Following a challenging year, a new leader will be taking the reins at the Heart Butte School District.
Situated below the Rocky Mountain Front, Heart Butte is located at the southern tip of the Blackfeet Reservation. The town is home to 621 residents, with about one-third being students or personnel within the school district.
In January, a concerning audit revealed a $2.5 million debt for the school district. The superintendent, embroiled in a scandal, was placed on administrative leave. To reduce costs, the board had to let go of 30 employees.
This upheaval disrupted classes, dampened the atmosphere at the school, and increased the workload for administrators. Uncertainty loomed over teachers regarding the security of their jobs on a weekly or even yearly basis.
Despite the tumultuous period, Interim Superintendent Greg Upham reassured Lee Montana four months after the audit that the Heart Butte budget had stabilized, and the school would continue operating in the upcoming fall.
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In May, it was announced that two new leaders had been appointed – Marcy Cobell as the new superintendent and Christy Day Chief as the principal.
Cobell, aged 59, was raised on the Blackfeet Reservation and graduated from Browning High School. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Montana State University, a master’s in curriculum and instruction from Lesley University in Massachusetts, and is close to completing another master’s in educational leadership from the University of Montana.
Cobell previously oversaw Indigenous education at the Great Falls Public School District and held various roles at the Lame Deer School District, including principal, special education director, and superintendent. Most recently, she served as the student success specialist for the Caring for Our Own Program at Montana State University Bozeman.
Starting on July 1, Cobell emphasized the importance of establishing strong relationships with students, staff, and the community in her new position.
Addressing the budget, Cobell highlighted a need for fiscal responsibility and maximizing reimbursements. She expressed confidence that the budget would stabilize by the year-end with prudent spending practices.
Collaborating with the Heart Butte School Board, now under the leadership of Joe Crawford, is a priority for Cobell. She stressed the importance of aligning with the board’s vision and prioritizing student needs.
Looking ahead, Cobell intends to evaluate and enhance the school’s curriculum to support student success and empowerment. She envisions fostering a safe and inclusive environment that celebrates students’ cultural identities.
“It’s crucial for students to embrace their heritage and origins,” she remarked, underscoring the importance of cultural affirmation.
