We have several exciting projects underway in our school and community. If you haven’t seen the softball fields recently, take a look—this $250,000 project includes new lighting, dugouts, seating, and fencing. It’s a joint effort between the school and city, supported by private donations, including $75,000 from Community Bank, and significant volunteer work—especially from Dwight Brandt and Nathan Schultz. These fields will be a true community asset.
Our 30-year-old playground also needs replacement, with an estimated cost of $140,000. The school and city are contributing, but we are seeking additional donations. Lindsey has been leading grant and fundraising efforts, and we’re grateful for the support so far. If you’re able to contribute, please contact Lindsey or myself.
Regarding funding, the school receives about $680,000 annually for capital projects and maintenance. However, to avoid raising property taxes, a large portion has been redirected to cover general expenses like salaries and supplies, limiting funds available for projects like these. At the same time, modest increases in state aid, declining wind turbine tax revenue, and reduced sales tax are adding financial pressure to the district.
Why invest in these projects? Strong schools and communities depend on attracting and retaining young families. Providing quality facilities and opportunities helps ensure Avon remains a great place to live, learn, and work.
These efforts require strong partnerships between the school, city, and community. We are grateful for the continued support and generosity that make these projects possible.
I feel fortunate to be part of a community that values progress and invests in its future. As we often remind our students, “Leave it better than you found it.” Thank you for your continued support.
Please see the pictures attached for a mock-up of what we are looking at.
Regular Meeting of the Avon Board of Education
Wednesday, April 15th, 2026—6:00 p.m.
Board Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://sdk12.zoom.us/j/9883059751?pwd=dlJMZGRsb1NPcVMvd1cwakxUaGdzZz09
Meeting ID: 988 305 9751
Passcode: 3291
Agenda:
1. Call to order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Student/Staff “Shout Outs!”
4. Approve the agenda. (m)
5. Disclose any new conflicts of interest of public-school officers per SDCL 3-23-6 and determine if these conflicts of interest are fair, reasonable, and not contrary to the public interest. (m)
6. School Facilities tour
7. Principal’s Report.
8. Superintendent’s Report.
9. Public Input: According to Policy BDDH, which is available at https://www.avon.k12.sd.us/page/avon-school-policies
10. Approve the minutes of the March 9th Board Meeting.(m)
11. Approve Financial Report. (m)
12. Approve April claims/payment of bills. (m)
13. Approve 2026-2027 Comprehensive Special Education plan (m)
14. Authorize the board chairwoman, business manager, and superintendent to sign the ASBSD Protective Trust and SD School District Benefits Fund Participation Agreement for District’s FY ’27 Health Plan. (m)
15. Approve resolution for Avon High School to join the SDHSAA for the 2026-27 school year. (m)
16. Discuss and act on playground bid (m)
17. Discuss and take possible action on replacing lights at the football field. (m)
18. Approve resolution for the Avon Board of Education to join the ASBSD for the 2026-27 school year. (m)
19. Phase money request (m)
20. Consider date and time for the May board meeting (m)
21. Declare surplus property to be disposed of in accordance with state law. (m)
22. Committee Reports
a.) Budget: Sees, Muller
b.) Curriculum Committee: Sees, Thury.
c.) Building/Grounds Committee: Tolsma, Ratzlaff. Input from Mr. Voigt
d.) Policy: Muller, Sees.
e.) Co-op Center Board: Muller
23.Other business
24. Executive session—SDCL 1-25-2 (4)—certified teacher, classified staff, and administrator negotiations (m) (3) Reviewing communications from legal counsel about proposed or pending litigation or contractual matters;
25. Adjournment
Published once at the total approximate cost of ______________
https://www.muscovision.com/facility/45701
Location: The event will be held at the Club 71 of the Dana J Dykhouse Football Stadium, here is link to google maps: https://goo.gl/maps/j9H2186TNqKPxY7k8
Parking: If family/community members planning on visiting the ESDSEF during the day, parking is available around the stadium. They any passenger vehicles must register their car here: https://www.offstreet.io/events/LOMNIZY6 or risk getting a ticket.
