Tester Leads Bipartisan Resolution Designating Public Schools Week to Recognize Critical Role of Public Education in Montana

Senator highlights the importance of public education

U.S. Senators Jon Tester (D-Mont.) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) led a bipartisan group of colleagues in celebrating the critical role public school teachers, administrators, parents, and students play in their communities by designating February 26 through March 1 as Public Schools Week.

Tester, a former public school teacher, and Collins are Co-Chairs of Public Schools Week, and have fought tirelessly to improve public education in Montana, Maine, and across the United States.

“As a former public school teacher and school board member, I know firsthand the importance of a public education,” said Tester. “Public education truly is our nation’s great equalizer, and is key to ensuring the future remains bright for the some 90% of children who attend public schools in America. This week, I’m proud to recognize and celebrate all of our public school educators, administrators, and students.” 

“This week, we recognize the more than 100,000 public schools across America that play a vital role in shaping the lives of our nation’s youth, inspiring students and giving them the tools to achieve their dreams,” said Senator Collins. “During my Senate service, I have had the pleasure of visiting more than 200 schools throughout Maine, and I have seen an abiding commitment to excellence that is shared by dedicated educators and staff. This resolution is an important recognition of those efforts.” 

The Senators’ resolution encourages state, local, and federal lawmakers to prioritize efforts to strengthen public education and bolster services that provide critical support for students, including counseling, extracurricular activities, and mental health resources. The resolution also urges Congress to support efforts to advance equal opportunities for students of all backgrounds, so that every child can receive a high-quality education, no matter who they are or where they live.

A product of Montana’s public schools and a former Big Sandy music teacher, Senator Tester has been a leader in providing Montana students the tools they need to thrive. He recently designated the week of February 5th as “National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week” to highlight the importance of higher education in Indian Country.