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MFT announces co-chairs and more than 150 initial members of the group supporting Jon

BILLINGS – Montanans for Tester launched “Teachers for Tester,” a group of over 150 teachers backing third-generation dirt farmer Jon Tester for U.S. Senate. 

“I am proud to have been raised in Montana’s public schools, and as a former public school teacher myself I know that a top-notch public education is the great equalizer for Montana kids, especially in rural areas,” said Senator Jon Tester. “A thriving public school system is critical for keeping Montana’s rural communities alive. I’ll never stop fighting to make sure that all Montana students have access to a high-quality public education and Montana teachers have the resources they need to help future generations of Montanans succeed.”

Jon Tester is a proud product of Montana public schools, a former public school teacher, and a former school board member. He knows firsthand how important education and workforce training are to keep our rural communities strong and maintain our Montana way of life – and he’ll never stop fighting for our students, teachers, and parents.

STATEMENTS FROM TEACHERS FOR TESTER CO-CHAIRS

“I’ve met with teachers and students all across this state,” said Shannon O’Brien, a teacher and former college administrator from Missoula who is running to be Montana’s State Superintendent of Schools. “Whether they’re in Malta or Missoula, Montana teachers and students have a champion in Jon Tester.”

“I’m supporting Jon Tester because he knows Montana, he’s lived here his whole life,” said Tim Hardy, social studies teacher in Hardin. “I’ve taken trips with kids to DC and Senator Tester has always welcomed us to his office. I trust him to fight for our rural schools.”

“Jon Tester has been a teacher, a parent, and a school board member. He knows what our public schools need to thrive and he works hard to deliver for Montana students every day. He’s earned my vote and I’m proud to support him,” said Melissa Romano, a state legislator, educator, and 2018 Montana Teacher of the year from Helena. 

“Jon Tester is as Montana as it gets. He understands the unique challenges facing our rural schools, which is why he’ll work with anyone to make sure our students get the education they deserve,” said Kevin Kicking Woman, a Blackfeet Native American Studies Teacher from Browning, a Navy veteran, and Montana’s 2024 Teacher of the Year.

“As a teacher myself, I’m proud to support Jon Tester for the US Senate because he has done my job and understands what it takes,” said Eric Matthews, a middle school teacher and state legislator from Bozeman. “He has worked hard to defend public education over his career, and is ready and willing to make proactive positive change for public education in the future!”

TEACHERS FOR TESTER 2024 FOUNDING MEMBERS