(KXLG – Watertown, SD) The Watertown School Board convened for a special meeting to enter into Executive Session for a non-public meeting to discuss a personnel matter. After approximately 23 minutes of discussion, the School Board returned to the special meeting to approve accepting Jordan Bakken’s resignation and imposing a $3,000 contract penalty.
With five votes, the School Board voted unanimously to accept, and the meeting adjourned.
Watertown Superintendent Dr. Jeff Danielsen reported to parents on Friday morning that earlier in the week, the School District had been made aware of one of the high school staff members involved in an investigation with the South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation regarding an inappropriate relationship with a student.
Dr. Danielsen has not officially confirmed the staff member’s name.
However, on Thursday, January 25, 2024, Jordan Bakken, 32, of Watertown and a high school English teacher with the Watertown School District, was arrested on charges of 4th-degree rape of a victim under the age of 16 and older than 13, solicitation of a minor, and sexual contact with a child under the age of 18 by a person in authority.
According to court records, a bond hearing was scheduled for 1:15 p.m. today (January 29) with no results posted. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 12, 2024, at 1:30 p.m.
Stay tuned to KXLG News as the case continues to be processed.
