In this issue: - SAM Webinar - January 9, 2025
- MAEMSP President Message
- SAM Legislative Network Registration
SAM Executive Director Message MT Principals Conference Registration SAM Youth Endowment Nomination Form - META Award Nominations
CoSN Update - SAM Business Partners
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| SAM Calendar of Events
Thursday, January 9, 10:00 AM: SAM Monthly Webinar - Building a Culture of Dignity with Tami Pyfer, Chief of Staff at The Dignity Index. In today's world, fostering respectful dialogue is more crucial than ever. The Dignity Index, an eight-point scale measuring speech from contempt to dignity, offers a transformative approach to our interactions. By embracing the principles of The Dignity Index, we can ease divisions, prevent violence, and solve problems by choosing dignity over contempt. This webinar will equip you with practical tools to honor others' dignity, even in heated situations. Please print a copy of The Dignity Index Scoring Scale prior to the webinar. Having a printed copy on hand will be helpful during the session. Connect to SAM webinars using this Zoom meeting link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/3923446729 |
SAM webinar recordings and resources can be found in the new SAM Online Learning Center and are accessible to all SAM members. Once logged in to the SAM website, you will be in the Members Only area. To locate the webinar resources, click Resources >Online Learning > Courses >2024-25 SAM Monthly Webinars. We will continue to add resources as webinars are completed. Experiencing difficulties? Contact Kim at the SAM Office (samks@sammt.org)
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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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| Feed the Good Wolf! by Mark Goyette, MAEMSP President Happy New Year to all of our SAM membership! 2024 was a struggle for many people across our state and country. Unfortunately, 2025 also has started on a somber note with terror attacks taking place in New Orleans & Las Vegas as I write this. It is difficult to comprehend the mindset of a person who would plan to harm people they don’t even know. I hope and pray for accountability for all individuals involved in these acts but also hope and pray for peace for the families who lost loved ones or had family members harmed in these senseless tragedies. This past year, there were 39 school shootings in our country–the second-highest number in history, according to Education Week. It’s almost become so common that the front-page headlines are looked over when these events happen. For those of us in education, this is a weight we carry with us at all times. We are driven by a deep responsibility to keep those we serve safe and protected. In these uneasy times, it’s all too easy to focus on the negative things happening around us and feel overwhelmed or powerless to address them. It is so important for us as educational leaders to not only lead our schools but also be the beacon of hope for those around us. As author Jon Gordon states in his book, The Energy Bus: “Every morning you have a choice. Are you going to be a positive thinker or a negative thinker? Positive thinking will energize you!” In order to be energized, persevere and lead through these difficult times it is vital that you set yourself up for success by focusing on the positives going on while addressing and working through the difficult. I keep a parable posted next to my desk that a good friend of mine shared with me years ago. I routinely share it with students who are not making great choices or struggling with their thoughts. It’s titled “The Cherokee Tale of Two Wolves,” and I’d like to share it with you here: One evening an old Cherokee Indian told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said: “My son, the battle is between two ‘wolves’ inside us all. One is Evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority and ego. The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, faith and forgiveness.” The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: “Which wolf wins?” The wise old Cherokee simply replied: “The one you feed.” As we head into 2025, I encourage you to make sure you are “feeding the good wolf” inside you and inspiring your family, friends, students and staff to do the same. Your mindset will shape how you face adversity and overcome struggles in the coming year! I hope 2025 is your best year yet in education, filled with success, growth, and joyful moments! Mark Goyette
MAEMSP President |
You Still Have Time to Join the SAM Legislative Network (SAMLN) SAM members are invited to join the SAM Legislative Network (SAMLN) for the upcoming legislative session to advocate for key education policies. SAMLN ensures statewide representation through regional representatives from SAM's six affiliates, fostering communication between members, SAM leadership, and legislators. Members provide feedback, lead regional "Calls to Action," and testify on critical issues like funding and student mental health. The first SAMLN 2025 meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 6 at 12:00 (noon). SAMLN members will receive a calendar invite with connection information. To join SAMLN 2025, complete the Registration Form. |
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Executive Director Message Montana Office of Public Instruction - 2025 Legislative Priorities As we prepare for the 2025 Legislative Session, the OPI released their legislative priorities with their December Compass newsletter. While it is yet to be seen if these priorities will change with new leadership at OPI, it is important to note that several of these priorities already have bill sponsors who will likely introduce these issues in the 2025 session. This summary highlights key priorities relevant to Montana public school administrators, with additional focus on Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) and curriculum oversight. Key Legislative Priorities 1. Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) OPI is proposing updates to the Special Education Savings Account Program to expand eligibility and sustainability. Key changes include: - Allowing homeschool students to participate in the program.
