Hill City takes the top spot West River

Hill City once again is taking a top ranking in schools across the state, ranking third in this year’s U.S. News and World Report. The rankings, which were reported Aug. 18, shows Hill City was the highest-ranked high school in West River. It ranked behind Lincoln High School in Sioux Falls and Brandon Valley High School in Brandon. 

The school received a score of 85.5/100 and is  No. 2,602 in the national rankings. The key to the district’s success lies not only in its small size, but also the school’s ability to form personal relationships that emphasize pride, hard work and celebrate the successes of its students. 

Superintendent Blake Gardner said, “Our formula for success includes awesome students, amazing educators, supportive parents and an engaged community. I think it is worth noting that these rankings focus on college and career readiness, ACT scores, AP Course participation and standardized testing scores, but every school in South Dakota is doing great things.”

High School principal Todd Satter said there are several factors that contribute to the rankings, one of which is the size of the school and the relationships created in the classroom and community. 

“Our students also benefit from a school where they are known personally. In a smaller school environment, it is difficult for a student to go unnoticed. Our educators know our students, recognize their strengths and provide support when they face challenges. I believe that combination of high expectations, strong relationships and student pride helps set Hill City students apart,” Satter said. 

He noted that Hill City students have a strong sense of pride and commitment to excellence. 

“Our students understand that academic success matters, and they take pride in being part of a school that has consistently performed among the best in the state. At the same time, we emphasize that success is about much more than a test score or a class rank.  We want our students to graduate prepared to be successful in college, technical school, the workforce, the military or whatever path they choose,” said Satter. 

Garnder echoes that sentiment in preparing all students for a path after he or she graduates.   

“Not every student is college bound, and that is why we want to expand our CTE (career and technical education) program, which will allow kids to leave Hill City with certificates in carpentry, welding, etc.,” said Gardner. “We have fantastic educators and our goal is to create a pathway for every student that walks our hallways. Furthermore, those that want to enter the workforce immediately after graduation should be proficient in skills such as hard work, teamwork, problem solving skills and critical thinking.” 

Hill City is known for forming strong academic  partnerships with higher education entities like Western Dakota Tech and South Dakota School of Mines and Technology that allows students to take dual credit courses, earning college credit while still in high school. Satter said the district’s own teachers, too, are paramount to the success of the students. 

“Our teachers are the biggest reason for our continued success. They are committed professionals who have high expectations and refuse to lower the bar for students. At the same time, they are willing to provide the support students need to reach those expectations. They build relationships, monitor student progress, communicate with families and work together to help students succeed,” said Satter. 

Satter said students are held accountable and are celebrated when they achieve milestones. 

“When students and teachers work hard and perform well, we recognize those accomplishments.  Over time, students develop pride in their school and want to contribute to its continued success. There is also a sense of tradition at Hill City High School. Our students know that previous classes have performed at a high level, and they want to continue that tradition,” said Satter. 

He noted that, “When students have been challenged in the classroom, supported by their teachers and taught to believe in their ability to succeed, they are much more likely to approach standardized testing with confidence and give their best effort.”

Gardner invited anyone from the public to make an appointment and come see the fabulous things happening on campus in person. 

“I think you can feel the positive energy when you enter our doors. It is a vibe. It truly is a blessing to serve a district with awesome kids, amazing educators, supportive parents and an engaged community.”