IMPACT
in the Southern Hills
Your Generosity in Action
A grant provided by United Way of the Black Hills has sparked a transformation in the Custer School District, equipping educators with the skills and knowledge to better support students’ mental and emotional well-being. This initiative focuses on educational neuroscience, empowering teachers to understand and address the cognitive and emotional needs of their students. As a result, there has been noticeable progress in both student engagement and emotional regulation.
One particularly impactful story is that of a third-grade student who initially struggled with severe anxiety. He would often refuse to complete work, flee from the classroom, and react emotionally to minor challenges. Thanks to the grant-funded training, his teacher was able to implement strategies tailored to his needs, fostering a sense of safety and understanding in the classroom. Over time, this student experienced a dramatic change—now approaching difficult tasks with resilience, completing his work without resistance, and being open to feedback.
Key to the success of this initiative has been the partnership with a local psychologist specializing in educational neuroscience, along with bi-monthly consultations and district-wide professional development sessions. With these additions, educators have gained practical tools to create more responsive and supportive learning environments. The district’s behavior therapist is now preparing to take on a leading role to ensure the continuation of these practices, solidifying a long-term commitment to this approach.
The grant has also allowed for a holistic intervention strategy, providing family therapy sessions that ensure consistency between school and home. This support has been vital for students like the young boy mentioned, as his entire support network—teachers, special education staff, and his family—work together to reinforce positive changes.
The impact of this grant is evident not only in the individual stories of transformation but in the cultural shift it has initiated within the Custer School District. Educators are now more equipped than ever to address student behaviors with empathy and insight, creating an environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Thanks to generous donors like you, United Way of the Black Hills is able to make stories like this possible!