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Our Schools

The Douglas School District serves approximately 2,800 students and employs more than 400 people. More than 72 percent of DSD teachers have advanced degrees, and the average teacher has 15.9 years of experience. DSD is rich in diversity, and 40 percent of the students are military-connected. In 2021, all DSD schools received the distinguished Purple Star designation for their support and commitment to meeting the unique needs of military-connected students and their families.

DSD is home to Patriot Elementary (includes grades K-3), Vandenberg Elementary (grades 4 & 5), Douglas Middle School and Douglas High School. DSD’s Carrousel building also houses the district’s early intervention program and special services programs and staff.

Our Community

Box Elder, home to Ellsworth Air Force Base, is a growing residential community for both military and civilian families. It is the 12th largest city in South Dakota with a population of slightly more than 10,000 people. It’s also the third fastest-growing city in South Dakota. Box Elder is just minutes from Rapid City, South Dakota’s second largest city, and it’s the gateway of the Black Hills with Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, The Badlands, and Deadwood nearby!