For the second consecutive year, Great Falls Public Schools (GFPS) has received the largest amount of Innovative Educational Tax Credits in Montana, totaling $916,188 for 2025. The district once again led the state, far surpassing other school systems for the limited pool of available tax credits.
Hoyt & Blewett PLLC attorney Anders Blewett dedicated countless hours to helping GFPS raise these donations, continuing the firm’s commitment to supporting local education. Since November 2023, our team has helped raise approximately $2 million in tax credit donations for GFPS, including more than $500,000 in contributions personally made by Anders Blewett, Drew Blewett, and Alexander (“Zander”) Blewett III.
Brian Patrick, former director of business operations for GFPS, credited attorney Anders Blewett with leading the community effort that helped the district achieve this statewide milestone.
About Montana’s Innovative Educational Program Tax Credit
Montana’s Innovative Educational Program Tax Credit gives taxpayers the chance to invest directly in their local public schools. Instead of sending tax dollars to the state’s general fund, taxpayers can choose to allocate a portion of their state income taxes to eligible public school districts. In return, participants receive a dollar-for-dollar credit on their Montana state income taxes, meaning every dollar donated goes directly to improving education in their community.
At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, we’re proud to participate in this program and to help others do the same. Supporting Great Falls Public Schools through the Innovative Educational Program Tax Credit allows us to strengthen the community that has supported us for decades.
In 2025, a total of $6 million in public school tax credits were available statewide. That cap will increase to $7.2 million in 2026. Attorney Anders Blewett is once again leading a community initiative in 2026 to help Great Falls remain Montana’s top district for tax credit donations.
Those interested in learning how to contribute can visit the Great Falls Public Schools website for more information about the program and donation process.
How the Tax Credit Benefits GFPS Students
Funds raised through the Innovative Educational Program Tax Credit have already made a tangible impact. GFPS is currently remodeling the Great Falls High shop area into a districtwide Innovative Learning Center, which will expand STEM opportunities for K–12 students when it opens in 2026.
The donations have also helped expand summer learning programs, provide mental health support for student-athletes, and restore field trip opportunities for more than 800 elementary students that had been eliminated due to budget cuts.
This program is a powerful example of how local taxpayers can help shape the future of public education in Great Falls and ensure students have access to innovative, well-rounded learning experiences.
A Longstanding Partnership with Great Falls Public Schools
Our firm’s relationship with Great Falls Public Schools spans generations. Partner Drew Blewett previously served as Board Chair of the Great Falls Public Schools Foundation, while partner Alexander (“Zander”) Blewett III funded the design and construction of the Great Falls High School wrestling room in 1998. Since 1994, the Blewett Family Scholarship has provided annual awards to graduating Great Falls High School seniors.
“At our firm, we believe in giving back to the community that shaped us,” said Attorney Anders Blewett. “Great Falls Public Schools have had a lasting impact on our lives, and we’re committed to helping future generations have access to the same quality education and opportunities. Seeing the community come together around this program is inspiring.”