Children's Home Society expands programming at Rapid City's Lincoln Building for K-3 students

The Rapid City Area Schools Board of Education meeting on April 15, 2025, highlighted significant developments in the partnership with the Children's Home Society (CHS), aimed at enhancing educational support for students in need. Director Mike Groher provided an update on the initiative taking place at the Lincoln Building, which focuses on offering specialized educational programming for kindergarten through third-grade students.

The collaboration between CHS and RCAS is designed to create an alternative learning environment for students requiring additional support. Groher reported that the program has made promising strides since its inception, with an initial enrollment of 11 students, including recent additions from grades K-3. The goal is to reach 15 students by the end of April, demonstrating a growing demand for this type of educational support.

The program features a low student-to-staff ratio of 1 to 4, ensuring that students receive personalized attention. Each child is paired with a therapist from CHS's outpatient clinic, providing comprehensive support that addresses their social, emotional, and academic needs. Groher emphasized the importance of collaboration with school district staff, acknowledging their contributions to the program's success.

As the program progresses, the focus will be on maintaining momentum and adapting to the needs of students as they transition to higher grades. Board members expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, with discussions on how to manage transitions for students moving from third to fourth grade, ensuring continuity in their educational experience.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commitment of both CHS and RCAS to support vulnerable students in the community. The partnership aims not only to meet immediate educational needs but also to lay the groundwork for future growth and development within the Rapid City area. As the program evolves, updates will continue to be shared with the board and the community, reflecting the ongoing dedication to improving educational outcomes for all students.