STATE FFA CONVENTION
State Degree Awarded
Tucker Hughes, Atlee Olson, Jazlyn Olson, Andy Pruitt, Kate Williamson
District 5 Greenhand - Kate Blair!
Agriscience
Charliegh Silvernagel - Environmental Systems Division 3 - Second Place
Brahnson Brink - Power Systems Division 3 - 1st Place (National Qualifier)
Kasey Dobesh - Plant Systems Division 3 - 1st Place (National Qualifier)
Aalyiah Lennon - Social Systems Division 3 - 1st Place (National Qualifier)
Atlee Olson - Animal Science Division 5 - 1st Place (National Qualifier)
Proficiencies
Atlee Olson - Agriscience Animal Systems 2nd Place
Atlee Olson - Vet Science Placement 1st Place (National Qualifer)
STAR in Agriscience
Atlee Olson - 1st Place (National Qualifier)
Jim Chilson Agriscience Overall Project - Atlee Olson
CDE (Career Development Results)
Ag Business Management: Kasey Dobesh 16th
Agronomy: Team 6th - Clay Mackaben 14th, Justus Marshall 15th, Tucker Hughes 19th
Food Science: Team 4th - Kate Williamson 8th, Raif Parmeter 10th, Joseph McLennan 14th
Horse Evaluation: Team 4th - McKenzie Rans 10th
Natural Resources: Team 4th - Kale Williams 4th, Alexa Stone 14th
Vet Science: Atlee Olson 10th
OUR New FFA State Sentinel!!!! Andy Pruitt!!!
Congratulations to all the Broncs in Blue!!
State Degree Awarded
Tucker Hughes, Atlee Olson, Jazlyn Olson, Andy Pruitt, Kate Williamson
District 5 Greenhand - Kate Blair!
Agriscience
Charliegh Silvernagel - Environmental Systems Division 3 - Second Place
Brahnson Brink - Power Systems Division 3 - 1st Place (National Qualifier)
Kasey Dobesh - Plant Systems Division 3 - 1st Place (National Qualifier)
Aalyiah Lennon - Social Systems Division 3 - 1st Place (National Qualifier)
Atlee Olson - Animal Science Division 5 - 1st Place (National Qualifier)
Proficiencies
Atlee Olson - Agriscience Animal Systems 2nd Place
Atlee Olson - Vet Science Placement 1st Place (National Qualifer)
STAR in Agriscience
Atlee Olson - 1st Place (National Qualifier)
Jim Chilson Agriscience Overall Project - Atlee Olson
CDE (Career Development Results)
Ag Business Management: Kasey Dobesh 16th
Agronomy: Team 6th - Clay Mackaben 14th, Justus Marshall 15th, Tucker Hughes 19th
Food Science: Team 4th - Kate Williamson 8th, Raif Parmeter 10th, Joseph McLennan 14th
Horse Evaluation: Team 4th - McKenzie Rans 10th
Natural Resources: Team 4th - Kale Williams 4th, Alexa Stone 14th
Vet Science: Atlee Olson 10th
OUR New FFA State Sentinel!!!! Andy Pruitt!!!
Congratulations to all the Broncs in Blue!!
Superintendent’s Corner – Finishing Strong Together
As we move deeper into spring, there is a great deal of positive energy flowing through the Belle Fourche School District. Our buildings are truly buzzing with activity, and it is one of those times of year when you can feel the momentum of a strong school community.
State testing is officially underway across our district. This is an important time for our students and staff, as it provides an opportunity to demonstrate the growth and learning that has taken place throughout the year. We are proud of the effort our students continue to show, and we encourage them to stay focused and give their best each day.
Outside the classroom, spring activities are in full swing, and our Broncs are representing Belle Fourche with pride in every arena. From the field to the stage, our students continue to shine. Our athletic teams are competing hard, while our band and choir programs have been outstanding showcasing the talent, dedication, and countless hours of preparation that often go unseen. In addition, our students involved in plays, performances, FFA, and other extracurricular activities continue to make us proud. These experiences are a vital part of what makes our school district special.
We also recently celebrated a wonderful prom, an evening filled with excitement, memories, and Broncs pride. Events like these remind us how important the full school experience is for our students and the lasting memories created along the way.
Looking ahead, summer will be a very busy time for our district. We have several important upgrades planned for both the high school and middle school buildings. These improvements are part of our continued commitment to providing safe, modern, and high-quality learning environments for our students and staff. Our buildings and grounds team is already hard at work preparing for a productive summer season.
