By R. Orion Thompson, Superintendent, Belle Fourche School District Special to the Beacon
As we approach the final stretch of the school year and begin to welcome the warmer days of summer, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what education truly means for our students—both in the present and for the future.
Education is more than just textbooks and tests; it’s the foundation upon which our children build their identities, aspirations, and lifelong skills. It cultivates critical thinking, nurtures curiosity, and helps students develop resilience in the face of challenges. Public schooling, in particular, plays a vital role in ensuring equitable access to these opportunities, regardless of background or circumstance. According to the National School Boards Association, public education serves as “the cornerstone of democracy,” preparing young citizens for the responsibilities of adulthood and the workforce.
Nowhere is this growth more visible than in the remarkable progress of our elementary reading program. At the start of the year, only 1% of our elementary students were reading above grade level. Today, 51% of them are achieving abovegrade-level performance. This is not only a cause for celebration—it’s proof that when teachers, students, families, and the community come together, extraordinary progress is possible.
Looking ahead, our overarching academic focus for next year will be math. As a cornerstone of problem-solving, logic, and reasoning, math strengthens the kind of analytical thinking that supports student success in all subjects—and in life beyond the classroom. According to the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), mathematical literacy is directly linked to the ability to make informed decisions, analyze data, and solve real-world problems. Whether it’s budgeting, coding, or interpreting news, strong math skills empower our students to navigate a complex and changing world. We’re excited to build on this foundation and provide targeted supports to help every learner grow.
In addition, our Master Planning process is in full swing. We’ve launched a community-wide survey to gather feedback on how we can best support our students with facilities that reflect the future of learning in Belle Fourche. Whether it’s modern classrooms, safe and welcoming buildings, or flexible learning environments, your voice matters. Transparency and community involvement are central to this process, and we hope every family, staff member, and stakeholder takes a moment to share their thoughts. A QR code to access the survey is included in this newsletter—your input will help guide critical decisions about the direction of our district for years to come.
As the school year winds down, let’s continue to stay engaged, support one another, and celebrate the incredible strides we’ve made together. Thank you for your continued partnership in shaping the future of education in Belle Fourche. Link: https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/BF_MasterPlan
Read the full issue of the Belle Fourche Beacon by clicking here.
