The Langford Area Board of Education met Monday night.
Superintendent Shad Storley provided an update on discussions with Newport Colony School regarding technology use. Storley said conversations with leadership have led to a compromise on limiting some technology while still meeting instructional needs. “We’ve had three meetings, and it’s been really positive,” he said, noting that the discussions focused on balancing restrictions with educational requirements.
The board also finalized adjustments to the school calendar due to snow days. Two snow days will be made up, including school on April 24 and an additional day added to the end of the year on May 19. There were five snow days this year.
In other business, the board approved renewal of the district’s health insurance plan, which includes an 8 percent premium increase, and also approved worker’s compensation coverage. Several memberships were also renewed, including participation in the cooperative and the South Dakota High School Activities Association.
In activities updates, the district plans to distribute student interest surveys to help guide future programming and better understand participation trends for a variety of sports. The district is also continuing its search for an activities director, with multiple candidates showing interest. A recommendation is expected at the May meeting.
Facility work also remains ongoing. The district is advertising bids for the removal of wood and metal from the old bleachers, with responses due later this month. The new bleacher project will require additional electrical work, including more outlets.
Storley also reported continued challenges in bus staffing. Despite ongoing advertising efforts, the district remains short on bus drivers. He said the district hopes to handle activity transportation internally but may need outside assistance for regular bus routes. He intends to explore contracting services.
Storley added that the district is working through its consolidated application process, which includes budget, special education, and planning components for the upcoming school year. He noted the district is seeking new support after the passing of a former consultant who previously assisted with the application process.
An executive session was held for personnel and negotiations, with no action taken afterward.
