Rapid City Area Schools

RCAS Community Update: Community Survey Results

Over 5,500 community members shared their feedback in the Community Survey. The results highlight facility needs, funding priorities, and how RCAS is performing, helping guide future decisions.

Survey Snapshot:

  • Survey closed: August 20, 2025

    • School Perceptions is still receiving surveys, so a final set of data will be available in September

  • Respondents: 5,523

  • Response Rate: 12.1%

  • Margin of Error: ±1.35%

  • 96% of respondents live within RCAS boundaries

What We Heard About Facilities:

RCAS is exploring a $125 million bond referendum to update and improve school facilities. Support levels vary by group:

  • Staff Residents: 72% support

  • Parent Residents: 72% support

  • Non-Parents/Non-Staff Residents: 52% support

Weighted support overall: 58%

Top Priorities Identified

  • Safety & security upgrades

  • HVAC improvements

  • A new elementary school to replace Robbinsdale (due to structural issues)

  • Renovations at South Park and Stevens High School

Biggest Concerns

  • Cost and tax impact

How the Community Rates RCAS:

On a scale of 1 (poor) to 4 (great):

  • Delivering a high-quality education: 2.49 (53% “Great/Good”)

  • Keeping the public informed: 2.38 (47% “Great/Good”)

  • Managing funds appropriately: 2.11 (36% “Great/Good”)

  • Building pride in the community: 2.27 (40% “Great/Good”)

Net Promoter Score (likelihood to recommend RCAS): 5.45/10

What We Learned:

  • Community members see a need for improved school facilities.

  • Support exists to take a bond referendum to the ballot.

  • Cost and tax impact will remain important considerations.

  • Stronger communication and community connection are needed moving forward.

Next Steps:

RCAS leadership will continue to engage with the community and provide transparent updates. Thank you for participating in the conversation as we plan for the future of education in Rapid City.

Watch the full Board of Education Study Session here: Watch the Study Session

The School Perceptions presentation starts at 35 minutes into the meeting.