We also want to share an important transition within our district leadership. After an incredible 37-year career, our business manager will be stepping away from her role. Her dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to Belle Fourche have left a lasting impact. She truly “bleeds purple,” and we are deeply grateful for everything she has given to this district over nearly four decades. While it is difficult to see her go, we are excited to welcome a new business manager next year and look forward to the continued strength of our team.
At the same time, we are beginning to look ahead to the future by welcoming our youngest learners. Kindergarten enrollment for the upcoming school year is underway, and it has been a joy to see the bright eyes, energy, and excitement of our incoming students. These moments serve as a powerful reminder of why we do this work each day.
As we enter the final stretch of the school year, I want to emphasize the importance of finishing strong. Attendance matters every day. Being present, engaged, and committed is not just about school; it is practice for the real world. The habits our students build now showing up, being prepared, and giving consistent effort will carry forward into their futures.
Finally, I want to speak directly to the importance of partnership. Our teachers, coaches, advisors, and staff work incredibly hard to support our students, and they need the support of families and the community. We must be on the same team. When we stand together supporting one another, reinforcing expectations, and focusing on what is best for kids we create the strongest possible environment for success.
Let’s continue to move forward together. Let’s support our students, our staff, and one another. And most importantly, let’s get back to “bleeding purple” as one unified Belle Fourche community.
Finish strong, Broncs.
Dr. Orion Thompson
Superintendent of Schools
Belle Fourche School District 9-1
2305 13th Avenue, Belle Fourche, SD 57717
605-723-3355 ext. 1
As we move deeper into spring, there is a great deal of positive energy flowing through the Belle Fourche School District. Our buildings are truly buzzing with activity, and it is one of those times of year when you can feel the momentum of a strong school community.
State testing is officially underway across our district. This is an important time for our students and staff, as it provides an opportunity to demonstrate the growth and learning that has taken place throughout the year. We are proud of the effort our students continue to show, and we encourage them to stay focused and give their best each day.
Outside the classroom, spring activities are in full swing, and our Broncs are representing Belle Fourche with pride in every arena. From the field to the stage, our students continue to shine. Our athletic teams are competing hard, while our band and choir programs have been outstanding showcasing the talent, dedication, and countless hours of preparation that often go unseen. In addition, our students involved in plays, performances, FFA, and other extracurricular activities continue to make us proud. These experiences are a vital part of what makes our school district special.
We also recently celebrated a wonderful prom, an evening filled with excitement, memories, and Broncs pride. Events like these remind us how important the full school experience is for our students and the lasting memories created along the way.
Looking ahead, summer will be a very busy time for our district. We have several important upgrades planned for both the high school and middle school buildings. These improvements are part of our continued commitment to providing safe, modern, and high-quality learning environments for our students and staff. Our buildings and grounds team is already hard at work preparing for a productive summer season.
We also want to share an important transition within our district leadership. After an incredible 37-year career, our business manager will be stepping away from her role. Her dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to Belle Fourche have left a lasting impact. She truly “bleeds purple,” and we are deeply grateful for everything she has given to this district over nearly four decades. While it is difficult to see her go, we are excited to welcome a new business manager next year and look forward to the continued strength of our team.
At the same time, we are beginning to look ahead to the future by welcoming our youngest learners. Kindergarten enrollment for the upcoming school year is underway, and it has been a joy to see the bright eyes, energy, and excitement of our incoming students. These moments serve as a powerful reminder of why we do this work each day.
As we enter the final stretch of the school year, I want to emphasize the importance of finishing strong. Attendance matters every day. Being present, engaged, and committed is not just about school; it is practice for the real world. The habits our students build now showing up, being prepared, and giving consistent effort will carry forward into their futures.
Finally, I want to speak directly to the importance of partnership. Our teachers, coaches, advisors, and staff work incredibly hard to support our students, and they need the support of families and the community. We must be on the same team. When we stand together supporting one another, reinforcing expectations, and focusing on what is best for kids we create the strongest possible environment for success.
Let’s continue to move forward together. Let’s support our students, our staff, and one another. And most importantly, let’s get back to “bleeding purple” as one unified Belle Fourche community.
Finish strong, Broncs.
