About MEF Awards

The Missoula Education Foundation believes in honoring outstanding educators and students within the Missoula County Public School System.

Educators of the Year

High School

Congratulations, Hellgate High School’s Ellen McKenzie on being selected as the 2025/2026 High School Educator of the Year!

Past winners:

• 2024 – Ashley House, Sentinel
• 2023 – Jess Dochnahl, Hellgate
• 2022 – Milton Zhinin Barreto, Hellgate
• 2021 – Leon Slater, Hellgate
• 2020 – Lewis Nelson, Sentinel
• 2019 – Amy Miller, Big Sky
• 2018 – Tammi Allison, Sentinel
• 2017 – Carla Hinman, Hellgate
• 2016 – Richard Farrar, Big Sky
• 2015 – Leo Dougherty, Seeley-Swan
• 2015 – Tom Andres, Big Sky
• 2014 – Cameron Johnson, Big Sky
• 2012 – Tracy Stone, Seeley-Swan

Help support future generations!

Most Inspiring Student Awards

The Missoula Education Foundation, in partnership with Missoula County Public Schools, is honored to prepare for the 17th annual Most Inspiring Student Awards, to be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Missoula.

Each spring, this evening becomes something far more than an awards ceremony. It is a rare moment when students who have quietly persevered—often without recognition—are surrounded by the people who helped them get there and the community that believes in their future. It is a rare moment when students who have quietly persevered—often without recognition—are surrounded by the people who helped them get there and the community that believes in their future. We invite you to join us in celebration. Please discover opportunities to get involved below.

Online Payment Option: If you would like to make a donation online, click on this link that will direct you to our Paypal. Please include a note with your payment that includes the type of sponsorship. We will be sure to promptly follow up via email. You can also mail donations to PO Box 1775 Missoula, MT 59806. (We are also more than happy to pick up donations)!

Most Inspiring Student Awards

The Missoula Education Foundation, in partnership with the Missoula County Public Schools, is honored to host the 17th annual Most Inspiring Student Awards. Each middle and high school building leadership team selects one student per grade level to represent their school. We invite you to join us in celebrating these inspiring young people. This event creates a meaningful space to recognize these students and celebrate the journeys that inspire us all.

Inspirational Sponsorship – $2,500

Your contribution will help fund the banquet for the honored students. Prominent recognition as the banquet’s primary sponsor; Logo placement on all event materials; Prominent banner placement at event with recognition in opening remarks; Logo placement on social media posts and websites; Acknowledgment in personal card to every student; Invitation for four to attend our special evening.

Medallion Sponsorship – $1,000

Your contribution will help fund the meal for the honored students and their loved ones. Prominent recognition as one of the banquets major sponsors; Logo placement on all event materials; Logo placement on social media posts and website; Acknowledgement in personal card to every student; Invitation for two to attend our special evening.

Table Sponsorship – $500

Your contribution will help fund the meal for the building leadership teams. Recognition on the table as the sponsor; Logo placement on all event materials; Acknowledgement in personal card to every student.

Donation of Hope – Any Amount

Your contribution will help fund the gifts for the honored students; Recognition as a supporter in the event program; Acknowledgement in personal card to every student.

Support Missoula’s Most Inspiring Students: Gift Bag Contributions from Local Businesses

The Missoula Education Foundation, in partnership with Missoula County Public Schools, is honored to host the 17th annual Most Inspiring Student Awards. Every spring, this evening becomes something far more than an awards ceremony. It is a rare moment when students who have quietly preserved-often without recognition-are surrounded by the people who helped them get there and the community that believes in their future. Each middle and high school building leadership team selects one student per grade level to represent their school. Each honoree will receive a student gift bag filled with thoughtful items from our community-small tokens of encouragement that remind students that they are seen, supported, and valued.

How You Can Help: We are seeking in-kind donations to include in our student gift bags. Contributions might include gift cards or vouchers, books, journals or school supplies, snacks or treats, branded merchandise, passes or experiences, items that support creativity, learning, wellness, or fun.

Why this matters: These students are recognized not just for achievement, but for perseverance in the face of real challenges. Your contribution becomes a part of a moment they will remember-one that says, “our community believes in you.”

Community Partner Recognition

Business that will contribute will be: acknowledged at the event, recognized in event materials and signage, included in a post-event thank-you communications via social media.

For additional event sponsorship opportunities, please contact Executive Director, Shannon Rincker, at [email protected] or by phone at 406-728-2400 x1071.