A new after-school program in the Mitchell School District is stirring debate among local childcare providers. Launching in the 2025–26 school year, the KERNELS Program will offer free academic support and enrichment for elementary students from 3:15 to 5:30 p.m., funded by a private grant.
Big changes are underway in South Dakota college sports as SDSU and USD join the national House vs. NCAA settlement. Starting today, both universities can offer expanded athletic scholarships across all sports, significantly impacting programs like football, where rosters can now receive up to 105 scholarships—up from the previous 65.
Starting July 1, individuals with enhanced or restricted enhanced concealed carry permits will be allowed to carry handguns on South Dakota’s public college and technical school campuses.
The Mitchell Board of Education will vote tonight on final approval of the 2025-26 school district budget, including a proposed $24.6 million general fund. The public meeting, set for 5:30 p.m. at the Mitchell Career and Technical Education Academy, will also cover tax levy requests, meal prices for the upcoming school year, and key personnel decisions such as hiring special education staff.
South Dakota’s Division of Criminal Investigation has received a $100,000 grant to boost efforts against internet crimes targeting children. Attorney General Marty Jackley announced that the funding—from the Attorney General Alliance—will enhance the state’s ability to detect, disrupt, and prosecute online predators and human traffickers.
South Dakota lawmakers are launching a summer study to improve support for residents with intellectual disabilities, amid ongoing concerns about underfunded care services. The committee, co-chaired by Senator Chris Karr of Sioux Falls, is calling on advocacy groups and providers to submit top recommendations within a week.
South Dakota is slowly improving its national standing in teacher pay, as the Teacher Compensation Review Board begins drafting new recommendations for lawmakers. While the board has faced challenges over the past decade in raising educator salaries, experts like Caitlyn Scott of Marzano Research see reason for optimism.
Davison County is being considered as the leading site for a new high-security state prison, but the proposal is drawing concern from Mitchell residents.
Middle school students in Mitchell, South Dakota will now be eligible to earn high school credit for Algebra I and Spanish I, following unanimous approval of a five-year waiver by the Mitchell School Board. The initiative supports advanced learners, helping them get ahead and make room for electives or college-level coursework in high school.
South Dakota’s public universities have launched a new statewide initiative, “605 Day, Funding Futures with Scholarships,” to increase access to higher education by raising funds for student scholarships. Kicking off on June 5—symbolizing the state’s 605 area code—the campaign unites donors, alumni, and community members to celebrate South Dakota pride while addressing the financial barriers many students face.