Nancy Berg, MSW
Nancy Berg serves as the Assistant Director at the Montana Safe Schools Center housed at the University of Montana. In this role, Ms. Berg is involved in overseeing all fiscal management of grant and non-grant accounts as well as training and implementation of school safety goals and objectives. The Montana Safe School Center’s (MSSC) mission is to provide outreach regarding school safety; all-hazards management; suicide; bullying; emergency and crisis prevention, mitigation, response, and recovery in early childhood programs, P/K-12, and institutions of higher education. Ms. Berg holds her Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) and is currently working towards her clinical social work licensure. Ms. Berg is a certified master trainer in the Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) and Suicide Alertness for Everyone (safeTALK) suicide prevention protocols. She has been trained in the I Love U Guys Standard Response Protocol, Standard Reunification Method, and the ALERRT Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) course. Ms. Berg provides training and consultation on emergency operations planning, school physical site safety, educator well-being and happiness, trauma-informed practice, trauma stewardship, and Montana’s Crisis Action School Toolkit on Suicide.
Jason Davis, AIA, NCARB
As a Principal and Partner of A&E + SMA Design, Jason’s twenty-two-year career has included K-12, higher education, commercial and historic projects. Jason is involved in every step of project development from pre-bond planning, educational specifications and conceptual design to the resulting elementary, middle school, high school and athletic facility construction. Jason’s experience and passion for educational design, 21st century learning environments, and school safety and security are an integral part of the successful delivery of school projects that achieve a school district’s programmatic needs, budget and schedule objectives. Jason has worked with the Butte School District, East Helena School District, and Clancy School on their recent school planning and construction projects.
Tina Hayes
Tina Hayes is the University of Montana Safe School Center’s Training and Technical Assistance Specialist. She earned a BA in Human Biological Sciences, a BS in Business Administration, and a Master’s in Health Administration. She brings to the center a wealth of experience, including almost a decade of emergency management, ten years of behavioral health, and five years of experience working directly with schools.
Tammy Tolleson Knee, LCSW, EdS
Tammy Tolleson Knee serves as the School Support Liaison at the Montana Safe Schools Center (MSSC) within the University of Montana’s College of Education and is the director of VAST (Virtually Assisted School Teams) and the School Attendance Research Project. With over 30 years of experience as a licensed school counselor and clinical social worker, Tammy has worked across three states in diverse educational and community-based settings, focusing on youth wellness and safety. Tammy is a board-certified tele-mental health therapist and a certified trainer with the I Love U Guys Foundation’s Standard Response Protocol and Reunification. She is also a QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Instructor, holds certification from NABITA in the Structured Interview for Violence Risk Assessment (SIVRA-35), and is a trainer in Opioid Overdose Prevention. Her expertise spans behavioral threat assessment and management, crisis response, de-escalation, and standard safety protocols. In addition to her professional roles, Tammy has supervised numerous graduate-level interns and taught both undergraduate and graduate courses. Outside of her professional life and her playful pranks with colleagues, Tammy enjoys hiking, spending time with family, watching movies, and roping her husband into her next big idea.
Ali Martin, AIA, NCARB
As part of the leadership team at A&E + SMA Design, Ali has led many K-12 and higher education projects during her career. She is passionate about creating inviting and safe communities in the school environment that promote learning and student well-being. Recent educational projects include the new Helena High School, Belgrade Elementary School, East Middle School, Butte Elementary School Safety and Security Upgrades, East Helena High School, Central Elementary School, Monforton School Master Plan, and the Helena School District Facilities Master Plan.
Christa Rowland
Christa Rowland believes in the power of uniting communities to create a brighter future for all children. Before joining the IEL team, Christa was the Director of Community Impact at the United Way of Treasure Valley in Boise, Idaho. She helped grow the system of community schools in Idaho, founded the Idaho Community School Learning Network, and co-founded the Idaho Coalition for Community Schools.
Christa began her career as a music educator, teaching hundreds of students the joy of creating music. She holds a master's degree in public administration, a graduate certificate in nonprofit administration, and bachelor’s degrees in music education and violin performance.
Dr. Ashley Boal
Dr. Ashley Boal is a Senior Research Associate II for the Justice and Prevention Research Center at WestEd. She brings over 15 years of experience conducting research and evaluation studies across a diverse range of content areas including education, criminal justice, violence against women, and mental and physical health. Dr. Boal’s work is grounded in the assumption that student achievement and success go beyond focusing on academic content knowledge—it is imperative that students feel safe and supported in their home and school environments to live happy and healthy lives.
At WestEd, Dr. Boal leads a variety of projects focused on school safety, school climate, and comprehensive supports for students. Currently, she directs a National Institute of Justice (NIJ)-funded evaluation of training provided by the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO), the largest training provider of SROs in the United States. She also leads projects examining the implementation and impact of community schools initiatives, school-based behavioral health supports, and student and family supports to address chronic absenteeism. Her prior work includes NIJ-funded studies focused on state school safety centers and training for law enforcement, as well as studies to support improvements in school climate and the use of whole-child approaches. Her work has been published in prominent academic journals including Psychological Assessment, American Journal of Preventive Medicine, American Journal of Community Psychology, Nicotine & Tobacco Research, Journal of Applied Juvenile Justice Services, and Violence and Victims.
