Education in Big Sky centers around the Big Sky School District #72, which operates Ophir Elementary and Middle School (K–8) and Lone Peak High School. With a total enrollment of around 400 students, class sizes are small, allowing for individualized attention and strong teacher-student relationships. Families relocating here often note how quickly their children are welcomed into the community and how engaged parents are in supporting school activities.
Lone Peak High School, though small, offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, strong college prep, and extracurricular activities such as athletics, music, and student leadership programs. Student-athletes compete in Montana High School Association leagues, giving them exposure beyond the community. The school emphasizes both academic rigor and a supportive environment that reflects Big Sky’s close-knit nature.
While Big Sky does not have private schools within town limits, nearby Bozeman (about an hour north) offers a range of private, parochial, and Montessori schools for families seeking specialized programs. Many physician families choose to live in Bozeman for access to its larger school system while commuting to Big Sky for work.
Just up the road in Bozeman, Montana State University (MSU) provides extensive higher education opportunities. MSU is a Carnegie-classified research university offering strong STEM programs, healthcare-related degrees, and a vibrant campus community. For physician families, this proximity ensures that children can pursue higher education without leaving the region, and spouses may find opportunities for continuing education or professional development.
Big Sky also emphasizes community-based learning. The Big Sky Community Library, housed within the schools, serves both students and the public. Programs like after-school clubs, outdoor education, and summer camps blend academics with the area’s natural environment, giving children a uniquely Montana learning experience.
Big Sky’s education system may be small, but its personalized approach, strong community support, and access to nearby Bozeman’s larger schools and Montana State University ensure that your children will have the resources they need to thrive academically and personally.
