Britton-Hecla Hires Interim Business Manager

    The Britton-Hecla Board of Education convened on Monday evening. During the session, the board approved the hiring of Tami Koppang as the Interim Business Manager, following the resignation of Kayla Hastings from the position last month.
    Among the significant decisions made by the board was the approval of summer services contracts for Alpine Academy and the establishment of election work pay at $20, aligning with County standards. Furthermore, election officials for the upcoming June 17 election were appointed, with Becky Berreth named for Brown County (Linda Osterloh alternate) and Kathy Buisker designated for Britton polling sites.
    Marshall County residents will vote in the B-H school library (use the main entrance, door 15) and Brown County residents will vote at the Hecla Community Center. Polls are open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Candidates for the one three-year term are Josh Hawkinson and Marlin Heitmann.
    Additionally, the board accepted work agreements with classified staff and coaches for the 2024-2025 school year, while noting resignations for the same period, including that of Emily Folkman as Junior High Volleyball Coach. The stipend for Driver’s Education was set at $230 per student attending, with the fee waived for instructors’ children in lieu of stipend.
    In terms of enrollment, the board reviewed five open enrollment applications, approving three for elementary classes and denying two based on Special Education capacity constraints for the upcoming school year.
    Administratively, contracts from Administrators and Heads of Departments were returned and signed. 
    Superintendent Steve Benson’s report shed light on various topics, including the adjustment of mileage reimbursement rates by the state for vehicles transporting students with special needs, and discussions on Title IX requirements, particularly regarding locker rooms and intimate facilities.
    Ryan Nack, Facilities Director, reported on the recent annual sprinkler inspection conducted by Nova at the 20-year-old Arena facility, along with upcoming tests on sprinkler heads.
    Following these discussions, a 50-minute executive session was held to discuss personnel matters, with no subsequent actions taken.