3 incumbents, 3 challengers for Sioux Falls School Board

The Sioux Falls School Board election on June 2, 2026, will determine three seats, with three incumbents seeking reelection alongside three challengers. The election, now aligned with the state primary, replaces the previous April voting date due to new state requirements. Three current board members—Dawn Marie Johnson, Gail Swenson, and Marc Murren—are running for reelection. Johnson, a Master of Social Work graduate, emphasizes her background in education and advocacy for marginalized students, citing achievements like opening Marcella LeBeau Elementary and expanding mental health services. Swenson, with 41 years in public education, focuses on excellence, safety, and community engagement, highlighting her experience in policy, budgets, and district management. Murren, a retired teacher and coach, stresses student support as his priority, arguing that school success varies by child and requiring tailored assistance. The challengers include Michael K Stangeland Jr., who centers his campaign on property tax reform, inspired by last year’s failed ballot effort to freeze rates. Stuart Willett, a former teacher from New York City, criticizes the district’s 22% budget growth since 2019 despite flat enrollment, vowing to oppose tax opt-outs. Jean Childs, with experience teaching in California’s prison system, aims to improve student safety and learning environments. Key issues in the race include fiscal responsibility, AI integration in education, and budget transparency. Candidates debate whether rising costs reflect necessary investments or inefficiencies, with some advocating for stricter oversight. The election will shape the Sioux Falls School District’s direction, particularly on funding, technology adoption, and student support services.