RAPID CITY, SD — For Rapid Valley Elementary first grade teacher Cassie Wood, teaching goes far beyond reading, writing and math. Whether she’s helping students explore the life cycle of monarch butterflies, encouraging them to ask questions through a weekly “Wonder Wednesday” tradition or growing fresh produce in a community garden, Wood says her greatest goal is helping children become kind, curious and compassionate people.

Wood, a Rapid City Area Schools graduate who attended Black Hawk Elementary, Rapid City Middle School and Central High School, recently completed her 11th year teaching in the district. Although she originally planned to become a biologist, she said working at a daycare while attending college changed her career path. Encouragement from former Central High teachers Melissa and Scott Haddon convinced her she had a gift for working with children, leading her into education.

After teaching kindergarten, Wood moved into first grade, where she discovered the same passion for helping young students grow. While many teachers are drawn to a particular subject, Wood said her focus has always been on helping children become good people. She enjoys working with younger students because of their unconditional kindness and the tremendous personal growth they experience during their first years of school.

That passion for learning extends beyond the classroom. Last summer, Wood documented the life cycle of monarch butterflies for her students after discovering caterpillars feeding on milkweed in her backyard. She shared videos throughout the summer, teaching students about the endangered insects and their development. When one butterfly emerged with a damaged wing, Wood researched ways to help it, carefully applying a small repair before it unexpectedly flew away on its own. She said the experience became an opportunity to teach both science and empathy, and years later, former students still remember the butterfly project.

Wood said memorable experiences often leave a greater impression on children than daily lessons. She believes students remember field trips, classroom celebrations and hands on learning opportunities long after they forget specific dates or assignments. Activities like raising butterflies allow children to develop curiosity, compassion and an appreciation for nature while learning science in a meaningful way.

Her love of gardening has also become a way to serve the Rapid Valley community. Living along Reservoir Road, Wood initially shared extra vegetables from her own garden with neighbors before expanding the idea into a community garden built with reclaimed cinder blocks. The garden operates on a simple philosophy: “For the community, by the community. Plant whatever you want, pick whatever you want.” It now produces tomatoes, zucchini, carrots, strawberries, raspberries and other fresh produce for anyone to enjoy. She has even added a small pool of water for neighborhood dogs walking by during the summer.

Although the school calendar limits how much time her students spend in the garden, Wood said neighborhood children regularly stop by to help and learn where food comes from. She hopes those experiences teach practical skills while encouraging children to appreciate the effort involved in growing fresh food.

Wood said one of the most rewarding parts of teaching comes after students leave her classroom. She recalled her grandfather, a sheriff, referring to moments like former students succeeding years later as “hidden paychecks.” Seeing former students earn awards or hearing they still remember classroom experiences reminds her that teachers often don’t get to witness the lasting impact they have on children’s lives.

Every Wednesday, Wood invites her students to participate in “Wonder Wednesday,” giving them an opportunity to ask any question they have about the world around them. She hopes her students carry that sense of curiosity throughout their lives while also remembering the importance of integrity. She encourages them to do the right thing even when it is difficult, believing those two values will serve them well beyond elementary school.

Reflecting on why she supports public education, Wood said schools provide the foundation that makes every profession possible. She noted that every career depends on people learning to read, write and think critically, adding that public education helps prepare children to become productive members of society and gives every student an opportunity to succeed.