Sidney Public Schools in cooperation with a taskforce of the Montana University System is requesting your assistance and that of every adult member of your business or household with the completion of a very short survey (5-15 minutes) assessing the educational and professional needs of ALL adult community members throughout Eastern Montana and the surrounding region.
What began as a discussion about expanding higher education opportunities in August 2009 for the residents of eastern Montana is still a work in progress and through the efforts of a taskforce established between community members, Sidney Public Schools and the Montana University System, we are working to make ongoing professional development and expanded higher education opportunities a reality for area residents and students. The taskforce was brought together by the Montana Commissioner of Higher Education. The primary purpose of the taskforce is the expansion of educational opportunities for Eastern Montana using the expertise of the various units of the Montana University System. Members of the Task Force will be meeting with the Board of Regents in September to further educational access for the region that will complement and expand upon current learning opportunities. Specifically, key goals in our missions include:
1. to provide a broad assortment of educational programs and opportunities to area residents (two and four-year degrees),
2. to provide master level programs in education and other areas of identified need,
3. to provide needed professional development,
4. to provide adult enrichment classes in areas of interest,
5. to provide vocational training classes leading to the awarding of a certificate or license, and on a separate but related thread,
6. to expand dual credit opportunities for area students allowing them to earn college credit while taking approved dual enrollment courses that lead to the attainment of selected degrees for adult learners.
The ultimate goal is to bring a broad spectrum of classes to the region utilizing the resources of Montana University System, adjunct faculty locally/regionally and through distance learning models (internet, ITV).
The purpose of this study is to learn more about professional development and degree needs (i.e., associates, bachelors, masters) in Eastern Montana and the surrounding region. Information obtained will be used to develop strategies for working with two (2) and four (4) year colleges and universities belonging to Montana University System and affiliated higher education systems. Your input will be kept confidential and will be used to help guide the MUS Taskforce. The survey may be completed by accessing the survey located on-line at http://sidney.k12.mt.us. On the Sidney Public School’s home page under Announcements, click on the Survey Link, Higher Education Survey, to read more about the survey and to begin and complete the survey. The survey will be active through Aug. 29.
The MSU Taskforce and Sidney Schools thanks you in advance for your time and for your input.
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