The Vermillion School Board meeting on April 8, 2024, highlighted the successful implementation of a new peer-mediated art program at the high school, aimed at fostering social connections among students with and without disabilities. The program, developed by Kirsten Sievers, a third-year occupational therapy student, and Kelly Stone, a veteran teacher, has been running for 14 weeks and has received positive feedback from participants.

Sievers presented her capstone project, which evolved into a semester-long initiative that encourages collaboration through various art projects. The program has successfully integrated general education and special education students, promoting diversity and understanding among peers. Stone praised the program as one of the most rewarding experiences in his 26 years of teaching, emphasizing its impact on students' social skills and friendships.

The program included guest speakers from local organizations, field trips, and community engagement activities, which enriched the students' learning experiences. Notable events included visits from Camp High Hopes and sessions on Native American culture, which resonated particularly with students from those backgrounds. Students reported increased social participation and a shift in their perspectives towards peers with disabilities, highlighting the program's effectiveness in building a sense of community.

The board also discussed plans to continue the program in the upcoming spring semester and explore further collaboration with the University of South Dakota's occupational therapy department for ongoing support.

In addition to the art program, the meeting featured updates from the Career and Technical Education (CTE) department, which is expanding its offerings for the 2025 school year. New courses in health sciences and employability skills are being introduced, alongside existing programs in arts, business, and technical education. The CTE department aims to enhance students' career readiness through internships and partnerships with local businesses, further enriching the educational landscape in Vermillion.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to inclusive education and career readiness, setting a positive trajectory for future initiatives.