approved course of study for the Masters of Education Leadership Degree. The applicant must have completed three years of successful teaching in elementary or middle school education (K-8) and hold a current Montana Class II teaching certificate. MAEMSP Friends of Education Award - This award is given to any person in the community who has gone above and beyond with duties that support and promote public education. The recipient of this award must be a private citizen that is outside the professional educational field. MAEMSP Appreciation Award - This award is given to an individual, organization, or business that has provided outstanding support to the Montana Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals. |
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The celebration and advocacy work are a shared endeavor between the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA), the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). Together, these organizations are committed to supporting and uplifting the cornerstone of our educational system—our school principals. |
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SAM Professional Learning Opportunities: Registration is Open for the 2025 Montana Principals Conference: Redefining Education: In My Principal Era |
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Principals shape the future of education! Whether sparking innovation, fostering inclusivity, or championing resilience, every principal has the power to lead with purpose. Join your colleagues at the Redefining Education: In My Principal Era conference, where you'll learn practical strategies from keynote speakers and engage in breakout sessions focused on innovation, inclusion, and inspiration. This is your chance to explore fresh ideas, build a supportive network, and lead with purpose.
You will not want to miss these keynote speakers: Darrin Peppard: Cultivating Leadership
Allyson Apsey: Unlocking Your Excellence
Tracy Vik: Powerful PLCs
Laurie Barron: Fearless Leadership
Register now and celebrate redefining education in your principal era! Follow this link for more information: 2025 Montana Principals Conference Information and Registration
Are you interested in presenting a breakout session at the conference? Presentations must focus on one of the following areas: Innovation: Embracing change and innovation, Inspiration: Passion and resilience in the face of adversity, Inclusion: Building school climate with all kids in mind. Please complete the Call for Presenters Form to be considered as a conference breakout session presenter. |
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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. We honor this month by giving students the opportunity to view our past through the eyes of many, so they can begin to create their own view of our collective history, understand the present, and become better prepared to engage the problems of the future. The Indian Education for All Unit would like to acknowledge and celebrate this month by highlighting resources where you can access authentic materials to support your culturally relevant instruction. Follow these links to find resources for administrators and teachers: Recent collaboration between the SAM and the IEFA unit at the OPI represents a positive step towards more comprehensive and culturally responsive education in the state. This partnership aims to enhance the implementation of IEFA across Montana's schools by focusing on desired collaborative professional development opportunities. The relationship is characterized by open communication and shared goals, with both parties recognizing the importance of building capacity for IEFA in schools. By fostering this positive working relationship, Montana is taking significant strides towards creating a more inclusive educational environment that honors Indigenous histories, cultures, and contributions. This partnership serves as a model for how educational institutions can work together to promote cultural understanding and equity in education. SAM is pleased to be part of this collaboration and looks forward to continuing to welcome representatives from the IEFA unit to present at conferences and the upcoming November SAM webinar. |
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Bus2Grid and Econergy Information Webinars
Bus2Grid is hosting open webinars for school leaders interested in learning how to electrify bus fleets with funding from the EPA Clean Bus Grant Program. The webinar panel includes team members from the EPA, World Resource Institute, Environmental Law & Policy Center, and Econergy. Bus2Grid to-date has helped school districts secure incentives of $30 million.
What you will learn: - Application process and how to secure EPA funding
- Success stories from participating districts
- Benefits of coalition building with other districts
- Step-by-step roadmap to electrification
Click the links below to register for an upcoming webinar: |
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| The Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) and its Montana state affiliate chapter, Montana Educational Technologists Association (META) are pleased to continue to support the work of current and aspiring
superintendents and district leadership teams in leading all aspects of digital learning transformations.
AI & Accessibility in Education – The 2024 Blaschke Report
CoSN in partnership with CAST recently released a comprehensive report entitled AI and Accessibility in Education. The report examines the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance educational accessibility and support for students, particularly those with disabilities. As AI technologies like Generative AI (GenAI) and assistive tools become increasingly prevalent in educational settings, it is crucial to understand both their benefits and limitations.
The AI and Accessibility in Education report emphasizes that the integration of AI in education holds significant promise for enhancing accessibility and support for all students. By placing a strong emphasis on inclusive design, implementing comprehensive policies and fostering ongoing professional development, educators have the opportunity to create a future where every student, regardless of their background or abilities, can thrive and reach their full potential through the thoughtful integration of AI. An executive summary of the report is available at https://www.cosn.org/2024-blaschke-executive-summary/. The full report serves as a comprehensive guide for educators, district leaders and policymakers, providing insights into the benefits and challenges of AI in education and offering practical strategies for its effective and ethical implementation enabling accessibility. You are welcome to download the complete CoSN/CAST AI and Accessibility in Education report at https://www.cosn.org/tools-and-resources/resource/blaschke-report-ai-accessibility-in-education/.
The CoSN/CAST AI and Accessibility in Education Report was made possible through the support of The Blaschke Fund, which was created by CoSN to support emerging leaders in education technology policy and advocacy. This memorial fund honors the late-industry giant, Charles Blaschke, who conducted pioneering research and analysis on the ever-changing U.S. education landscape for over 50 years. The Blaschke funded AI and Accessibility in Education Report was prepared by Fernanda Pérez Perez, 2024 Charles Blaschke Scholarship Fellow.
CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents edLeader Panel Series
CoSN, AASA, and edWeb.net co-host an online edLeader Panel broadcast series, sponsored by ClassLink, to help superintendents, district and school leaders and teachers connect and collaborate. Participants can join the live event or view recordings and podcast versions starting a day or two after the live broadcast.
The upcoming November 11, 2024 (5:00 pm Eastern Time) edLeader Panel broadcast is titled Leading and Leveraging Artificial Intelligence Tools Within K-12 School Districts. Three leading-edge superintendents share how they continue to lead the effective uses of AI within multiple school functions, including school operations, as well as in teaching and learning, while also dealing with the challenges that AI can present. You are invited to learn more and register for free at https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20241111/.
If you missed the October 14, 2024, broadcast on Cybersecurity in School District Settings: A District Leadership Approach, you are welcome to sign up for free to view the recording and/or listen to the podcast at https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20241014/.
CoSN 2025 Conference:
The CoSN 2025 Conference is going to take place in Seattle, Washington from March 31 through April 2, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Seattle. You can learn more about CoSN 2025 and view the list of Pre-Conference Events and the CoSN 2025 Schedule at a Glance agenda at: https://www.cosn.org/cosn2025/
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact membership@cosn.org. |
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