Op-Ed: MT's Kids Deserve More Than the Bare Minimum

As moms, educators, and lawmakers, we came to the Capitol this session with one clear goal: to improve opportunity for Montana's kids. But with just weeks left in the legislative session, we're concerned that we may leave Helena having done only the bare minimum-and that's not good enough.

Montana's future depends on the investments we make in our children today. If we want strong communities, a skilled workforce, and a healthier, more prosperous state, we must prioritize the health, education, and safety of our kids-not just check boxes and move on.

Together, Democrats have introduced a slate of common-sense, bipartisan bills that would make a real impact for Montana families. These bills have broad support and are backed by parents, teachers, and public health experts. But they're still waiting for action-and time is running out.

Here are the bills at stake:

Early Numeracy (HB 338). Early numeracy skills are essential and one of the best predictors of lifelong success. HB 338 would offer parents the opportunity to enroll their children in targeted, early intervention numeracy instruction to get them on track for proficiency by the critical third grade milestone.

Student Nutrition (HB 551). Kids can't learn if they're hungry. This bill helps schools provide meals to students in need, cutting red tape and ensuring kids have the fuel to focus and grow.

Recruit Talented Teachers (HB 340). We must improve teacher retention and student education across the state. The Montana B.E.S.T. Teacher Training Program would provide structured mentorship and support for early career teachers during their first three years.

Advanced Opportunities (SB 194). Every student should be able to chart their own path to success-whether that's college, career, or the trades. SB 194 helps students access dual credit, internships, apprenticeships, and other real-world learning experiences that set them up for success after high school.

Supporting Students (HB 339). Sixth graders deserve the same opportunities and support as their older peers. HB 339 brings sixth grade funding in line with seventh and eighth grades-recognizing that these students have more classes, teachers, and academic expectations than elementary students. It's a simple fix that ensures sixth graders have the resources they need to succeed.

These aren't partisan issues-they're practical solutions. They passed the House or Senate with bipartisan support. Now they need to make it across the finish line.

We're down to the wire, and there's no excuse for leaving these kids behind. Our children shouldn't be an afterthought in the final stretch of the session. They should be our top priority.

Let's not walk away having done the least we could. Let's lead with courage, compassion, and common sense-and do right by Montana's kids.

REP MELISSA ROMANO

(D-Helena)

SENATOR SARA NOVAK

(D-Anaconda)