Rapid City Area Schools -

Rapid City Area Schools is committed to keeping families, staff, and our community informed. As part of that commitment, the district is sharing clear, factual information on our current status regarding a Bond Referendum.

These updates are intended to provide transparency on the needs identified in the District’s long-range facilities planning, the priorities under discussion, and the overall process moving forward. No final decisions have been made, and no vote on specific projects has been held at this time.

We encourage our community to review the information, ask questions, and stay engaged as the conversation continues. Additional updates will be shared as more information becomes available. 

Election Day: The bond will be on the ballot on November 3, 2026.

Focused on Student Safety & Learning: The bond addresses three main priorities:

     -Upgrading HVAC systems for healthier learning environments

     -Improving security at all RCAS schools

     -Reducing overcrowding in some regions of the district

Based on Identified Needs: These priorities come directly from the District’s Facility Master Plan.

A Long-Overdue Investment: The last RCAS bond passed in 1973—over 50 years ago.

Supporting Rapid City’s Future: Several areas of our community are rapidly growing and changing, resulting in overcrowding and inadequate facilities. The bond will include a project plan to address this issue and provide safe, modern learning spaces.

Responsible Planning: The bond enables RCAS to focus on a single major project at a time while planning for long-term improvements.

Smart Financial Choice: Completing projects sooner saves money by avoiding rising construction and financing costs.

Community Benefit: Rapid City’s growth helps spread the cost across a larger tax base, supporting strong schools and a thriving community.