Ep. 53 – This Levy Matters: What’s at Stake for the Future of Kalispell Education

Local Control. Local Values. Join us as we tackle a pressing topic impacting Kalispell Public Schools—the upcoming high school levy vote. This episode features enlightening discussions with Matt Jensen, Superintendent, and Jinn Merriman, a dedicated school board trustee and parent. Together, we explore how this levy directly affects our students, families, and community as a whole.

Listeners will gain insights into the vital role local levies play in providing quality education, funding critical programs, and ensuring that our schools can continue to thrive. You’ll learn about the potential ramifications of not passing the levy—including the loss of teaching positions, reduced course offerings and increased class sizes that could hinder student success.

Investing in our schools supports workforce readiness and strengthens the community. This episode invites listeners to get involved, share knowledge, and advocate for the future of Kalispell education.

Don’t miss this important conversation.

Kalispell Public Schools: Home - Kalispell Public School District 5

Podcast guests: Matt Jensen: With two decades of dedicated service in public education, Matt has established his standing as a proven leader committed to shaping a brighter future for our students. Matt embarked on his career as a high school Social Studies Teacher and concurrently served as the MEA/MFT Union Co-President, a testament to his commitment to both administrative leadership and hands-on education. He went on to serve in roles including High School Principal, Elementary School Principal, and Superintendent of Bigfork Schools, before joining Kalispell Public Schools as Assistant Superintendent, later being named Superintendent starting with the 2024-2025 school year. Matt shares, "Being entrusted with other people's children and community resources has been the most humbling honor of my life. My roots, both personal and professional, run deep in the Flathead Valley. It's challenging to find the words to describe what it feels like to serve the children of my friends, family, colleagues, and the community that once invested in me."

Jinn Mariman: Jinnifer Mariman was born and raised in Libby, Montana and went to law school to help folks like those in her hometown who were exposed to asbestos. Jinn is doing just that as partner at McGarvey Law. Her husband Gabe co-owns Bias Brewing. Together they have two daughters in Hedges Elementary and have been committed to our community through various boards and efforts. Viewing our public education is one of our greatest public resources, Jinn became a Trustee for Kalispell Public Schools in May 2023. She is proud to serve our community in that role.

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