http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/index.aspx News from the South Dakota Department of Education en-us South Dakota Department of Education: 2018 state government http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0716-Grad.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education Standards adopted proposed revisions to South Dakota’s high school graduation requirements at its meeting earlier today, with an amendment directing the South Dakota Department of Education to review the requirements again after Jan. 1, 2026. 07/18/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=23537 The foundation is seeking Western collectibles for an auction that will begin at 7 p.m. CDT on Friday, Sept. 14, during the Dakota Western Heritage Festival at the Expo Center in Fort Pierre. 07/05/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/schoolsafety/ DOE is working with Homeland Security and Emergency Management to curate and make available a variety of resources related to school safety. 07/02/2018 https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/public/Course/browse?courseid=12317 This workshop will train participants in identification of homeless students, how to interview the parent or unaccompanied youth, and the paperwork to retain. What are the next steps, transportation, immunizations, immediate enrollment and full participation, barriers to education, and Title I services. 06/29/2018 https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/Public/Course/Browse Register today for the Top 20 Training coming to Rapid City July 30-31 and Sioux Falls Aug. 1-2. 06/28/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0626-21CCLC.pdf A total of 14 21st Century Community Learning Center grants have been awarded to provide funding for academic enrichment opportunities for students. This year’s grant recipients join 24 existing grant recipients to serve a combined total of 54 sites statewide. 06/27/2018 https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/public/Course/browse?courseid=12328 This course is intended for teachers who are new to Career and Technical Education and will provide information on SDMyLife, labor market projections, and the components of a high quality program of study. 06/26/2018 https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/Public/Course/Browse Trainings to be held in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen and Fort Pierre this summer. 06/25/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx This conference provides teachers, administrators, and school counselors with opportunities to connect with other educators and to explore best practices that will help them prepare students to be college, career, and life ready. 06/22/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=23471 Historic preservation projects in Brookings, Central City, Freeman, Redfield, Sisseton and Yankton have received matching grants from the South Dakota State Historical Society. 06/21/2018 https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=222 Governor’s Large Conference Room, Capitol, 500 East Capitol Ave., Pierre, 10 a.m. 06/20/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ A public hearing will be held at the MacKay Building, First Floor, Library Commons, 800 Governors Drive Pierre, South Dakota, July 16, 2018, 9:00 a.m. 06/19/2018 http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx Summit to be held Sept. 23-25, 2018 in Pierre. 06/18/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx This conference provides teachers, administrators, and school counselors with opportunities to connect with other educators and to explore best practices that will help them prepare students to be college, career, and life ready. 06/15/2018 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/sdslbootcamp2018 Boot Camp is a two credit graduate or undergraduate course through Black Hills State University. It is open to all South Dakota educational staff. 06/14/2018 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/sdslbootcamp2018 Boot Camp is a two credit graduate or undergraduate course through Black Hills State University. It is open to all South Dakota educational staff. 06/13/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/mentoring/ June 15 is this year's deadline for new teachers to apply for the statewide mentoring program. 06/12/2018 http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx Summit to be held Sept. 23-25 in Pierre. 06/11/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/071618-PH.pdf A public hearing will be held at the MacKay Building, First Floor, Library Commons, 800 Governors Drive Pierre, SD, July 16, 2018, 9:00 a.m. 06/10/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/sped/documents/18-ConfMTS4.pdf Conference will be held June 20-21, 2018 in Oacoma, SD. Open to all South Dakota school districts. General education and special education both encouraged to attend. 06/08/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0606-GradReq.pdf The public is encouraged to engage in the statewide conversation about proposed revisions to South Dakota’s high school graduation requirements. The official public comment period on the related administrative rule changes is now open. 06/07/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=23409 In commemoration of Flag Day, the next Family Fun Saturday at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre will focus on flags. "Fun With Flags" will be held June 16 from 10-11:30 a.m. CDT. 06/06/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/June/page1.html With the transition to the new Every Student Succeeds Act, the department will be creating and publishing a new Report Card. The amount of new data that will be included will push back the time of the data release. 