A heartwarming tribute is in the works to honor the life and legacy of Josy Grace McLean, a beloved biology teacher who left an indelible mark on countless students during her 28-year tenure at CMR High School.
Josy McLean, born on January 8, 1965, and tragically lost in a car accident near Lincoln on January 4, 2026, was more than just an award-winning educator; she was a mentor, an inspiration, and a guiding light for her students.
But here's where it gets controversial... While her accolades and achievements speak volumes, it's the personal impact she had on her students that truly sets her apart. And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the curriculum; it's about the connections she fostered and the lives she touched.
Madison Collier brings us the story of how former students are ensuring that Josy's memory lives on. Watch the video to see the progress made on the memorial swinging bench dedicated to Josy along the River's Edge Trail.
The project, led by A.J. Smovir, the City of Great Falls Trails Coordinator and a former student of Josy's, is a labor of love. Smovir recalls, "She was an awesome teacher. I had her for my first two years at CMR, and she easily ranks among my top two teachers of all time. She'll be deeply missed."
The concrete for the memorial bench was poured on Tuesday, and it will take about a week to cure before the bench is installed. The site, located along the River's Edge Trail, offers a peaceful spot for reflection and remembrance.
The memorial swing bench was funded by a heartfelt fundraiser initiated by Josy's former students, with 45 donors contributing to the project. Additionally, a tree will be planted in her honor at West Bank Park, near the Branch Brady Statue, with funds collected from donors across Montana.
This tribute is a beautiful way to keep Josy's memory alive and ensure that her impact on the lives of her students is never forgotten.
And here's the part that might spark some debate... While memorials are a wonderful way to honor the deceased, some might argue that the true legacy of an educator like Josy lies in the lives she changed and the lessons she imparted. What do you think? Is a physical memorial enough, or should we focus more on carrying forward the values and knowledge she instilled in her students? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
