Governor Gianforte Expands Educational Opportunities, Strengthens Coursework for Students

• September 14 2023

GREAT FALLS, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today toured Great Falls High School (GFHS) to see how the school is strengthening students’ coursework and preparing students for their careers.

“We want all Montana students to receive a high-quality education and be well prepared and well equipped to thrive and achieve their American dream,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Here in Great Falls, teachers are preparing students well for their future through individualized and work-based learning, digital coursework, and civics and personal finance education. It’s great to see.”

Gov. Gianforte talking with students in the GFHS auto class

Touring GFHS, the governor visited with students in three classrooms: a welding and auto class, a government and civics class, and a Montana Digital Academy class.

He was accompanied on the tour by a group of seniors at GFHS, including Katelyn, a student earning her CNA certificate through a partnership with Great Falls College. Katelyn praised the program for the hands-on experience it provided, and the care she was able to provide for the Great Falls community.

To increase opportunities for students, the governor this spring advanced individualized and work-based learning, expanded virtual coursework, and made civics and financial literacy courses requirements for high school graduation.

First, the governor expanded access to proficiency-based learning, better equipping teachers, school districts, and the state to offer personalized learning opportunities to students. In 2021, the governor authorized every school district in the state to establish individualized, work-based learning paths for students.

Second, the governor reformed the Advanced Opportunities Program and expanded work-based learning, supporting schools in offering internships, apprenticeships, and career and technical education programs.

Third, the governor strengthened the Montana Digital Academy. The Montana Digital Academy offers students virtual coursework that might not be available in their school and which they can access anytime and anywhere.

At GFHS, the governor visited a classroom where several students were participating in Montana Digital Academy courses.

Additionally, at the governor’s request, the Montana Board of Public Education in January added civics and financial literacy courses as requirements for high school graduation.

Mariyah, a senior in GFHS’ financial tech class, shared with the governor how much she enjoys her course in financial literacy, saying, “I truly appreciate financial tech just because it really gave me a deeper understanding, and made me more aware, of the real financial problems that you might face in real life and gave me tips on how to overcome those problems.”

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