East Helena School Board Welcomes New Business Manager, Reviews Policy Updates and Community Initiatives
Author: Rachael Brug, Staff Reporter
East Helena School Board Welcomes New Business Manager, Reviews Policy Updates and Community Initiatives
Rachael Brug
Staff Reporter
The East Helena School Board of Trustees gathered for their regular meeting on January 12, 2026, addressing a range of district matters from student achievements to new staff appointments and policy updates.
After opening with the Pledge of Allegiance, the board reviewed and approved the meeting agenda, noting that a legislative update originally listed would not be included, as the state legislature was not in session. No public comment was offered on non-agenda items.
The student representative’s report highlighted a busy winter season for East Helena’s athletics and activities. Both boys and girls basketball teams posted three wins in six games, while standout performances in swimming, speech, debate, drama, and wrestling were recognized. Among the athletic milestones, DeAndre Ellis was celebrated for reaching 1,000 career points in basketball, and Eli Dall was commended for his 100th career wrestling win.
A key item of business was the hiring of a new district business manager and clerk. After a thorough review and interview process, the board unanimously approved offering the position to Jane Knudson, who brings 14 years of experience from the Malta school district. Knudson was also appointed as District Clerk for the remainder of the school year, with a formal reorganization scheduled for May.
Policy review was another focus of the evening. The board approved minor editorial revisions to Policy 2335 and adopted updates to Policy 3110 to align with recent changes in state law regarding entrance, placement, and transfer requirements.
Superintendent updates included news of a potential economic development project, as a major aerospace manufacturing company is considering East Helena for a new facility. The board discussed the possible impact of such a project, which could bring new jobs and growth to the community. Upcoming strategic planning meetings were announced as open to the public.
The board also acknowledged recent staff resignations and retirements, and made temporary fiscal signatory appointments to ensure business continuity during the transition period.
Other business included approving a future culinary arts travel opportunity for students and considering a temporary easement request from the city and a developer for utility work in the Highland Meadows subdivision. The board also discussed evolving state requirements for work-based learning and background checks, noting the need for further clarification from state agencies.
The meeting concluded with agreement to revisit unresolved items at a future session, reflecting the board’s ongoing commitment to careful governance and community engagement.