Dr. Boal obtained her bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of California, Irvine and both her master’s degree and doctoral degree in Applied Psychology from Portland State University.
Dylan Wright
Dylan Wright is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Licensed School Counselor in the state of Montana. He serves as the Wellness Education Coordinator for Families First, a nonprofit in Missoula, MT, providing group facilitation, parenting consultations, and public presentations on parenting education and well-being. He also commits a great deal of time and energy to developing programs, providing supervision, and conducting research for the Montana Happiness Project, a suicide prevention and wellness organization. When taking a break from all the “irons in the fire,” Dylan relaxes with long bike rides and by spending time with his very supportive wife and daughters.
Jennifer Murphy
Jennifer Murphy is an enrolled member of the Chippewa Cree Tribe of Rocky Boy, Montana, and brings over a decade of experience working at the intersection of public safety, child welfare, and Indigenous advocacy.
Jennifer began her career as a Child Protection Specialist, where she worked directly with families navigating complex child welfare systems and advocated for culturally responsive practice. She later served as a Felony Parole Officer, supervising high-risk individuals and working within the criminal justice system to promote accountability, rehabilitation, and community safety. These roles provided her with a deep understanding of systemic barriers impacting Native families and communities.
Building on that foundation, Jennifer has become a strong voice in Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP) advocacy, working to elevate awareness, strengthen community response, and support families impacted by violence. Her work centers Indigenous perspectives while addressing systemic gaps that contribute to vulnerability and injustice.
In addition to her advocacy work, Jennifer is a small business owner and trainer, providing professional development and systems-based training focused on cultural humility, trauma-informed practice, and Indigenous child welfare. Through her training and consulting, she partners with agencies, schools, and organizations to build stronger, culturally grounded systems of support.
Jennifer currently serves as a Tribal Student Achievement Specialist with the Montana Office of Public Instruction, where she works to advance educational equity and improve outcomes for Native students across the state. Her work bridges education, policy, and community engagement to ensure that Indigenous students are supported, seen, and empowered.
Through each of her roles, Jennifer brings cultural integrity, systems knowledge, and a commitment to strengthening Native communities.
Kristi Krings
Kristi Krings is the CEO of Rachel’s Challenge, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping schools build positive, connected cultures that support student well-being and prevent violence. Since its founding in 2001, Rachel’s Challenge has reached more than 30 million students and educators nationwide, providing evidence informed programming focused on connection, empathy, and student voice.
A national leader in school climate and culture, Kristi has spent more than a decade developing and delivering programs for schools and districts. She has personally spoken to over one million educators, students, and parents, sharing practical strategies that help reduce isolation, improve relationships, and create environments where students feel seen, valued, and safe.
Kristi regularly collaborates with education leaders to advance best practices around connectedness, hope, and whole-school culture. Her presentations are grounded, engaging, and actionable—inviting reflection while equipping educators with tools they can use immediately to strengthen community, reduce behavioral challenges, and support student success.
Tim Doll
Tim Doll is a veteran law enforcement professional and nationally certified School Resource Officer with the Billings Police Department, bringing 24 years of experience to the field. For the past nine years, he has served as an SRO at the highschool, middle school, and elementary school settings. His career spans service in both Billings, Montana and Casper, Wyoming, where he has held a wide range of assignments including patrol officer, detective, crime scene investigator, and academy instructor.
SRO Doll’s specialized skill set includes work as a polygraph examiner, forensic interviewer, and arson investigator, along with instructing crisis intervention, firearms, and active shooter response for both law enforcement and civilian audiences. He is a certified National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) instructor for the past three years where he instructs the SRO basic and advanced level classes along with being a certified trainer in Standard ResponseProtocols/Standard Reunification Methods through the I Love You Guys Foundation. SRO Doll currently serves as Region 10 Director for the NASRO, representing Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah, and is the current President of the Montana Association of School Resource Officers (MTASRO). He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a concentration in Criminal Justice from Montana State University–Billings.
Mark Barden
Mark Barden is co-founder and CEO of Sandy Hook Promise. Since the tragic murder of his son, Daniel, during the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012, Mark has dedicated himself to sparing other families the pain of losing children to gun violence.
Mark believes that thoughtful, sincere dialogue centered on protecting youth will lead us to shared common ground and nonpartisan solutions everyone can agree with. These include expanded background checks, secure storage of firearms, extreme risk protection laws, and other measures that are proven to prevent gun violence.
