State of Montana Newsroom
Superintendent Arntzen and Rep. Etchart Encourage Support for the Creation of New High School Districts
HELENA – Superintendent Elsie Arntzen and Representative Jodee Etchart are encouraging public support for House Bill 707, which will allow elementary school districts to create a new high school district. The creation of new school districts requires legislative approval and approval of a bond from the voters of the affected county. This process is outlined in §20-6-326, MCA.
“This bill reflects the local control nature of our state,” said Superintendent Elsie Arntzen. “Communities and neighborhoods must be reflected in school district boundaries. A safe and successful learning environment begins with a connection to our families and children.”
“This legislation allows for other communities to grow as needed without waiting for the legislature to act,” said Representative Jodee Etchart, sponsor of House Bill 707. “With the number of people moving into Montana, we must allow our cities across the state the autonomy to move forward as they see fit and with solutions that best fit their own situations. This legislation makes it so communities like East Helena and Lockwood in Billings can act and will not need to revisit this type of legislation as this encompasses multiple types of scenarios occurring presently in MT due to population growth.”
The potential elementary districts in Yellowstone County this bill would affect are:
- Elder Grove
- Blue Creek
- Canyon Creek
- Elysian
House Bill 707 passed the House on March 3 and was concurred in the Senate on April 6. The bill has been rereferred to the Senate Finance and Claims Committee where it is scheduled for a hearing date on April 12, 2023 at 8:00 AM. The status of House Bill 707 can be tracked here. More information on offering public comment can be found here.