Laying the Foundation from Public Schools to Legal Leadership

Foundation:

POWERED BY SOUTH DAKOTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Pennington County

Ara Roetzel | State’s Attorney

In a heartfelt reflection, Ara Roetzel, Pennington County State’s Attorney, takes us on a journey through her formative years in Rapid City, where the foundation of her success was laid in the corridors of Grandview Elementary School, South Middle School, and Rapid City Central High School. Ara attributes her transformative experience in public education not just to academic knowledge but to invaluable life lessons, friendships, and a profound sense of belonging.

**Building a Strong Foundation**

Growing up in Rapid City, Ara found more than a classroom education; she discovered a nurturing environment that cultivated resilience and curiosity. The public schools she attended became the crucible where she was shaped into the individual she is today. This early exposure to a diverse and dynamic learning community laid the groundwork for her future success.

**Life Lessons and Belonging**

Public education, in Ara’s words, provided not only knowledge but also essential life lessons and the foundation for lasting friendships. It fostered a sense of belonging that became integral to her identity. The emphasis on community and shared experiences within the public school system enriched her understanding of the world and the value of collaboration.

**Resilience and Curiosity: The Core Values**

Ara’s journey underscores the significance of resilience and curiosity instilled by her South Dakota public school experience. These core values, developed in the classrooms and hallways of Rapid City, have proven to be crucial assets in her current role as Pennington County State’s Attorney.

**A Proud Product of South Dakota Public Schools**

Ara Roetzel proudly declares herself a product of South Dakota public schools, a testament to the effectiveness of the state’s educational system. Her story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the profound impact public education can have in shaping not just careers, but well-rounded individuals ready to contribute to their communities.

As we reflect on Ara’s words, let’s celebrate the enduring power of public education and the dedicated educators who mold the leaders of tomorrow. 🎓🌟 #ProudProductofSDPublicSchools #SuccessJourney #PublicEducationLegacy

Share this video on your own social media channels to promote public education in your district.

Copy/Paste Post Text Suggestion including link:

Ara Roetzel, Pennington County State’s Attorney, shares her educational journey from Rapid City, attending Grandview Elementary School, South Middle School, and graduating from Rapid City Central High School. She attributes her present success to the strong foundation provided by South Dakota public schools. Beyond academic knowledge, Ara highlights the invaluable life lessons, enduring friendships, and a sense of belonging fostered by her public education. Resilience and curiosity, instilled during her school years, are core values crucial to her role as a State’s Attorney. Proudly declaring herself a product of South Dakota public schools, Ara’s story underscores the enduring impact of public education in shaping well-rounded individuals prepared for professional success and community contribution. 🎓🏫 #FoundationPoweredbySDPublicSchools

https://youtu.be/VU65-QISg3s

Download the Video

Embracing Diversity in South Dakota Public Schools

Ready to Share

Diveristy:

POWERED BY SOUTH DAKOTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Douglas School District

Lori Ashley| Teacher

Lori Ashley, a teacher in the Douglas School District, reflects on 30 years of working with students from diverse backgrounds and abilities. She emphasizes the positive impact of differences in fostering strong relationships within schools and communities. Lori takes pride in being a South Dakota public school teacher. Her experience highlights the importance of diversity in shaping not only academically successful individuals but also fostering understanding and unity in communities. 💡 #DiversityPoweredbySDPublicSchools

Share this video on your own social media channels to promote public education in your district.

Copy/Paste Post Text Suggestion:

Reflecting on 30 years as a South Dakota public school teacher, Lori Ashley from Douglas School District emphasizes the positive impact of diversity in building strong relationships within schools and communities. #DiversityPoweredbySDPublicSchool

https://youtu.be/PiW2sh9QOYQ

Download the Video

From Custer to CEO: Ryan McFarland’s Success Began in SD Public Schools

Ready to Share

Success:

POWERED BY SOUTH DAKOTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Striders Bikes

Ryan McFarland | CEO

Ryan McFarland, the CEO & Founder of Strider Bikes, reflects on his roots in Custer and the profound impact of his South Dakota public school education. Graduating as valedictorian from Custer High School, McFarland attributes his thriving business career to the solid foundation laid during his public school experience.

In McFarland’s words, South Dakota public schools offer more than just scholastic education. They provide a fundamental framework for life, imparting invaluable lessons in navigating the diverse landscapes of peers, teachers, and staff. It’s a testament to the holistic approach of public education, where success extends beyond the classroom into the fabric of real-world interactions.

