Rapid City High School students are earning industry standard Microsoft certifications. The program, now offered in all three Rapid City High Schools, offers rigorous classes and technology skills training for those interested in pursuing careers in information technology, customer service and a variety of other careers after graduation.

“This process is helping students not only have transferrable skills, it is giving them self-confidence and hope,” Rapid City High School CTE teacher Terry Lundeen said.

Tyler Johnson, a Junior at Rapid City High School has certified in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. For Johnson, it is a proud accomplishment that he can put on his resume. “Hopefully certifications will lead to job opportunities in the future,” Johnson said.

Rapid City High School Senior Miranda Williamson certified in the same products. She recently landed a job as an office assistant.  “Any certification looks good on college applications, and it’s such a good feeling to be able to pass each test and learn more and more in each program,” Williamson said.

Stevens High School junior Kaiden Bruhn says the certifications will help him in the future. “I partake in the MOS certification exams to not only help me understand and use the programs, but also for future resumes and jobs that require them,” Bruhn said.

The opportunity is available to students enrolled in Advanced Computer Applications at all three Rapid City High Schools.