Helena Public Schools > Friday Update from Superintendent Weltz | April 25, 2025

Friday Update from Superintendent Weltz | April 25, 2025

In today’s newsletter:

Technology Levy: How we use technology in the classroom
Voter forum Monday evening
Community meeting and tour Wednesday at Kessler
What you need to know about measles
District seeks coaches, paras

Good Afternoon Families and Staff,

Election Day is almost here and my singular message is to please vote. Ballots are due back to the Lewis & Clark Elections Office by May 6.

Last week, we launched an FAQ addressing voter questions about Montana’s school funding shortfall and how it affects our district. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to check it out at https://helenaschools.org/spring-2025/

One of the biggest questions we’ve heard is why the district needs technology for teachers and students, and how we use it. A valid concern is whether we’re creating more empty screentime for kids.

As District Technology Director Gary Myers shared in last week’s video, our school technology is used to supplement the face-to-face learning that is the foundation of education, not to replace it. Our teachers use classroom technology to empower students to learn more, explore topics in more depth and prepare for success in today’s digital-driven careers and world. It’s never about putting a kid in front of a screen.

We talked with students and teachers at Bryant Elementary, CR Anderson Middle School and Helena High about how they use technology at school every day and about how tech skills will shape their futures. Isaiah, of Bryant Elementary, wants to be a hacker for the police or the FBI; Mackenzie, of Helena High, used her tech and design skills to land a marketing internship; and Ms. Hagengruber, Life Sciences Teacher at CRA Anderson Middle School, is combining technology with sidewalk chalk to teach students about the anatomy of squid!

I think you’ll enjoy what they have to say, and I hope you enjoy this beautiful weekend.

Respectfully,

Rex M. Weltz, Superintendent
Helena Public Schools

District News & Events

Voter Information from the Lewis & Clark Elections Office

Election Reminders for voters:

Check your voter status or polling place by visiting My Voting Information or call (406) 447-8339.
Remember to bring your photo ID or other acceptable forms of identification to your polling place when you vote.
Absentee ballots are accepted at the County Elections Office or any polling place until 8:00 pm on Election Day.
When returning absentee ballots by mail, we recommend mailing them back one week or more before Election Day, so they arrive before the deadline.
Not registered? Visit us at 316 North Park Ave, Room 168.
Find a list of Lewis and Clark County Polling Places here(PDF, 83KB). (Note: Polling Places are not open for Mail Ballot elections)

Find sample ballots and additional information at: https://www.lccountymt.gov/Government/Clerk-and-Recorder-Treasurer/Elections

Check out our FAQ!

Find answers to your election-related questions and more!

Lottery now open for Kindergarten Montessori spots!

If you have a student registered to start kindergarten this fall in Helena Public Schools, now is the time to join the lottery for a Montessori slot!

It’s simple to apply:

Print and complete the Montessori application form.
Submit your completed form by 3 pm, May 5, at any Helena Public Schools elementary. You may also email a completed application to Holly Vauter at hvauter@helenaschools.org
Make sure you get a “received” receipt when you turn in your application!

Names will be drawn May 8, 2025. Selected applicants will be called that evening. All others will receive an email the next day.

Learn more about the district’s Montessori Charter School at https://helenaschools.org/departments/montessori/

Have questions about measles? Visit https://helenaschools.org/measles-information/

Helena Public Schools is seeking coaches!

Do you love working with kids? Are you passionate about sports, teamwork and mentorship? Helena Public Schools is hiring coaches, and we’d love to have you on the team!

Coaching is more than just a job – it’s a chance to inspire, encourage, and help students grow on and off the field. Whether you’re a seasoned coach ot z is a rewarding opportunity to give back to your community and make a real impact.

Click here to apply today!

HHS – Assistant Girls Soccer Coach

HHS- Assistant Speech and Debate

HHS- Head Dance Coach

HHS- Assistant Football Coach

HHS- JV Cheer Coach

CHS- Head Speech and Debate Coach

CHS- Head Wrestling Coach

CHS- JV Cheer Coach

High school summer job opportunity

Join our amazing SACC (School Aged Child Care) Team as a paraeducator! This is a fantastic opportunity to help children learn, grow and thrive.

As a paraeducator you will:
✅ Supervise and guide children through positive play and learning activities
✅ Reinforce good behavior and health habits using positive strategies
✅ Support fun events like field trips and guest visitors
✅ Help with snacks, projects, and keeping the space welcoming and organized
✅ Interact positively with kids, staff, and families

We encourage high school students to apply!

Click here to learn more!