Troy Junior and Senior High School Principal and district superintendent Dr. Jacob Francom was in Washington, D.C. last week being honored as the 2015 Montana Principal of the Year by the National Association of Secondary School Principals. During his visit, he was recognized by Montana’s Sen. Steve Daines as Montanan of the Week, a program Daines started earlier this year to recognize outstanding Montana citizens for their efforts to improve Montana communities.

“Mr. President, I rise today in recognition of Jacob Francom, a top-tier educator from Troy, Montana,” Daines said on the floor of the United States Senate. “Dr. Francom was recently honored as the 2015 Montana Principal of the Year and is an excellent example of the importance of education to the state of Montana.”

Francom credited the Troy High School staff and the people of Troy for the school’s success.

“This recognition is not for me, but is for the entire Troy High School staff and community,” he said. “We have a great group of caring, dedicated teachers who work tirelessly for our students.”

Full text of Sen. Daines’ remarks:

“Mr. President, I rise today in recognition of Jacob Francom, a top-tier educator from Troy, Montana. Dr. Francom was recently honored as the 2015 Montana Principal of the Year and is an excellent example of the importance of education to the state of Montana.

Dr. Francom has not only succeeded in enhancing and tailoring the professional skills of his staff, but has made great advancements to the technological arenas at his school. He has also developed and improved the systems of instruction used with the students of Troy Junior and Senior High Schools.

What sets Dr. Francom apart is not only his leadership and pioneering at his own school, but his initiative in helping the schools in other parts of Lincoln County. His efforts are focused on aiding Troy, Libby, and Eureka, with hopes to share in the milestones they reach.

At only 36 years old, he has earned a bachelor’s degree from Utah State University, a master’s degree from University of Arizona, and his doctorate, along with a second master’s, from the University of Montana.  He started his career working at a boarding school in the Yaak, but in five short years became a rising star at Troy Junior and Senior High School. Three years later, he was serving as superintendent.

The characteristics that have made Dr. Francom a prime candidate for this award are not limited to his work in the education field. His humility and perseverance have made him a positive and inspiring example for our state. It is great appreciation that I thank Principal Francom for his work in Troy and across our state.”