06/05/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=23398 “From Jackrabbits to Schmeckfest: The Many Faces of Community Identity in South Dakota” opens to the public on Saturday, June 16. Visitors are welcome to enjoy free admission all day and some refreshments from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. CDT to celebrate the exhibit opening. 06/04/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/sped/documents/18-ConfMTS4.pdf Open to all South Dakota school districts. General education and special education both encouraged to attend. 06/01/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0530-SFSP.pdf Children age 18 and younger may receive a meal free of charge at participating sites, which include organizations such as nonprofits, schools, libraries and local governments. 05/31/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0529-SPED.pdf Information regarding school districts’ performance on improving the educational outcomes of students with disabilities is now available online. 05/30/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=23364 One of the longest manhunts in United States history will be the subject of a June program at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. 05/25/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0521-SDSL.pdf "Libraries Rock" is the theme of the 2018 South Dakota Braille and Talking Book Library Summer Reading Program. This year’s program will run from June 3 to July 14 and is open to all youth registered with the South Dakota Braille and Talking Book Library ages birth to 19. 05/24/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/ofm/exordincost.aspx The majority of the funds came from previously disputed tobacco payments that have been held in an escrow account since 2004 regarding the enforcement of the tobacco Master Settlement Agreement. The Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) was an accord between 46 states and the major cigarette manufacturers in 1998, which provides yearly payments to participating states. 05/23/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/ofm/exordincost.aspx Meeting agenda is now online. 05/21/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/May/page1.html Meeting agenda is now online. 05/16/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/bote/ SDMath/SDSci Leadership is a program to create and support a dynamic network of South Dakota math and science educators. 05/15/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/May/page3.html Please remember that the Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) and MCV4 (Meningococcal ACYW) vaccines are required for entry into the 6th grade. 05/14/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=23301 Visitors of all ages are invited to create spring flowers of their own at Family Fun Saturday on May 19 from 10-11:30 a.m. CDT at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. 05/11/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0508-GradReq.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education Standards held a first reading of proposed changes to state graduation requirements at its May 8 meeting. 05/10/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=23232 Calling on schools to participate in the Scholastic Summer Reading Challenge, which is a free, 18-week online reading program designed to help students turn the "summer slide" into a "summer leap." 05/02/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0501-CANS.pdf May 4 is School Lunch Hero Day, a special day to celebrate the hard work and dedication of school nutrition professionals. The South Dakota Department of Education invites students, school staff, parents and communities to thank their local school lunch and breakfast staff. 05/02/2018 http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ For the first time since 1985, South Dakota’s average teacher salaries in the 2016-17 school year were no longer the lowest in the nation. 04/25/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/April/documents/18-RegionTOYs2.pdf Districts that choose to participate in the State Teacher of the Year program are invited to submit the names of their Teachers of the Year to the South Dakota Department of Education. Those teachers may then apply for Regional Teacher of the Year, one of whom will be named State Teacher of the Year in October. Congratulations to these outstanding educators! 04/24/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/April/Page1.html Leading Innovation and Change through Systems Thinking and Equity is a pilot by the South Dakota Department of Education to create and support a network of South Dakota schools that will develop locally inspired innovation to address needs of a diverse population of students and educators. 04/23/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/April/documents/18-RegionTOYs.pdf Districts that choose to participate in the State Teacher of the Year program are invited to submit the names of their Teachers of the Year to the South Dakota Department of Education. Those teachers may then apply for Regional Teacher of the Year, one of whom will be named State Teacher of the Year in October. 04/19/2018 https://history.sd.gov/aboutus/eventsanded.aspx The 2018 South Dakota State Historical Society History Conference will be held April 27–28 in Rapid City. The annual Governor's Awards for History will be awarded at Saturday's luncheon. 