This isolation means that GEAR UP students are generally not exposed to postsecondary institutions and opportunities, to career options and to role models. Consequently, many students fail to perceive the relevance of academic performance and higher education to their lives or their futures. Following is a concise snapshot of Montana and the Demonstration School communities. We hope the reader will gain a feel for the reality experienced by target schools, students, parents and communities. Mining and forestry were once major industries in Montana but they have diminished over the years.
Mining is the highest paying occupation in Montana and ranching or farming the lowest.
Small businesses with less than 50 employees make up the major portion of Montana's labor force, followed by state and local government. The projections for Montana's job market through year 2006 shows a dramatic decline in ranching, farming, telephone industry, forestry and mining with an increase in the need for workers in the service industries, health professions, teaching, technicians and related support occupations. The largest projected job growth is concentrated in retail trade, business services, health services and educational services. Due to the expected job growth changes it will be critical for the students in elementary schools to prepare for occupations in computers, bookkeeping, accounting, nursing, sales, teaching, business management and related support positions. Description of Towns in Selected School Districts Montana is a culturally diverse state with a small population in comparison to the size of the state.