Traci Doll
Traci Doll serves as an Associate Principal at Medicine Crow Middle School in Billings, Montana, a position she has held for the past five years. She is a founding member of the district Safety Steering Committee and leads building-level safety initiatives, including coordinating drills, collaborating with district personnel on threat and safety concerns, and working with external response agencies. She is also an active member of the school’s Medical Emergency Response Team (MERT) and a certified trainer in Standard Response Protocols/Standard Reunification Methods through the I Love You Guys Foundation.
Prior to her administrative role, Traci was an educator in the classroom for 18 years. She spent ten years at Skyview High School teaching students in grades 9–12, specializing in resource instruction, social skills, and learning strategies for students with learning and emotional disabilities. She also served five years as Special Education Department Chair. Earlier in her career, she taught both special education and general education at the elementary level in Casper, Wyoming. Doll holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and Special Education from Montana State University Billings, a Master’s in Special Education from Grand Canyon University, and a Master’s in Education Leadership from Rocky Mountain College.
Andrew Dominic
Mr. Andrew Dominic serves as the Engagement Manager for the School Safety Task Force at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. In this role, Mr. Dominic enhances the safety and security of the nationwide K-12 school community by managing the School Safety Task Force’s involvement in external engagements and leading the development of program engagement resources and trainings.
Joe Frohlich
Joe Frohlich serves as a Cyber State Coordinator (CSC) for Montana, Region 8 (UT, CO, MT, WY, ND, SD) of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) in the Department of Homeland Security. He is based out of Helena. CISA works with public and private partners to defend against today’s threats and build more secure and resilient infrastructure for the future. The CISA Cybersecurity Advisor program includes promoting cyber resilience through various engagements and performing risk and resilience-based assessments. Before joining CISA, Joe was the IT Director at Ravalli County, Montana, for nine years. During his time at Ravalli, he co-founded Montana’s Local Government IT group and served on the executive board for the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center, better known as MS-ISAC. In 2015, he moved to Helena to work for the State of Montana as the Enterprise Security Manager for the Department of Administration. In this role, he assisted in the creation and management of the Governor’s appointed Montana Information Security Advisory Council (MT-ISAC), whose primary focus was cybersecurity in state and local government. Joe directed the state Government enterprise security policy, managed the security and awareness campaign, and supervised a team of IT risk management professionals. Early in 2021, Mr. Frohlich transitioned to DHS/CISA in his current role as a CSA for Region 8.
Andrea Savage
Andrea Savage, LCPC, LMFT is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 21 years of experience in the mental health field. She currently serves as the Mental Health Coordinator and a school-based therapist for Great Falls Public Schools, where her work focuses on student wellness, staff mental health, and systems-level collaboration. Andrea is deeply committed to community collaboration, believing that sustainable mental health support is built through strong partnerships among schools, families, mental health providers, and community agencies. She works closely with educators, administrators, and community partners to support staff well-being, secondary trauma prevention, and trauma-responsive school environments. She is the founder of LIFT, a mental health teen mentoring program in Great Falls, a therapist-facilitated program centered on student voice and peer leadership. Students meet weekly to discuss mental health topics, practice active and reflective listening, and learn how to identify concerns and refer peers to appropriate mental health resources. In recognition of her leadership and impact on youth mental health, LIFT was a recipient of the Youth Spotlight Award at the 2024 Jeremy Bullock Conference. In her private practice, Andrea works with adolescents and adults and specializes in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Her clinical and systems-level work emphasizes trauma-informed care, resilience, and connection across school and community settings.
Dr. Trevor Fronius
Trevor Fronius, Ph.D., is Director of WestEd's Justice & Prevention Research Center where he is focused on the mission of fostering safe schools and strong, thriving communities. With more than 16 years of experience, Dr. Fronius has served as a Principal Investigator on more than 20 studies funded by federal, state, and philanthropic sources examining topics that include school-based law enforcement, behavioral threat assessment, firearms safety, police wellbeing, community violence intervention, school-based restorative practices, bullying prevention, chronic absenteeism, and school-based mental health.
Dr. Fronius has provided national-level technical assistance to school safety grantees and their community partners, helping practitioners bridge research and practice to strengthen safety outcomes for students. His recent work funded by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) includes statewide evaluations of behavioral threat assessment training in Texas, school police reform in California, school security equipment investments in Virginia, and Texas' statewide school-based safe storage communication campaign.
Dr. Fronius has led or contributed to nearly 100 publications and presentations, with work appearing in journals and edited volumes including Policing: A Journal of Policy and Practice, Contemporary School Psychology, Aggression and Violent Behavior, and Oxford University Press. Dr. Fronius earned his Ph.D. in Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies from the University of Massachusetts Lowell.
