Susie Hedalen
American educator and politician
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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.
Susie Hedalen | |
|---|---|
Hedalen in 2025 | |
| 18th Montana Superintendent of Public Instruction | |
| Assumed office January 6, 2025 | |
| Governor | Greg Gianforte |
| Preceded by | Elsie Arntzen |
| Personal details | |
| Born | February 21, 1984 Helena, Montana, U.S. |
| Party | Republican |
| Spouse | Derrick Hedalen |
| Education | Montana State University (BEd, MEd) |
Early life and career
Hedalen was born in 1984 in Helena, Montana.[1] She graduated from Helena High School,[2] and went on to earn her bachelor of education and master of education from Montana State University.[3]
Hedalen served as the deputy superintendent of the Montana Office of Public Instruction from July 2018 to November 2019.[1] She served as Superintendent of the Townsend School District from 2021 to 2024.[2][4] She also served as the vice chair of the Montana Board of Public Education from 2021 to 2023, appointed by the Governor of Montana.[5]
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.[6][7] During the campaign, she received endorsements from Governor Greg Gianforte, Senator Steve Daines, Attorney General Austin Knudsen, and Congressman Ryan Zinke.[5] On January 6, 2025, Hedalen was sworn into office by Chief Justice Cory Swanson, succeeding Superintendent Elsie Arntzen.[8] She entered office amid a major budget deficit.[9]
In March 2025, Hedalen attended a ceremony at the White House for President Donald Trump to sign an executive order on education.[10] During the trip, she met with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon.[10]
Personal life
Hedalen is married to Derrick Hedalen.[1] They live in Townsend, Montana.[3]
DUI charges
In June 2025, Hedalen was arrested and charged with driving under the influence in Belgrade, Montana.[11][12][13] Hedalen released a statement to the press, saying: "I apologize and take full responsibility for my lapse in judgment."[11][14]
Electoral history
| Party | Candidate | Votes | % | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Republican | Susie Hedalen | 348,360 | 59.3 | |
| Democratic | Shannon O'Brien | 238,880 | 40.7 | |
| Total votes | 587,240 | 100 | ||