Douglas School District is excited to welcome Sarah Howard as our new Federal Grant Administrator and Grant Writer and Leo Montero as our new Financial Operations & Compliance Coordinator. Both positions are funded through recent grant awards to support the construction of a new elementary school and the design of upcoming building projects at other locations.
Howard brings years of experience in program management, grant oversight, budgeting, and community partnerships. Most recently, she served as Director of Rapid City Programs for Volunteers of America Northern Rockies, overseeing community programs across Western South Dakota with budgets exceeding $2 million. Her work included managing grant requirements and reporting for HUD and other grant programs. In previous roles, she helped expand family support services and build community partnerships.
Montero brings more than four years of experience in budget analysis, financial management, and compliance. He has served in financial operations locally and with the U.S. Air Force at Ellsworth Air Force Base. There, he managed travel-related financial processes across 20 organizational units, reviewed approximately $20 million in annual reimbursement transactions, and strengthened financial controls.
“Receiving these grants is a major step toward building a new elementary school for our growing district,” said Superintendent Kevin Case. “Sarah and Leo bring valuable experience that will help us manage these funds responsibly, meet grant requirements, and make the most of these opportunities for our students, staff, and community.”
Howard and Montero will work together to manage the district’s current grants, track spending, meet reporting requirements, and support current and future funding opportunities that benefit Douglas School District.
Please join us in welcoming Sarah Howard and Leo Montero to the Douglas School District team!
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For additional information, please contact Alexa White, DSD Communications Coordinator, [email protected]