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Our Beliefs
We are a small, rural school with a big commitment to our students. Guided by strong values and high expectations, we work together to create a supportive, student-centered environment where every learner can grow and succeed. These core beliefs shape everything we do:
- Student learning should be the chief priority for the district based on high expectations for all.
- A safe, supportive environment based on positive relationships and mutual respect promotes student learning and self-esteem.
- Each student should be provided with a variety of instructional approaches that reflect an individual’s unique physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs.
- The commitment to continuous improvement is imperative to empower students to be confident, self-directed members of society.
- The community, parents, school staff, and students share the responsibility for advancing the district’s mission.
About Us
Nestled in north-central Montana, Turner is a small but tight-knit agricultural community located just twelve miles south of the U.S./Canadian border. Known for its strong school spirit, breathtaking prairie landscapes, and hardworking families, Turner is a place where tradition and progress go hand in hand.
Turner Public School operates on a 4-day school week and consistently meets Adequate Yearly Progress standards. The District provides comprehensive educational offerings, small class sizes, and dual college credit opportunities in partnership with the Montana University System. Students have access to a variety of co-curricular and extracurricular activities, fostering both academic and personal growth.
The District and Board of Trustees are deeply committed to equal access and treatment for all students, families, employees, and the general public. Turner is an active and supportive rural community where education is highly valued, school activities are embraced, and the sense of local pride runs deep. Whether it’s cheering on the school teams, participating in community events, or embracing the rural way of life, Turner embodies the heart and resilience of Montana’s small-town charm.
The Story of Turner Public Schools
Turner’s first school was established in 1918 in a small one-room building on Main Street, holding classes only in the fall. In 1920, a new schoolhouse was built on the hill east of town, where Turner originally stood before moving closer to the railroad in 1928. In 1930, the original part of the current school building was constructed, soon followed by the establishment of a two-year, then four-year, high school. Turner celebrated its first graduating class in 1932.
The Hot Lunch Program began in 1951, and in 1956 a new gym, kitchen, and additional classrooms were added to the school.
Nearby, Hogeland School opened in 1929 in a church basement, later building its own school in 1937. In 1970, Hogeland’s high school and elementary were closed, and Turner absorbed many Hogeland students and part of the district.
Through the years, Turner School has seen many improvements, including shops, art rooms, weight rooms, and accessibility upgrades, while offering a wide variety of programs to students.
This spring, we proudly celebrate our 94th graduating class—the Class of 2025—and the strong tradition of education on the Big Flat!
