MCPS trustees are non-paid positions. Trustees are expected to attend two (2) monthly meetings that focus on school district operations. In addition, trustees are also expected to attend special meetings, board work sessions, budget study sessions, building visits, graduation ceremonies, and special events. Meetings are primarily held in the evening.

There are 11 trustees on the MCPS school board.  Seven trustees represent both Elementary and High School Districts, and four trustees represent various outlying communities, and only vote on High School District issues.  Trustees serve in staggered three-year terms and the state does not limit the number of terms a trustee may serve.

Who May Run for the Office of School District Trustee?

Any person qualified to vote in a district is eligible for the office of trustee. However, there are restrictions on who may hold office. A trustee may not be employed in any capacity by the trustee’s own school district (except for officiating athletic competitions under the auspices of the Montana Officials Association). The trustee candidate may be related to a school or county employee.

20-3-305 and 20-9-204, MCA. (2021 School Election Handbook, 2021).

A person may not be eligible to hold office due to a conviction.  See 13-35-106, MCA

What Are the Qualifications for School Trustee?

A trustee must: 1) be qualified to vote in a district; and 2) be a resident of the school district.  20-3-305, MCA. (2021 School Election Handbook, 2021).

Qualified to vote means the person must: 1) be at least 18 years old; 2) be a resident of the state and county for at least 30 days; and 3) be a United States citizen. The person must not be: 1) a convicted felon currently serving a sentence in a penal institution; or 2) determined to be of unsound mind by a court of law. 13-1-111, MCA. (2021 School Election Handbook, 2021).