Our kids. Our future.
The invaluable impact of the Sioux Falls School District
Public education is the cornerstone of a thriving community, acting as an economic engine and an anchor for social prosperity. Our community has helped make the Sioux Falls School District a premier example of educating and preparing all students to succeed in a changing world.
You can easily point to the 547 Regent Scholars, more than 3,200 college courses taken in high school, 3,577 AP exams taken with a pass rate that exceeds the national average by more than 7%, 598 Presidential Education Award winners, 1,151 high school credits taken by middle school students, 248 Global Seal of Biliteracy-recognized students and the list goes on. I could fill the entire article with the accolades. However, highlighting our academic excellence is one thing; showing what we do for all kids is what truly matters.
With more than 3,000 immigrant students learning English and more than 4,000 students receiving special education services, we must focus on all of our more than 24,000 students. Our four-year graduation rate is 88%, and our completion rate is above 90%. These numbers are important because we know an educated workforce is critical to sustaining this incredible city we call home.
In addition to our traditional high schools, our Career and Technical Education Academy prepares students by giving them hands-on experiences in high-demand career clusters such as aviation, health care services, culinary arts, robotics, engineering, homebuilding, automotive maintenance and welding, along with many additional pathways, including our new large animal program. This programming gives students opportunities to earn dual high school and postsecondary credits, helping the district add skilled, career-ready talent to the local workforce.
Our before- and after-school programs, Community Learning Centers, provide vital out-of-school-time academic enrichment, tutoring, mentoring and engagement to produce well-rounded citizens. This programming and its outcomes would not be possible without collaboration among community service organizations, community donors and the Sioux Falls School District. Our specialized programs, such as Spanish immersion, arts+, parent involvement schools, project-based learning, honors and others too numerous to mention, allow us to provide what is needed and desired for each student to succeed in a changing world.
Every dollar and volunteer hour directed toward public education is a direct investment in the infrastructure of Sioux Falls and the surrounding communities. Research consistently shows that higher graduation rates correlate with lower unemployment, stronger civic participation and a more robust local tax base supported by a strong workforce.
A true metric of the district’s success can be found in our bustling local businesses, dedicated health care facilities and welcoming neighborhoods, all of which are powered by graduates of our public schools. Our students truly hold the key to tomorrow.
By collectively rising to the call of “Our Kids. Our Future,” we are not just funding classrooms; we are securing a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow for our entire community.
Dr. Jamie Nold is superintendent of the Sioux Falls School District, serving students, families and staff across the district.