Fourth-Grader Curiosity Meets Montana History: Billings Teacher Wins State Award

When Darla Stone steps into her fourth-grade classroom at Beartooth Elementary School in Billings, she brings more than lesson plans—she carries the stories of an entire state. This week, the Montana Historical Society recognized her passion for making those stories come alive, naming Stone the 2025 Centennial Bell Montana History Teacher of the Year.

The unanimous decision by the nominating committee reflects what Stone's students have known for years: history doesn't have to feel dusty or distant. In her nine years at Beartooth Elementary, Stone has transformed Montana's complex past into something her students can touch, question, and connect with their own lives.

"Teaching 4th grade Montana History is one of my favorite parts of the school year," Stone explains. "At this age, students are naturally curious and full of questions, which makes it the perfect time to explore Montana's rich and diverse history together."

That natural curiosity Stone mentions isn't just a happy coincidence—it's the foundation of her teaching philosophy. Fourth-graders haven't yet learned to be bored by the past, and Stone capitalizes on that enthusiasm by weaving together the threads that connect yesterday's Montana with today's reality.

What sets Stone apart is her commitment to Indian Education for All (IEFA), ensuring that her students understand Montana's indigenous heritage isn't a footnote in state history—it's central to it. She works closely with the Billings Public Schools Indigenous Education Department and collaborates with tribal representatives to bring authentic perspectives into her classroom. Through the Billings Student Tribal Council, which she advises, Stone helps students see the living connections between Montana's first peoples and the communities they inhabit today.

"Mrs. Stone's approach to teaching makes history not only accessible, but inspiring for her students," wrote Beartooth Elementary Principal Travis Niemeyer in his nominating letter. "She ensures her students see the connections between the past and the present, and between their own lives and the stories of Montana's indigenous peoples."

Stone's influence extends beyond her classroom walls. She's presented at the Office of Public Instruction's Best Practices Conference, sharing her methods with educators across the state. Her work demonstrates that effective history teaching isn't about memorizing dates and names—it's about helping students understand how the past continues to shape their world.

"Ultimately, I want students to feel empowered by their understanding of history," Stone says. "History should not feel distant or abstract; it should help students make sense of the world and see their role in shaping it."

The award comes with a $4,250 prize from sponsors including Montana Television Network, the Sons and Daughters of Montana Pioneers, and the Virginia City Preservation Alliance. Stone can use the funds for classroom materials, guest speakers, field trips, and other resources that enhance her students' learning experience.

This November, Stone and her students will participate in a Montana tradition dating back to 1989. On November 7th at 10:29 a.m.—the exact minute Montana became the 41st state in 1889—they'll ring the Centennial Bell in Helena as part of the 36th Montana Statehood Centennial Bell celebration. (The ceremony moves to Friday since Statehood Day falls on a Saturday this year.)

The award, established in 1989 by Montana Historical Society trustee Norma Ashby-Smith to honor the centennial of Montana statehood, continues to recognize educators who bring Montana's history to life for the next generation.