Most of us wonder exactly which of our leaders truly support K-12 education or just say they support it to get elected. In my observation, the best supporters of our schools are NOT necessarily those shouting the loudest from a podium.
Actions, as the proverb goes, speak louder than words. Fred Thomas—who I have known since high school in the 1970s—cares about our schools, and his legislative record proves it.
In 2003 when things looked bleakest for education funding, Fred used the power of his Senate Majority Leader office and worked with Senator Bob Story to develop an innovative funding proposal that benefits Montana schools to this day. Calculating inflation as part of the school budgeting process has been a critical factor in providing adequate funding for education ever since.
This was done with very little fanfare. Others took most of the credit. Fred Thomas—as a senator and as the unique individual he is—has never worried about credit. It’s all about getting the job done. Fred acted. Schools benefited.
Later Senator Thomas introduced and passed school technology legislation that included a rational, business-based approach. Further, in the early 2000’s he passed common sense bi-partisan legislation that more efficiently directed state land trust revenue directly to our schools that saved Montana schools from losing millions of dollars. Further, Fred’s leadership in helping make Montana’s income tax code competitive, lead to hundreds of millions of new revenue each budget cycle being available to fund our schools. Our better funded, technology enriched schools are a tribute to Fred’s leadership and foresight.
These are but a few examples of what then Senator Fred Thomas did for schools while in the Montana Legislature. He balanced the needs of the schools with the needs of the taxpayer and did so with limited fanfare.
When it comes to education, Fred Thomas may not grandstand as others do. He doesn’t have to. Fred has a proven track record of supporting schools during the roughest of times. It would be an honor to see someone of Fred’s intelligence, integrity, and work ethic serving again in the Montana Legislature.
Dave Puyear
Helena