Rapid City School District outlines $50M plan for Shepherd Hills Elementary School

The Rapid City Area Schools Board of Education recently convened to discuss master planning for a new elementary school at the Shepherd Hills site, a move aimed at addressing the growing student population in the area. The proposed site spans 51.44 acres, though only about half is deemed usable due to topographical challenges. This new school is expected to alleviate overcrowding at existing schools, Rapid Valley and Valley View, by redistributing enrollment boundaries.

With rapid residential growth in the vicinity, school officials anticipate the need for this new facility within the next five to ten years. The district owns the land, which is accessible for future school traffic, making it a viable option for development. Preliminary enrollment projections suggest that the new school could accommodate around 600 students, with plans for expansion as needed.

The estimated cost for the new school is projected to be around $50 million, a figure that reflects current market conditions and construction costs. Officials noted that while this amount may seem high, it is in line with recent trends in school construction, where costs have risen significantly due to factors such as material availability and contractor demand. The board emphasized the importance of creating a functional and durable building rather than a "Cadillac" version, focusing on practicality and longevity.

Discussions also touched on the competitive nature of the construction market, with an increase in contractor interest and bidding activity, which could help manage costs. Board members expressed a desire to balance quality with budgetary constraints, ensuring that the new school meets the community's needs without unnecessary extravagance.

As the planning process moves forward, the board aims to engage the community in discussions about the project, ensuring that the new school aligns with local expectations and educational goals. The next steps will involve further assessments of the site and refining the project scope to meet both educational and financial objectives.