School elections are held this Tuesday around the state. Some elections include levies to fund school infrastructure and programs and some include races for trustees/school board members who make important decisions about curriculum, funding priorities, facilities etc for schools. See below for more information on school board elections in your area.
Missoula – Has elementary and a high school “maintenance” levy as well as 3 trustee candidates running for 2 seats to represent the whole district (Chris Jones, Joseph Knapp and Nancy Pickhardt) and 2 candidates running for 1 seat to represent the Hellgate Elementary School District (Marcia Holland & Rick Johns).
- For general info, candidates and levies visit the school district website.
- Missoulian Q&A with both Hellgate candidates
- Missoula Independent article on Chris Jones Controversial Candidate Stirs School Board Election
Billings This is only one election for trustee on the ballot (which will be conducted by mail). Although according to a recent Gazette article ShellyVan Atta has endorsed her opponent Barbara Bryan but her name will still appear on the ballot. There is no mill levy on the Billing ballot.
Helena has a no trustee races this year but does have both a elementary ($323,000) and high school levy ($138,000). Read more about the levy in a letter from the superintendent.
Bozeman May 5th school election has been cancelled as there as only 3 candidates ran for the 3 open seats. An election will be called in June if a levy is requested. More info here.
Bitterroot – No Bitterroot schools districts are requesting a levy at this time. Only Stevi, Florence and Darby are holding elections this May as only these districts have contested trustee races. Read the Ravalli Republic article for more info.
