Protect Out Promise: Investing in Our Children’s Future in Missoula, Montana

Dear Missoula Community,

In Montana, our Constitution entrusts us with a fundamental responsibility: to ensure that every child reaches their full potential. As trustees of the Missoula County Public Schools Board, we are committed to equipping our students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Today, we ask for your support to uphold that promise.

This May, Missoula County voters will have the opportunity to vote on two Operational levies (for elementary and high school districts) and one Safety levy (for the high school district). These levies are essential to maintaining high-quality education and a safe learning environment for our students.

Why Are These Levies Needed?

Each year, the state determines a school district’s maximum General Fund budget using a formula based primarily on student enrollment. The state covers 80% of this budget, but local voters must approve Operational levies to fund the remaining 20%. These funds cover essential expenses, including teacher and staff salaries, curricula, textbooks, utilities, and routine maintenance—ensuring our schools remain open and fully functional.

Additionally, this year we are proposing a Safety levy for the high school district, which serves students from Missoula, Lolo, Target Range, Bonner, Seeley-Swan, and Hellgate Elementary districts. Currently, there is no dedicated state funding for safety and security needs, forcing us to divert resources from general education funds. The proposed $1 million Safety levy would provide crucial funding for security enhancements, such as secure entrances, doors, and camera/intercom systems. It would also support school interventionists, School Resource Officers, and training programs to ensure a safe learning environment for students and staff.

The Stakes for Our Schools and Community

Approving these levies is critical to preserving the educational excellence our community expects. Without this funding, we face impossible choices:

• Interventionists who support students through trauma, or academic specialists who ensure literacy?
• Safe buildings, or up-to-date curriculum?
• Music and arts programs that foster creativity, or technology that prepares students for the future?

These aren’t just budgetary line items; they are the building blocks of our children’s education and our community’s future. Without these funds, we are forced to choose between services that support our most vulnerable students and programs that enable all students to succeed.

A Worthwhile Investment

Strong schools build strong communities. They enhance property values, attract businesses, and cultivate the next generation of citizens, innovators, and leaders. The cost to homeowners? Just $0.64 per month per $100,000 of assessed property value—a small price to pay for a brighter future for our children and our community.

On May 6, vote YES for the school levies. Stand with us to protect our promise to Missoula’s students and ensure they have the resources and safe spaces they need to succeed.

MCPS Board of Trustees