Governor Gives Positive Message At Wolf Point High School

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte showcased Wolf Point teacher Jaki Harada as a product of increased funding for teachers’ pay in the state.

Harada receives benefits from the TEACH or Tomorrow’s Educators Are Coming Home Act that was passed by the Montana Legislature in 2021. That act provided $2.5 million in incentives to improve starting teachers’ pay.

Gianforte explained the next step from the TEACH Act is the recently signed STARS or Student and Teacher Advancement for Results and Success Act. STARS invests $100 million to raise teacher pay with a focus on educators who are just starting their careers.

During his visit to Wolf Point High School on Thursday, May 15, Gianforte said the pay for performance provision encourages graduates to earn certification in areas, including trades, and to stay in their area.

Harada, a local graduate, told the governor how pleased she is with her duties at Wolf Point High School.

“If I can touch one student’s life each year, that’s the goal,” Harada said.

Gianforte also visited with high school seniors about their future plans.

He thanked Griffin Azure when the senior said he is planning to serve in the U.S. Army. Gianforte was also very supportive when he heard of other plans from the students.

The governor told the students that each one has certain gifts and talents. He said the purpose of working is to serve people. As examples, he said carpenters build homes, engineers make things better and chefs feed and nourish people.

Along with Roosevelt County, Gianforte made stops in Sheridan, Daniels, McCone and Roosevelt counties on Thursday as part of his 56-county tour.