Dr. Orion Thompson
Superintendent of Schools
Belle Fourche School District 9-1
2305 13th Avenue, Belle Fourche, SD 57717
605-723-3355 ext. 1
Belle Fourche Heavy Equipment Students Dig Into Real-World Experience
By Austin Bishop, Ag Education Educator and FFA Advisor; CTE Director
On Thursday, March 26th the Belle Fourche High School Heavy Equipment Operation (HEO) second semester students were able to showcase their heavy equipment operation skills on an actual worksite. Our industry partnerships with local companies Site Works Specialist and Scull Construction Service provided the opportunity for our second annual worksite field day.
Students enrolled in the HEO class work through industry theory and machinery operation in a controlled environment, operating equipment simulators in the classroom. Equipment highlighted in the class includes an excavator, forklift, skid steer, wheel loader, and bulldozer. Students advance through the course work based on industry standard performance indicators. These advancements are then demonstrated by their proficient use of the actual equipment. Belle Fourche High School educator Jim Hartwell explains, “This is an integrated part of the course curriculum. Hands-on experiences, like these, allow our students opportunity to take classroom fundamental skills and put them to action.”
Steven Uttecht, a Senior Site Superintendent for Scull Construction Service states: “Scull Construction and Site Works Specialists appreciate the opportunity to spend time with the area students. The time we get to spend with the future young minds of our industries through the strategic partnership with the Belle Fourche School District and their CTE program is invaluable to us. Community investment is one of the cornerstones of our companies and we look forward to these opportunities to give back and possibly create some interest in construction with the students along the way. “
The Belle Fourche School District Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, remain committed to embedding real-world experiences into its curriculum—closing the gap between classroom learning and industry, one piece of heavy equipment at a time.
By Austin Bishop, Ag Education Educator and FFA Advisor; CTE Director
On Thursday, March 26th the Belle Fourche High School Heavy Equipment Operation (HEO) second semester students were able to showcase their heavy equipment operation skills on an actual worksite. Our industry partnerships with local companies Site Works Specialist and Scull Construction Service provided the opportunity for our second annual worksite field day.
Students enrolled in the HEO class work through industry theory and machinery operation in a controlled environment, operating equipment simulators in the classroom. Equipment highlighted in the class includes an excavator, forklift, skid steer, wheel loader, and bulldozer. Students advance through the course work based on industry standard performance indicators. These advancements are then demonstrated by their proficient use of the actual equipment. Belle Fourche High School educator Jim Hartwell explains, “This is an integrated part of the course curriculum. Hands-on experiences, like these, allow our students opportunity to take classroom fundamental skills and put them to action.”
Steven Uttecht, a Senior Site Superintendent for Scull Construction Service states: “Scull Construction and Site Works Specialists appreciate the opportunity to spend time with the area students. The time we get to spend with the future young minds of our industries through the strategic partnership with the Belle Fourche School District and their CTE program is invaluable to us. Community investment is one of the cornerstones of our companies and we look forward to these opportunities to give back and possibly create some interest in construction with the students along the way. “
The Belle Fourche School District Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, remain committed to embedding real-world experiences into its curriculum—closing the gap between classroom learning and industry, one piece of heavy equipment at a time.
Congratulations to Mr. Kevin Smidt on being selected as the SDASSP Region 7 Middle School Principal of the Year for the 2026–27 school year!
This honor recognizes his outstanding dedication to his School District and his meaningful contributions to the regional principal association. Mr. Smidt will be formally recognized by SDASSP at a banquet during the South Dakota Principals Conference in Deadwood this June.
As the regional award recipient, Mr. Smidt is now eligible to apply for the South Dakota Middle School Principal of the Year, which will be awarded in September 2026.
SDASSP association extends its sincere thanks to our District for continued support of Mr. Smidt and all the exceptional leaders across our School District.
CONGRATULATIONS TO MR. SMIDT!
This honor recognizes his outstanding dedication to his School District and his meaningful contributions to the regional principal association. Mr. Smidt will be formally recognized by SDASSP at a banquet during the South Dakota Principals Conference in Deadwood this June.
As the regional award recipient, Mr. Smidt is now eligible to apply for the South Dakota Middle School Principal of the Year, which will be awarded in September 2026.
SDASSP association extends its sincere thanks to our District for continued support of Mr. Smidt and all the exceptional leaders across our School District.
CONGRATULATIONS TO MR. SMIDT!
The BFHS Student Council were represented at the South Dakota State Student Council Convention held March 31 and April 1 in Rapid City and attended the Annual Award's Banquet. Congratulations!
Graduation is on May 16th, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Lou Graslie Field, weather permitting.
