Montana's House Bill 361, introduced on March 29, 2025, aims to support teachers in high-poverty and impacted schools by providing annual stipends to enhance educational equity. The bill proposes a stipend of up to $1,000, or 85% of the quality educator payment, for teachers who hold specific certifications, including culturally and linguistically diverse certificates or English as a second language endorsements.

The legislation targets schools eligible for the community eligibility provision under Public Law 111-296, addressing the challenges faced by educators in under-resourced areas. By incentivizing teachers to obtain specialized certifications, the bill seeks to improve educational outcomes for students with limited English proficiency.

Key provisions include a state obligation to fund a portion of the stipends, ensuring that school districts are not burdened with matching contributions without state support. If funding falls short, the superintendent of public instruction is tasked with requesting supplemental appropriations to fulfill stipend commitments.

Debate surrounding House Bill 361 has highlighted concerns about the adequacy of funding and the potential impact on school budgets. Proponents argue that the stipends will attract and retain qualified teachers in challenging environments, while opponents caution that reliance on state funding could create instability in long-term educational planning.

The implications of this bill are significant, as it addresses both economic and social disparities in education. By supporting teachers in high-need areas, Montana aims to foster a more equitable educational landscape, ultimately benefiting students and communities across the state. As the bill progresses, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its funding and implementation to ensure it meets its intended goals.