04/16/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/April/page4.html Registration for summer and fall dual credit courses is open. Only students who were juniors in the 2017-18 school year and will be seniors in the 2018-19 school year, are eligible to apply for admission to summer dual credit courses. The cost for summer dual credit courses is $48.33 per credit. 04/12/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0410-NAEP.pdf South Dakota’s math and reading scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress remain at or above the national average. 04/11/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=23136 Four new related newspaper titles have been added to the growing online database of historical United States newspapers, according to the South Dakota State Historical Society. 04/10/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=23126 Celebrate the end of the snowy season and the beginning of spring at Family Fun Saturday on April 21 from 10-11:30 a.m. CDT at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. 04/09/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0405-Library.pdf April 8-14 is National Library Week, a time to celebrate the ways libraries lead their communities through services, programs and expertise. 04/06/2018 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XBMLC5G Math teachers, special education teachers, administrators, curriculum directors and postsecondary reps are invited to apply for ELA standards unpacking work groups to be held this summer in Pierre. 04/05/2018 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ELAUnpack2018 English language arts teachers, special education teachers, administrators, curriculum directors and postsecondary reps are invited to apply for ELA standards unpacking work groups to be held this summer in Pierre. 04/04/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/april/page1.html DOE will host a series of sessions, starting with a three-day summer institute and followed up by three colloquia (two days each) throughout the school year. The series will focus on leading innovation and change through systems thinking and equity. It will be open to approximately 10 teams of three to four members. 04/03/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/april/documents/2018-Legislature.pdf View the final summary of education-related bills passed during the 2018 legislative session. The list of bills is not all inclusive. 03/30/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0323-BOTE.pdf The South Dakota Board of Technical Education approved 2018-19 state tuition and fees at the state’s four technical institutes at its meeting today. The overall cost per credit hour will be $157. 03/28/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/Mar/Page1.html In 2018, up to $900,000 in grants will be awarded to Career and Technical Education Programs in South Dakota's secondary schools. 03/24/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/Mar/Page1.html Fourth Grade students are asked to write a 100-400 word essay about any South Dakota location that is at least 50 years old, why it is a favorite place for them, and why it should be preserved. 03/23/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/Mar/Page1.html The South Dakota Science Teachers Association and South Dakota Council of Teachers of Mathematics recently held their 26th Annual Joint Professional Development Conference in Huron. Congratulations to the outstanding educators who received special recognitions! 03/21/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0319-BOES.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education Standards adopted new academic content standards in six subject areas at its meeting today. 03/20/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ View agenda online. 03/19/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/Jan/Page6.html Awardees each receive a $10,000 award, a paid trip for two to Washington, D.C., to attend a week-long series of networking opportunities and recognition events, and a special citation signed by the President of the United States. 03/16/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/schoolhealth/newsletter/2018/Mar.aspx According to the 2016-17 South Dakota School Height and Weight Report, almost one-third of South Dakota's kids and teens are overweight or obese. 03/15/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/Mar/documents/NCRCPolicy.pdf The Department of Education has worked with the Department of Labor and Regulation to establish policies and procedures concerning the promotion, administration and management of the National Career Readiness Certificate. 03/14/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/mentoring/ The statewide mentoring program provides a first-year teacher access to a mentor teacher for a period of two years. Applications for new mentors are due May 1, and applications for new teachers are due June 15. 03/12/2018 http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ Blog by Abby Javurek, Director of Assessment and Accountability with the South Dakota Department of Education. 03/09/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/documents/031218-Agenda.pdf Agenda is now online. 03/08/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/certification/ To ensure optimal processing, educators whose certificates expire July 1 of this year should submit renewal applications as soon as possible. 03/07/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/Jan/documents/Parents.pdf A free session will be held for parents during the 2018 SD Special Education Conference March 13 in Sioux Falls. 