Missoula County Superintendent of Schools 4 yr term
In Missoula County, the County Superintendent of Schools is an elected official who serves as a primary administrative link between local school districts and state-level educational agencies. The county superintendent has general supervision of the schools of the county within the limitations prescribed by this title. Duties include: (a) Determination and maintenance of trustee nominating districts(b) Completion of budgets, computation of budgeted revenue and tax levies, files final budgets and budget amendments(c) Registration of teacher or specialist certificates or emergency authorization of employment of any person employed in the county as a teacher, specialist, principal, or district superintendent.(d) computation of revenue and district and county levy requirements for each fund included in each district's final budget. Report the computations to the board of county commissioners in accordance with the provisions of the general fund, transportation, bonds, and other school funds.Annual salary 2026 : $105,726.40The salary for this position is consistent with other primary elected department heads in Missoula County, though the role requires specific educational qualifications
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Erin Lipkind
(Dem)
What challenges do you foresee in your coming term, and how will you address them? Please include any new ideas or innovations.
How can the County taxpayer dollars be used to make your department or area of responsibility more effective and efficient?
Please describe successes of your current term. What role did you play in these achievements?
The coming term presents interconnected challenges for rural schools, particularly in staffing, housing, and funding. Recruitment and retention remain critical, with shortages among teachers, paraprofessionals, custodians, and especially special education staff. Housing is a major barrier in areas like Missoula County; while not traditionally a school responsibility, districts may need to revisit models such as providing teacher housing. Rising costs and shifting enrollment continue to strain budgets. Strengthening partnerships with community organizations, universities, and local government, sharing services across districts, and support from the Office of Public Instruction, can help address these challenges.
Recruitment and retention challenges—especially in rural areas—lead to costly turnover and disruptions for students. The county can help by supporting partnerships that expand affordable workforce housing, aligning land-use policies, or collaborating with local agencies and nonprofits on housing solutions. Investing in community-based workforce initiatives and training pathways can also strengthen the local pipeline. By focusing on stability and collaboration, county resources can indirectly improve efficiency and outcomes for our schools.
Over my tenure, I have provided consistent leadership and stability in a role that supports multiple districts with diverse needs. I helped move four districts from Targeted Assistance to Schoolwide Title I programs, expanding flexibility and increasing student support. I have worked closely with district leaders to ensure compliance, strengthen instructional programs, and improve outcomes.
Beyond the county, I have contributed to statewide leadership as President of the Montana Association of County School Superintendents, advocating for rural schools and collaboration. I was honored to be named Co.Superintendent of the Year. These successes reflect my commitment to steady leadership and improving opportunities for students.
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