School Board Work Session 9-2-26

The Sioux Falls School District held a work session on September 2, 2026, focusing primarily on two key topics: the launch of a new pilot program called the CARE (Counseling Awareness Recovery and Education) prevention program, and updates on the Renburg school boundary and potential closure process. The CARE program, funded by a $1 million opioid settlement grant over three years, aims to provide a comprehensive K-12 substance use prevention and intervention service, including hiring licensed addiction counselors and partnering with the organization Vera. The program includes curriculum integration, family engagement, and data collection for evaluation. The board discussed the program's staffing, curriculum, and implementation plans. The second part of the session addressed the Renburg area school enrollment trends, boundary proposals, and the potential closure of Renburg school due to low enrollment and city growth constraints. The district plans to engage families and staff through listening sessions and online platforms before making a final decision, with a tentative timeline aiming for a board decision by December 1, 2026. No specific contract awards or procurement actions were detailed, but the discussion involved grant funding allocation and program staffing decisions.