The Dakota Valley Board of Education held its annual reorganization meeting Monday, July 13, taking the first official steps toward the 2026-2027 school year by swearing in returning board members, electing leadership, and opening a public hearing on its preliminary budget. The board convened with all members present, including Steve Kistner, Matt Thompson, Andrew Nilges, Jesica Hanson, and Emily Norby, who participated via telephone. Business Manager Jill Sponder administered the oath of office to Hanson and Thompson following their re-election. The board then unanimously re-elected Kistner to serve as board president and Thompson as vice president for the upcoming year.

Last week, June 28th July 2nd, 6 student members of the Dakota Valley chapter of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) members attended the National Leadership Conference in San Antonio, Texas. The conference was an opportunity for students to participate in motivational general sessions, network with individuals from across the globe, and challenge themselves academically through competitive events. Our students participated in 3 separate competitive events.

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Local emergency personnel and community members will gather next month for North Sioux City’s annual National Night Out celebration. The free, family-friendly event is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug.

Twelve Elk Point-Jefferson Educators Rising students traveled to Portland, Oregon, June 19–23 to compete at the Educators Rising National Conference, joining more than 3,000 students from all 50 states. Their hard work and dedication paid off as six students earned national recognition for their outstanding performances.

The Elk Point Chamber of Commerce has launched a new summer dining punch card program designed to highlight area restaurants and drive local community engagement. The promotion runs through Aug.

Elk Point law enforcement officers and local residents will join millions of neighbors across the country next month for the community’s annual National Night Out celebration aimed at strengthening police-community partnerships.

The Elk Point-Jefferson Board of Education reorganized for the upcoming school year, adopted a multi-million-dollar budget, and approved price increases for meals and athletic events during its regular meeting Monday, July 13.

Mason Marx and Claire LaFerrier earned top individual honors at the sixth annual Elk Point-Jefferson Cross Country Road Race. Marx led the male division with a time of 19 minutes, 32 seconds.

A piece of local pioneer history will be formally honored next month as community members gather for the rededication of Elmwood Cemetery and the unveiling of a new South Dakota State Historical Society marker.