Reannon Medrano
Reannon Medrano, MBA, M.Ed. serves as the principal of East Middle School in Great Falls Public Schools, where she is committed to fostering a safe, supportive, and high-achieving learning environment for all students. As a student-centered instructional leader, she brings extensive experience in educational leadership, school improvement, Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), data-informed decision-making, literacy intervention, and staff development. Throughout her career, Reannon has focused on building strong systems that promote academic success, student well-being, and continuous improvement. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes collaboration, trust, and shared responsibility, recognizing that meaningful school improvement is achieved through strong relationships and a collective commitment to student success. She is passionate about creating school cultures where students feel connected, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. Reannon is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education degree at Texas Lutheran University, with research focused on school safety and crisis preparedness. Her work examines the effectiveness and impact of armed intruder training on educators and school communities, with particular attention to balancing physical safety measures with psychological well-being and trauma-informed practices. Her research interests include educator perceptions of safety initiatives, school climate, and organizational preparedness. In addition to her commitment to school safety, Reannon is passionate about educational equity, literacy development, and leadership growth. Grounded in thoughtful and ethical leadership, she collaborates with educators, families, mental health professionals, and district leaders to create resilient, responsive schools that support the success and well-being of every student and staff member.
Brittany Masters
Brittany Masters is a Prevention Specialist with Montana Prevention and Wellness, serving Southwest Montana as part of a statewide network reaching 26 counties. A proud wife and mother of four, she earned her degree in Psychology from the University of Montana Western and is passionate about strengthening communities through prevention. Deeply rooted in Butte-Silver Bow, Brittany believes meaningful change happens when people come together around a shared purpose.
Brittany works alongside schools, youth, families, and community partners to strengthen protective factors, reduce risk factors, and create environments where young people can thrive. She is committed to applying real-world concepts to education by meeting students and families where they are and translating prevention science into meaningful action. Her work includes coalition building, youth leadership development, supporting the placement and implementation of evidence-based prevention programs in schools, and creating student-engaged initiatives that foster belonging, connection, and resilience.
Trained in QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), Youth Aware of Mental Health (YAM), Responsible Alcohol Sales and Service, and Parental Resilience, Brittany also supports initiatives such as Teens in Partnership and Red Ribbon Week. Utilizing evidence-based strategies and prevention frameworks, she promotes positive youth development and community well-being. She believes prevention works best when it is authentic, collaborative, and rooted in community—creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and connected.
Brooke Hathaway Angst
Brooke Hathaway Angst is the founder of Angst Learning Services and a national consultant and educator with deep expertise in early childhood education, child development, and family engagement. Beyond her formal education in psychology, counseling and education curriculum and instruction, Brooke is also a certified Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI)® Practitioner and Educator through Texas Christian University’s Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development and certified HOPE Champion through Tufts Medical School. With nearly 20 years of experience working with children and families impacted by trauma and adversity, Brooke has consulted and trained school districts, nonprofit organizations, and early childhood programs across the country in relationship-based, strengths-focused approaches. She specializes in helping providers and educators create safe, connected, and empowering environments where children and caregivers can thrive. Brooke has recently joined the School Behavioral Health team at the University of Montana’s Center for Children, Families and Workforce Development to develop research-based training and support for educators across the state.
Justin Matthews
Justin Matthews grew up in a law enforcement household, where he gained an early understanding of the complex realities affecting individuals, families, and communities. His professional journey has been anything but conventional—beginning in the culinary world before spending more than a decade as an international touring musician. Along the way, personal experiences navigating life’s challenges, including exposure to substance use, shaped his perspective on resilience, connection, and recovery. Today, Justin serves as a Prevention Specialist committed to strengthening protective factors, reducing risk factors, and fostering healthier, more resilient communities. He works closely with youth, schools, and community partners to advance evidence-based prevention strategies and positive youth development. As a pillar of Primed for Life education, Justin helps equip young people with the skills and confidence to make healthy decisions. His prevention work includes Responsible Alcohol Sales and Service training, PAX tools, Prevention Plus Wellness, and Drug Endangered Children (DEC), while also supporting local and statewide initiatives through DUI Task Forces, Communities That Care, the Montana State DPHHS Prevention Sub-Committee, and the State Substance Abuse Task Force. Through collaboration, prevention frameworks, and community-level change, he is dedicated to building cultures of prevention where individuals and communities can thrive.
Wendy Ekegren
Wendy Ekegren is the School Behavioral Health Program Director and Implementation Coach at the University of Montana’s Center for Children, Families and Workforce Development (CCFWD). She supports prevention-based instructional strategies, data-driven decision making, and rural school mental health. Wendy works closely with the National Implementation Research Network (NIRN), the Office of Public Instruction (OPI) and the Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS) to strengthen state and district capacity for implementing and sustaining effective practices. She has two decades of elementary teaching experience in Virginia and Montana and is well-versed in behavior support and classroom management strategies that improve student outcomes and teacher competencies. Wendy also provides implementation and program support for evidence-based programs, including PAX Good Behavior Game (GBG) and Early Intervention Systems (EIS).
