BH BOARD TALKS STATE FUNDING

    The Britton-Hecla Board of Education met Monday night and handled a range of business items, beginning with a student presentation. Oral Interpretation participant Carter Chapin opened the meeting by performing the storytelling piece that recently earned him a Superior rating at the State Oral Interp Festival.
    During the open forum, Jeanne Ahlgren again addressed the board with concerns about the district’s use of Sora, the school’s e-book platform. A few board members also noted ongoing winter safety concerns, specifically the need to remove snow from the east side of the arena to prevent melting and slippery sidewalks. The policy committee reported that it has not yet discussed the district’s updated code of conduct but plans to do so soon.
    In its consent agenda, the board approved an agreement with Pro Rate Services, the company that handles drug and alcohol testing for the district’s bus drivers. Members also approved a working agreement with Brad Brandt for a 20-hour custodial position.
    Three open enrollment requests were approved for students who have been attending Britton-Hecla but recently moved out of the district. The board also set the 2026 school board election for June 2, in conjunction with the county’s primary election. The decision aligns with a new South Dakota requirement that municipal and school elections be held in even-numbered years, either during the June primary or the November general election.
    The board accepted the resignation of kitchen staff member Hunter Groff.
    In administrative reports, principals noted that winter break will begin Dec. 19 with a 1 p.m. dismissal.
    Superintendent Steve Benson updated the board on the governor’s budget address and its potential impact on education funding. The proposed budget includes a zero percent increase in state education funding, which Benson described as concerning. He told the board that districts typically must make up funding gaps through state aid or increased local taxes. “It’s not an ideal situation on any front,” he said, emphasizing the continued need to advocate for public education.
    The board entered executive session for personnel matters and took no action afterward.
    The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Jan. 12. A board retreat is tentatively planned for Jan. 26.