The Early Learner Belle Fourche committee invites parents with children ages 3–5 to take their preschool survey! Your input will help them better understand the needs of families in the community and improve early learning opportunities.
March 13, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For information—Contact:
Jack Caudill—605-394-7777 ext. 152
BELLE FOURCHE SENIOR IS SECOND RISING STAR OF THE WEST FINALIST
Belle Fourche High School senior Alexis Pickett is the third finalist in KOTA Territory’s Rising Star of the West Scholarship contest. Pickett competed with three other outstanding Black Hills high school students the week of March 2nd on KOTA Territory News on FOX at 6 & 9.
Pickett’s commentary on 911 dispatchers was rated the best of the week by both viewers on www.kotatv.com and a KOTA Territory panel of judges.
She will now be back on the air in late April and May, competing with the other three finalists for a total of $7,500 in scholarship money from Black Hills FOX and Monument Health. The winner will receive a $4,000 scholarship.
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Congratulations to Alexis! We are proud of you!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For information—Contact:
Jack Caudill—605-394-7777 ext. 152
BELLE FOURCHE SENIOR IS SECOND RISING STAR OF THE WEST FINALIST
Belle Fourche High School senior Alexis Pickett is the third finalist in KOTA Territory’s Rising Star of the West Scholarship contest. Pickett competed with three other outstanding Black Hills high school students the week of March 2nd on KOTA Territory News on FOX at 6 & 9.
Pickett’s commentary on 911 dispatchers was rated the best of the week by both viewers on www.kotatv.com and a KOTA Territory panel of judges.
She will now be back on the air in late April and May, competing with the other three finalists for a total of $7,500 in scholarship money from Black Hills FOX and Monument Health. The winner will receive a $4,000 scholarship.
----------------------------------------------
Congratulations to Alexis! We are proud of you!
Superintendent’s Corner
During our most recent School Board meeting, members had the opportunity to enjoy lunch hosted by Lunchtime Solutions and sample the same meals many of our students enjoy each day. It was a great reminder of the work that goes into ensuring students have access to quality meals during the school day.
We also heard from our FFA students as they shared their experiences from the National FFA Convention. It is always impressive to see our students represent Belle Fourche with such professionalism and pride. The Board also welcomed the Belle Fourche Economic Development Director, who spoke about the continued growth and positive momentum in our community. One topic discussed was the concept of data centers and the importance of making sure that if conversations ever move in that direction locally, they are guided by accurate information and facts so the community can make informed decisions.
As we look ahead, our Buildings and Grounds Director and his team are already preparing for the summer months. Planning is underway for facility upgrades, maintenance work, and the annual cleaning and beautification projects that take place across the District.
This time of year, also brings the late-winter grind. The colder months can wear on everyone, but we are beginning to see spring on the horizon. I would like to congratulate our winter sports teams and individual athletes on their seasons. You represented Belle Fourche with pride and determination. Spring sports are already beginning even if the weather hasn’t quite agreed yet and we look forward to cheering on our Broncs.
Activities across the District continue at a fast pace with competitions, performances, and events taking place regularly. It truly is a great time to be a Bronc.
State testing season is also upon us, and families can support students by encouraging good sleep habits and making sure students start the day with balanced meals that help fuel their learning.
Finally, regular school attendance continues to be one of the most important factors in student success. Research shows that students who attend school consistently are far more likely to stay on track academically and graduate. Even missing just two days a month can put students at risk of falling behind. When students are present each day, they benefit not only from academic learning but also from the social connections and life skills that come from being part of a school community.
Everyday matters, and we appreciate the continued support of our families and community in helping Belle Fourche students succeed.
It’s a Great Day to Be Bronc!
R. Orion Thompson, Ed.S
Superintendent of Schools
Belle Fourche School District 9-1
2305 13th Avenue, Belle Fourche, SD 57717
605-723-3355 ext. 1
During our most recent School Board meeting, members had the opportunity to enjoy lunch hosted by Lunchtime Solutions and sample the same meals many of our students enjoy each day. It was a great reminder of the work that goes into ensuring students have access to quality meals during the school day.
We also heard from our FFA students as they shared their experiences from the National FFA Convention. It is always impressive to see our students represent Belle Fourche with such professionalism and pride. The Board also welcomed the Belle Fourche Economic Development Director, who spoke about the continued growth and positive momentum in our community. One topic discussed was the concept of data centers and the importance of making sure that if conversations ever move in that direction locally, they are guided by accurate information and facts so the community can make informed decisions.
