Once a Cobbler, Always a Cobbler!
Central High School, with the help of the Rapid City Public School Foundation, is proud to launch the Always a Cobbler Fund—and thanks to their amazing staff, it’s already permanently endowed!
They announced the fund at their all-staff meeting; the room was filled with Cobbler pride. And in just minutes, teachers, administrators, and staff raised over $10,000 on the spot to kick it off. 🙌
This fund will directly support our students, fueling programs, activities, and traditions that make being a Cobbler unforgettable. Our big goal? Raise $1 million to keep the Cobbler spirit strong for generations to come.
📬 Give by Check:
BHACF – “Always a Cobbler Fund”
243 Founders Park Drive, Ste. 102
Rapid City, SD 57701
💻 Give Online: https://bit.ly/alwaysacobbler
Cobbler pride doesn’t fade—it grows stronger. Let’s make history together! 💪
Central High School, with the help of the Rapid City Public School Foundation, is proud to launch the Always a Cobbler Fund—and thanks to their amazing staff, it’s already permanently endowed!
They announced the fund at their all-staff meeting; the room was filled with Cobbler pride. And in just minutes, teachers, administrators, and staff raised over $10,000 on the spot to kick it off. 🙌
This fund will directly support our students, fueling programs, activities, and traditions that make being a Cobbler unforgettable. Our big goal? Raise $1 million to keep the Cobbler spirit strong for generations to come.
📬 Give by Check:
BHACF – “Always a Cobbler Fund”
243 Founders Park Drive, Ste. 102
Rapid City, SD 57701
💻 Give Online: https://bit.ly/alwaysacobbler
Cobbler pride doesn’t fade—it grows stronger. Let’s make history together! 💪
District Opener – Building Closure Notice
On Monday, August 18, all Rapid City Area Schools buildings will be closed from 7:30 a.m. to approximately 10:30 a.m. for our annual District Opener event. This is a special tradition where all RCAS staff gather to celebrate the start of the new school year and align for success. We appreciate your understanding as we take this time to connect, inspire, and ring in the new year together.
On Monday, August 18, all Rapid City Area Schools buildings will be closed from 7:30 a.m. to approximately 10:30 a.m. for our annual District Opener event. This is a special tradition where all RCAS staff gather to celebrate the start of the new school year and align for success. We appreciate your understanding as we take this time to connect, inspire, and ring in the new year together.
The countdown is on! ✨
The first day of school for Rapid City Area Schools is Tuesday, August 19th! We can’t wait to welcome our students back for another year of learning, growth, and new adventures.
Let’s make this year one to remember—pack those backpacks, set those alarms, and get ready to see familiar faces and make new friends.
Here’s to an amazing 2025–2026 school year! 🎉
The first day of school for Rapid City Area Schools is Tuesday, August 19th! We can’t wait to welcome our students back for another year of learning, growth, and new adventures.
Let’s make this year one to remember—pack those backpacks, set those alarms, and get ready to see familiar faces and make new friends.
Here’s to an amazing 2025–2026 school year! 🎉
Board of Education Professional Development & Retreat
Last week, our Board of Education participated in professional development at the Associated School Boards of South Dakota (ASBSD) conference. Today, they continued their work with a Board Retreat alongside our District Leadership Team.
These opportunities allow our board and leadership to collaborate, learn, and plan together — all with the goal of serving our students, staff, and community even better.
Last week, our Board of Education participated in professional development at the Associated School Boards of South Dakota (ASBSD) conference. Today, they continued their work with a Board Retreat alongside our District Leadership Team.
These opportunities allow our board and leadership to collaborate, learn, and plan together — all with the goal of serving our students, staff, and community even better.
Sneak Peek Alert!
We’re excited to share an exclusive first look at the rendering for the upcoming update to Central High School’s library! This fresh new space is designed to inspire learning, creativity, and collaboration for Central students.
While the renovation won’t be complete by the first day of school, accommodations have been made to provide a temporary library space for students to use until the project is finished.
Stay tuned as we bring this vision to life!
We’re excited to share an exclusive first look at the rendering for the upcoming update to Central High School’s library! This fresh new space is designed to inspire learning, creativity, and collaboration for Central students.
While the renovation won’t be complete by the first day of school, accommodations have been made to provide a temporary library space for students to use until the project is finished.
Stay tuned as we bring this vision to life!
🌟 A Shout-Out to Our Behind-the-Scenes Heroes 🌟
This morning, at 7:30 AM, our incredible RCAS custodial team was hard at work, moving the Learning Center at Pinedale Elementary one piece at a time.
“One printer at a time, one oddly-shaped kidney table at a time, one large room divider at a time—they were working together seamlessly from room to room,” Principal Kamarainen said. “What had been a room packed full of boxes at 4:30 PM yesterday was completely emptied by 8:00 AM. I was in awe.”
Principal Kamarainen went on to say how much they appreciated the team’s quiet, humble attitude and incredible efficiency.
