The Big Sandy Mountaineer -

Jamie Tone teaches fifth grade at the F. E. Miley School in Big Sandy.

Jamie is a long way from home. She was born and raised in Lindenhurst, New York. She moved to Missoula when she was a freshman in high school.

“The Mountaineer” caught up with Jamie a couple of weeks ago. Here is her story.

“Mountaineer” : Did you ever think you would become a school teacher?

Jamie: I did enjoy playing “school” when I was a child but I did not know that I would follow that road until my early 20’s.

”Mountaineer”: Where did you get your education and how did you find Big Sandy?

Jamie : I got my degree in Elementary education from the University of Montana. Go Griz! My husband, Josh Tone accepted a job in Big Sandy last year. We were previously teaching in a village in Alaska and we wanted to come back to Montana to raise our son.

“Mountaineer”: You have said you are teaching fifth grade this year. Any other class interest you?

Jamie : I really enjoy teaching kindergarten. They sure keep you moving!

“Mountaineer” : What is the favorite thing about when you are teaching?

Jamie : I love watching the students have fun while they are learning new things.

“Mountaineer” : How many kids do you teach this year?

Jamie : I have eighteen students this year.

“Mountaineer” : How are you getting along with the four day week?

Jamie : I am loving the four day week! We have a lot of content to get in but the students are doing great. I also love that I get to spend Fridays with my little guy, Nash.

“Mountaineer”: What have you heard about Big Sandy winters? Are your home town winters better or worse than what you have heard about winter here?

Jamie : I have not heard much about Big Sandy winters. We did experience our first winter on the High-Line last year but it was pretty mild. I definitely could do without the wind!

“Mountaineer”: What are your hobbies? What do you love to do when you are not teaching?

Jamie : When I am not teaching I love spending time with my wonderful husband Josh and our beautiful son Nash. We like to spend time on the rivers and lakes around Montana. I also enjoy cooking and entertaining friends and family.

“Mountaineer”: Big Sandy high school and elementary school kids asked that this next question be included. Are you an easy grader? …………….. No, not easy. I have high expectations for my students. If they try their hardest they will do well in my class.