A generous gift of nearly $10 million has been given to the University of Montana’s College of Education. This funding aims to help new teachers stay in Montana and boost mental health in public schools.
Dan Lee, a leader at the College of Education, expressed great excitement about the donation. He noted that it addresses two significant issues faced by schools in the state.
One major initiative from this funding is the creation of the “Institute for Positive Education.” A recent survey of high school students in Montana revealed that over 40% reported feeling persistent sadness or hopelessness. The new institute will focus on teaching educators how to improve their own mental health and how to extend those skills to their students.
Additionally, the gift will provide an incentive aimed at keeping top UM teaching graduates in Montana. Students who qualify for this program can have a third of their college debt forgiven for each year they teach in the state after graduation.
Lee is optimistic this scholarship will attract and retain high-quality teachers and counselors in Montana. Initially, it is expected to support 12 teaching students and 8 counseling students, with plans to operate for at least seven years.
Both the Institute for Positive Education and the scholarship program will launch later this year, marking a significant step in enhancing the educational landscape in Montana.
