Simplified: The Sioux Falls School District has one new board member and one returning as a result of an election in which fewer than 3,000 people voted.

Why it matters

  • Incumbent Nan Kelly, a 50-year-old business developer, will be returning for another term leading the state's largest school district, and joining her will be newcomer Elizabeth Duffy, a 42-year-old attorney, who's filling the seat vacated by longtime board member Carly Reiter.
  • Of the more than 126,000 registered voters in the Sioux Falls School District, only 2.33% participated in this election. It's the lowest turnout in a decade, if not longer.
    • For context, the last three standalone school board elections in 2023, 2021 and 2019 saw turnout at just over 6%, 5.13% and 3.86%, respectively.
  • This election also marks the last standalone school board election after state lawmakers changed state law to require local elections to line up with either the primary or general elections. So, it's unlikely that low turnout will be repeated in future years.
"The optimist in me wants to say it's a sign that people like the direction of where the school district is and is going right now, and so they feel like they don't really need to make huge changes," Duffy said of the turnout. "On the other end of the spectrum, I wish more people were as excited about it as those of us who are really close to it are."

Tell me more about the winners

Kelly ran on a platform of valuing the importance of public education. She stressed the importance of schools as supporting the community by helping build a skilled and educated workforce.

  • She also likened public education to infrastructure like roads, bridges and quality healthcare.
"I want to thank all the candidates who stepped up to run for Sioux Falls School Board," Kelly said Tuesday night as results rolled in. "It takes courage and commitment to serve, and for me, personally, Iā€™m honored to be re-elected."

Duffy's campaign emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for all kids. Amid lots of funding uncertainty, she said she wants to protect the vital funding by engaging all stakeholders.

  • Duffy also stressed the importance of mental wellbeing and safety. She told Sioux Falls Simplified Tuesday night that she's ready to "put her best foot forward" in representing the district.
"I'm really excited, and I'm really touched by everyone's support," Duffy said.

What happens next?

The two winners will begin their terms on the Sioux Falls School Board in July.