As we look ahead, our Buildings and Grounds Director and his team are already preparing for the summer months. Planning is underway for facility upgrades, maintenance work, and the annual cleaning and beautification projects that take place across the District.
This time of year, also brings the late-winter grind. The colder months can wear on everyone, but we are beginning to see spring on the horizon. I would like to congratulate our winter sports teams and individual athletes on their seasons. You represented Belle Fourche with pride and determination. Spring sports are already beginning even if the weather hasn’t quite agreed yet and we look forward to cheering on our Broncs.
Activities across the District continue at a fast pace with competitions, performances, and events taking place regularly. It truly is a great time to be a Bronc.
State testing season is also upon us, and families can support students by encouraging good sleep habits and making sure students start the day with balanced meals that help fuel their learning.
Finally, regular school attendance continues to be one of the most important factors in student success. Research shows that students who attend school consistently are far more likely to stay on track academically and graduate. Even missing just two days a month can put students at risk of falling behind. When students are present each day, they benefit not only from academic learning but also from the social connections and life skills that come from being part of a school community.
Everyday matters, and we appreciate the continued support of our families and community in helping Belle Fourche students succeed.
It’s a Great Day to Be Bronc!
R. Orion Thompson, Ed.S
Superintendent of Schools
Belle Fourche School District 9-1
2305 13th Avenue, Belle Fourche, SD 57717
605-723-3355 ext. 1
Nominate an Outstanding Belle Fourche School District Teacher or Staff Member!
Do you know a teacher or school employee who goes above and beyond to make a difference?
Nominations are now open for the Distinguished Teacher and Employee of the Year awards! This is your chance to recognize those who inspire students, support their colleagues, and contribute to the success of our schools. Any student, parent, staff member, or community member can submit a nomination. You may submit as many nominations as you like. To nominate, you can visit the link below or QR Code below and submit your nominations by March 20, 2026.
Let’s celebrate the dedication and excellence of our Belle Fourche School District teachers and staff!
Link to Nominate Distinguished Teacher of the Year:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KMNQNGY
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Link to Nominate Employee of the Year:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/32TBB6S
For immediate release
Contact: Jack Caudill 394-7777 ext. 152
February 25, 2026
BELLE FOURCHE SENIOR TO BE FEATURED IN RISING STAR OF THE WEST CONTEST
Belle Fourche High School senior Alexis Pickett will be featured as part of KOTA Territory News’ Rising Star of the West scholarship contest Wednesday March 4th on KOTA Territory News on FOX at 6:00 and 9:00. Pickett qualified for the contest by submitting a short video of herself to KOTA Territory News.
Pickett is one of the semi-finalists who will be seen through March 13th. Her one minute commentary will be aired and then placed on kotatv.com for viewers to watch and rate. One competitor from each week will then advance to the final round in May. The winner from that group will receive a $4,000 college scholarship, with a total of $7,500 in scholarship money awarded from KEVN Black Hills FOX and Monument Health.
The 2007 Rising Star of the West winner was Shad Christman from Lemmon High School. Kaitlyn Hemmingson from Spearfish High School was the 2008 winner. Annelise Ewing of Spearfish High School won the 2009 competition. Caila Brennan of St. Thomas More was the 2010 winner. Janesa Bakeberg of Spearfish High School won in 2011. Jordon Barthel of Lead-Deadwood High School was the 2012 winner. Rae McKee of Nemo won in 2013, with Gavin Brucklacher of Philip High School winning in 2014, Noah Storm of Stevens took home the title in 2015, Aubrey Cope of St. Thomas More was the Rising Star of the West winner in 2016 with homeschool senior Emma Smith in 2017, Douglas High School senior Ireland Larsen in 2018 and Stevens senior Jessica Benson was the winner in 2019. Douglas High School senior Melissa Rothe won the 2020 competition and Katherine Kvale from Bison High School won the contest in 2021, Sierra Hilgenkamp of Wall High School winning in 2022, Amanda Rothe from Douglas was the 2023 winner, with Elliot Hendrix of Stevens High School claiming the title in 2024 and Quinn Lewison of Custer winning in 2025.
