May 12, 2026 Board of Education Study Session

The May 12, 2026 study session of the Rapid City Area Schools Board of Education focused primarily on presentations by Lakota language teachers and English Language Learner (ELL) program staff. The Lakota language team introduced a newly developed pacing guide for K-12 curriculum delivery, emphasizing cultural integration and language preservation. They highlighted the importance of community collaboration, cultural events, and student engagement in language learning. The ELL staff presented on their comprehensive pacing guide for English language acquisition, addressing challenges such as student mobility and proficiency differentiation. Board members discussed potential policy support for broader implementation and standardization of these programs, including the possibility of making certain cultural lessons mandatory. While no direct procurement or contract decisions were made, the meeting underscored the district's investment in curriculum development and resource alignment to support indigenous language and ELL education. The session concluded with planning for an upcoming board retreat focused on team building, bond literacy, and legislative priorities.