SD Federal Education Funding Decision

South Dakota education leaders are weighing their response to a federal warning that could impact school funding. The Trump Administration has threatened to withhold education dollars from states that continue to operate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs.

By Crystal Blue April 10, 2025 8:52 am

Build Dakota Scholarship 2025 South Dakota workforce development Lt. Governor Larry Rhoden full-ride technical scholarships high-demand career training South Dakota healthcare, construction, law enforcement jobs South Dakota workforce shortage solutions 630 scholarships awarded Build Dakota since 2015 South Dakota economic growth initiative — Metro Services

PIERRE, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) South Dakota education leaders are facing a major decision that could affect school funding statewide. The Trump Administration has warned states they could lose federal education dollars if schools continue to run DEI programs. States have until the 13th to sign a letter promising compliance. While states like Minnesota and New York have said they won’t go along with the demand, South Dakota Education Secretary Joseph Graves has not yet said how the state will respond. For more Government stories from MitchellNow.com, Click Here.

Lifestyle

2 days ago

Bird Flu Outbreak Hits South Dakota Turkey Flocks

South Dakota is facing a major bird flu outbreak, with more than 135,000 turkeys destroyed at three facilities to contain the spread. North Dakota has also reported cases, losing over 60,000 turkeys in commercial flocks. Agriculture officials stress that poultry products remain safe to eat despite the outbreak.

Government

2 days ago

AG Marty Jackley Launches Campaign for Congress

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has officially entered the race for Congress, launching his campaign in his hometown of Sturgis. Jackley, now in his fourth term as Attorney General, joins State Senator Casey Crabtree in the Republican primary to replace Congressman Dusty Johnson, who is seeking the governor’s office. Highlighting his conservative record, Jackley says he will prioritize public safety, border security, economic growth, and accountability in Washington while continuing to serve as AG.

Crime

2 days ago

Huron Contractor Sentenced for Defrauding Customers

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley announced that Huron contractor Julio Morales-Ortiz has been sentenced for defrauding seven customers out of more than $36,000. Morales-Ortiz pleaded guilty in Beadle County Circuit Court to theft by deception, receiving a suspended 10-year prison sentence, probation, and jail time.

Government

2 days ago

Freedom Caucus Pushes Back on $650M Prison Plan

South Dakota lawmakers will meet in a special session to decide on a proposed $650 million men’s penitentiary in Sioux Falls, but members of the Freedom Caucus remain opposed. While Lieutenant Governor Tony Venhuizen, who led the prison task force, says he’s confident in the plan’s passage, caucus members fear the price tag could balloon to $1 billion. Governor Rhoden’s office maintains the project is capped at $650 million.

Government

2 days ago

Mitchell Plans Second Fire Station to Speed Up Response Times

Mitchell city officials are proposing a $2.5 million fire station on the north side of town to improve emergency response times and reduce insurance costs for residents. The station would be built near the old water treatment plant on Highway 37, with design work beginning in 2026 and an opening planned for 2027. City leaders say the new location will allow firefighters to reach the north side more quickly, while housing four firefighters who will share equipment with the current Public Safety building.