03/06/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22995 Houses, barns and other buildings made of sod are the focus of the Winter 2017 historic preservation issue of "South Dakota History," the quarterly journal of the South Dakota State Historical Society. 03/05/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22991 Seth Tupper, author of “Calvin Coolidge in the Black Hills,” will discuss the president’s historic visit to South Dakota when the History and Heritage Book Club meets at 7 p.m. CDT on Tuesday, March 13, at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. 03/01/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/octe/weg.aspx The Workforce Education Grants provide South Dakota school districts and private, nonprofit entities who provide specialized training in South Dakota the opportunity to make transformative change in career and technical education programs. In 2018, up to $900,000 will be awarded. 03/01/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/Jan/documents/Parents.pdf A free session will be held for parents during the 2018 SD Special Education Conference on March 13 from 6:30-8:00 p.m. at the Sioux Falls Convention Center. 02/28/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ A public hearing will be held at MacKay Building, First Floor, Library Commons, 800 Governors Drive Pierre, South Dakota, March 19, 2018, at 9:00 a.m. Central Time, to consider the adoption and implementation of content standards. 02/27/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/feb/Page1.html A work group has reviewed South Dakota’s World Language standards and is seeking input from educators before moving forward with public hearings on proposed standards. Educator feedback is essential to guide members of the work group and to create a final proposed document for the Board of Education Standards to consider for adoption. 02/26/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/feb/Page4.html Teachers can highlight their students’ best work in art, literature and photography at the 2018 South Dakota State Fair. The work must be from the 2017-18 school year, and entries must be submitted no later than April 16. 02/22/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/feb/Page5.html This March, CTE standards in several career clusters will be up for adoption by the Board of Education Standards. If these standards are adopted, work groups will meet this summer to unpack them in order to provide educators with additional guidance and resources on implementation. 02/21/2018 http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/ South Dakota's content standards in math and English language arts are currently under review, and public comment is welcome. 02/20/2018 http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ Carla Diede, South Dakota's 2018 Milken Educator, and Rachel Schaefer, 2018 South Dakota Teacher of the Year, were recently honored by the State Legislature. 02/16/2018 https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/public/Course/browse?courseid=12253 Feb. 28, Rapid City. Could you use a day to update your CTE curriculum to the new standards? This one day Standards Implementation Session is designed just for that! Upcoming sessions will be held throughout the state. 02/15/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/nbulletin/2018/Feb.pdf#page=6 School Breakfast for Healthy Kids Grants now being accepted for the 2018 -2019 school year from Action for Healthy Kids. Applications are due April 6, 2018 02/14/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/ctemonth.aspx The Department of Education is encouraging educators and students to participate in the ‘What CTE Means to Me’ social media campaign (#SDCTE, #CTEMonth). 02/13/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/Feb/page6.html These educators may be considered for membership on advisory boards and task forces, as well as candidates for special recognition programs. Please make this year’s recommendations by March 15. 02/12/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0208-Libraries.pdf Twelve South Dakota public libraries have been accredited by the State Library in 2018. They will be honored in front of lawmakers, library colleagues and community members at the Capitol rotunda Feb. 13, at 3:15 pm CST. 02/08/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/feb/page5.html The South Dakota School Counseling Association Awards committee is accepting nominations for outstanding school counselors and others making contributions to the school counseling profession. Nominators do not have to be SDSCA members. 02/08/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/feb/page6.html These educators may be considered for membership on advisory boards and task forces, as well as candidates for special recognition programs. Please make this year’s recommendations by March 15. 02/07/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/feb/page3.html The role of the school counselor has evolved to meet the needs of today’s students. Read more on understanding the role of today’s school counselor. 02/06/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22919 Caroline Fraser will speak remotely about her book, “Prairie Fires: The American Dreams of Laura Ingalls Wilder” at 7 p.m. CST on Tuesday, Feb. 13. 02/05/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22911 The Governor’s Awards include recognition for individuals, organizations and also a K-12 History Teacher of the Year. 02/02/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0131-SFSP.pdf In an effort to fend off hunger, the South Dakota Department of Education’s office of Child and Adult Nutrition Services is seeking sponsors for a federally-funded program that provides nutritious meals and snacks to children in low-income areas during the summer months. 