Contact: Jack Caudill 394-7777 ext. 152
February 25, 2026
BELLE FOURCHE SENIOR TO BE FEATURED IN RISING STAR OF THE WEST CONTEST
Belle Fourche High School senior Alexis Pickett will be featured as part of KOTA Territory News’ Rising Star of the West scholarship contest Wednesday March 4th on KOTA Territory News on FOX at 6:00 and 9:00. Pickett qualified for the contest by submitting a short video of herself to KOTA Territory News.
Pickett is one of the semi-finalists who will be seen through March 13th. Her one minute commentary will be aired and then placed on kotatv.com for viewers to watch and rate. One competitor from each week will then advance to the final round in May. The winner from that group will receive a $4,000 college scholarship, with a total of $7,500 in scholarship money awarded from KEVN Black Hills FOX and Monument Health.
The 2007 Rising Star of the West winner was Shad Christman from Lemmon High School. Kaitlyn Hemmingson from Spearfish High School was the 2008 winner. Annelise Ewing of Spearfish High School won the 2009 competition. Caila Brennan of St. Thomas More was the 2010 winner. Janesa Bakeberg of Spearfish High School won in 2011. Jordon Barthel of Lead-Deadwood High School was the 2012 winner. Rae McKee of Nemo won in 2013, with Gavin Brucklacher of Philip High School winning in 2014, Noah Storm of Stevens took home the title in 2015, Aubrey Cope of St. Thomas More was the Rising Star of the West winner in 2016 with homeschool senior Emma Smith in 2017, Douglas High School senior Ireland Larsen in 2018 and Stevens senior Jessica Benson was the winner in 2019. Douglas High School senior Melissa Rothe won the 2020 competition and Katherine Kvale from Bison High School won the contest in 2021, Sierra Hilgenkamp of Wall High School winning in 2022, Amanda Rothe from Douglas was the 2023 winner, with Elliot Hendrix of Stevens High School claiming the title in 2024 and Quinn Lewison of Custer winning in 2025.
We had a fabulous time at 2026 Black Hills Area Special Olympics Basketball tournament. Thanks to all of our Unified Partners. The athletes have improved and shown so much growth.
Belle Fourche School District to celebrate School Board Recognition Week
The Belle Fourche School District will join districts across the state to thank school board members for their leadership and service to our local school district and community during South Dakota School Board Recognition Week from February 16-20.
“This is a great opportunity to recognize our School Board for their dedication to our children and our community,” according to Superintendent Orion Thompson.
The men and women serving our School District are:
Nita Justice, President
Meg McNeese, Vice-President
Jake Davis
Travis Featherston
Kelly Keegan
Tara Knapp
Mike Tyndall
This group is responsible for setting the vision of and goals for our District and strives to provide a quality education for our students. Our School Board also hires quality educators, adopts policies and evaluates progress while always keeping the best interests of our students in mind.
During School Board Recognition Week, our School District invites students, staff and community members to take part in thanking our School Board members.
“As elected leaders, school board members serve as the link between the school and community members,” Superintendent Thompson said and “they work tirelessly for our students, staff and community.”
A big THANK YOU to our School Board members!
Belle Fourche Middle School students have been working hard the past few weeks on their Science Fair projects. Please join us in viewing their displays!
A shout-out to High School teacher, Jim Hartwell! Jim's work in Community Education and for Belle Fourche School District is outstanding!
Check out Black Hills Pioneer's article below:
https://www.bhpioneer.com/local_news/belle-fourche-high-school-helps-people-accomplish-lifelong-dreams-offers-welding-classes-to-adults/article_a58b2d96-733b-44e3-9f32-845b26cc5519.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=email&utm_campaign=user-share
Check out Black Hills Pioneer's article below:
https://www.bhpioneer.com/local_news/belle-fourche-high-school-helps-people-accomplish-lifelong-dreams-offers-welding-classes-to-adults/article_a58b2d96-733b-44e3-9f32-845b26cc5519.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=email&utm_campaign=user-share
Lead Testing Results - please click on the link below to read letter regarding the results.
https://aptg.co/YsY8kf
Thank you,
Tommy Coyle
Director of Facilities and Transportation
https://aptg.co/YsY8kf
Thank you,
Tommy Coyle
Director of Facilities and Transportation
Kindergarten Roundup - April 10, 2026 - see flyer for details.
Superintendent’s Corner
As we begin the second semester, I want to thank our students, staff, and families for helping make the first half of the school year a success. We enjoyed a wonderful holiday break, and it has been energizing to see everyone return refreshed, focused, and ready for the months ahead.
