21st Century/Discovery Center Programs
The BHSSC 21st Century Programs are co-curricular programs that enhance a student’s normal learning opportunities after school and during the summer months. We take great pride in implementing up-to-date teaching practices. We immerse students in Project-based STEM, Literacy, and Social and Emotional Learning activities they can use outside of the school walls. We not only provide a safe and secure setting for children afterschool, we also give students the opportunity to belong to something bigger than just themselves — a stepping stone to becoming upstanding citizens.
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Kellsie Judge | 21st Century Project Director
Kellsie Judge is the 21st Century Project Director for the Community and Family Services Division. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development and a Master’s degree in Family and Community Services. Kellsie has worked extensively with local elementary schools, excelling in building and sustaining meaningful relationships with school staff, students, families, and community members. She has served on numerous community service boards, including the Black Hills Homeless Coalition, Early Learner Rapid City, and the Black Hills Literacy Committee. Kellsie is currently a Fellow for the BellXcel Rise Fellowship. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, getting lost in a good book, and consuming way too much coffee.
Kaitlin Brown | 21st Century Site Coordinator
Kaitlin Brown is a Site Coordinator with the 21st Century Afterschool Programs at North Middle and Central High School. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Wyoming. Kaitlin’s journey in the Out of School Time (OST) field began right after college, driven by her passion for helping students grow and practice skills in a safe, judgment-free environment. She serves on the South Dakota School Age Care Alliance board, connecting other South Dakota OST programs to quality training and networking opportunities. In her free time, Kaitlin enjoys spending time at her family’s cabin in Spearfish Canyon, traveling, and exploring with her husband and two children. She is always accompanied by her phone and a LDC (large Diet Coke).
Miranda Carlin | 21st Century Site Coordinator
Miranda Carlin is the Site Coordinator of the General Beadle Discovery Center, one of the 21st Century Programs, and a member of the Path2Impact Leadership Path. With over 10 years of experience in 21st Century programs, Miranda is passionate about showcasing Out of School Time positions as a viable career path. In her free time, Miranda enjoys spending time with her husband, young sons, and their dogs. She loves crafting, snuggling with her dogs while binge-watching new TV series, and listening to a wide variety of podcasts.
Shannon Koftinow | 21st Century Site Coordinator
Shannon Koftinow is one of the 21st Century Afterschool Programs Coordinators. She holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education with a minor in psychology. Shannon is dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment where children can thrive. She is passionate about fostering growth and building strong relationships with students and families. In her free time, Shannon enjoys spending quality moments with her family, which reinforces her belief in the importance of strong, supportive relationships. This personal joy and fulfillment inspire her dedication to cultivating a similar sense of community and belonging for the children in her care. Shannon’s commitment to creating a nurturing and supportive environment reflects her dedication to the well-being and development of each child.
Melissa Laughlin | 21st Century Site Coordinator
Nicole Sandstrom | 21st Century Site Coordinator
Malachi Nelson | 21st Century Site Coordinator
Malachi Nelson is a Coordinator for one of the 21st Century Afterschool Programs and has served on the Path2Impact Leadership Team. He has worked at Black Hills Special Services Cooperative for over 10 years, beginning as a volunteer. Malachi attended South Dakota School of Mines for Computer Engineering but discovered his passion for community service. He believes that serving others is one of the highest callings and strives to bring families and communities closer together. His next goal is to integrate Youth Leadership and Youth Voice into the schools and communities he serves. In his free time, Malachi enjoys learning through his various hobbies, living an active lifestyle by playing men’s soccer and volleyball, and running daily. He dedicates significant time to friends and family, focusing on bringing them together, and often spends time reading or engaging in hobbies to keep his mind and body active.