Sisillia Kusumaningsih
Sisilia is a research faculty at the Center for the Advancement of Positive Education at the University of Montana. She holds a doctoral degree in Teaching and Learning from the University of Montana. Originally from Indonesia, she came to the US to teach Indonesian to the Department of Defense students through the Defense Critical Language and Culture Program in 2018. She has taught students in Indonesia, Thailand, and the US. Sisilia is passionate about supporting students, and educators, wellbeing and her research has centered on children’s social-emotional development, factors influencing educators, wellbeing, and collaborative reasoning.
Amber Martinsen
Amber Martinsen is the Founder and CEO of Catalyst for Change, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming access to mental healthcare across rural Montana and beyond. Raised in a small community of just 1,500 residents, Amber’s life and career have been shaped by a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing rural communities, particularly the devastating impact of limited access to mental health services and Montana’s persistently high suicide rates. After earning her Master of Social Work degree, Amber worked in community mental health, crisis intervention and public schools, where she witnessed firsthand the barriers that prevent individuals and families from accessing timely care. While completing her graduate internship at Sweet Grass County High School in Big Timber, Montana, she witnessed a growing mental health crisis among students who needed support but had few options for care. Geographic isolation, provider shortages, financial barriers and stigma often left students with no access to timely services. Determined to find a solution, Amber partnered with mental health professionals to establish a school-based telehealth program that connected students with licensed therapists during the school day. As a trusted member of the community, she helped bridge the gap between students, families, schools, and providers, demonstrating how innovative partnerships can improve access to care in rural communities. The success of that work inspired Amber to found Catalyst for Change in 2020. Today, she leads efforts to expand mental health access, strengthen community partnerships, and develop sustainable solutions that support the well-being of Montana's youth, families, and communities. Her work is guided by the belief that every person deserves access to quality mental healthcare,
regardless of where they live.
LaNesha Battle
With over 20 years of experience in education, LaNesha Battle has had the privilege of serving students and communities in Alabama, Missouri, and Nevada. Her journey began as an elementary school teacher, evolved into a dean of students, and later, a district administrator. Currently, LaNesha is the Education Programs Director with the Nevada Department of Education in the Office for a Safe and Respectful Learning Environment (OSRLE). Her passion lies in meeting students where they are and empowering them to achieve their full potential through meaningful and purposeful relationships. She believes in fostering a supportive and inclusive environment that allows every student to thrive. Outside of her professional role, LaNesha is a proud wife and mother, roles that drive her passion for educational equity. Her dedication to both family and education drives her commitment to shaping positive futures for students across our communities.
Alim Hoque
Alim is a technologist; he leads multidisciplinary engineering teams and builds complex products at Intel, AMD, and now AccelEye. He is a data center platform architect and ML researcher with deep expertise in emerging technologies and their commercialization. After a close friend’s family was impacted by a school shooting, he co‑founded AccelEye in 2022 to create unified AI for gun‑violence and self‑harm prevention.
He has presented at numerous conferences worldwide, including the World AI Cannes Festival (WAICF) in 2022 and 2023 in France, the AI Hardware Summit in California, the Edge AI Summit, and multiple school safety conferences in California, North Carolina, and Texas
Randy Shipman
Randy Shipman is the current Superintendent of the Dillon Elementary School District. He brings over 22 years of administrative experience within the Dillon Elementary School District, during which he has successfully navigated a wide range of school safety challenges. His depth of experience has given him a clear understanding of the unique needs of elementary students and staff, allowing him to implement thoughtful, age-appropriate safety measures that truly make a difference.
Randy is joined in presenting his workshop by his incredible and passionate team.
Channon Williams - Counselor of Dillon Middle School; Greg Fitzgerald - Principal of Parkview Elementary; Joel Rogers - Principal of Dillon Middle School; Sue Osborne - School Psychologist of Dillon Elementary School District; Rami Williams - Teacher of Dillon Middle School; Melissa Bockting -Teacher of Dillon Middle School; Jarred Krueger - Teacher of Parkview Elementary; and Lacie Puyear - Teacher of Parkview Elementary.
Riley Hash
Riley Hash is the Logistics Chief and Education Director for A-1 Ambulance in Butte, Montana, where he has served since 2013. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Applied Health & Safety Sciences and an associate's degree in Paramedicine. A nationally registered paramedic and Montana-licensed lead instructor, he leads EMS operations, clinical education, and system development for Butte’s sole ground transporting EMS agency. Riley also serves as a Firefighter/Paramedic with the Butte-Silver Bow Fire Department and is a board member of the Montana Emergency Medical Services Association. During his tenure, he has led impactful initiatives, including a Hands-Only CPR program for every high school sophomore in Butte. He also played a key role in A-1 Ambulance achieving EMS for Children Level Gold recognition through the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. Riley is passionate about strengthening EMS systems across Southwest Montana and improving community readiness through education and innovation. Outside of work, he enjoys fishing local rivers with his wife, Sarah, and their two dogs.