Expressing his pride in being a graduate of South Dakota public school systems, McFarland highlights the enduring impact of his formative years. It’s not just about academic achievement; it’s about resilience, adaptability, and the ability to connect with people from all walks of life — skills that extend far beyond the school years.

Ryan McFarland’s journey from Custer High School to the helm of Strider Bikes is a testament to the strength of South Dakota’s public school system. As a grateful alumnus, he underscores the enduring value of the lessons learned in the halls of public education, shaping not just successful careers but well-rounded individuals ready to navigate the complexities of the world.

#SuccessPoweredbySDPublicSchools

Share this video on your own social media channels to promote public education in your district.

Copy/Paste Post Text Suggestion:

From Custer High School to Strider Bikes’ CEO, Ryan McFarland credits his thriving career to the solid foundation of life lessons from South Dakota public schools. Proud to be a product of our state’s excellent education system! 🎓🚴‍♂️ #SuccessPoweredbySDPublicSchools

Download the Video

From Student to Superintendent: A Journey Through South Dakota Public Schools

Ready to Share

Career:

POWERED BY SOUTH DAKOTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Rapid City Area Schools

Nicole Swigart | Superintendent

In reflecting on her educational journey, Rapid City Area Schools Superintendent Nicole Swigart shares a humble path from Wilson Elementary in Rapid City to graduation at Sturgis.

Nicole’s educational journey began at Wilson Elementary in Rapid City, then moved to Piedmont Elementary, culminating in her graduation from Sturgis.

The public schools Nicole attended played a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for her successful career. The commitment of public school teachers who believed in her potential became the cornerstone of her success.

Nicole Swigart’s story is a testament to the impact of public education. Her gratitude is reflected in her unwavering support for public schools and the students they serve.

As Nicole stands in her successful career, she proudly echoes her support for public schools. It’s a call to action for all of us, a reminder of the profound influence education has in shaping lives.

Nicole Swigart’s journey is a source of inspiration, highlighting the transformative power of public education. As we reflect on her words, let’s continue fostering an environment where every student can thrive, succeed, and express gratitude to the public school teachers who believed in and supported them. 📚 #CareerPoweredbySDPublicSchools

Share this video on your own social media channels to promote public education in your district.

Copy/Paste Post Text Suggestion:

Nicole Swigart’s journey is a source of inspiration, highlighting the transformative power of public education. Let’s continue fostering an environment where every student can thrive, succeed, and express gratitude to the public school teachers who believed in and supported them. 📚 #CareerPoweredbySDPublicSchools

https://youtu.be/viXI8q9KfxI

Download the Video

Fueling Passion Through Impact

Ready to Share

Impact:

POWERED BY SOUTH DAKOTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Spearfish School District

Alyssa Walters| Teacher

In the heart of Spearfish School District, Alyssa Walters, a dedicated public school teacher, shares her profound pride in being part of a system that embraces diversity and aims to provide every student with the chance to thrive and succeed. For Alyssa, the passion for teaching is more than a profession; it’s a daily source of joy derived from making a significant impact on young lives.

Alyssa takes pride in belonging to a school system that prioritizes inclusivity. Spearfish School District, under Alyssa’s lens, is not just a place of learning; it’s a community that welcomes all students, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities. The commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for everyone is a cornerstone of Alyssa’s enthusiasm for her role as a public school teacher.

For Alyssa, the driving force behind her passion for teaching lies in the tangible difference she makes daily. The joy she experiences is derived from the knowledge that her efforts contribute to the success and well-being of her students. In a system that values each student’s unique journey, Alyssa finds fulfillment in being a catalyst for positive change.

Alyssa’s pride extends beyond the classroom to the collective success of her students. The commitment of Spearfish School District to nurturing an environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive resonates deeply with Alyssa’s own professional mission. Her dedication is a testament to the belief that education is not just about imparting knowledge but fostering an environment where success is achievable for all.

As Alyssa Walters continues to shape young minds in Spearfish School District, her perspective as a public school teacher encapsulates the essence of a system dedicated to fostering success for all. In her daily interactions and the joy she derives from making a difference, Alyssa embodies the impact educators can have on the lives of students. It’s not just about teaching; it’s about creating an environment where every student can thrive and succeed. #ImpactPoweredbySDPublicSchools

Share this video on your own social media channels to promote public education in your district.

Copy/Paste Post Text Suggestion including the link below:

Proud to be a part of Spearfish School District! Alyssa Walters, a dedicated teacher, shares her joy in making a difference every day. In a system that welcomes all students, her passion for teaching is fueled by the commitment to ensuring each student has the opportunity to thrive. 📚💙#ImpactPoweredbySDPublicSchools

Download the Video