Montana City School builds mental health into development plan

Montana City School teachers could soon be better prepared to address students’ mental health needs through trainings specified in the school’s professional development plan.

The Montana City School District 2022–2023 Professional Development Plan, adopted by the school’s Board of Trustees at its April 13 meeting, includes training on controlling and managing personal emotions when dealing with students. State law requires school districts to annually approve a professional development plan that “focuses on teachers as central to student learning” and “enables teachers to develop further experience in subject content, teaching strategies, uses of technologies, and other essential elements in teaching to high standards.”

Teachers will also participate in a “There’s no such thing as a bad kid” presentation. According to Superintendent Tony Kloker, this presentation will assist teachers with guiding students facing emotional or behavioral challenges by encouraging positive mindsets and building their self-esteem. Kloker explained that how teachers react in these situations impacts the child’s outcome.