Spotlight: Conversations From the Sioux Falls School District

Superintendent Dr. Jamie Nold may be wrapping up his first year in his new role, but he is far from being considered a rookie (although, he also is, kind of....listen in for more on that 😂). With over 30 years of experience in education, Dr. Nold is leading the Sioux Falls School District with dedication and passion. In this interview we look back at his first year as superintendent and look forward to what's in store for the future.

School libraries are special places. They're more than just stacks of books and computers. The school library is a place where curiosity flows and students are empowered to explore, create, and grow. At the heart of every school library is the librarian, and they are the ones who bring the magic to life. From fostering a love of reading to supporting research and collaboration, school librarians open up new worlds for students every time they step foot into the library. As Sarah Becker, librarian at Hawthorne Elementary puts it, "Reading and stories are what makes humans human. If students can see themselves in a story, that connects them to a wider community, and it makes us all better humans." During national library month (but also, all the time!) we want to say thank you to all our wonderful school librarians. You make the magic happen, and you brighten our schools and communities with the work you do everyday.

What does it mean to be an artist? What does it mean to be a teacher? Is there any way these two things could overlap (spoiler alert: YES!)?

In this episode of "Spotlight" we explore the intersection of creativity and education through the lens of "Teachers as Artists," a collaborative exhibit featuring SFSD art educators at the Washington Pavilion. Art teachers from K through 12 share what it's like to balance life as both an educator and a practicing artist. A common theme that emerges is: when you continue to practice making art yourself, you're setting an example for your students and showing them that art is enjoyable and important at all points throughout life.

From sparking creativity in the classroom to modeling lifelong artistic passion, we hear how their personal art practices shape the way the teach and why that matters for students.

Artificial intelligence is dominating the headlines these days. In this episode of Spotlight we speak with instructional coach Sarah Burkett about how the District is approaching AI with a focus on literacy, ethics, and thoughtful guidance rather than rigid policy. Then, we hear from teachers at Laura B. Anderson Elementary and Jefferson High School about how they’re using AI to save time, differentiate instruction, spark creativity, and build stronger relationships with students. It’s a practical, balanced look at how AI can enhance learning without replacing the educators who make it meaningful.

Eugene Field A+ Elementary is currently in the midst of celebrating the 25th anniversary of being an "Arts Plus" school. This means that for 25 years generations of students have had access to an education that puts a special focus on the arts. Laura Tjaden taught music at Eugene Field for 28 years, meaning she was there when the school made the switch to an arts-focused approach. In this conversation, we hear from her about her time with the school and what a valuable asset having an art focused education is for students.

In this episode, we sit down with student council members from Roosevelt High School to highlight Charge for Charity, a student-led effort that brings the spirit of giving to life in the Sioux Falls School District. Through food drives and donations of essential items, students are finding meaningful ways to support local charities and care for classmates who may be in need.

As the holiday season approaches, the conversation reflects the larger culture of service across our schools where students lead with empathy, generosity, and a commitment to making a positive impact. It’s a reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in our school communities and beyond.

It's an exciting time to be a Cavalier! With help from the Promising Futures Fund, Jefferson High School is introducing the College and Career Access Program. This is an initiative designed to expand opportunities for students as they plan life after graduation. The aim is to help students and families explore post-secondary pathways, including four-year universities, tech schools, military service, and direct-to-work careers.

The Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation was created in 2008 and has been helping to lift up students and staff ever since. Allison Struck took over as executive director in 2018 and has been helping to grow the foundation and expand its impact. Tune in to learn more about how this amazing organization supports every school in the Sioux Falls School District!

Since taking over as superintendent in July, Dr. Jamie Nold has shared his history, outlook, and vision for the Sioux Falls School District. While his leadership helps guide staff through the day-to-day, he’s supported by many talented team members. Today, we’ll hear from two of them—Assistant Superintendents Dan Conrad and Dr. Kirk Zeeck. They’ll share their “why” and what they hope to accomplish in their relatively new roles. With decades of combined experience, Mr. Conrad and Dr. Zeeck are focused on creating the best possible learning environment for today’s students while ensuring future generations have the same opportunities to thrive.

The Sioux Falls School District's newest superintendent doesn't need an introduction. No, really, he doesn't. He's been a part of the District for over 30 years! You would be hard pressed to find an employee of SFSD who didn't at least know his name. Staff, parents, and students (both current and former) are looking forward to a future with him at the helm.

Although he needs no introduction, he's taken it upon himself to make the rounds and make sure everybody knows his desires and intentions. In this episode of "Spotlight" we sit down for a one-on-one, in-dept interview with Dr. Nold to hear about how he got here, changes he's seen in education, and how he will guide the Sioux Falls School District toward success in the future.