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
Cherishing all the Holiday Spirit!
Merry Christmas from the Belle Fourche School District!
Click the link to view a power point from our High School Student Council. Our students and staff are amazing!
https://aptg.co/Pb9nHM
Click the link to view a power point from our High School Student Council. Our students and staff are amazing!
https://aptg.co/Pb9nHM
Our Schools are full of the Holiday Spirit!
Holiday Spirit!
Superintendent’s Corner
Belle Fourche School District
As we move deeper into the school year, I want to take a moment to share the tremendous work happening across our District and throughout our community. The momentum we are experiencing is both energizing and inspiring, and it reflects the collective effort of our staff, families, partners, and most importantly our students.
One of the most exciting developments this fall has been the launch of our Early Learner Community Initiative. This partnership-driven effort brings together educators, community members, and families to better understand our strengths as a community and identify areas where we can expand opportunities for our youngest learners. Early childhood success sets the stage for everything that follows, and the engagement we have already seen is a strong signal of what Belle Fourche can accomplish when we work together.
At the same time, our Belle Fourche Learning Innovations (BFLI) program continues to grow in its first year. We created this pathway with the goal of supporting students who benefit from a flexible learning structure while still remaining closely connected to our District. Not only have we welcomed many learners seeking a more personalized route, but we are also seeing a renewed connection as families recognize the strength, rigor, and care that define Belle Fourche Public Schools. Our hope was to broaden access and invite more students into the learning community we are so proud of. Seeing that vision take hold in year one has been incredibly rewarding.
I want to extend my appreciation to the professionals and dedicated staff who have poured their time and talent into these programs. Their passion is evident in every success story, every new opportunity, and every improvement we continue to make.
Across our District, student involvement is thriving. From the classroom to extracurricular activities, our students are engaging in meaningful ways that reflect their pride in being Broncs. One area of growth we are particularly proud of is our partnership with Black Hills Special Services to strengthen Adult Education opportunities in the Belle Fourche area. By supporting adult learners, we strengthen families and in turn, our entire community.
With the holiday season in full swing, our schools are alive with celebrations, concerts, and student performances. These events are some of the best moments of the year. We work hard to ensure that every child feels the joy and belonging that come with this season, making the time they spend in school both meaningful and memorable.
Looking ahead, we are already in the planning stages for our summer improvement projects. Each year, we focus on upgrades that enhance the quality of our programs, maintain safe and effective learning environments, and position our District for long-term success. We look forward to sharing more details as those plans take shape.
As always, I want to highlight the ongoing importance of consistent school attendance. Public schools do more than build academic knowledge, they help develop social skills, resilience, teamwork, communication, and the confidence students need to thrive. When students are present and engaged, they grow in every one of these areas.
Finally, I encourage our families and community members to stay connected with our state legislators. Advocating for strong public schools means recognizing that meeting the needs of all students' academic, emotional, and developmental needs requires dedicated professionals who are supported and valued. Your voice matters, and it makes a difference.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of the Belle Fourche School District. Together, we are creating opportunities, strengthening community connections, and helping our students build bright futures.
Warmly,
Orion Thompson
Superintendent, Belle Fourche School District
Belle Fourche School District
As we move deeper into the school year, I want to take a moment to share the tremendous work happening across our District and throughout our community. The momentum we are experiencing is both energizing and inspiring, and it reflects the collective effort of our staff, families, partners, and most importantly our students.
One of the most exciting developments this fall has been the launch of our Early Learner Community Initiative. This partnership-driven effort brings together educators, community members, and families to better understand our strengths as a community and identify areas where we can expand opportunities for our youngest learners. Early childhood success sets the stage for everything that follows, and the engagement we have already seen is a strong signal of what Belle Fourche can accomplish when we work together.
At the same time, our Belle Fourche Learning Innovations (BFLI) program continues to grow in its first year. We created this pathway with the goal of supporting students who benefit from a flexible learning structure while still remaining closely connected to our District. Not only have we welcomed many learners seeking a more personalized route, but we are also seeing a renewed connection as families recognize the strength, rigor, and care that define Belle Fourche Public Schools. Our hope was to broaden access and invite more students into the learning community we are so proud of. Seeing that vision take hold in year one has been incredibly rewarding.
