James Kruse

This ARP ESSER District Plan outlines how Wessington Springs 36-2 will strategically utilize emergency relief funds to address challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. The plan focuses on three key areas: implementing prevention and mitigation strategies, addressing the academic impact of lost instructional time through evidence-based interventions and extended learning opportunities, and making targeted investments to meet the academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs of all students, with particular attention to disproportionately affected populations. It emphasizes sustained benefits for students and long-term positive impact on the district.

This ARP ESSER School District Plan outlines how Wessington Springs 36-2 will utilize funds to address challenges posed by COVID-19 from 2021 to 2024. The plan focuses on implementing prevention and mitigation strategies, addressing the academic impact of lost instructional time through evidence-based interventions, and making investments aligned with student academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs, particularly for disproportionately impacted students. It also details other allowed activities, such as academic supports, professional development, and facility improvements, while emphasizing the engagement and support of at-risk students to foster sustained benefits and long-term positive impact.

The meeting included a discussion with colony members, but no specific action was taken during the session.

The meeting included discussion and approval of bills for payment from various funds including the General Fund, Capital Outlay, Special Education, and Food Service. Contracts were approved for a Custodian, Paraprofessional, and Band Teacher. A resolution was approved to increase several accounts to be funded with cash on hand and Contingency. The 2025-2026 budget was presented, and a budget hearing was scheduled. Additionally, the board approved several Requests for Proposals (RFPs) related to flooring, water line, and door relocation.

The meeting included discussions on cell phone use in classrooms and updates on the ag building construction project. The board also covered various agenda items, including setting the time and date for a meeting at Spring Valley Colony, approving a refrigeration bid, and reviewing the results from a survey on student cell phone use. Reports were given by the Elementary Principal and the MS/HS Principal, and the Superintendent provided updates on enrollment and staffing. The board also approved district rates and fees for the 2025-26 school year, submitted a SDHSAA Ballot, and approved several Ag Shop RFPs and a change order.