Supt. Downes Named Community Leader of the Year

The South Dakota School Superintendent Association (SDSSA) named Justin Downes, Superintendent of the Milbank School District, as their 2025 Community Leader of the Year. The group made the announcement today, April 15. 

Downes is in his sixth year as the Superintendent in Milbank.  As a professional dedicated to public education and community growth, he has served in various leadership roles across South Dakota. Downes began his career as a middle school math teacher in Mobridge, and he went on to serve the Frederick Area School District as a K-12 principal and superintendent. His leadership continued to influence students in Corsica-Stickney and Arlington until he and his wife Brigette moved to Milbank in 2019. 

The SDSSA commended Downes for his strong community partnerships, student-focused leadership, and commitment to collaboration. “Mr. Downes has consistently worked to strengthen the connection between schools and the communities they serve. His ability to foster trust, lead with integrity, and engage stakeholders has made a lasting impact in every district he has served.”  

Downes commented briefly on three qualities he finds important in a great community leader:

“I believe it is essential to invest in the community: Rolling up your sleeves and engaging in projects and organizations beyond the school are vital tasks. These actions enable you to be present and accessible to the community outside your office and provide an opportunity to be visible. I’ve cherished every community I’ve been a part of. Each community is unique. However, a community is not always confined to where you live; it can also include the groups and organizations you choose to be involved with.  Throughout my career, I have pursued leadership positions on executive boards to amplify the voice of the superintendent community as well.”

Downes will be honored at the annual SDSSA Conference held this July in Oacama.