Shannon Amiotte

The board of trustees discussed the establishment of budgets policy, emphasizing a continuous process managed by budget managers throughout the year. Budgets for the upcoming fiscal year are submitted to administration in August for consideration. The President requests budgets from department heads and district directors, showing the funds required for each major cost element. The college President consolidates these into a preliminary budget, reviewed and revised to align with anticipated funding from various sources. The BOT Finance Committee submits the proposed budget to the Board of Trustees by September 30th. The Board reviews, revises, and adopts the final budget by September 30th. Budgeted amounts are entered into accounting records, with monthly reports prepared and submitted. Vice Presidents, Department Heads, and directors are responsible for adhering to their approved budgets. Adjustments to budgets are allowed up to 10% of major budget items, with certain restrictions on re-budgeting salaries and fringe from PL-471 funds. Requisitions from the general fund require verification of sufficient funds, and overspending results in revision or cancellation.

The 2019-2027 Strategic Plan for Oglala Lakota College is dedicated to rebuilding the Lakota Nation through education. Its mission is to prepare students for professional and vocational employment in Lakota country, fostering well-rounded individuals grounded in Lakota culture and language (Wolakolkiciyapi) for participation in a multicultural world. The plan is organized around four strategic goals: strengthening Tribal sovereignty, establishing the college as a leader in Lakota language and culture, promoting student academic success and self-fulfillment, and enhancing continuing education and community development and outreach.

The meeting included the installation of officers for 2020, a public hearing on the Perkins State Plan, a report from the South Dakota Board of Technical Education, and a review of the Educator Preparation Program accreditation for Oglala Lakota College. Proposed changes to Article 24:05 rules regarding Special Education Programs were presented for a first reading and a hearing. A review of the BOES Mission Statement was also conducted, and an update on the 2020 legislative session, Governor's Week of Work, and the Jobs for America's Graduates program was provided.