On February 12, 2026, South Dakota gubernatorial candidate Jane Smith hosted a virtual town hall meeting to discuss her plans for education reform in the state. The event was attended by over 200 residents, including teachers, parents, and community members.During the town hall, Smith outlined her vision for improving South Dakota's education system, which has been a key issue in the upcoming gubernatorial election. She emphasized the need for increased funding for schools, higher teacher salaries, and expanded access to early childhood education programs.Smith also spoke about the importance of addressing the achievement gap between students in rural and urban areas, as well as providing more resources and support for students with disabilities. She stressed the need for a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to education policy in order to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed.In addition to education reform, Smith also touched on other key issues facing South Dakota, including healthcare, economic development, and environmental conservation. She outlined her plans for expanding access to healthcare services, promoting job growth, and protecting the state's natural resources.The town hall event was well-received by attendees, who praised Smith for her detailed policy proposals and commitment to making a positive impact in South Dakota. Many expressed their support for her candidacy and willingness to volunteer for her campaign.As the gubernatorial race heats up, Smith's focus on education reform is likely to resonate with South Dakota voters, who have long been concerned about the state's struggling schools. With the election just months away, candidates are continuing to ramp up their campaign efforts in a bid to win over undecided voters and secure their place in office. Voters can expect to see more town hall events, debates, and campaign rallies in the coming weeks as the race for governor of South Dakota intensifies.