About
LaMotte
history of lamotte
Welcome to LaMotte School District, a cornerstone of the Bear Canyon community and a unique educational institution with a history as rich as the Montana landscape that surrounds us. Established in 1894 to serve the children of local homesteaders and ranchers, our story began with a generous gift that continues to define us.
In 1919, prominent Bozeman residents Eugene “E.D.” and Louise Metcalf deeded an acre of their ranch to our community, providing the land upon which our historic white-clapboard schoolhouse was built. For generations, this one-room school served as the educational and social heart of the Bear Canyon area, a symbol of our community's commitment to its children.
While we honor and preserve that history, LaMotte has thoughtfully evolved to meet the future. We have grown from a single room into a modern K-8 district, yet we have intentionally maintained our small, community-centered spirit.
Today, we channel our pioneering heritage into a dynamic educational mission. LaMotte School District specializes in place-based environmental education, leveraging our incredible location at the mouth of Bear Canyon. Our natural environment is not just a view; it is our most vibrant classroom.
Students engage in hands-on learning through outdoor exploration, ecological studies, and sustainability projects.
Our curriculum integrates the natural world into every subject, fostering a deep connection to and stewardship for Montana's unique ecosystem.
We provide a personalized, immersive learning experience that prepares students for the future while grounding them in the values of community and environmental responsibility.
LaMotte School is where generations of history meet the next generation of learners. We are proud to be a living legacy—honoring the generosity of the Metcalf family and the pioneers who founded our district by providing an innovative education that is truly rooted in place.
Come discover how our deep roots nurture future growth at LaMotte School.
Leading With Excellence
Scott Poloff
Leah Nusse
Tanya Roberts
Core Values and Beliefs
The culture and values of LaMotte will align with those of our community.
We value environmental and outdoor learning.
Students benefit from individualized educational opportunities that foster a growth mindset, integrity, independence, and resilience.
We value cross-grade-level interactions that support academic consistency and a cohesive school community.
Physical and emotional safety are paramount.
We recognize the importance of teachers, parents, and residents within the LaMotte school district in creating lifelong learners.
Students will be prepared for social and academic success upon graduating from LaMotte.
MIssion
Where Education and the Environment Meet
Vision
LaMotte school develops resilient, life-long learners who are valued and supported in achieving their academic and personal potential through connection with community and environment.
Employment Opportunities
Middle School
Full-Time Paraprofessional / Long-Term Substitute Teacher (Grades 6–8)
Job Description:LaMotte School District is seeking a dedicated and flexible full-time paraprofessional who will assist mainly with our Kindergarten/1st Grade classroom. This is a unique opportunity for an individual interested in gaining classroom experience and making a meaningful impact on students' learning and growth.
Position Overview:Paraprofessional:
Support classroom instruction by working closely with the lead teacher(s), assisting students with assignments, managing classroom behavior, and supporting and leading small group or individual learning activities.
Current Opening: Librarian, starts late August 2026
Job Description: Coordinate Library program for K-8th grade students. Part-time position, approximately 10 hours per week. The position includes the Library instructional classes of k-8th grade as well as maintaining and updating the collection. See below for a more detailed description of the position. LaMotte is a small school where everyone works together for the good of the child. LaMotte is a community that values cohesive working relationships, we are in this together!
View Full Job Description Here