02/01/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/reportcard/dashboards/ The dashboards below allow the public to access the 2014-15, 2015-16 and 2016-17 Report Card results in an interactive, easy to understand format. They also provide an easier comparison among schools and districts on the report card’s performance indicators. 01/31/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22892 The South Dakota Historical Society Press, an office of the South Dakota State Historical Society at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre, recently received an Act of Excellence award from the South Dakota Hall of Fame in Chamberlain. 01/30/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22842 Five South Dakota classroom teachers are among the nearly 5,461 elementary and secondary school teachers nationwide to achieve National Board Certification in 2017. 01/29/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ Meeting scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. (mountain). Meeting streaming live at http://www.sd.net/schedule/. 01/26/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/bote/ Special call-in meeting scheduled to begin at Noon (central) today. 01/25/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ Agenda available online. 01/24/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22881 Visitors can create their own 3-D Valentine ornaments and enjoy some SDSU ice cream from 1-4 p.m. CST. All supplies are provided for free and there is no admission fee to the museum during the event. 01/23/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/Jan/Page6.html The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is the nation’s highest honor for math and science (including computer science) teachers. Awardees each receive a $10,000 award and a trip to Washington, D.C. Nominations are due April 1. 01/22/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/Jan/Page4.html Nominations are being accepted for the 2018 South Dakota K-12 History Teacher of the Year, one of the Governor's Awards for History coordinated by the South Dakota State Historical Society. Completed nominations must be received by Feb. 26. 01/19/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0117-ESSA.pdf “South Dakota’s plan reflects the state goal of ensuring that every student is provided the opportunity to be successful after high school,” said Secretary of Education Don Kirkegaard. 01/18/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/Jan/Page2.html The joint Association for Career and Technical Education/National Association of Agricultural Educators convention took place in December in Nashville, Tenn. Congratulations to South Dakota teachers Russ Swanson and Josh Johnson for the awards they received at the event. 01/17/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/18/Jan/Page1.html The Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium, with support from the South Dakota Department of Education’s Office of Assessment, seeks educators to participate in several content development activities 01/16/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22850 There’s no need to fight the cold or get frosty fingers when you “Build a Snowman!” at Family Fun Saturday from 10-11:30 a.m. CST on Jan. 20 at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. 01/12/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0110-SDSL.pdf The South Dakota State Library recently added a collection of historical Supreme Court Reports 1879-1923 to the library's digital collections site. 01/11/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2018/Jan/documents/FoodWaste.pdf K-12 school administrators and food service personnel are invited to attend a free one-hour webinar on food waste reduction in schools, hosted by the Environmental Protection Agency Region 8. 01/10/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0108-NBC.pdf Five South Dakota classroom teachers are among the nearly 5,461 elementary and secondary school teachers nationwide to achieve National Board Certification in 2017. 01/09/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/cpr.aspx While CPR is not a graduation requirement, as of July 1, 2017, South Dakota Codified Law requires districts to incorporate into district curriculum the skills necessary to perform hands-only CPR and awareness in the use of an AED. The South Dakota Department of Education must annually make school districts aware of available resources for use in providing this instruction, which can be found on the department’s CPR Resources for Schools webpage. 01/08/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2018/0104-Milken.pdf Carla Diede, a National Board Certified math teacher at Harrisburg South Middle School, is South Dakota’s newest recipient of a $25,000 award that Teacher magazine calls the Oscar of Teaching. 01/05/2018 http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ The Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings and Standards are state content standards intended to help guide South Dakota K-12 educators in teaching Native American history and culture. Here are several examples, developed using the Inquiry Design Model Blueprint: 01/04/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/21CCLC/ The process to apply for the 2018-2019 21st Century Community Learning Center grants is now open. A Notice of Intent to Apply is required to be sent by all considering an application. 