Susie Hedalen

Susie Hedalen (born February 21, 1984) is an American educator and politician serving as the 18th Montana superintendent of public instruction since 2025. She is a member of the Republican Party.

Early life and career Hedalen was born in 1984 in Helena, Montana. She graduated from Helena High School, and went on to earn her bachelor of education and master of education from Montana State University.

Hedalen served as the deputy superintendent of the Montana Office of Public Instruction from July 2018 to November 2019. She also served as the vice chair of the Montana Board of Public Education from 2021 to 2023, appointed by the Governor of Montana.

Montana Superintendent of Public Instruction (2025–present) On November 5, 2024, Hedalen was elected the 18th Montana superintendent of public instruction, defeating Democratic candidate Shannon O'Brien. During the campaign, she received endorsements from Governor Greg Gianforte, Senator Steve Daines, Attorney General Austin Knudsen, and Congressman Ryan Zinke. She entered office amid a major budget deficit.

In March 2025, Hedalen attended a ceremony at the White House for President Donald Trump to sign an executive order on education. During the trip, she met with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. Hedalen released a statement to the press, saying: "I apologize and take full responsibility for my lapse in judgment."

Electoral history