A special partnership between Wilson Elementary and Central High School recently created unforgettable moments for students of all ages. First graders in Ms. Whitehead’s class at Wilson Elementary were invited to dream big as they designed and drew their ideal plushie, using their creativity and imagination to bring their ideas to paper.

Those drawings were then shared with students in Central High School’s crafts classes, led by Mr. Gorder and Ms. Clarke, who took on the exciting challenge of turning each child’s artwork into a handmade plush companion. Central students carefully studied the drawings, paying close attention to colors, shapes, and unique details to honor each first grader’s original vision.

The project was completed just before winter break, allowing Wilson students to head home with a one-of-a-kind plushie created especially for them—a meaningful keepsake and new companion to enjoy over the break. The collaboration not only sparked creativity and joy but also built connections between schools, giving younger students the excitement of seeing their ideas come to life and older students the opportunity to create with purpose.

The result was a room full of happy kiddos, proud high school creators, and a powerful reminder of how imagination, collaboration, and kindness can bring learning to life across grade levels.

Our schools use several assessments throughout the year to help teachers understand how students are learning and where they may need extra support.

For students in Kindergarten and 1st grade, we use the Acadience Reading and Math assessments. These short check-ins help teachers identify early reading and math skills and provide support right when students need it most.

For students in grades 2–8, we use MAP Growth, which adapts to each student’s learning level. This assessment shows how students are performing compared to others in the district and how much progress they are making over time. MAP results are reported using a median score, meaning half of the students scored above it and half scored below—it is not an average.

Both assessments are given three times a year (at the beginning, middle, and end of the year). This allows teachers to adjust instruction and better meet each student’s learning needs.

What We’re Seeing So Far

Kindergarten–1st Grade (Acadience)

Math: Student progress increased from 47% to 52.5%

Reading: Student progress increased from 41.5% to 49%

Grades 2–8 (MAP Growth)

Math: Achievement increased from 49% to 54%, with strong overall student growth

Reading: Achievement increased from 51% to 56%, with above-average growth

These results reflect the great work happening in our teachers' and students' classrooms, and our continued focus on meeting students where they are and helping them grow.

A student-led Thrift Club at Central High School is gaining attention for its creative and sustainable approach to fashion. Completely student-led, the club meets to share thrifting tips, explore upcycling ideas, organize clothing swaps, and sort donated items. Staff member Ms. Boehler simply offered her classroom as a meeting space and served as the adult in the room.

Last week, the club took things to the next level by hosting a pop-up “Thrift Store” in the hallways during lunch. Over three days, students were invited to choose up to two free items each day. The club collected more than 1,000 donated items and filled the halls with some seriously cool finds.

The Thrift Club is off to a strong start, and it’ll be fun to see how it continues to grow and evolve throughout the year.

Rapid City Area Schools is proud to recognize three outstanding high school seniors for their leadership and commitment to service. Each student will also be nominated for recognition at the Helpline Center Spirit of Volunteerism event this spring.

Stevens High School – Sakurako “Sako” Tinant
A compassionate leader involved in Youth City Council, peer tutoring, Sister City meetings, and community art initiatives, Sako also mentors younger students through her origami project in elementary schools.

Central High School – Kamryn Stauffacher
As Senior Class President, Kamryn leads school spirit efforts, advocates for students at board meetings, and stays active in athletics, honors organizations, and service planning for Senior Service Day.

Rapid City Alternative Academy – Brady Zander
Brady supports classmates and families through the school’s clothing closet and food pantry, while also lending a hand across campus with recycling, labs, and daily school operations.

These students exemplify service, leadership, and the positive impact young leaders can make in our schools and community.

February 6, 2026: Early Release 

February 13, 2026: No School For Elementary Students (Conference Day)

February 16, 2026: No School-President's Day 

School Counselors Week February 2–6, 2026: We recognize the incredible work of our school counselors, who guide students academically, plan for the future, and support social-emotional growth. Their guidance helps students build confidence, navigate challenges, and achieve success—making a lasting impact every day.

Career & Technical Education (CTE) Month: We celebrate CTE Month and the programs that prepare students for high-demand careers while strengthening our local workforce. Career and Technical Education connects classroom learning to real-world application, giving students the skills they need to succeed and our community the talent it needs to grow.

Get to know the people behind the programs that support our students every day. The Public School Podcast features real conversations with the staff, partners, and community members who make public education work.

🎧 Listen now: https://shows.acast.com/the-public-school-podc 

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Questions? Email the Communications Office at bobbi.schaefbauer@k12.sd.us