Brookings High School esports program expands with community sponsorship support

Brookings School Board members celebrated a successful year in extracurricular activities during their April 14, 2025, meeting, highlighting the achievements of students in chess and esports. Notably, student Wei La Lo secured third place in the state chess competition, generating excitement among peers eager for the next school year.

The board discussed the potential expansion of sports offerings, contingent on approval from the South Dakota High School Activities Association. Current esports participation is limited by available equipment and funding, with six computers supporting various games. The board is exploring community sponsorships to enhance resources, which could allow for more student involvement in esports.

In addition to sports, the board addressed ongoing policy updates, including a wellness policy that has seen community engagement. They also prepared for upcoming votes on background checks and a new seclusion and restraint policy, aligning with state recommendations.

Financial discussions revealed challenges ahead, with a projected 1.125% increase in legislative appropriations for the 2025-2026 budget. The board is actively seeking input from principals to assess needs and costs, indicating a cautious approach to resource allocation in the coming year.

As the meeting concluded, the board emphasized the importance of community support and student engagement, setting a positive tone for future initiatives and collaborations.