Mike Agostinelli
Mike Agostinelli is the Assistant Director/Curriculum Director of Montana Digital Academy, Montana’s state virtual school. Being able to teach and lead technology integration has brought a great pedagogic balance to Mike’s facilitation/instruction. Mike has been honored as an Outstanding Teacher by the Helena Education Foundation, winner of the ISTE ‘Making IT Happen’ award, the recipient of Blackboard Catalyst Teaching and Learning Award, and named the Eric Jensen Leadership Award winner.
Dr. Molly Blakely
Dr. Molly Blakely is the Superintendent of Hellgate Elementary School District, an independent K 8 public school district in Missoula, Montana, serving more than 1,500 students and employing over 200 staff members. She began her tenure as superintendent on July 1, 2022, following several years in district leadership roles. Before becoming superintendent, Dr. Blakely served as Hellgate Elementary’s Curriculum Director and later as Assistant Superintendent, providing continuity in academic leadership and district operations. Dr. Blakely brings extensive experience in educator preparation and higher education. Prior to joining district administration, she spent 18 years as an adjunct professor in the Phyllis J. Washington College of Education at the University of Montana, where she taught pre-service teachers in the university’s education program. As superintendent, Dr. Blakely has prioritized school safety, student well-being, and fiscal responsibility. Early in her tenure, she partnered with the Montana Safe Schools Center to conduct comprehensive safety assessments and implement evidence-informed safety practices across district campuses. She has also been a visible advocate for sustainable school funding and employee supports, including publicly addressing rising costs for school safety and staff health insurance, and engaging with state-level initiatives aimed at stabilizing education benefits. Dr. Blakely holds a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree and is recognized locally for her collaborative leadership style and commitment to maintaining Hellgate Elementary’s long-standing reputation for academic excellence, including its designation as a 2015 National Blue Ribbon School. She continues to lead the district with a focus on student-centered decision-making, strong community partnerships, and long-term district sustainability.
Connie Keogh
Connie Keogh (Moderator) is a retired educator currently serving her last term as a member of the Montana House of Representatives, representing the 92nd district. She has been in office since January 7, 2019. Keogh's background in education and her commitment to public service have shaped her legislative priorities and engagement with her constituents. During the 2025 Session, Keogh co-sponsored House Joint Resolution 53 which commissioned a major interim study on School Safety. Keogh has participated as part of the planning team for the 2026 Jeremy Bullock Safe Schools Summit.
Susie Hedelan
Susie Hedalen was elected by Montana voters in the 2024 general election to a four-year term to lead the state’s Office of Public Instruction, which, along with the Board of Public Education, oversees Montana’s K-12 public school system.
In addition to leading OPI, Superintendent Hedalen will serve alongside her fellow statewide elected officials on the Montana Board of Land Commissioners, as a member of the State Library Commission, and as an ex-oficio member of the Board of Public Education and Board of Regents of Higher Education, as well as other boards and committees related to education.
Hedalen was brought up in Montana’s public school system and graduated from Helena High School. She went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Montana State University-Bozeman along with a Certificate in Native American Studies.
She has spent nearly two decades as a teacher and administrator in the state’s most rural class C schools up to the largest AA districts. Her experience also includes time as the Deputy Superintendent at the Montana Office of Public Instruction and as the Vice-Chair of the Montana Board of Public Education.
Sara Novak
Sara Novak has served as the Director of Great Divide Education Services, a Special Education Cooperative since 2018. She earned her B.S. in Education from UM Western and her M.Ed. in Counseling from MSU Northern. A licensed Montana educator and former classroom teacher, she holds both a Class 1 and Class 3 license with endorsements in Health Enhancement, Traffic Education, Counseling, Special Education and Special Education Supervision. Sara is active in her community and professional organizations. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of Community Hospital of Anaconda, the Southwest Montana Community Federal Credit Union Board of Directors, a board member of Montana Council for Administrators of Special Education (MCASE), as well as a Past President-of School Administrators of Montana (SAM). A fierce advocate of Public Education, Sara is a strong voice for ALL students. A current member of Montana State Legislature, Sara is the State Senator for SD 36 representing Anaconda & Butte. She has served on the Education Committee in both the House and the Senate. She is currently the Vice Chair of Education Interim Committee and a member of the School Funding Commission. She was awarded the Montana Early Career Special Education Administrator of the Year in 2021. She resides in Anaconda with her husband and their three children. When she isn’t working and serving her community, she enjoys following her children’s sporting events and cheering on the Anaconda Copperheads and Western Bulldogs. In the summer, Sara spends her time camping,
fishing and enjoying all that Montana has to offer.
