Steve Benson

The board discussed the 2026-27 preliminary budget, highlighting challenges with declining enrollment and the potential need for an opt-out for financial stability. Key actions included the approval of certified teacher contracts, hiring a new business manager, authorizing off-staff coaching agreements, and declaring special education at capacity for open enrollment. Additionally, the board voted on SDHSSA ballot items, discussed potential 6th-grade participation in track and cross country, and addressed student council transportation responsibilities.

The board meeting agenda includes reports from the NESC and committees, financial reports covering the preliminary budget and bills, and a consent agenda addressing unpaid leave requests, an early graduation request, staff resignations, and open enrollment. Additional business items involve the acceptance of certified teacher contracts, working agreements for off-staff coaches, a business manager contract, special education capacity, SDHSAA ballots, 6th-grade participation in athletic programs, and a student council request. The meeting concludes with reports from the principals and the superintendent.

The board discussed and decided to close the Westwood Rural Elementary School at the end of the 25-26 school year. Additionally, an executive session was held to address personnel matters and negotiations, resulting in the formal acceptance of the resignation of the Business Manager.

The board meeting covered several key agenda items, including an open forum regarding online library services, a presentation of reports on NESC and school negotiations, and a business manager's report covering insurance and audit findings. The board approved various financial reports and claims, accepted resignations from coaching and teaching staff, and renewed insurance agreements. Additionally, the board approved open enrollment applications, discussed the selection of a guest trainer for internal goal setting, made committee appointments, and discussed preparations for graduation and staff recruitment. Personnel matters and negotiations were discussed during an executive session.

The Board retreat agenda included a comprehensive review of district operations, including current and projected enrollment, budgetary oversight across funds, and staffing requirements for the upcoming school year. Additional discussion topics encompassed curriculum development, technology and transportation infrastructure needs, facilities maintenance and grounds projects, food service staffing, and school calendar proposals. The board also reviewed policy strategies, legislative updates regarding education funding, athletic activities and uniform rotations, and specific updates concerning district colony schools. The retreat concluded with discussions on strategic planning and an executive session regarding personnel matters.