- Clarifying language related to full-time and part-time enrollment.
- Ensuring long-term sustainability of the program.
This program enables parents to utilize state funds to pay for private educational services, including tuition, textbooks, and specialized instructional materials. While intended to support educational choice, public school administrators should be aware of potential funding shifts away from public schools and the administrative implications of expanded eligibility. 2. Curriculum Oversight and Standards Alignment OPI has proposed legislation requiring textbook dealers to prove alignment with Montana Board of Public Education’s content standards when obtaining or renewing licenses. This initiative seeks to: - Ensure consistency and quality in instructional materials.
- Align curriculum standards with state requirements for educational content.
Additionally, new legislation seeks to clarify parental notifications regarding sexual instruction and remedies for non-compliance with established requirements. Administrators should monitor how these changes may affect local curriculum control and parental engagement processes. 3. Base Aid and School Funding OPI estimates 1.04 billion in K-12 BASE Aid for FY 2026 and 1.1 billion for FY 2027, with funding increases tied to inflation (3% annually). Key allocations include: - Special Education Payments (2.14 million for the biennium).
- Quality Educator Payments (3.31 million).
- Targeted funding for Indian Education for All and achievement gap closure.
4. Supporting Educator Workforce and Student Services - Paraprofessional Pathways: Creating specialist licenses and advancement pathways to address educator shortages in special education.
- TEACH Act Amendments: Aligning reporting deadlines with federal requirements and including eligibility for remote educators.
- School Chaplains: Allowing volunteer chaplains to support student mental health with parental permission.
5. School Safety and Privacy Enhancements - Strengthened background check requirements for all volunteers and employees interacting with students.
- Privacy protections during licensure investigations to safeguard sensitive information.
6. Financial Flexibility and Reserve Funds - Allowing schools to reserve up to 20% in tuition reserve funds to improve budget flexibility and planning.
Considerations for Administrators Montana public school administrators should review these legislative priorities closely, particularly those related to ESAs and curriculum oversight, as they may influence funding structures and local control over educational decisions. Administrators are encouraged to: - Engage with OPI to express concerns about potential impacts on public education.
- Participate in discussions on preserving local decision-making authority.
- Prepare for adjustments to reporting, compliance, and parental communication processes.
By staying informed and actively involved, administrators can help shape legislative outcomes that best support Montana’s public schools. Rob Watson,
SAM Executive Director |
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Register Now for the 2025 Montana Principals Conference: Redefining Education: In My Principal Era |
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Register now for the 2025 Montana Principals Conference – Redefining Education: In My Principal Era – happening January 26-28 in Helena? Don’t miss the chance to connect, learn, and be inspired alongside an incredible lineup of speakers, including Darrin Peppard, Allyson Apsey, Tracy Vic, and Laurie Barron. Together, we’ll celebrate your journey of redefining education and leading with purpose in your principal era. Secure your spot today! Breakout Session Themes: Explore sessions designed to help you redefine education in your principal era: - Innovation - Embrace change and creative solutions (AKA T.S. 1989 Album)
- Inspiration - Passion and resilience in the face of adversity (AKA T.S. Red Album)
- Inclusion - Building school climate with all kids in mind (AKA T.S. Speak Now Album)
Social Events: VIP Backstage Pass For the Principal Eras Monday evening event, it’s all about the Backstage Pass! Channel your inner rock star or superfan by representing your favorite band or sports team. Be creative with band tees, team jerseys, or a fun combination of music and sports fan gear! Picture yourself walking into the event with your backstage pass, ready to celebrate in VIP style.
