Sioux Falls School District

We are proud to celebrate Robert Johnson, the morning custodian at Eugene Field Elementary and our newest Staff Star! ?? Robert’s colleague, Blair Brunstaing, nominated him for this recognition, highlighting his unwavering dedication and positive attitude. Each day, Robert goes the extra mile to keep Eugene Field safe, clean, and welcoming. From clearing sidewalks in the winter to checking playground equipment, he ensures the well-being of our students. His commitment to keeping the environment tidy, even picking up trash as he walks the grounds, is truly inspiring! Robert’s impact goes beyond his work. He builds relationships with students, learns their names, and takes time to share encouragement and guidance. His kindness and care make Eugene Field an even better place to learn and grow. Thank you, Robert, for all you do for our school community! Join us in celebrating Robert’s well-deserved recognition! ????

Nominations are now open for the 37th Annual Dr. John W. Harris Teacher of the Year Award! Help us celebrate outstanding teachers in the Sioux Falls School District! ?? Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond in the classroom? Nominate them today and show your appreciation! Thanks to Vern Eide Motorcars, the Teacher of the Year will receive a $4,000 prize! Nominations close on January 13, 2025, at 5 pm. Learn more and submit your nomination here ---> https://bit.ly/3InLEq1 Help us recognize and honor the incredible teachers who make a difference every day!

The Lincoln High School band is just days away from taking the National Stage at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade! (They are 1 of 6 (!!) high school bands to be invited to one of America’s favorite traditions!) From countless hours of practice to a touching community effort of raising over $400,000, this incredible journey highlights the talent, dedication, and teamwork of our students, staff, and parents. Tune in to the latest episode of our Spotlight podcast to hear band directors Drew Balta and Dan Carlson share the behind-the-scenes story of how this dream became a reality, and what it takes to prepare for a moment seen by millions. https://lnkd.in/giEZiuan

This week, the Sioux Falls School District proudly celebrates National School Psychology Week, where we recognize the invaluable contributions of our school psychologists! Our school psychologists help foster positive learning environments and support students' mental health and well-being. Their expertise and compassion help build student resilience, develop healthy coping strategies, and reach their highest potential. THANK YOU to all our school psychologists for playing a crucial role in our schools. Your talents make a lasting difference in the lives of our students, staff, and families. Happy National School Psychology Week!

Students from Sonia Sotomayor (pictured in this photo) and the rest of the Sioux Falls School District would like to wish you a Happy Veteran's Day! ???????????? South Dakota public schools proudly recognize and support the brave men and women who have served in our armed forces. Their sacrifices and dedication have upheld the values and freedoms we cherish, and we are deeply grateful for their commitment to protecting our nation. Our schools are committed to instilling respect and appreciation for veterans among our students, helping them understand the importance of service and dedication. We invite our community to join us in expressing heartfelt gratitude and respect for our veterans. Thank you to all our veterans for your service and sacrifice!

Sonia Sotomayor Elementary continued its long-standing tradition of honoring the brave individuals who have served in the armed forces with its annual Veteran’s Day assembly celebration. Students welcomed current and former service members into the school, allowing students and staff to show their respect and gratitude. The gym echoed with cheers as the veterans filled the elementary gym. The assembly began with a presentation of the colors from Lincoln High School’s Marine Corps JROTC and a performance of the National Anthem from the Edison Middle School Inventions choir. Students learned about the history of Veteran’s Day and enjoyed a special patriotic performance by the 3rd graders. As the veterans exited the gym, students shared smiles and high-fives, thanking them for their service! We are so grateful for the sacrifices of all veterans who make our freedom possible! See the full assembly from today here ---> https://lnkd.in/g2cAyuiR

Happy National STEM Day! Today we celebrate the impact of hands-on learning in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. Through the Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation Public School Proud Grant Program, any teacher in the Sioux Falls School District can apply for up to $10,000 to provide students with hands-on, immersive STEM experiences. From 3D printers and virtual reality headsets to cybersecurity software and health science mannequins, these grants are fueling the next generation of thinkers and innovators. As we enter the giving season, consider supporting the Education Foundation to continue making these transformative STEM experiences possible in our classrooms. Your generosity helps students unlock their full potential and explore new worlds. Let’s make this National STEM Day one to remember by investing in our students and their future! Donate here ---> https://bit.ly/3NWX7P2 #NationalSTEMDay #PublicSchoolProud

We are excited to celebrate Angie Carda, a dedicated teacher in the Learning Adventures preschool program at Robert Frost Elementary as SFSD’s newest All Star! ? Angie’s commitment to her students shines through each day as she creates a safe and joyful space where young learners can thrive! From building essential school readiness skills to nurturing kindness and social-emotional growth, Angie has made a lasting impact on so many children in our community. Please help us congratulate and say thank you to Angie for all the inspiring work she does! https://lnkd.in/gD2R4MtW

The Sioux Falls School District and our 22 Community Learning Centers recently celebrated the nationwide Lights On Afterschool event! ?? This annual celebration showcases the important role afterschool programs play in supporting students, families, and communities by fostering engagement, learning, and connection beyond the school day. Our CLCs, run in partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire, EmBe, Sioux Falls Family YMCA, and Volunteers of America - Dakotas, serve over 2,000 elementary students across Sioux Falls. These programs provide more than just a safe place to spend their time out of school. They create a space for growth, curiosity, and creativity. This year’s Lights On Afterschool celebrations included fall festivals, glow parties, movie nights, and STEM stations, offering students a wide range of enriching, hands-on experiences. We are also grateful for the many other community partners who bring valuable services and activities to our CLCs throughout the year. From arts and STEM organizations to local businesses and health and wellness providers, these partners contribute unique learning opportunities that enrich our programs and expand what’s possible for our students. Together with our dedicated CLC providers and extended community network, we’re making out-of-school time a powerful extension of education and connection. Thank you to all who help keep the Lights On Afterschool shining bright for our students in Sioux Falls! See more from the events here --->?https://lnkd.in/gyhbDZ2b

We are excited to recognize Rose Ruffinott, an inspiring first-grade teacher at Lowell Elementary, as our most recent SFSD All Star! Rose was nominated by colleague, Debra Rodgers, who describes her as “the epitome of a perfect first-grade teacher.” Her energy, empathy, and unwavering dedication make a difference each day. Rose goes above and beyond to support her students, waiting with them if a ride is delayed and sparking their creativity in the classroom. Please help us congratulate Rose on this well-deserved recognition! Her commitment to students and our school community truly exemplifies the spirit of SFSD!