Strong local schools, strong community, strong Montana
By John Cech, retired President of Carroll College
Supporting education in our local communities isn’t just about investment in classrooms—it’s about investing in the foundation of our civic life and shared future.
As Dan Kemmis, former mayor of Missoula and leading civic thinker in Montana, has reminded us, “What holds people together long enough to discover their power as citizens is their common inhabiting of a single place.” When we strengthen our schools and colleges, we empower our citizens to build, sustain, and reimagine the Montana we call home.
Helena now stands at a critical crossroads with its upcoming school bond election. Our schools are not just centers of learning—they are the heart of our community, where future citizens and leaders are shaped.
Yet, our facilities show unmistakable signs of age and deferred maintenance; the average building across the district is over 70 years old, and Helena High School, for example, is plagued by crumbling infrastructure, failing boilers, and Kessler’s classrooms are separated by modular units and “eye-sore” fences.
Our dedicated teachers work valiantly within these constraints, but no amount of ingenuity can overcome leaky roofs, outdated heating systems, or unsafe access for students with disabilities.
New businesses scrutinize a community’s schools when deciding where to locate or expand. Helena lags behind every major Montana city in its investment in local education. Without up-to-date, safe, and inspiring learning environments, we cannot compete. Schools power local economies — not only through their teaching and administrative workforce, but also by anchoring families and providing the talent pipeline that employers depend on. Education isn’t just an expense; it’s the catalyst for a robust tax base and vibrant civic life.
We must remember: Students entering the trades need good schools. Those seeking two-year and four-year degrees, even aspiring graduate students, all begin their journey in our K-12 classrooms. For Helena to thrive—for us to ensure a future for our children and maintain a strong, competitive community—we must support our school district and commit to rebuilding and repairing our educational infrastructure.
The upcoming school bond isn’t just a number; it’s about giving Helena students safe, modern, and accessible schools.
It’s about ensuring that no child sits shivering in a stairwell during winter or faces barriers due to disability.
It’s about maintaining a sense of pride in our community and sending a clear message to employers, families, and future generations that Helena believes in opportunity, excellence, and civic responsibility.
As Benjamin Franklin is reputed to have said: “If you think education is expensive, try ignorance.”
I urge every Helena citizen: let’s vote Yes, and invest in the future Montana deserves.
We cannot simply ignore this crisis and stick our heads in the sand and hope it goes away.
John E. Cech, Ph.D. served as the president of Carroll College from 2018-June 30, 2025 and is the former Deputy Commissioner of Montana University System.