At Monday’s meeting, the Langford Area Board of Education continued discussing a potential opt-out to address funding needs. South Dakota law allows school districts to opt out of the tax levy limit to raise additional revenue for their general funds. Superintendent Shad Storley announced plans to hold public meetings in January to explain the proposal and gather community input.
Storley also provided updates from last week’s state superintendents meeting. He highlighted concerns about school vouchers included in the governor’s budget. Since they are part of the budget rather than separate legislation, opposing them would require opposing the entire appropriations bill, which seems unlikely. Storley emphasized vouchers will be a key issue for public schools to monitor.
Additional topics at the meeting included challenges such as student behavior, finding bus drivers, and staff burnout. Storley noted that applications for the open principal position close on Dec. 20, with interviews hopefully to be arranged over the holiday break.
Coach Michael Alberts reviewed the football co-op with Groton Area, reporting on a successful season. The partnership will continue next year. The board also approved a work agreement for Brian Schuring as head track coach following a closed session and recognized Bryce Peterson as a volunteer assistant basketball coach.
In facilities matters, the board discussed snow removal arrangements after a skid steer leasing program with Titan ended this semester. Brady Hoines and Langford Lumber will handle snow removal moving forward.
A special board meeting was held Wednesday to plan additional public meetings on the opt-out proposal. Dates for these meetings will be announced soon.
The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 13, at 7 a.m. The school will dismiss for winter break on Dec. 20 at 12:45 p.m.
Temperature: 18°F Town: Britton, SD
Pressure: 1015 hPa
Wind: 5 mph
