School board certifies election results for Areas 3 and 6 amid integrity concerns

The Rapid City Area Schools Board of Education made headlines during their June 10, 2025 meeting by certifying the election results for Areas 3 and 6, declaring Missus Rafferty and Miss Clapham as the winners, respectively. The board's decision followed a canvassing process, which sparked discussions about the integrity of the election.

Board members emphasized their role in the canvassing process, clarifying that their duty was ministerial and not judicial. "It is not our duty to determine whether this election was legal," one member stated, highlighting the distinction between the board's responsibilities and those of the judicial system. This clarification came amid concerns about potential irregularities in the election process.

The motion to certify the results passed with a vote of 5 in favor and 2 abstentions, with Miss Clapham abstaining from voting due to her election win. Board members were reminded that they have five days to request a recount if they have concerns about the election outcome.

As the meeting progressed, the board moved on to discuss the end-of-year strategic plan report, indicating a focus on future initiatives following the election certification. The discussions reflect the board's commitment to transparency and accountability in the electoral process, setting the stage for potential further inquiries if necessary.