Board hears closeout and move plan for Trailhead Learning Center; dedication set for April 24

YANKTON, S.D. — Contractors and district leaders told the Yankton School District 63-3 board that construction of the Trailhead Learning Center is nearly complete and that district staff are finalizing move-in plans.

Construction representatives said finishes are nearly done, mechanical systems are being brought online and food-service equipment is due to be installed next week. "We're getting really close with that," the project manager said while walking the board through punch-list work and an upcoming closeout walkthrough with the architect and owner representatives.

Brent Osler, site superintendent on the project, said the job has been on-site for about 18 months and that the team will begin final training and turnovers. District staff described furniture delivery (recently received and staged), scheduling for furniture installation and a phased plan to move students and programs in late spring. Administrators said they plan staff training, joint assemblies, community tours and an official dedication ceremony on Thursday, April 24 at 9:30 a.m.

District leaders also described operational details: playground installation in spring, ADA-accessible equipment, plans for on-site kindergarten and junior kindergarten registration in February, and a schedule for moving Webster and other programs into the new center. Staff said they will use community volunteers and student-athlete helpers to assist with moving and that they are coordinating norms and schedules for specials (music, PE) across buildings.

What happens next: staff will complete punch-list work, furniture installation and several training sessions before a planned public dedication in April.