Brookings School Board December Meeting - 12/8/2025

The Brookings School Board held its December meeting on December 8, 2025, where key procurement and budget-related topics were discussed. The board acknowledged a $68 million investment in district facilities, including approximately $5 million allocated to specific wings of Hillcrest and Madary Elementary schools, highlighting ongoing capital improvement projects. Superintendent Schultz provided a detailed overview of the state budget address, emphasizing zero increase in state aid for K-12 education and the challenges posed by flat funding despite rising costs such as insurance and inflation. The board also discussed election timing and associated costs, ultimately voting to hold school board elections in June to align with the academic calendar and onboarding processes. Additionally, the board approved the disposal of old concert risers as surplus property and authorized an insurance holiday for employees in December, contingent on funding availability. Policy changes were also approved to streamline the process by eliminating the first and second readings of policies, allowing for more efficient board approvals.