R. F. Pettigrew Elementary is Sioux Falls' second newest elementary school located in the southwest part of the city near 53rd Street and Grinnell Avenue. The school welcomed its first students - approximately 425 of them - on Monday, August 17, 2009. R.F. Pettigrew is a K-5 school and an Early Childhood site.

R. F. Pettigrew Elementary fully embraces the Sioux Falls District’s mission “to educate and prepare each student to succeed in a changing world.” By emphasizing growth in social skills, emotional well-being, and academic progress, students at R. F. Pettigrew Elementary will learn how to function in our changing world by effectively using 21st Century Skills. They will learn to collaborate with others, use critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and creatively use information, knowledge, and opportunities to make good judgments. The staff at R. F. Pettigrew will partner with families to ensure each child’s best advantage for academic and social success.

Character Counts

All R.F. Pettigrew Elementary students are taking part in a program called Character Counts.  Character Counts is a nation-wide program used as a framework for character development and is based on values called the 6 pillars of character.  The pillars are:

• Trustworthiness

• Respect

• Responsibility

• Caring

• Fairness

• Citizenship

Richard Franklin Pettigrew

Richard Franklin Pettigrew (1848-1926) was a strong influence in the development of the Dakota territory and the State of South Dakota.  He was a prominent politician, businessman, and community leader.  He spent the majority of his adult life promoting and representing Sioux Falls and South Dakota.  

Learn more about our school's namesake here.