Fearless Cornhole Tournament Unleash your competitive spirit at the Fearless Cornhole Tournament, an informal, lively evening event inspired by Taylor Swift's Fearless album. Form teams with creative names based on the 19 songs from Fearless (Taylor's Version) and enjoy a night of fun and networking. |
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META Award Nominations are Open! Nominations are now being accepted for the following META Awards until Friday, February 14. Follow the links for more information about each award and to submit a nomination form. - META Technologist of the Year - The Montana Educational Technologists Association (META) presents the Montana K-12 School Technologist of the Year Program. This award was established to recognize the fine achievements and successes of a Montana K-12 School Technologist at the State level. Eligible candidates for this award must be current META members. The nomination deadline is FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2025.
- META Empowered Superintendent of the Year - The Montana Educational Technologists Association (META) presents the META Empowered Superintendent of the Year Award Program. This award is established to recognize a school superintendent that consistently and passionately provides educational technology leadership, support, understanding, and guidance in working with their school technologist(s) to create a successful and efficient network of tech-supported education for all students within their district. In order for the superintendent to be nominated, he/she must be a member of the Montana Association of School Superintendents (MASS). The nomination deadline is FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2025.
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SAM Board Now Accepting Youth Endowment Nominations Nominations are now being accepted for the 2024-25 SAM Youth Endowment. In the Spring of 2001, the SAM Board approved the SAM Youth Endowment Fund Guidelines based on the belief that it was important for SAM to be involved financially with a cause that affected the youth of Montana. The purpose of the SAM Youth Endowment Fund is to make a positive impact on the youth of Montana by providing financial assistance to benefit children’s health, welfare, and/or education. Nominations may be submitted to the SAM office before Friday, March 7, 2025: 2024-25 SAM Youth Endowment Information and Nomination Form The criteria for the nominee is as follows: - Nominated student must be a Montana youth
- Nominated student must be a K-12 student
- Nominated student must have a financial need, i.e. health concern, family emergency, educational need
- Nominated student must be nominated by a member of SAM
Awards to nominated recipients will be distributed in April of each year and announced in the May SAM Bulletin. |
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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. Financing Technology Innovations - Strategies and Tools
As 2024 comes to a close and school leaders take on both continuing and new technology challenges in 2025, CoSN is
pleased to provide multiple free technology financial planning and evaluation resources for school leaders as part of the CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents Initiative (https://www.cosn.org/superintendents/).
Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
When it comes to understanding the actual full cost of technology investments it is key that school leaders’ knowledge
and experience go beyond the initial costs of any technology purchase. When school districts measure the TCO they
come to know not only the costs of acquiring specific technology tools, but also the costs involved in maintaining
networks, computers, multiple devices as well as expenses related to needed staff. A TCO Assessment is an impactful
way to help school leaders create annual budgets as well as identify the effects of any proposed changes on IT operations.
CoSN is pleased to share the following online resources to assist school leaders in evaluating the total cost of ownership regarding IT investments at https://www.cosn.org/tco/:
1) TCO Assessment Tool
2) Indirect Labor User Survey
3) TCO Example Workbook
You will also find “Tips and Recommendations for Performing Your Own TCO Assessment” described on the
https://www.cosn.org/tco/ webpage.
Value of Investment (VOI)
Careful evaluation of the expected costs and benefits of proposed educational technology projects is also a key factor
when it comes to making smart budgeting decisions about IT purchases. CoSN has defined the methodology and created specific tools to support K-12 school districts regarding the Value of Investment (VOI).
Free access to the following VOI resources is available on the https://www.cosn.org/voi/ webpage:
1) VOI Methodology Flowchart
2) Project Cost Estimator
3) Project Benefits Tool
4) Project Benefits Workbook 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. The first 2025 CoSN/AASA edLeader panel broadcast airs on Monday, January 13, 2025, at 5:00 pm Eastern Time. The title of the January 13 edLeader Panel broadcast is “Strategic Technology Planning and Investment: Aligning Priorities, Costs, and Outcomes”. Three leading-edge superintendents will share the effective processes they have implemented with their leadership teams regarding decisions about technology purchases. Participants are welcome sign up for free to view the live broadcast at https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20250113/. A few days after the live broadcast, access to the recording and podcast version will be available at that same URL link. 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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