By: Dr. Marcus Lewtown
DPS Superintendent
One of the very best parts of my job is being in our schools, eating lunch with students, visiting classrooms, and watching our amazing teachers and staff in action. Those moments remind me why we do this work. There is a lot happening at Dickinson Public Schools, and I would like to share a few updates with you.
Dickinson High School (DHS) Construction Update
Over the past months, the construction team has made steady, visible progress. Foundations have been poured, underground utilities are in place, and steel structures are rising from the ground. If you drive by DHS, you can now see the major precast installation happening that will soon give shape to the new building’s exterior.
As the walls go up and the vision becomes reality, I’m reminded daily that this project belongs to all of us. It represents our shared belief in education, our pride in this community, and our commitment to educating all students—socially, academically, and vocationally. Together, we’re not just building a school; we’re building the future of Dickinson.
ND for Public Schools Campaign
Alongside this construction progress, the ND for Public Schools campaign is reminding us all why these investments matter. You may notice yard signs popping up around our community. This statewide effort highlights the value of strong, public education as the cornerstone of thriving communities.
The campaign’s message is simple but powerful: when we invest in our schools, we invest in our future. It’s about ensuring every student, whether in Dickinson or anywhere across North Dakota, has access to the opportunities they need to succeed.
Enrollment
This school year, we’ve welcomed about 20 more students compared to last fall. Dickinson Middle School and Dickinson High School have seen the most growth, while the numbers at the elementary schools have dipped slightly. What’s most exciting is how these students are taking advantage of opportunities that extend beyond the traditional classroom.
At the Southwest Area Career & Technical Education Academy, enrollment has reached a record high of 1,599 course enrollments, a clear sign that more students than ever are preparing for hands-on, real-world careers. This momentum underscores one of our major goals for the year: expanding partnerships that strengthen college- and career-ready pathways for our secondary students. These partnerships will open even more doors for learners to explore their passions, build practical skills, and step confidently into their futures.
So many of these celebrations are because of the support we have from our community and many partners. Thank you for supporting our mission and our students.