One of our major areas of excitement this spring is the launch of our literacy grant work. This initiative represents a long-term investment in both our teachers and our students. High-quality literacy instruction is one of the most powerful predictors of student success across all content areas, and research consistently shows that sustained professional development for teachers leads to stronger instructional practices and improved student outcomes. This work will benefit our District not just this year, but for many years to come.
At the same time, we continue preparing for our summer facilities projects. While summer may feel far away, planning happens months in advance to ensure projects are completed efficiently and with minimal disruption. These efforts help maintain safe, functional, and modern learning environments that support student learning and staff effectiveness.
We have also begun an Early Learner Initiative that is already strengthening our connection with the community. Through multiple meetings and conversations, we are evaluating where our community currently stands and identifying ways families, organizations, and partners can support our youngest learners. Early childhood research consistently shows that strong early learning experiences have lasting academic and social benefits, and this initiative reflects our shared commitment to giving children the strongest possible start.
At the High School level, recent state changes designating the ACT as South Dakota’s statewide assessment have prompted us to review how our curriculum aligns with both state standards and ACT expectations. This work ensures our students are prepared not only for assessments, but for life beyond high school, college, careers, and military pathways.
As winter continues, the semester brings a balance of seasonal weather, winter activities, and the early excitement of spring sports just around the corner. It is a reminder that the school year moves quickly, filled with moments of learning, growth, and community pride.
Finally, I want to reaffirm the importance of in-person education. Daily, face-to-face learning supports not only academic growth but also social development, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills. These experiences help prepare students to become engaged citizens and effective professionals who can work productively with others.
Thank you for your continued support of our schools. Together, we are building a strong foundation for our students today and well into the future.
R. Orion Thompson, Ed.S
Superintendent of Schools
Belle Fourche School District 9-1
2305 13th Avenue, Belle Fourche, SD 57717
605-723-3355 ext. 1
As we begin the second semester, I want to thank our students, staff, and families for helping make the first half of the school year a success. We enjoyed a wonderful holiday break, and it has been energizing to see everyone return refreshed, focused, and ready for the months ahead.
One of our major areas of excitement this spring is the launch of our literacy grant work. This initiative represents a long-term investment in both our teachers and our students. High-quality literacy instruction is one of the most powerful predictors of student success across all content areas, and research consistently shows that sustained professional development for teachers leads to stronger instructional practices and improved student outcomes. This work will benefit our District not just this year, but for many years to come.
At the same time, we continue preparing for our summer facilities projects. While summer may feel far away, planning happens months in advance to ensure projects are completed efficiently and with minimal disruption. These efforts help maintain safe, functional, and modern learning environments that support student learning and staff effectiveness.
We have also begun an Early Learner Initiative that is already strengthening our connection with the community. Through multiple meetings and conversations, we are evaluating where our community currently stands and identifying ways families, organizations, and partners can support our youngest learners. Early childhood research consistently shows that strong early learning experiences have lasting academic and social benefits, and this initiative reflects our shared commitment to giving children the strongest possible start.
At the High School level, recent state changes designating the ACT as South Dakota’s statewide assessment have prompted us to review how our curriculum aligns with both state standards and ACT expectations. This work ensures our students are prepared not only for assessments, but for life beyond high school, college, careers, and military pathways.
As winter continues, the semester brings a balance of seasonal weather, winter activities, and the early excitement of spring sports just around the corner. It is a reminder that the school year moves quickly, filled with moments of learning, growth, and community pride.
Finally, I want to reaffirm the importance of in-person education. Daily, face-to-face learning supports not only academic growth but also social development, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills. These experiences help prepare students to become engaged citizens and effective professionals who can work productively with others.
Thank you for your continued support of our schools. Together, we are building a strong foundation for our students today and well into the future.
R. Orion Thompson, Ed.S
Superintendent of Schools
Belle Fourche School District 9-1
2305 13th Avenue, Belle Fourche, SD 57717
605-723-3355 ext. 1
Join us for Family Fun Night for grades K-8 on Thursday, January 8th at South Park Elementary Gymnasium! See flyer for additional information.
We were contacted by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources about volunteering to have our drinking fixtures installed prior to 2014 tested for lead. All schools will be required to have these tests done in 2027. By volunteering now, there is no cost to our School District. The tests will be done on December 29, 2025. If lead is found, the State will help us develop a plan for remediation. Click the link below for additional information:
https://aptg.co/CLdx6N
https://aptg.co/CLdx6N
