Board adopts K–12 essential behavior standards to formalize social and academic expectations

The Bozeman Public Schools Board of Trustees voted unanimously to adopt a districtwide set of K–12 essential behavior standards intended to formalize expectations for social and academic behaviors across all schools.

The standards were presented to the board as a way to create consistent language and accountability around everyday skills — for example, turning in assignments on time and supporting students’ social development. The presenter said the draft builds on practices already used by teachers and adds detail intended to make the standards executable in classrooms.

Trustee Sandy Wilson praised the work and said the standards address skills district graduates will need in future careers. The implementation timeline discussed at the meeting calls for 2026–27 to serve as a planning year, 2027–28 for full implementation with reporting, and later consideration of how the standards appear on report cards.

The presenter said the district reviewed examples from other states and districts but that this version provides additional clarity. A staff member noted colleagues within the district — including a staff member identified in the discussion as Sarah — were instrumental in planning and PLC/PLT coordination.

The motion to adopt the standards was moved by Trustee Neal and seconded by Trustee Leanne Berthelsen; the board approved the motion 8–0. The board recorded no public comment on the item. The district indicated it will return with reporting and site action plans as the standards move into formal implementation.