MISSOULA, MT – Governor Greg Gianforte on Oct 16th, highlighted the work of Missoula FFA students and their work to build tiny home at the FFA State Convention earlier this year.

“Innovation in education and through programs like FFA is critical to student success and to unlock the full potential of the next generation of Montanans,” Gov. Gianforte said. “It was great to visit with Missoula FFA students and staff to see the results of their hard work and dedication to this project.”

Last spring, the governor visited with Missoula County Public Schools (MCPS) students and staff to hear about their project that allows students to get hands-on experience in the trades in building a home that is intended to be sold for profit to the school.

Nearly four years ago, MCPS agriculture teacher Tom Andres began the semester-long program with FFA students to help them explore the construction, plumbing, and electrical trades.

Viewing the project and talking with students and staff, Gov. Gianforte heard more about their work to expand the project to other school districts.

“We’re working on finalizing a FFA curriculum and program for building the tiny houses that can then be offered to Ag programs throughout the state. We have a bunch of teachers in Montana who are ready to serve a purpose and help house Montanans in need,” Andres said.

For the project, $20,000 of materials are stored in a 20-foot shipping container and kits can be delivered to schools for students to build the homes. Andres told the governor the plan is to find community partners in need of homes to sell the finished product as affordable housing for veterans, teachers, nurses, and firefighters.

Expanding work-based learning opportunities for Montana students is a top priority for the governor.

In 2021, the governor authorized every school district in the state to establish individualized, work-based learning paths for students. Last year, Gov. Gianforte reformed the Advanced Opportunities Program to support schools in expanding work-based and personalized learning opportunities for students.

To address Montana’s housing shortage, the governor also signed into law several bold, transformational pro-housing zoning reforms to increase the supply of affordable, attainable housing. One bill specifically restored landowners’ rights to build affordable starter homes by allowing accessory dwelling units so that tiny homes like these can be placed on their property.