Board reinstates speech and drama, hires adviser after public plea

A public commenter and district speakers urged the Scobey K-12 Schools board to preserve the speech and drama program, arguing it supports students who struggle to fit into other activities. The board voted to reinstate the program for the 2025–26 school year and to hire Shannon Nelson as adviser.

"I came to comment on speech and drama, which I hear is hanging in the balance," said speaker S2 during public comment, urging the board to keep the program and offering to assist with fundraising. After district staff explained low coach availability and participation numbers, speaker S6 moved the motion: "I would move to add speech and drama and hire Shannon Nelson as the adviser" for 2025–26. The motion was seconded and passed by voice vote.

Board members debated costs and competitive viability before the vote. District staff reported 17 initial responses to a student survey and that three people indicated they would be willing to coach; the district also has until Wednesday to complete Montana High School Association (MHSA) paperwork and submit the fee, so the timing made reinstatement feasible. One board member cautioned about per-student expense at low enrollment, while others emphasized the program’s social benefits for students who do not fit into athletics. The district will complete MHSA registration and the required $500 filing/checks to make the program eligible.

The board’s action restores the activity but leaves some implementation details to staff, including finalizing coach assignments, confirming stipend cost and travel expectations, and completing MHSA paperwork.