Scobey K-12 Schools board reinstates speech and drama, hires adviser for 2025–26

The Scobey K-12 Schools board voted to reinstate the district’s speech and drama program for the 2025–26 school year and to hire Shannon Nelson as the program adviser after trustees weighed low participation, coach shortages and short-term filing requirements with the Montana High School Association (MHSA).

A resident opened the meeting’s public-comment period urging the board to keep the program, saying drama and performing arts improve “self confidence, self esteem, self expression, communication, collaboration, interpersonal skills, and academics.” Board members said they had canvassed student interest and reported 17 survey responses with three people indicating they would serve as coaches or sponsors.

Board discussion focused on participation and cost. One trustee said the program last year cost roughly $2,000 and raised questions about how to spread fixed costs when only a few students participate. Another trustee noted MHSA had given the district until Wednesday to file required paperwork and a $500 check; the board heard that additional per-student or gender fees of $2.50 had been discussed in the registration conversation.

A motion to add the speech and drama activity and to hire Shannon Nelson as adviser for 2025–26 was made, seconded and carried on a verbal vote. Trustees said the district would submit the MHSA paperwork, fund the adviser stipend from the existing activity budget, and work with student leaders on fundraising if needed.

Supporters at the meeting described speech and drama as an activity that helps students who do not otherwise fit into sports or other clubs. A student who has participated called the program “transformative,” saying it provided friendships and opportunities she did not find elsewhere.

The board directed staff to complete the MHSA form, finalize the adviser hire and bring any budget adjustments back to the board if additional resources are required.