Superintendent Newsletter
Dear Bobcat Families and Community Members,
There’s a lot to celebrate across Brookings schools this month. Our renovated high school science classrooms are complete, and we’re looking ahead to the January launch of Same Page, our literacy partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northern Plains. You’ll also read about two BHS graduates who returned to serve the schools they once attended.
American Education Week, November 16 through 20, gives us a chance to thank our staff and the substitutes who often step in on short notice to keep learning going. We’ll recognize our education support professionals on Wednesday, November 18, and our substitute educators on Friday, November 20. Both groups will be among the first we focus on with Same Page training because of the important role they play in helping students learn.
As we head into Thanksgiving break, thank you to our staff, families, and community for all the ways you show up for our students. Your support does not go unnoticed, and I’m grateful to be part of this Bobcat community.
Summer Schultz
Eight Brookings High School students have been selected as finalists in NASA's 2027 Human Exploration Rover Challenge! BHS is one of just 13 middle/high school teams selected in its division, competing alongside teams from across the world.
In partnership with South Dakota State University, the students will design and build a remote-controlled rover to navigate a challenging obstacle course at NASA's competition in Huntsville, Alabama, April 21–24, 2027.
Congratulations to BHS students Ian Coverstone, Corbyn Penner, Navneeth Rao, Brycen Caylor, Shaurya Sehgal, Tyler Schulte, Murtadha Jodhari, and Louis Liu on this incredible opportunity!
Brookings High School has reached an exciting milestone with the completion of its newly renovated science department! On October 30, Mills Construction officially turned over the updated classrooms and learning spaces to the Brookings School District.
The District extends its appreciation to Mills Construction, CO-OP Architecture, and District Facilities Supervisor Brian Corlett for their contributions to the project. We also thank BHS science teachers and students for their patience and flexibility throughout construction.
Adding a special touch to the renovated classrooms, the Brookings VFW Auxiliary generously donated American flags for the new learning spaces. We appreciate their continued support of our schools and students!
We look forward to seeing these improved spaces enhance learning opportunities for years to come!
Pictured left to right: Matt Fragodt, Brian Corlett, Paul Sahr, and BHS Principal Zach Thomas.
Brookings High School Librarian Jean Kirschenman was recently honored with the 2026 Distinguished Service Award by the South Dakota Library Association (SDLA) during its annual conference.
The award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the library profession, supported the development of libraries throughout South Dakota, and demonstrated exemplary service over an extended period.
In addition to receiving the award, Jean presented a session titled “Amplify Your Library's Story: Going from Under the Radar to Through a Megaphone,” focusing on promoting libraries and sharing their impact within communities.
The Brookings School District congratulates Jean on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for her dedication to Brookings High School students and staff.
Taylor Johnson | Mickelson Middle School
Nominated by Sierra Brown
Mr. Taylor Johnson, 8th-grade Social Studies teacher at Mickelson Middle School, was nominated for his dedication to students and the kindness and support he shows those around him.
Mr. Johnson goes above and beyond to create an inclusive, engaging classroom where every student feels valued and supported. His compassion extends beyond his students to his colleagues, always taking time to check in, offer encouragement, and lend a helping hand.
His nominator shared, “He helps create a positive environment for students and staff alike. His actions show that being a great teacher is about more than delivering lessons; it is about building relationships, making others feel valued, and showing up for people when they need it most.”
Anaya Robertson, Sofia Gonzalez, Hunter Mellon, and Dylan Haar | Brookings High School
Nominated by Elizabeth Meester
Brookings High School students Anaya Robertson, Sofia Gonzalez, Hunter Mellon, and Dylan Haar were nominated for their dedication to helping students in the Adaptive PE class during Wednesday afternoon swimming sessions.
These four students have generously volunteered their time each week to help classmates develop swimming skills, practice pool safety, and enjoy meaningful interactions with their peers. Their kindness, commitment, and willingness to help others have made Wednesday swim days a tremendous success.
