mdriessen@desmetschool.org (406) 549-4994 ext -406
“It must be remembered that the purpose of education is not to fill the minds of students with facts… it is to teach them to think,… and always to think for themselves.”
– Robert Hutchings (1882-1945) Scientist
Greetings and welcome to DeSmet Public School District. DeSmet was founded in 1890 to serve the rural farms and the DeSmet community. Over the last few decades the area has transformed from a farming and ranching community to the backbone of the Missoula light industrial area. DeSmet public school is proud to support the families that live in this area with a strong academic tradition and community commitment.
Our district has small school appeal that fosters individualized attention for our students. The small class sizes, along with a highly talented staff is a main reason that our proficiency scores are some of the highest in the county. In 2022-2023 school year fifty-six percent of our students score proficient or higher on the state standardized assessments.
In 1954 the Smokejumping Center was dedicated across the street from DeSmet, in 2020 the school adopted the Smokejumper as their mascot. A truly unique and local heritage of heroes for our students to aspire to.
In 2021 our new school remodel and additions were completed. Our new building is the community center of this growing community. The next few years will be an exciting adventure as the Missoula community grows into the North Valley.
Thank You for Your Support,
Matthew Driessen, Ed.S. Superintendent/Principal