News Release
A new school year brings new hope for Montanans
9/6/2002
Kris Goss
406-444-3111
kgoss@state.mt.us
It is not just the parents and students that must prepare for the upcoming school year. The educators of Montana have been preparing all summer to make sure that Montana’s students continue to receive the best education possible.
As the school year begins, there is much on the minds of educators, parents and students in this state. At the top of that list for many is this question: how can we work together to strengthen Montana’s excellent education system while living within current budget constraints? That very issue is on my mind as well. It has been for months.
Those of us who work in Helena year round and those that work here every two years are very aware of the situation education faces. While we must be mindful of the difficulties that budget shortfalls create, I can say with confidence that education is always on our mind in Helena.
Our administration has been looking at school funding for some time. My administration is meeting with members of the education community to hear the thoughts of those most involved in the education of our children. These discussions have been beneficial, as we have examined innovative new ways to bring money to the classroom.
We are also in the final stages of reviewing the Governor’s Public School Funding Advisory Council’s recommendations. This group held hearings across the state to find out what solutions are out there for K-12 funding. These are the people’s recommendations and they will receive the highest consideration.
A top priority for this council was an examination of the school funding formula. This is a valuable exercise. The school funding system is a labyrinth that often does not allow taxpayers to explore the budgetary process. By removing this confusion, all Montanans can follow the funding system. This will enable every citizen to set aside the argument surrounding funding and engage in a true discussion that puts learning first.
After reading the Council’s report I also know there is no question the people of Montanans place a high priority on education funding. But Montanans are already 46th in per capita income; even with that, our funding to K – 12 is 8th highest in the nation on a per capita basis. Government must live within its means, just like families do. After we improve the economy and expand the tax base for the state, there will be new ways to bring stronger funding to our students.
Montana has incredibly bright students, involved parents and above all, energetic educators. Each Fall we are reminded of how fortunate we are in Montana. So as students get their supplies, parents attend meetings, and teachers finalize lesson plans, keep in mind that as Montanans, we must support our students as much as we can. By sticking together and focusing on the future we will thrive in these difficult times.
Yes, Fall is a special time in Montana. Thanks to some great kids and caring adults.
JUDY MARTZ
Governor
