The Langford Area School Board met Monday evening, addressing a range of routine end-of-year business items along with early planning for the 2026-2027 school year.
Superintendent Shad Storley told the board the district continues to show stability as it moves forward with long-term planning and budgeting efforts.
“When looking at the budget and the status of the school, we are very proud of where we’re at,” Storley said. “There have been sacrifices and we’ve followed through with priority lists. The big thing is sustainability, and we really feel like we’re there.”
Among action items, the board talked about upcoming school board training dates, working to coordinate with the Associated School Boards of South Dakota. Members also set the 2026-2027 budget hearing date.
The board approved a comprehensive plan related to the district’s special education cooperative, along with coaching work agreements for non-certified staff coaches.
Transportation for the upcoming school year remains under review. Storley reported that the district received bids from two companies, Cheyenne Transportation of Webster and Harlowe’s based in Bismarck. A final decision on bus contracting is expected at a future meeting after board review of the proposals.
Property and liability insurance renewal for 2026-2027 was approved, though with some cost increases noted.
Board members also approved updated elementary, middle school and high school student handbooks. Storley said district administration reviewed the documents closely prior to approval.
“We went through those with a fine-tooth comb,” he said. “Most of the changes were cleaning up language, but one of the bigger updates involves activities and planning to institute year-round expectations regarding tobacco and alcohol use.”
Administrative reports indicated staff are wrapping up end-of-year reporting requirements for the South Dakota Department of Education.
The board concluded the meeting with an executive session for personnel matters. No action was taken following the closed session.
