Governor Gianforte Announces $57.2 Million Public School Investment From State Trust Land Revenue

• November 20 2023

HELENA, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte and Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) Director Amanda Kaster today announced the investment of more than $57 million to public schools from Montana State Trust Land revenue.

“Thanks to DNRC’s responsible management of State Trust Lands, we’re able to make a historic $57 million investment in the future of our state through Montana’s public education system,” Gov. Gianforte said. “This investment will help ensure our students have the resources they need to succeed and reach their full potential.”

DNRC allocates revenue generated from Montana State Trust Land to the Office of Public Instruction (OPI), and presented two separate checks to OPI at the Land Board meeting this morning.

The checks were $48.2 million from the Common Schools Fund for public schools and $9 million for the School Facility and Technology Fund.

State Trust Lands serve as a crucial source of revenue to enhance educational programs, facilities, and resources, support educational excellence, and further the development of Montana’s education system.

“We are proud to play a key role in supporting Montana's education system through the responsible management of State Trust Lands. The department is committed to ensuring that these lands continue to provide benefit for present and future generations,” said Ryan Weiss, DNRC’s Deputy Administrator of State Trust Lands.

The allocated funds will be strategically utilized to address specific needs identified by OPI, including technology upgrades, curriculum development, and facility improvements.

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