September 17, 2025
Greetings DPS Families,
If there is one constant in education, it is change. Each new school year brings fresh challenges and opportunities: new routines, new faces, and new ways of learning. Alongside these changes, we also get to experience the traditions that bring us together. Homecoming Week is a perfect example: our students fill the halls with spirit and creativity, reminding us how much joy and pride they bring to our schools. Through it all, one thing remains steady: our partnership with families. Together, we help students adapt, grow, and succeed.
This year’s new law banning electronic devices during the school day had many wondering how students would respond. Just a few weeks in, the answer is clear: kids are awesome. Ninety-nine percent of our students have respected the rule. We are already seeing stronger connections, more focus, and more face-to-face conversations in our schools. One student even told me, “This law has given me an excuse to unplug from my phone, and my day is better.”
At Dickinson Public Schools, we take pride in the opportunities we provide for our students. Our schools and staff are leading the way, whether it’s the continued growth of programs that support all learners, or the groundwork we’re laying for expanded college, career, and military-ready pathways. These efforts reflect our deep commitment to preparing every student for the future. This work is just beginning, but if you are a parent or guardian of a middle school or high school student, please keep an eye out for exciting updates in the future.
That’s the nature of education: change is constant. But through it all, one thing has never changed: kids are still the best.
District Updates
- Dickinson High School (DHS) Construction: In late September, precast walls will begin to be installed at DHS. This process will last about a month, after which much of the building’s primary structure (concrete walls) will be complete. Phase Two, including the academic wing, cafeteria, and auditorium, is on track for student move-in by January 2027.
- Southwest Area Career & Technical Education Academy: Enrollment has reached a record high this year, with 1,599 course enrollments. More students than ever are preparing for hands-on, real-world careers.
- Enrollment: Overall, DPS enrollment is up about 20 students compared to this time last year. DHS and DMS have seen enrollment growth, while elementary numbers have dipped slightly.
- Expanded Partnerships: A major goal this year is to strengthen our college-ready pathways for secondary students. We are building new partnerships that will open even more doors for our students.
- North Dakota For Public Schools: You may have seen yard signs or heard about the work of North Dakota for Public Schools, a nonpartisan coalition of educators, parents, and community members who believe in strengthening the role of public education across our state. Their efforts focus on celebrating and supporting public schools. If you’d like to learn more, you can visit ndforpublicschools.com.
As we move forward into another year of growth, change, and opportunity, I want to thank you—our families—for your support. I want to remind you of the impact you have on your child’s success. Research has shown that a parent's involvement and acknowledgement of the importance of school and teachers have a profound impact on their success.
Your encouragement and trust allow our students to thrive. Our staff, our schools, and most importantly, our students, make me proud every day.
Together, we continue to prove that kids truly are the best.
Sincerely,
Marcus Lewton