Horace Mann staff and district colleagues praised for rapid response after school crisis

Horace Mann Elementary assistant principal Amanda DeMaria told the Rapid City Area School Board Feb. 4 that more than 50 district staff and administrators mobilized to support the school during a recent, unspecified crisis.

DeMaria said 13 administrators, roughly 10 counselors, the district behavior team, 15 staff members from other buildings and additional district employees responded without hesitation. "Their immediate action and commitment ensured that our students and staff had the resources, stability, and care that they needed," DeMaria said. She asked the board to recognize the staff who stepped in.

Board members thanked DeMaria and praised the rapid district response. Several trustees said the coordination reflected the district's culture of mutual support and noted the importance of counselors and staff during crises. Acting Superintendent Dr. Corey Strasser and other administrators confirmed that outside partners (e.g., West River Mental Health) also assisted and that the district is following up to ensure continued supports.

Why it matters: School crises typically require cross-district coordination to maintain student safety and continuity of instruction. Board members signaled support for continuing to resource counselors and crisis teams and acknowledged the emotional toll on staff involved in response work.

DeMaria's remarks were presented during the public comment and board-response portion of the agenda; board members used the item to direct appreciation to the individuals and to highlight the systemwide supports the district provides during emergencies.