We couldn’t agree more. Thank you to our RCAS custodians for your dedication, hard work, and the countless ways you prepare our schools to welcome students back into their classrooms. Your efforts make a difference every single day—and today, you’re in the spotlight!
This morning, at 7:30 AM, our incredible RCAS custodial team was hard at work, moving the Learning Center at Pinedale Elementary one piece at a time.
“One printer at a time, one oddly-shaped kidney table at a time, one large room divider at a time—they were working together seamlessly from room to room,” Principal Kamarainen said. “What had been a room packed full of boxes at 4:30 PM yesterday was completely emptied by 8:00 AM. I was in awe.”
Principal Kamarainen went on to say how much they appreciated the team’s quiet, humble attitude and incredible efficiency.
We couldn’t agree more. Thank you to our RCAS custodians for your dedication, hard work, and the countless ways you prepare our schools to welcome students back into their classrooms. Your efforts make a difference every single day—and today, you’re in the spotlight!
We’re making important improvements to accessibility at Stevens High School! The ADA ramp located near the gym and theatre is currently undergoing renovation to ensure safer and smoother access for all students, staff, and visitors.
This project is part of our continued commitment to creating inclusive spaces for everyone.
This project is part of our continued commitment to creating inclusive spaces for everyone.
Color Change at Central!
A quick update on the Central High School Remodel Project: the blue ductwork has been painted red! This update not only brings a fresh new look to the space—it now matches Central’s school colors!
A quick update on the Central High School Remodel Project: the blue ductwork has been painted red! This update not only brings a fresh new look to the space—it now matches Central’s school colors!
Do you know an RCAS staff member who goes above and beyond? Whether it’s a teacher who inspires, a bus driver who brightens mornings, or a custodian who keeps things running smoothly—we want to hear about them!
Help us recognize the incredible people who make our schools great by submitting a shout-out through our Staff Celebration Form.
Let’s lift the everyday heroes across our district!
Fill out the form here: www.rcas.org/forms/lets-celebrate
RCAS will conduct a recount of its Area 6 Board of Education seat. The recount will take place at the Pennington County Auditor's Office today, July 17th, at 1:00 PM. The recount process is open to the public.
📣 Please join us in welcoming our new Director of Human Resources, Nicole "Nikki" Wojcik!
With nearly 30 years of HR experience in both the public and private sectors — including 19 years with the U.S. Forest Service — Nikki brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to Rapid City Area Schools. She holds both PHR and SPHR certifications from SHRM and has expertise in everything from employee relations to talent development and mediation.
Outside of work, Nikki loves spending time with her husband Mike, their two children, and their beloved dogs. She's also an avid horseback rider and nature enthusiast.
We are thrilled to welcome Nikki to the RCAS, where she will help strengthen our schools and support our mission of strengthening the community through education, communication, appreciation, and celebration.
With nearly 30 years of HR experience in both the public and private sectors — including 19 years with the U.S. Forest Service — Nikki brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to Rapid City Area Schools. She holds both PHR and SPHR certifications from SHRM and has expertise in everything from employee relations to talent development and mediation.
Outside of work, Nikki loves spending time with her husband Mike, their two children, and their beloved dogs. She's also an avid horseback rider and nature enthusiast.
We are thrilled to welcome Nikki to the RCAS, where she will help strengthen our schools and support our mission of strengthening the community through education, communication, appreciation, and celebration.
We're Hiring: Special Education Registered Nurse🩺
Join the Rapid City Area Schools team and make a meaningful impact on student health and learning! We’re looking for a dedicated, compassionate, and qualified School Nurse who is passionate about supporting the well-being of students so they can thrive in the classroom. As a school nurse, you’ll play a vital role in preventing illness, promoting health, and removing barriers to learning through screenings, education, and individualized care plans.
Apply here: https://www.rcas.org/o/rcas/page/careers
Questions? Email Sateera Thompsen at Sateera.Thompsen@k12.sd.us
💡 What You’ll Do:
-Provide direct health services and emergency care
-Collaborate with educators and families to create Individual Health Plans (IHPs) and Emergency Action Plans (EAPs)
-Conduct health screenings and promote wellness across the district
-Help students succeed by addressing health-related challenges that affect learning
💼 Position Benefits Include:
✔️ Medical & Dental Insurance (Wellmark BCBS & Delta Dental)
✔️ Life Insurance provided at no cost
✔️ Retirement Contributions through SDRS — 6% employer match
✔️ Wellness Incentives including screenings and flu shots
✔️ Employee Assistance Program for counseling, legal, and financial services
✔️ Optional coverages: short-term disability, critical illness, accident insurance, and more
✔️ Discounts to local gyms and wellness programs
If you're a licensed nurse looking to make a difference in the lives of students while enjoying a supportive and rewarding work environment, this is your opportunity! 🌟
📣 Help us welcome Pahaa to the team!
We’re excited to have him join us at RCAS. Please join us in giving a warm RCAS welcome as he takes on the Warehouse Manager position. Welcome aboard!
