The Rapid City Area Schools believes students grow academically and emotionally when they interact regularly with senior citizens. In fact, according to one study done by Generations United, young people who work with seniors often score better on reading tests, perform better overall in school and are more likely to be ahead academically. For those reasons and more, the Rapid City Area Schools is embarking on a campaign to increase senior engagement in our schools.

The District invites seniors to volunteer in classrooms this school year. Seniors can see a menu of partnership and volunteer opportunities here: https://rcas.org/community/community-partnerships-and-volunteers/

Additionally, RCAS is expanding its “Gold Card” program, which allows seniors to get into any Rapid City Area School District sponsored event for free. The card will now be free to seniors age 60 and older. Not only can seniors attend for free, but they can also bring a guest. To get a card, senior citizens can stop by the District’s Human Resources Office at the City, School Administration building between 8 and 4 p.m. Monday-Friday. Individuals must bring their ID to receive a card. The District also plans to offer special “Senior Night” performances of plays and other arts events.