University of Montana Foundation

Empowering Educators

$9.4M Washington Foundation Gift Aims to Keep Teachers in Montana

Growing up in West Yellowstone, Emily Jehle had the same devoted music teacher from kindergarten to 11th grade. Mrs. McPherson encouraged her to keep playing when she doubted herself and stayed late for countless rehearsals ahead of performances and competitions.

Jehle, a UM freshman majoring in music education who plays eight instruments and is learning six more, plans to be that same supportive figure for future generations.

“I want to provide that guidance in the community that gave me so much,” she said.

As a member of the first class of the Phyllis J. Washington Scholars announced in April, not only is Jehle on track to return to West Yellowstone and teach, but she will also be eligible to receive student loan repayment for fulfilling her dream. The Phyllis J. Washington Scholars Program helps teachers and counselors launch their careers in Montana. Washington Scholars are eligible to have up to a third of qualified student loans repaid for each year of service in Montana schools, for up to three years.

The program is made possible by a $9.4 million gift announced in January from the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation that also established the new Center for the Advancement of Positive Education at the Phyllis J. Washington College of Education. Through the new center, the college becomes the first in the nation to integrate positive psychology as the guiding focus of its curriculum. The center will equip new educators with skills and strategies to build a better foundation for wellbeing and resilience in Montana’s children.

With the gift supporting this two-pronged solution to some of the state’s biggest challenges in K-12 education and behavioral health, it has the potential to transform K-12 education in Montana.

“It will give our children the support they need to thrive and empower our educators,” UM President Seth Bodnar said.