We’re excited to have him join us at RCAS. Please join us in giving a warm RCAS welcome as he takes on the Warehouse Manager position. Welcome aboard!
Stop by the Rapid City Area Schools booth during the Live on the Lawn event! We’ll be celebrating the power of public education with free swag items (while supplies last), “I ❤️ My Public School” t-shirts, and great conversations about what makes our schools special.
Bring your family, enjoy the music, and show your support for our amazing students, teachers, and staff. We can’t wait to see you there!
Bring your family, enjoy the music, and show your support for our amazing students, teachers, and staff. We can’t wait to see you there!
Welcome Officer Dean Scane to North Middle School!
We’re excited to welcome Officer Dean Scane as our new School Resource Officer (SRO) at North Middle School!
Officer Scane has served with the Rapid City Police Department for over five years, bringing a strong, community-focused approach to his work. After three years on patrol and two years with the Community Engagement Team, he now assumes his new role, serving the youth of North Middle School.
His passion for working with students and creating safe, supportive school environments makes him a perfect fit for North. Officer Scane holds an associate degree in Law Enforcement and also serves on the department’s Constitutional Law Cadre and Crisis Intervention Team Cadre.
We’re grateful to have his experience and heart for service on campus. Welcome, Officer Scane!
We’re excited to welcome Officer Dean Scane as our new School Resource Officer (SRO) at North Middle School!
Officer Scane has served with the Rapid City Police Department for over five years, bringing a strong, community-focused approach to his work. After three years on patrol and two years with the Community Engagement Team, he now assumes his new role, serving the youth of North Middle School.
His passion for working with students and creating safe, supportive school environments makes him a perfect fit for North. Officer Scane holds an associate degree in Law Enforcement and also serves on the department’s Constitutional Law Cadre and Crisis Intervention Team Cadre.
We’re grateful to have his experience and heart for service on campus. Welcome, Officer Scane!
Goodbye, Green Carpet!
Big things are happening at Central High School this summer! The Central High School Remodel Project is underway, with exciting improvements being implemented across the building.
Here’s what’s included:
✅ Library Remodel – A full refresh with a new design, updated flooring, and brand-new furniture, furnishings, and equipment. (Furnishings will be added later this fall.)
✅ C & D PODs – Home to Social Studies, Language Arts, and Math classrooms, these areas are getting new flooring (goodbye orange carpet!) and a fresh coat of paint in hallways and classrooms.
✅ Choir Room – Removal of the old acoustic curtains and installation of sleek new acoustic wall panels, plus a fresh paint job to brighten the space.
Even better? The project engineer is a proud Central High School alum—bringing this transformation full circle!
We’ll be sharing photos and more updates soon. Stay tuned!
New RCAS Superintendent Jami Jo Thompson took time last Thursday to join Construction & Planning Manager Jade Clement for a facilities tour across the district.
They visited several schools to get a firsthand look at our buildings—what’s working well and what needs to be upgraded—to ensure every learning space supports student success.
Welcome aboard, Superintendent Thompson—we're glad to have you on the team!
They visited several schools to get a firsthand look at our buildings—what’s working well and what needs to be upgraded—to ensure every learning space supports student success.
Welcome aboard, Superintendent Thompson—we're glad to have you on the team!
📸 Before & After at Meadowbrook Elementary!
The Meadowbrook Elementary Drainage Improvements project is nearing completion. This photo, taken by the project engineer, shows progress on the southwest side of the building.
The project includes the installation of a new subdrainage system to capture both overland and underground water flow, directing it to the existing storm sewer system.
Additional drainage improvements are planned for the east side of the building, but that portion of the work is not yet complete.
Thank You & Congratulations – RCAS Board of Education Member Updates
We want to extend a big thank you to Michael Birkeland for his service on the RCAS Board of Education, representing Area 3. We appreciate the time and dedication he gave to our students, staff, and community.
We’re also happy to welcome back Jamie Clapham, who was re-elected to serve Area 6. And a warm welcome to Angela Rafferty, who was elected to represent Area 3.
Thank you all for your commitment to public education and helping support the success of our schools! Election of Officers President: Troy Carr 1st Vice President: Jamie Clapham 2nd Vice President: Katie Urban
We want to extend a big thank you to Michael Birkeland for his service on the RCAS Board of Education, representing Area 3. We appreciate the time and dedication he gave to our students, staff, and community.
We’re also happy to welcome back Jamie Clapham, who was re-elected to serve Area 6. And a warm welcome to Angela Rafferty, who was elected to represent Area 3.
Thank you all for your commitment to public education and helping support the success of our schools! Election of Officers President: Troy Carr 1st Vice President: Jamie Clapham 2nd Vice President: Katie Urban
RCAS will reschedule the recount of its June 3rd Area 6 Board of Education seat. The recount, originally planned for June 19 at 11 a.m. MT at the Pennington County Auditor’s Office, will be postponed. We will share the new date and time as soon as it is confirmed.