I want to extend my appreciation to the professionals and dedicated staff who have poured their time and talent into these programs. Their passion is evident in every success story, every new opportunity, and every improvement we continue to make.
Across our District, student involvement is thriving. From the classroom to extracurricular activities, our students are engaging in meaningful ways that reflect their pride in being Broncs. One area of growth we are particularly proud of is our partnership with Black Hills Special Services to strengthen Adult Education opportunities in the Belle Fourche area. By supporting adult learners, we strengthen families and in turn, our entire community.
With the holiday season in full swing, our schools are alive with celebrations, concerts, and student performances. These events are some of the best moments of the year. We work hard to ensure that every child feels the joy and belonging that come with this season, making the time they spend in school both meaningful and memorable.
Looking ahead, we are already in the planning stages for our summer improvement projects. Each year, we focus on upgrades that enhance the quality of our programs, maintain safe and effective learning environments, and position our District for long-term success. We look forward to sharing more details as those plans take shape.
As always, I want to highlight the ongoing importance of consistent school attendance. Public schools do more than build academic knowledge, they help develop social skills, resilience, teamwork, communication, and the confidence students need to thrive. When students are present and engaged, they grow in every one of these areas.
Finally, I encourage our families and community members to stay connected with our state legislators. Advocating for strong public schools means recognizing that meeting the needs of all students' academic, emotional, and developmental needs requires dedicated professionals who are supported and valued. Your voice matters, and it makes a difference.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of the Belle Fourche School District. Together, we are creating opportunities, strengthening community connections, and helping our students build bright futures.
Warmly,
Orion Thompson
Superintendent, Belle Fourche School District
Our Advanced and Welding 2 students traveled to Lake Area Technical College in Watertown, SD, for the annual LATC Weld Off—and they represented Belle Fourche incredibly well!
Top Performances:
• Silas Carson placed 3rd in the Advanced Division!
• Tucker Hughes & Kyle Hendrickson tied for 8th out of 73 competitors.
• Mason Nehl finished 11th, Nathen Hudson 12th, and Carmen Beguin 18th in the Advanced Division.
• In their division, Alexis Jewett placed 14th, Alexa Stone 16th, Aolani Stone 20th, Meghan Jordan 19th, and Kate Blair 21st.
Students built a challenging weld project under competition conditions and gained valuable hands-on experience.
It was a long two days, but our welders made us proud with their hard work, skill, and professionalism. Great job to all who competed!
Top Performances:
• Silas Carson placed 3rd in the Advanced Division!
• Tucker Hughes & Kyle Hendrickson tied for 8th out of 73 competitors.
• Mason Nehl finished 11th, Nathen Hudson 12th, and Carmen Beguin 18th in the Advanced Division.
• In their division, Alexis Jewett placed 14th, Alexa Stone 16th, Aolani Stone 20th, Meghan Jordan 19th, and Kate Blair 21st.
Students built a challenging weld project under competition conditions and gained valuable hands-on experience.
It was a long two days, but our welders made us proud with their hard work, skill, and professionalism. Great job to all who competed!
What a wonderful Middle School/High School Jazz Concert! We have talent!
Our 2025 Adult Night Welding Class wrapped up this week! 🔥
Students had a blast learning new skills, finishing final welds, and showing off their projects. Big thanks to our awesome instructors, Jim Hartwell and aides! Several students are already excited to come back next year—some for the third time! 👨🏭✨
#welding #communityclass #adulteducation
Students had a blast learning new skills, finishing final welds, and showing off their projects. Big thanks to our awesome instructors, Jim Hartwell and aides! Several students are already excited to come back next year—some for the third time! 👨🏭✨
#welding #communityclass #adulteducation
Belle Fourche FFA Reporter Justus Marshall is also reporting for FFA in the USA.
https://www.ffa.org/ffa-in-the-usa/manifestation-of-the-motto-generational-service-matters-national-ffa/
Thank you all for the support of our program.
https://www.ffa.org/ffa-in-the-usa/manifestation-of-the-motto-generational-service-matters-national-ffa/
Thank you all for the support of our program.
BFHS's National Honor Society is organizing its 9th annual "Giving Bell Tree" to fill the wish list of our local children in need! If you would like to give, pick up a bell from the school office of the high school, middle school, or South Park elementary. Gifts must be returned unwrapped, with the bell attached, to the school by December 11. Thank you!
