Matt Trevett Appointed to Open Seat on Milbank School Board

Matt Trevett was appointed to the open seat on the Milbank School District Board of Education on Monday, January 12. The decision was made in executive session (closed meeting) after the regular school board meeting concluded. Executive sessions per South Dakota law are entered to discuss confidential matters such as personnel, student issues, issues of legal strategy, etc. Official action resulting from the executive session is taken later during an open meeting. 

Trevett replaces former board member Jeremy Steffensen who resigned effective January 1, after accepting the appointment of Grant County Sheriff. Trevett was the lone applicant for the position.

Trevett says he brings a common-sense approach and a strong focus on doing what’s best for students, families, and staff to the board.  “I believe in listening and making decisions based on facts, community input, and what makes sense for the long term. I value transparency, being responsible with taxpayer dollars, and supporting teachers and staff so they can do their jobs well.”

He  believes the biggest issues confronting our local schools right now are related to staffing and budgets. “Like many districts,” Trevett says, “our schools are dealing with staffing and retention challenges and budget pressures. Making sure we’re using our resources wisely while still providing a strong education is important. I also think communication and trust between the school district and the community matters a lot.”

Trevett was born and raised in Milbank. He attended and graduated from Milbank schools. He and his wife Ashley have three children together. They also are guardians of the late Tyler and Miranda Koepke’s three daughters—two live with the Trevetts full time, and one attends LifeScape in Sioux Falls.

Trevett is employed at Valley Dairy Supply. He has also served in the South Dakota National Guard  –  the 740th Transportation Company based in Milbank – for the past 19 years. He says, “Between my family life and my military service, I’ve learned the importance of responsibility, teamwork, and giving back to the community.”

Trevett will fulfill Steffensen’s board term that ends June 30. The position then goes up for election. The circulation of petitions can begin on February 2. Trevett will take his oath of office at the Milbank School District Board of Education meeting scheduled for February 10.

Submitted Photo: Matt & Ashley Trevett