Dr. Linda Reksten
Dr. Linda E. Reksten is a lifelong educator, community leader, and public servant with more than four decades of experience in education and school leadership. She holds a Doctor of Education in Teaching Studies and Education Administration from UCLA, along with master's degrees in Education Administration from Point Loma Nazarene University and Christian Education from George Fox University. She earned her bachelor's degree in Secondary Education with a major in Biology and minor in Chemistry from Eastern Montana College. Dr. Reksten began her career teaching middle school science and high school chemistry before serving 17 years as principal of Disney Elementary School in Burbank, California. Her leadership roles also include Professor of Education at Point Loma Nazarene University, Director of Assessment and Assistant Superintendent in California's Mountain View School District, and Superintendent of Schools for both the Butte and Polson school districts in Montana. An accomplished author, Dr. Reksten has written two books for Corwin Press: Using Technology to Increase Student Learning and Sustaining Extraordinary Student Achievement. In 2003, she was recognized by President George W. Bush for the outstanding academic achievement of students at Disney Elementary. In addition to her educational career, Dr. Reksten has served three terms in the Montana House of Representatives and remains actively involved in community development through her work with local governments and the Greater Polson Community Foundation.
Matt Bugni
Matt Bugni joined AWARE in January of 2011, performing various leadership and business development roles prior to becoming AWARE’s Chief Executive Officer in November of 2018. He pursued his undergraduate education at St. John’s University in Minnesota before returning to Montana. Prior to his time at AWARE, Matt worked as a direct support professional for a psychiatric hospital; he also performed budgeting and finance roles for the State of Montana in the Governor’s Budget Office and Department of Public Health and Human Services. Matt is a passionate advocate for community-based disability services. Matt and his wife, Katy, have four adult sons of whom they are immensely proud. Matt and Katy’s family has diverse ethnicities and disabilities which drives their passions to be constant learners and active participants in our communities. Matt is a Montana native. He enjoys daily hikes with his wife, hunting, mountain biking, listening to and playing music, and traveling around the world.
Jeremy Silva
Jeremy Silva brings a diverse background in public service, with a strong focus on community resilience and inclusive emergency preparedness. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration with a minor in Human Services and a Master’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Jeremy currently serves with the Nevada Department of Education, where he supports statewide school safety initiatives and provides guidance to state legislative created committees on school safety policy such as the Statewide School Safety Committee, The Advisory Committee on the Safety and Well-being of Public School Staff and the Committee on Response to Power Based Violence in School. Prior to his current role, he managed group homes for individuals with developmental disabilities and served as a dedicated Girl Scout troop leader. His work reflects a commitment to empowering vulnerable populations and building collaborative strategies for safer communities.
Montana handout (1)
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presentation
Lexi Kovalovich
Lexi Kovalovich is an Education Programs Professional in the Office for Safe and Respectful Learning Environment, where she dedicates her expertise to fostering supportive, thriving school communities. With a diverse background rooted in child psychology, Lexi has served as a special education and general education teacher (Pre-K and Kindergarten) and a behavior strategist, dean, and she holds an administrator license. In her current role, she bridges data with empathy specializing in behavioral data collection, implementing progressive discipline rooted in restorative practices, and addressing chronic absenteeism. Lexi is passionate about creating systemic changes that support the whole child. Outside of her professional life, she is a proud military spouse and a busy mom of three. To keep her own mind and body balanced, she loves stepping into the boxing ring or winding down at the piano keys.
Mo Canady
Mo Canady holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Jacksonville State University. He is a former lieutenant with the City of Hoover Police Department in Hoover, Alabama. The last twelve years of his law enforcement career were spent as the supervisor of the School Services Division. After 25 years of service, he retired from the Hoover Police Department
in 2011. He was appointed as an instructor for the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) in 2001 and a NASRO board member in 2005. He also served as president of The Alabama Association of School Resource Officers (TAASRO) in 2004. Mo has served as the executive director for NASRO since 2011. Under his leadership, the organization has become the premiere training agency for school resource officers (SROs) across the country and around the world, establishing national standards for school-based policing. With his guidance, the organization’s Basic SRO Course became the only SRO course to receive national certification and to be recognized by the federal government as the gold standard of training for SROs. Canady’s expertise as a school safety expert is sought after by many major news outlets including Fox News, CNN, and National Public Radio. At a national level, Canady has testified on the matter of SRO national standards before the Federal Commission on School Safety in 2018 and the matter of school safety before the United States House Committee on
Education and the Workforce in 2013. He is a co-author of the national report; “To Protect and Educate – The School Resource Officer and the Prevention of Violence in Schools”, released in 2012. He is widely recognized for his advocacy of carefully selected, specifically trained, and properly equipped school resource officers and is a respected voice in the school safety arena.
Rob Watson
Born and raised in Montana, Rob Watson has spent over 30 years serving in various leadership roles in K12 education. Currently, Rob serves as the Executive Director at School Administrators of Montana. Rob supports public education through advocacy, development of policy, and professional learning. In addition, Rob provides specific support for school districts and communities by leading a facilitated consensus process.
Previously, Rob served in community leadership roles for more than 10 years as the superintendent in two Montana communities, Bozeman and Missoula. Other experience has included leadership positions in several schools, both in Montana and Alaska. Rob began his career as a math and science teacher in Anchorage, Alaska.
