Welcome back, Cavalier families!
It is hard to believe that another school year is already here! Whether you're returning for another year or joining us for the first time, we are so grateful you have chosen to be part of our Rapid City Catholic School System community.
As we begin this new year together, we remain committed to our mission of forming hearts and minds in the Truth, providing an education rooted in Jesus Christ and the rich intellectual tradition of the Catholic Church. Through a rigorous, fully accredited curriculum, exceptional extracurricular activities, and a virtue-based formation program, we educate confident and faithful students who are well-prepared for learning and eternity.
One important change this year is our updated attendance policy, recently approved by our Board of Directors. The policy is included in our handbooks, which are now available on our new RCCSS website. Students thrive when they are present, on time, and fully engaged. Regular attendance and punctuality support academic success, build positive relationships, and develop lifelong habits of responsibility. Arriving on time is also an important way for students to show respect for their teachers and classmates by minimizing disruptions and helping to preserve a focused, productive learning environment where everyone can succeed.
I am also excited to share some wonderful news about the continued safety of our campuses. Thanks to a Homeland Security grant, we will upgrade and expand the security fencing around our three schools. These enhancements are an important investment in providing safe, secure learning environments so that our students, faculty, and staff can learn, teach, and thrive with confidence and peace of mind.
Beginning in January 2027, the new federal Education Freedom Tax Credit will create an exciting opportunity to expand access to Catholic education in South Dakota. All taxpayers can participate by contributing and receiving a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit of up to $1,700. Those contributions are then used to provide scholarships that make Catholic education more accessible for families. As this exciting new opportunity launches in 2027, it is important that we begin spreading the word now. By sharing this information with family, friends, neighbors, parishioners, and local businesses, we can build awareness, expand scholarship opportunities, and help more students experience the life-changing gift of a Catholic education. This new program has enormous potential to make Catholic education more affordable for many families while also enhancing/augmenting our current offerings and services. We look forward to sharing more information as the program is implemented and scholarship opportunities become available.
As we begin this school year, I ask that you continue to keep our schools in your prayers. Pray for our students, our families, our teachers, our staff, and all who enter our doors each day.
Our Scripture theme this year comes from Psalm 56:3: "When I am afraid, I put my trust in You." These words remind us that no matter what challenges or opportunities lie ahead, we move forward with confidence because our hope is rooted in Christ. May that trust guide our students, strengthen our families, and inspire our entire school community throughout the year.
Thank you for the trust you place in Rapid City Catholic School System. We are honored to partner with you in forming the hearts and minds of your children.
May God bless you and your families. We are truly blessed that you are Cavaliers.
Go Cavs!