Kendal Baldwin, who taught music at St. Ignatius Middle and High School for more than two decades, has been appointed superintendent of the Arlee School District, according to a report from leaderadvertiser.com.
Baldwin holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Montana, a master’s from Kent State University, and completed K‑12 principal and superintendent endorsements at Montana. She cites her father, longtime administrator Jim Baldwin, as an influence for pursuing the role.
She said she intends to be highly visible in the community, boost school pride and unity, and support staff transitioning from classroom positions. Baldwin also expressed a desire to reintroduce a music program, noting the district currently lacks one.
The district has faced budget constraints linked to declining enrollment, and a recent board discussion considered consolidating the middle and elementary schools, though the plan was rejected. Former superintendent Cory Beckham, who resigned in March to join the Missoula School District, warned that continued underfunding could lead to staff losses.
Baldwin emphasized that her priority will be learning the system before making any cuts, aiming to keep decisions student‑focused and minimize impact on staff.
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