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Before there were schools… there were stories.

Before there were systems… there were relationships.

This series explores the story of Catholic education in Montana, not just how it was built, but how it began, how it changed, and why it still matters today.

From the Bitterroot Valley in 1841, where the first mission was founded at the invitation of the Salish people…
to the plains of eastern Montana, where missions emerged in a very different moment, during the reservation era…
to the rise of parish schools, and the challenges that nearly brought the system to its brink...

this is a story shaped by faith, culture, sacrifice, and resilience.

It is a story of encounter.
A story of tension and transformation.
And ultimately, a story of renewal.

Because Catholic education in Montana is not just about the past.

It is about the mission we carry forward.

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In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with Katie Day, K–8 librarian, to talk about how families can keep kids engaged, curious, and learning throughout the summer months.

The conversation explores the importance of reading beyond the school year, what the “summer slide” really means, and how small, consistent habits can make a lasting difference. Katie shares practical, realistic ideas for families: how to encourage reading without turning it into a chore, how to help reluctant readers reengage, and how to create an environment where curiosity can grow naturally.

Together, they reflect on the role of stories in forming young minds and why fostering a love of reading is about more than academic success, it’s about helping students discover, imagine, and grow.

It’s a helpful and hopeful conversation for families looking to make the most of summer while keeping learning alive.

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In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald shares portions of the final meeting of the year for the Mission & Catholic Identity Committee, offering a reflective look into the heart of how mission guides the life of our schools.

Through conversation and shared reflection, committee members look back on the year, naming meaningful moments, celebrating progress, and considering the ongoing work of strengthening Catholic identity across the system. Their discussion highlights the importance of intentional governance structures that keep mission at the center of decision‑making, ensuring that faith remains not just a value, but a lived reality in classrooms, relationships, and leadership.

This episode provides a rare and thoughtful window into how Catholic schools remain grounded, accountable, and forward‑focused, rooted in tradition while continually discerning how to grow and respond to the needs of students and families.

It’s a quiet but powerful reminder that strong schools are not shaped by programs alone, but by shared purpose, engaged people, and a deep commitment to mission.

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In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald is joined by Alissa Miller and Tanya Stewart to explore the vital work of student support in grades 5–8.

The conversation focuses on how schools intentionally meet students where they are during the pivotal middle‑school years: a time marked by academic growth, social development, and increasing independence. Alissa and Tanya share how targeted support, collaboration with teachers, and a focus on relationships help students build confidence, develop effective learning habits, and experience success in meaningful ways.

Grounded in a Catholic understanding of the dignity of every learner, this episode highlights how support is not about labels, but about accompaniment, helping each student grow academically, personally, and spiritually.

It’s a thoughtful look at how care, structure, and responsiveness combine to ensure that every student is given what they need to flourish.

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As the school year comes to a close, Andrew McDonald reflects on a year of growth, gratitude, and forward momentum across Billings Catholic Schools.

In this episode, Andrew shares key updates from the President’s Report, including progress in long-range planning, a strategic investment in the Central Catholic campus with the potential acquisition of property across the street, and continued commitment to excellence in teaching and learning. He also looks ahead to the launch of a major campaign to renovate science labs and strengthen student opportunities for the future.

Beyond system-level updates, this episode highlights the incredible work happening across all BCS campuses, from remarkable early literacy gains at the Early Childhood Center to strong academic growth, faith formation, and student achievement at Saint Francis and Billings Central Catholic High School.

You’ll also hear about behind-the-scenes investments in technology, facilities, and financial sustainability that support the daily life and long-term strength of the system.

As always, this episode is rooted in gratitude: for students, staff, families, and all who make the mission of Billings Catholic Schools possible!

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In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with Suzanne Vaira & Jessi Swain to explore the Walk to Math model and how it supports student growth through targeted, responsive instruction.

The conversation focuses on why meeting students where they are matters in mathematics, and how flexible grouping allows teachers to tailor instruction to student needs while building confidence and competence. Suzanne & Jessi share how Walk to Math promotes collaboration among teachers, fosters a growth mindset in students, and helps normalize the idea that learning looks different for everyone.

Grounded in a commitment to equity and formation, this episode highlights how intentional structures in math instruction empower students to take risks, build skills, and experience success; one step at a time.

It’s a thoughtful look at how strong systems and caring educators work together to help every learner grow.

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In this special bonus episode, Andrew McDonald joins Roy Brown on Billings Catholic Radio’s On the Spot podcast for a conversation about the vision behind Rooted & Rising and the role storytelling plays in the life of Catholic schools.

Together, they explore why creating space to share the everyday moments of school life matters, how storytelling strengthens connection and trust within a community, and what it means to lead with both clarity and transparency in Catholic education.

Originally recorded for On the Spot, this conversation offers a broader look at the purpose of Rooted & Rising while reflecting on the mission, challenges, and opportunities shaping our schools today.

If you like this episode, check out more On the Spot at: https://billingscatholicradio.podbean.com/

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In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with a group of graduating seniors to reflect on their journey through Billings Catholic Schools as they prepare to take their next steps.

The conversation looks back on growth, academic, personal, and spiritual, and forward to what lies ahead. Students share moments that shaped them, lessons learned beyond the classroom, and the role faith, community, and relationships played in their formation. They also reflect on what it means to feel prepared: not just for college or careers, but for life beyond high school.

This episode offers an honest, hopeful glimpse into who these students are becoming and serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of a Catholic education rooted in purpose and relationship.