RAPID CITY, S.D. – Rapid City Areas Schools’ $107 million bond proposal was the topic at the July Black Hills Forum & Press Club luncheon at the Doubletree in Rapid City Friday afternoon.

Rapid City Area Schools Chief Finance and Operations Officer Coy Sasse and Campaign Chair Steve Allender addressed a full room on the issue that will be in front of voters November 3.

The proposed bond would address several district priorities including $32 million in HVAC needs, security and facility upgrades and a $40 million new elementary school at the Parkview property to meet the needs of the shifting population of the city.

Sasse explained that the proposed bond would provide an external funding source, a specific tax levy, allowing the district to target critical needs. By comparison, should the bond fail, Sasse said the district would be forced to utilize the capital outlay fund which is designed for smaller repairs, upkeep and general maintenance.

To pass in the November 3 referendum, the bond proposal needs to hit the 60 percent threshold. Since state law changed in 1973 requiring a 60 percent supermajority vote for a school district bond issue, all six of the attempted bond proposals have failed in Rapid City.

Additional information, including project details, frequently asked questions, tax impact information, project timelines, and other resources, is available at: www.rcas.org/page/bond-information

Several information meetings are scheduled, listed below. Zoom links can be found on the district website.

Thursday, August 6, 2026

Virtual (Zoom)

7:00–8:00 p.m.

Thursday, August 27, 2026

South Park Elementary

6:00–7:30 p.m.

Thursday, September 10, 2026

Virtual (Zoom)

7:00–8:00 p.m.

Thursday, September 24, 2026

Valley View Elementary

6:00–7:30 p.m.

Thursday, October 15, 2026

Virtual (Zoom)

6:00–7:30 p.m.

Thursday, October 29, 2026

Stevens High School Theatre

6:00–7:30 p.m.