Rob holds a Bachelor’s in Secondary Education from Montana State University, a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of Alaska, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Montana. At the state level, Rob has provided leadership with the Board of Public Education and Office of Public Instruction as a consultant. At the local level, Rob has served as a board member for the Missoula Economic Partnership, Bozeman Health, and the Greater Gallatin United Way.
In 2015, Rob was in the inaugural group, joining 27 fellow superintendents from around the country, to achieve National Superintendent Certification. In 2016, Rob was recognized by Montana educators with the GV Erickson Award - the highest recognition given to a school administrator for notable service and dedication. In 2018, Rob was named as the Superintendent of the Year by his superintendent colleagues.
Tina Boone
Tina Boone is the Executive Director for Montana School Counselors Association. In May of 2024 she retired from BPS after over 33 years in education, with 23 of those as a school counselor at Skyview (15 years as Dept. Head). Prior to this, she taught middle school. Beginning 2014, she served on the MSCA Board, with her last year as President. In 2015 she created a district K-12 School Leadership team to collaborate with district counselors and administration. In 2017, she led Skyview to be the first school in Montana to earn R.A.M.P. distinction. She was a national finalist for the ACTE Career Counselor of the year in 2013 and was awarded BPS Golden Apple award in 2014. She developed and led Skyview's Impact Team, which was developed in 2020. Boone has delivered workshops for the Billings Public Schools, the state of Montana, and nationally.
Understanding School Counselor Crisis Needs and Challenges_ Insights from a Statewide Survey
Tonya Shonkwiler
Tonya Shonkwiler, M. Ed., has been a special education teacher in Bozeman Public Schools for over 23 years. In her time as an educator, she has worked with diverse student populations at the middle and high school levels. In addition to her work in the classroom, Tonya has developed classroom instruction focused on helping students improve their social and communication skills. She is actively involved in the Bozeman Education Association Union, supporting our teachers in our district and across Montana. Outside of the classroom, Tonya works closely with Bridgercare, a local non- profit, training and supporting medical professionals, community members, and educators in creating affirming and inclusive environments for the LGBTQ+ community.
Cameron Bullock
Cameron Bullock is a recent graduate of Helena High School who had the unique opportunity this past year to spend time traveling the world and backpacking, embracing new experiences and exploring different cultures and places. In his free time, Cameron enjoys fishing, hiking,
photography, and spending time outdoors. This fall, he will begin his studies at San Diego State University, where he looks forward to continuing his education and pursuing new opportunities and adventures.
Hunter Terry
Hunter Terry serves as the Technical Director for the Montana Youth Soccer Association (MYSA). With a deep-rooted commitment to youth sports administration, Hunter focuses on coaching education, implementing grassroots licensing, and foster long-term player development. Beyond his work on the pitch, Hunter is dedicated to international community engagement, serving as the founder and Vice Chair for the board overseeing the Montana Tanzania exchange program, where he helps manage cultural exchange initiatives and community facility projects in Arusha, Tanzania.
Joe Crider
Joe Crider spent 16 years as an elementary classroom teacher before serving as a Visiting Professor in the Phyllis J. Washington College of Education at the University of Montana. He now serves as a Research Assistant Professor with the Center for the Advancement of Positive Education (CAPE), where he is passionate about helping schools create environments where both educators and students can thrive. Joe believes that strong relationships, a genuine sense of belonging, and a focus on individual strengths are the foundation of meaningful learning and well-being. He is committed to translating research into practical strategies that help educators and students flourish.
Glen Weiner
Glen Weiner leads the Coalition to Empower our Future. Weiner brings decades of experience building coalitions and providing executive, strategic, and communications counsel to advocacy
organizations and mission-driven companies. His experience spans a wide array of issues, including education reform, renewable energy, affordable housing and cybersecurity. Weiner previously helped create and co-managed one of the most effective education advocacy organizations in the country, serving both as its interim executive director and deputy executive director. He was also the interim president and CEO and communications director of the Roosevelt Institute, a progressive economic policy think tank. Weiner started his career working in politics and government, serving in the White House Office of Communications as well as several campaign roles. Weiner is married and the parent of two children. He lives with his family in Westchester County, New York.
Kate Stetzner
Kate Stetzner holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and carries endorsements in Educational Leadership in Montana, Nevada, and Washington, specializing as a Superintendent, K-12 Principal, Gifted Education Specialist, Administrative Leadership Coach, and Principal Mentor. She demonstrated exceptional leadership as the Principal at Margaret Leary Elementary School, where she successfully revitalized the school community in the aftermath of Jeremy Bullock’s passing. Kate’s dedication extends beyond her current role as a School Improvement Leadership Coach and Principal Mentor; she serves as Trustee for the Jeremy Bullock Foundation and co-directs the Montana School Safety Summits, advocating nationally for safe learning environments. As a renowned national consultant, she addresses crucial topics such as prevention, intervention, and response strategies, ensuring that all schools can provide a secure educational setting for every child.