Education

Increasing education opportunities in Montana isn’t going to happen through another federal mandate or a one-size-fits-all regulation. We need to empower our state, our local school boards, our teachers and parents to work together to develop solutions that best fit our kids’ unique needs.

As we work to grow Montana’s technology and resources jobs, we cannot underestimate the importance of encouraging our students’ interests in science, math, engineering and technology or of trade schools. In Montana, students are often forced to leave our state to find good-paying and long-lasting careers. We need to ensure that our students have the skills they need to find good-paying jobs that can keep them here at home after graduation.

Daines Condemns Biden Decision to Place Conditions on Aid to Israel

“The choice is simple: You’re either for Israel or you’re for Iran and their desire to exterminate Jews around the world.” U.S. Senator Steve Daines joined his Senate Republican colleagues today at a press conference denouncing President Biden’s decision to place conditions on lethal aid to Israel. The aid was approved by the House and Senate by an overwhelming bipartisan fashion. Watch Daines’ remarks HERE. “Well, welcome to Joe Biden’s America. Tuesday morning, I left beautiful Big Sky country in Montana and flew back to Washington, D.C. I landed at DCA. My staff picked me up and we went on our

Daines Visits George Washington University’s Anti-Israel Encampment, Voices Support for Jewish Students

“This is Joe Biden’s America” U.S. Senator Steve Daines today visited George Washington University where radical, anti-Israel protestors have set up an illegal encampment. Daines then met with Jewish students to voice his support for them and condemn the acts of hatred that have exploded across the country. Daines also met with Rabbi Yudi Steiner of Rohr Chabad Center at George Washington University. Download TV elements HERE. “Antisemitism has no place in America, and I stand unequivocally with Jewish people from across our country and around the world. Jewish students at George Washington University told me they are afraid for their

Daines Introduces Bill to Help Montanans Make Educated Decisions When Taking Out Student Loans

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today introduced a bill to help inform Montana students and their families on major financial decisions during the student loan decision-making process. “Montana students should have access to all the information they need in order to make a smart decision about their student loans. My bill helps improve the loan process so students have clear information about the duration of their loan, their expected monthly payment, their expected income after graduation and other important details. While President Biden wants to force Montanans to pay off loans they didn’t take out, I’m focused on addressing real problems—like making sure

Daines, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Empower Parents, Teachers

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today led a group of his colleagues in introducing the “Academic Partnerships Lead Us to Success Act” or the “A-PLUS Act” to give local leaders and parents more say over how their tax dollars are spent on education. “Education tax dollars belong closer to Montana classrooms–not in the hands of D.C. bureaucrats,” Daines said. “Montana parents and teachers know what Montana students need best. Congress should empower state and local leaders to have more of a say in the classroom and allow Montanans to better utilize their tax dollars spent on education.” “I have worked to add

Daines Introduces Legislation To Expand Education Opportunities for MT Students

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines helped introduce the “Educational Choice for Children Act,” which would expand education freedom and opportunity for Montana students across the state.  “Montana students deserve every chance to succeed – an integral part of that success is being enrolled in an education program that’s right for them. With the right resources, there is no limit to what Montana students can achieve. I’m glad to support this legislation which will help ensure Montana parents and students have the freedom and opportunity to choose the education that best suits their needs,” Daines said.   The bill provides a charitable donation incentive for

Daines Introduces Bill to Allow Unspent COVID Money to be Used to Better Secure Schools

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines introduced a bill that would allow unspent COVID-19 funds to be used to increase security measures in schools including installing locks, panic buttons, individual room security systems, video surveillance, and hiring and paying the salaries of armed school resource officers. “We must secure our schools to help keep Montana students safe, and we should do so by using unspent COVID relief funds designated for schools to get it done,” Daines said. Quotes of Support: “Our kids deserve to be safe in their classroom so they can learn, grow, and reach their full potential. I appreciate

Daines Statement on Successful Push to Change School District Policy Allowing Emily Pennington to Finish School

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today made the following statement after Billings School District 2 announced a policy change that will allow Emily Pennington to finish school and graduate with her class. “Emily Pennington and her family never backed down in the face of a challenge and last night, their dedication and hard work paid off,” Daines said. “I’m glad to see such a passionate student given the opportunity to finish school and graduate. Congratulations, Emily!” Last month, Daines pushed the district to amend their policy and allow Emily to graduate. He also spoke with Emily’s mom to show his support for the

Daines Urges Billings School District 2 to Allow Emily Pennington to Graduate

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today sent a letter urging Billings School District 2 to allow Emily Pennington to finish her education and graduate from Billings West High School. Throughout her time in school, Emily’s academic progress had been delayed on medical grounds. Earlier today, Daines spoke with Emily’s mom to show his support.  “I am writing to request you promptly amend District Policy 2050 for Billings West High School Junior, Ms. Emily Pennington. Parents and trustees alike understand the importance of a high school diploma for the prospects and success of Montana students. I am a steadfast supporter of

Daines: Montana Parents Should Have a Choice in their Child’s Education

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines introduced a Senate resolution designating this week, January 23 through January 29, 2022, as National School Choice Week.  “Montana parents know what’s best for their children—we must support their right to have a say in their student’s education,” Daines said. “It’s critical that we empower and support parents with the flexibility to choose how and where their child is educated, especially in a rural state like Montana.” To read the resolution, click HERE. Daines also cosponsored a resolution which recognizes the importance of school choice particularly as it relates to COVID-19 and combating destructive ideologies like Critical Race Theory promoted by