Rapid City Area Schools (RCAS) released its 2025‑26 South Dakota School Report Card, showing the district trails state averages in both academic proficiency and student attendance. The data highlights areas where the district is succeeding and where focused effort is needed.
Academic performance compared to state benchmarks
Only 43% of RCAS students met proficiency standards in English language arts, compared with a 50% statewide rate. In mathematics, the gap is wider: 35% of district students reached proficiency versus 45% across South Dakota.
Superintendent Dr. Jami Jo Thompson noted that while state assessments reveal challenges, other measures point to encouraging signs. Students in grades 2 through 8 scored at the 56th percentile nationally on the NWEA MAP assessment in spring 2026 for both math and reading. Additionally, kindergarten and first‑grade pupils performed above national benchmarks on the Acadience assessment.
College readiness and attendance
The district’s average ACT composite score for 11th‑graders was 20, just one point below the state average of 21. Attendance also lagged, with an 81% attendance rate versus the 88% statewide figure. Chronic absenteeism affected roughly 31% of RCAS students, defined as missing at least 10% of the school year, compared with a 20% chronic absenteeism rate for the state.
Thompson emphasized that consistent attendance is essential for student success. The district is updating its attendance policies to improve reporting, strengthen communication with families, and identify students who may need additional support.
Enrollment trends and facility planning
Overall district enrollment continues to decline, yet several schools are experiencing growth, especially as development expands on the east side of Rapid City. Rapid Valley and Valley View elementary schools reported notable increases, and other schools—including Corral Drive, General Beadle, Grandview, Pinedale, South Canyon, and South Middle—also saw enrollment gains.
District officials said enrollment projections, attendance‑boundary planning, and the facilities master plan will guide decisions about school buildings and resources as population patterns evolve.
Looking ahead
RCAS leaders intend to use the report card findings to shape future initiatives aimed at boosting academic performance, improving attendance, and adapting to shifting enrollment needs. By focusing on both state‑level metrics and national assessments, the district hopes to provide a clearer path forward for students and families.
Community members are encouraged to stay engaged with the district’s efforts, attend upcoming school board meetings, and support initiatives that promote stronger attendance and academic outcomes.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
