(Havre) – In a press release, Hill County Superintendent of Schools Vicki Proctor announced that Monica Mattson a 20-year teacher for Cottonwood Schools was recently named Montana’s Rural Teacher of the Year. She will be the keynote speaker at the upcoming Montana Association of County Superintendents of Schools Conference in April.
Matson is a Certified K-8 teacher and counselor who has served as lead teacher/curriculum director at cottonwood, she manages two campuses and works closely with new rural teachers while participating in mentee teacher programs.
At Cottonwood School, Mattson creates an engaging and supportive learning environment where students of all ages feel valued and challenged. Her classroom reflects the heart of rural education: strong community connections, high expectations, and personalized instruction. Whether working with early learners building foundational skills or middle school students preparing for high school, she emphasizes academic growth, character development, and a love of learning.
The Montana Rural Teacher of the Year award recognizes educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching, leadership in their school community, and a lasting impact on students. Monica Mattson embodies these qualities and represents the very best of rural education in Montana.
A reception to honor Monica Mattson is scheduled for later this spring.
