Establish Montana's BEST program to bolster educator support and training

This bill creates the Montana B.E.S.T. (Bolstering Educators' Support and Training) program, a statewide initiative administered by the Office of Public Instruction designed to support early-career teachers during their first three years in the profession. The program pairs new teachers with experienced mentors in the same subject or grade level for a one-year structured training period, including ongoing support, regional meetings, and a digital communication platform. Funding includes $2,500 stipends for mentors, $600 stipends for participating teachers (with at least $300 from their school district), and up to 15% of state funds for administrative costs. The bill also requires annual reporting to the education interim committee on program status and impact, with an initial appropriation of $1 million per year starting July 1, 2025.