NCLB reauthorization stalls … for now
Reports out of Washington, D.C., indicate that action reauthorizing the No Child Left Behind Act is not likely to occur this year.

Qwest grants promote technology in the classroom
Teachers across South Dakota can compete for awards of $2,500 each to support innovative programs that promote the use of technology in the classroom. Qwest will award a total of $25,000.

Language Arts:
Board of Education approves alternate content standards
The South Dakota Board of Education has approved new Language Arts Alternate Content Standards and Achievement Descriptors. A group of 24 general and special education teachers met in Pierre this summer to write these standards.

Duncan, Kirkegaard to lead state Board of Education
Kelly Duncan, Dakota Dunes, was re-elected as president of the South Dakota Board of Education during the board’s November meeting. Don Kirkegaard, Britton, was elected vice-president.

Blunt Elementary identified as Blue Ribbon School
Blunt Elementary recently was recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a 2007 No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon School. Principal Kathryn Hirchert and special education teacher Stacey Widboom traveled to Washington, D.C., Nov. 12-13, for a two-day award ceremony.

Planning for flu season?
Cases of influenza typically peak between November and March. A newsletter from the U.S. Department of Education shares critical information for pandemic flu planning. Schools also are encouraged to take advantage of free flu vaccinations for South Dakota children offered by the State of South Dakota.