RAPID CITY, S.D. — What began as a photography class at Central High School has evolved into a real-world opportunity for students to publish their work, build professional skills and even launch careers.

During a recent episode of the Public School Podcast, Central High School photography teacher Roxanne Rathbun and graduating senior Kennedy Block shared how photography has helped students find their creative voice while preparing them for future careers.

Rathbun said she never planned to become a teacher. A local business owner and photographer, she was encouraged by a friend to apply when the position became available. What started as an unexpected opportunity quickly became one of the most rewarding experiences of her life.

Photography allows students to explore their interests and capture the world from their own perspective. Rathbun said giving students the freedom to photograph subjects that inspire them helps them learn more about themselves while also revealing their unique personalities and viewpoints. Kennedy agreed, explaining that photography taught her the importance of perspective and helped her discover her own artistic style. After initially focusing on black and white photography, she eventually embraced color photography and found new ways to express herself creatively.

One of Kennedy’s favorite projects has been learning double exposure photography, a technique that combines two images into a single photograph. Rathbun said one of her favorite assignments challenges students to interpret the same topic in different ways, allowing them to showcase their individuality while exploring locations throughout Rapid City.

Beyond creativity, the program also emphasizes practical skills. Rathbun noted that photography today is closely tied to technology, social media and digital communication. Students learn to use professional cameras, editing software and digital tools that are increasingly important in careers ranging from marketing and journalism to media production.

A partnership with The Rapid City Post has given many students the opportunity to put those skills to work. Rathbun explained that the collaboration began after discussions with newspaper staff about creating internship opportunities. Students now cover community events, sporting competitions and local stories while seeing their work published both online and in print.

The experience has been especially meaningful for students and their families. Rathbun recalled hearing stories of parents proudly sharing newspaper articles featuring their children’s work. She said one of her goals has always been helping students get published, and seeing that goal become reality has been incredibly rewarding.

Kennedy has been one of the program’s most active contributors, publishing several sports photography stories for The Rapid City Post. Her involvement ultimately led to an even bigger opportunity. As she prepares to graduate, Kennedy announced she has accepted a position with The Rapid City Post as a freelance photographer and journalist.

Looking back on her time at Central, Kennedy said the biggest lesson she learned was to keep an open mind and view the world from different perspectives. Rathbun said the arts are for everyone and believes programs like photography help students discover talents they may not realize they have.

Both agreed that the heart of public education is the relationships students build with teachers. Kennedy said the educators she remembers most are those who genuinely cared about their students and took time to check in when something seemed wrong. Rathbun added that public schools give students opportunities to be seen, encouraged and supported as they pursue their goals.

For Kennedy, that support has already helped transform a classroom passion into the beginning of a professional career.