The main run of the 2018 legislative session has come to a close, and we will be providing you with a summary of session outcomes soon.

As our attention shifts from the Capitol, we quickly segue into activities out in the field. In coming weeks, I will be traveling to meet with tribal education leaders to hear their concerns and learn more about what is happening in their communities.

The department is also in the process of establishing a group of key stakeholders to discuss issues related to the implementation of the Juvenile Justice Improvement Act. This group’s purpose will be to identify specific challenges facing K-12 schools, as well as potential opportunities for schools and other key partners, as all entities seek to best address the needs of students, families and classrooms.

And finally, I extend an invitation to all superintendents, principals and business managers to attend the DOE Road Show coming up in April. Sessions will be held in Aberdeen, Mitchell and Rapid City. Registration is now available on GoSignMeUp. Look for “DOE Information-Sharing: What you need to know about federal & state law changes.”

These sessions will cover a number of major topics: the state ESSA plan, federal compliance issues, and state topics, including state funding, school finance accountability requirements, graduation requirements and juvenile justice.

With the big blizzard earlier this month, March certainly came in like a lion, and that seems to be reflected in the flurry of activities in schools this time of year. Between state tournaments, testing and everything else happening in your districts, I know that from here, it can feel like a mad dash to May.

Thank you for everything you do. As always, my door, phone line and inbox are open to your questions and concerns.