Bison School District 52-1

The regular meeting included the approval of the consent agenda, which covered the financial reports from December 2025. The board approved various claims totaling significant amounts across the General Fund, Capital Outlay Fund, Special Education Fund, School Lunch Fund, Imprest Fund, and Custodial funds. Key discussions involved reporting on the NWEA MAPS winter benchmark results, showing student growth across Math, Reading, and Language Usage compared to national and projected averages. Updates were provided on building and vehicle maintenance, specifically regarding white van repairs and the status of Bus #3. Several contracts were approved for the 2025-2026 school year, including positions for a K-12 Administrative Assistant, Title I Teacher, 2nd Grade Teacher, and various activity advisors. The board set the date and time for the annual school election to be held on June 2nd, 2026. A resolution (2026-5) was approved for the dissolution of the NWAS Ed Coop, effective at the end of the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The Superintendent provided updates on December attendance, the 2nd Quarter Honor Roll, and the current class schedule. An executive session was held to discuss personnel and legal matters.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the consent agenda, which included the Continuous Improvement Plan, minutes from previous meetings held in January 2026, and financial reports. An executive proclamation recognizing School Board Recognition Week was read. Claims across multiple funds (General, Capital Outlay, Special Education, School Lunch, Imprest, and Custodial) were approved for payment. The board received recognition for Mrs. Jocye Waddell's 61 years of service to education and subsequently voted to designate the library as the "Joyce Waddell Library." The composition of the Oscar Smith Scholarship board was modified by adding Beverly Kopren and removing Peggy Fried. The board requested further information regarding a proposal for an elementary music program. Updates were provided on building and vehicle maintenance, including bus repairs and a minor mold remediation. The resignation of a special education teacher was accepted, and contracts were approved for various positions, including co-advisors for Prom and a Head Golf Coach. A motion was carried to create a new part-time Speech Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA) position with a starting salary of $41,000, while the librarian position was tabled. The 2026-2027 school calendar, with a student start date of August 17th and end date of May 19th, was approved, along with the required continuous school improvement plan. The date for the board retreat was set for February 24th. The Business Manager reported on open school board petitions. The Superintendent noted a 94% attendance rate for January. Executive sessions were held to discuss personnel and legal matters.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the consent agenda. An executive session was held to discuss personnel matters and contract negotiations. Following the executive session, the Board offered and approved a two-year contract for Shawnda Carmichael as Superintendent for the 2026-2027 school year at an annual salary of $105,000.00. The meeting was adjourned shortly thereafter.

The meeting commenced with the Chairman calling for the salute to the flag. Key actions included the approval of the consent agenda. The board entered into an executive session, pursuant to SDCL 1-25-2, to discuss personnel matters related to the Superintendent Search, reconvening into regular session shortly thereafter. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

The meeting began with the Chairman calling the meeting to order with a salute to the flag. The agenda included the approval of the consent agenda. The Board also held a discussion regarding items to be addressed in upcoming years as part of a board retreat.