The Britton-Hecla Board of Education held its regular monthly meeting Monday night, addressing a range of topics including legislative policy changes, contract updates, and preliminary budget discussion.
Finance Officer Madi Neiber provided an overview of the preliminary budget, noting an increase in the technology category due to the planned purchase of several new Promethean boards. Superintendent Steve Benson added that with concerns over potential tariffs, the district is making proactive decisions to avoid future cost increases.
The board approved an amendment to a teacher contract for Ashley Hennings. Hennings had been hired last year before contract negotiations were finalized, and the amendment corrected her pay to reflect the negotiated rate.
Board member Audrey Schuller raised a concern regarding administrative contracts and certified staff working agreements. She pointed out that employee benefits were not clearly outlined in any board-approved documents. Following discussion, the board approved the contracts and agreements but directed Neiber to explore how a benefits summary could be included in future documentation.
Superintendent Steve Benson also provided legislative updates, outlining several new state laws that will affect school operations. As a result of these changes, the board approved revisions to three district policies:
• Policy 5001 (Compulsory Attendance): Updated to reflect that students may withdraw from school at age 17 with parental or guardian consent, in accordance with state law.
• Policy 6032 (Library Media Selection and Review): Amended to allow appeals of library materials decisions beyond the superintendent to the school board, with the potential for judicial review.
• Policy 6006 (Commencement): Revised to permit graduates active in or entering the military to wear regalia representing their branch of service.
Benson noted additional legislative mandates that will affect the school, including reviews of open meetings laws, a requirement for teachers to complete an Indian Studies course from a South Dakota institution, and a new structure for school board elections to align with general or primary elections. Students will also be responsible for half the cost of dual credit courses moving forward.
The board was informed that updated student and activities handbooks have been or will be distributed. These handbooks have been aligned with the policy book adopted last year and include links to relevant policies. Further discussion is expected in July.
In his superintendent’s report, Benson said the school’s camera system is due for an upgrade to improve monitoring capabilities. He also reported a 15% increase in the school building’s insurance premium.
During public comment, Jeanne Ahlgren reiterated her opinion that the district should not renew the contract with the Sora eBook service. The board concluded the meeting with a closed session for personnel and student matters. No action was taken afterward.
The next regular meeting is scheduled for July 14.
Temperature: 70°F Town: Britton, SD
Pressure: 1006 hPa
Wind: 14 mph
