In 2022, the community of Castlewood was battered by a tornado, with the local school bearing the brunt of the damage. This week – that same school was named a National Blue Ribbon school.
Castlewood High School was one of three state schools to earn the National Blue Ribbon distinction for 2023. The U.S. Department of Education program recognizes schools across the country for academic excellence.
The recognition comes just a year-and-a-half after a tornado did extensive damage to their building. The storm caved in the roof of the school’s gymnasium and rendered an entire wing of the school unsafe for students, requiring the use of portable classrooms.
Principal Angela Keszler said this wouldn’t be possible without one very particular group of supporters– her students.
“I mean, there just was so many unanswered questions, I would say," Keszler said. "We didn’t know what was going to be next or what our next step was. Moving to where we are now, I think it shows the resilience of this community and of these kids.”
Keszler said the tornado was a rallying point for Castlewood.
“I think Castlewood was a supportive community before – they really back their school," Keszler said. "We have this supportive community, and a year-and-a-half later it just goes to show how much community support can help kids and schools.”
But now, Superintendent Peter Books said the success of the school is a new point of pride for the city.
“Our community the last year and a half has had challenges with the tornado on May 12," Books said "I’m extremely proud of our students and staff – and of course our principal Mrs. Keszler. It’s a great achievement for everybody to be proud about.”
Bridgewater-Emery Elementary and Fred Assam Elementary of the Brandon-Valley School District were the other South Dakota schools to earn the distinction this year.