The Britton-Hecla Board of Education met for its regular meeting Monday night, addressing public concerns, personnel matters, policy development, and administrative updates.
During the open forum, Jeanne Ahlgren again raised concerns regarding the school’s use of the Sora eBook service. School Counselor Sheila Anderson also addressed the board, expressing disappointment over what she described as continued scrutiny of school administration and staff related to Ahlgren’s claims.
The board moved into personnel matters, accepting the resignation of kitchen staff member Janice Buchholz. Following an executive session, the board also accepted the resignations of teacher Jen Boyko at Britton-Hecla and Korinne Face at Westwood. Allison Stiegelmeier was approved for a kitchen help position.
Board members approved a working agreement for office assistant Kyla Kriese and appointed Kelly Mills as prom advisor and head of the junior class. The board also declared several athletic items surplus, including helmets, shoulder pads, and pants.
The policy committee provided an update on its work toward developing a district code of conduct. Several existing policies reference a code of conduct, though one is not currently in place. Committee members indicated additional information and discussion will be brought to the board as the process continues.
In her report, middle and high school principal Carrie James noted that 32 juniors and seniors are currently enrolled in dual credit courses.
Superintendent Steve Benson reported that the district is monitoring several bills during the upcoming legislative session. He also noted that a board retreat is scheduled for later this month on Jan. 26 and will be for discussion purposes only. The next regular board meeting is set for Feb. 9 at 6 p.m.
The meeting concluded with an executive session for personnel matters, after which the previously noted resignations were formally approved.
Temperature: 6°F Town: Britton, SD
Pressure: 1032 hPa
Wind: 8 mph
