Our policy work at Zero to Five Montana is rooted in the belief that the best solutions come from our communities.
As an advocacy organization dedicated to advancing Montana’s early childhood system, we know that listening to families, early childhood professionals, and local leaders is the foundation for effective policies that truly meet the needs of Montana’s youngest residents.
Guided by this commitment, our team hits the road during the summer prior to Montana’s biannual legislative session to hear directly from communities about their early childhood needs, challenges and aspirations. The input we receive from communities directly shapes the policies we will champion during the next legislative session.
Our 2026 Community Conversations Policy Road Show kicked off in March with our first stops in Wolf Point and Poplar, next we visited with Helena in April, and over the coming months we’ll have conversations in Billings, Lodge Grass, Miles City, Bozeman, St. Ignatius, Libby, Missoula, Dillon, Hamilton and Harlowton. We’ll also be hosting a few online opportunities for folks who can’t make it in person or live outside this year’s planned stops. Stay tuned to Zero to Five Montana’s social media channels for updates on those sessions.
Policy change takes time. Every issue that was discussed during our last road show was not addressed during the legislative session, but there was progress. The passage of HB 924, the bill that established Montana’s Early Childhood Special Revenue Account, created a dedicated funding account solely for early childhood. This is a historic win for early childhood advocates and something that can continue to build upon for decades to come.
Early childhood, and the overall prosperity of Montana, requires collaboration across sectors and communities. Zero to Five Montana will continue working alongside families, early childhood professionals, and community leaders to ensure our work reflects the needs and realities of communities across the state. Our final co-created policy agenda will be released in August 2026.
Learn how to get involved in early childhood policy advocacy and join us on this year’s road show at https://zerotofive.org/2027-legislative-session/
Alex DuBois is the Policy & Engagement Director for Zero to Five Montana.
