Montana Historical Society Adds Seven New Teacher Leaders

HELENA — The Montana Historical Society has expanded its Teacher Leaders in History Program with seven new educators who will mentor colleagues and promote best practices in Montana history education across the state.

The new teacher leaders include Jim Martin of Missoula; Willamina Tailfeathers of Browning; Heather Hjelle of Manhattan; Chris Clairmont of Superior; Sarah Lyda of Lavina; Kasidy Robbins of Harlem; and Taylor Olsen of Harlowton.

These educators join 13 existing teacher leaders who serve as “history missionaries,” connecting teachers statewide with resources for teaching Montana history and Indian Education for All. The program spans all grade levels, from elementary through high school, covering communities from the Hi-Line to the Yellowstone River valley.

“We have many great teacher leaders from across the state sharing their experience and resources to enrich education for the students of Montana,” said Chris Clairmont, one of the new leaders who teaches Native American History and Montana History in Superior. “I am excited to join them to share about how to include Tribal and Montana histories into everyday teaching at all levels.”

The new cohort brings diverse expertise to the program. Taylor Olsen teaches high school English, U.S. History, and Psychology in Harlowton and specializes in project-based learning and National History Day. Sarah Lyda, who teaches multiple history subjects in Lavina, also focuses on National History Day and teaching about diversity.

Kasidy Robbins, a fifth-grade teacher in Harlem, will work on Montana history and project-based learning approaches, while Heather Hjelle brings experience in thematic teaching and primary source instruction from Manhattan High School.

“I am excited to connect my love of history education with schools across the state,” said Taylor Olsen. “This opportunity would not be possible without the support of the community who have always cheered me on.”

The teacher leaders provide one-on-one mentorship and offer presentations at regional workshops and in-school training sessions. Their topics include integrating Montana history across curricula, using primary sources, hands-on learning approaches, and implementing Indian Education for All requirements.

The program, which began in 2017, represents the Montana Historical Society’s commitment to ensuring all students have access to high-quality historical education resources. More information about the Teacher Leader program is available on the Montana Historical Society website.

“Having Teacher Leaders who truly represent every corner of the state ensures that Montana’s rich stories reach every student,” said Martha Kohl, the Society’s Outreach and Education Program Manager. “These leaders don’t just teach facts and dates; they help our students see themselves in Montana’s ongoing story and understand how the past shapes their communities today.”