Specialty Units
Learning and Belonging (LAB) Preschool
The Learning and Belonging (LAB) Preschool has been a part of the University of Montana campus and the larger Missoula community for over 60 years. In October 2009, our program moved into the beautiful new Phyllis J. Washington Education Center where we have a large, open classroom surrounded by windows and doors leading onto a covered porch. Materials and furnishings are arranged in learning centers designed for small groups of children. These centers include block play, art, writing, science and discovery, math, dramatic play, and sensory. In addition, we have a spacious observation room for UM students and a seminar room with the latest in state-of-the-art technology.
University of Montana Institute for Early Childhood Education
The UM Institute for Early Childhood Education is a specialty unit for convening researchers, faculty, students, community professionals, and policymakers who work collectively to create a better future for young children (birth – age eight) and their families. Anchored in the values and core beliefs put forth by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the goal of advancing a diverse, dynamic, early childhood profession and support for all who care for, educate, and work on behalf of young children and their families the Institute aims to: (1) foster collaboration among university faculty with strong common interest in research with early childhood populations; (2) model demonstration of research-based, high-quality practices through the Learning and Belonging (LAB) School and community school partnerships, (3) promote research to practice across degree programs, local classrooms, informal learning spaces, and community settings and, (4) engage university faculty in collaborative relationships with local, state, and regional stakeholders.
Montana Safe Schools Center
The Montana Safe Schools Center was endorsed by the Superintendent of Montana's Office Public Instruction in 2005 and approved by the Montana University System Board of Regents in 2006. However, our organization has been working since 1999, providing training, research, and professional development services to schools and communities across Montana and the U.S.
National Native Children's Trauma Center
The National Native Children’s Trauma Center is a Category II Treatment and Service Adaptation Center within the National Child Traumatic Stress Network. Our center provides national expertise on childhood trauma among American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) children and offers training and consultations to community agencies, tribal programs, clinicians, school personnel, technicians, and families on the impacts and prevention of childhood traumatic stress.
Montana Digital Academy
The Montana Digital Academy is specifically designed to provide unique educational opportunities to Montana students and schools. Need to make up a core class? MTDA offers many of the basics. For students looking for a new challenge, we offer AP* classes. We also have elective courses that expose students to subjects that may not be available in their local schools. MTDA puts no limits on learning. Students can access coursework whenever and wherever they want. This way course conflicts are completely eliminated allowing more students to graduate on time.