01/03/2018 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22814 Capturing memories of a way of life disappearing from South Dakota will be the focus of a Jan. 9 program at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. 01/02/2018 http://doe.sd.gov/ State Offices will be closed Monday, Jan. 1. 12/29/2017 https://www.kidsinthegame.org/gogrants/ KIDS in the GAME is accepting applications for physical education and physical activity program grants to K-12 schools. Five great programs are available. Application deadline is January 15, 2018. 12/28/2017 http://library.sd.gov/LIB/ERD/index.aspx Dozens of electronic resources (databases) are provided for FREE to ALL South Dakota citizens. 12/27/2017 https://doe.sd.gov/ Happy Holidays. 12/22/2017 https://doe.sd.gov/assessment/DigitalLibrary.aspx This month’s resource spotlight is from the Library of Congress and first asks students to analyze sample historical pictures and compare to familiar rituals or celebrations. The goal is to engage students with their own cultural rituals to improve oral and written communication. 12/22/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Dec/Page3.html SD EPSCoR (South Dakota Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research) has launched a free database of curriculum modules based on current scientific research occurring in South Dakota’s higher education institutions and aligned with the new South Dakota Science Standards. 12/21/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Dec/documents/NYSC.pdf The National Youth Science Camp is an honors program for two high-achieving high school graduates from each state and areas around the world. This unique residential experience has been held in a rustic setting in West Virginia’s eastern mountains since 1963. Participants attend free of charge (air transportation included). 12/20/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/scholarships/DAVIS-BAHCALL.aspx Davis-Bahcall Scholars will spend June 4-July 1, 2018, exploring modern scientific research at some of the nation’s leading laboratories and universities. High school seniors and college freshmen are eligible to apply. 12/19/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/1215-BOTE.pdf The retention rate at South Dakota’s four technical institutes is 78 percent, an all-time high. Since 2012, the retention rate has increased four percent. The state Board of Technical Education heard a report on the retention rates at its meeting earlier today. 12/18/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/bote/ View agenda online. To participate via telephone, dial 866-225-8423 and enter conference code: 6684830651. 12/15/2017 http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ Forty years ago, I entered the classroom as an elementary teacher because I like working with kids. I never could have imagined the trajectory my career would take, ending here in Pierre, leading the state Department of Education. 12/14/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Nov/documents/EL-Chats.pdf Beginning Dec. 19, the Department of Education will host monthly webinar sharing sessions for educators who work with English learners. 12/13/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/Dec/Page1.html The Outstanding Biology Teacher Award is sponsored by the National Association of Biology Teachers and honors teachers of the life sciences in grades 7-12. Nominees will have until March 30, 2018, to complete their application for the award. 12/12/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/1207-FAE.pdf Secretary of Education Dr. Melody Schopp visited Fred Assam Elementary in the Brandon Valley School District today to celebrate the school being honored as a National Title I Distinguished School for excellence in serving a special population of students (English learners). 12/08/2017 doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/ The Department of Education presented the Report on School Finance Accountability Board Meetings: Summary and Recommendations to the Joint Committee on Appropriations at the committee’s Dec. 5 meeting. Meeting audio is available on the committee’s webpage. The committee approved the SFAB’s recommendations. 12/07/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22738 The project is part of Chronicling America, a Library of Congress initiative to develop an online database of select historical newspapers from around the United States. 12/06/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/ofm/enrollment.aspx Fall enrollment data for School Year 2016-17 is now available. 12/05/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/AnnualReport/2016-17/ In 2016, the South Dakota Legislature passed historic legislation aimed at increasing the statewide average teacher salary, and recruiting and retaining high quality teachers in the state. Where are we now? 12/04/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/1130-WALL.pdf Secretary of Education Dr. Melody Schopp visited Wall Elementary School today to celebrate the school being honored as a National Title I Distinguished School for exceptional student performance for two consecutive years. 12/01/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Nov/Page1.html The Department of Education is seeking proposals for breakout sessions at the 2018 Mentoring Summer Academy. More than 600 new teachers and mentors who are participating in the statewide mentor program will attend this event scheduled for June 4-5 in Sioux Falls. 11/30/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Nov/tf.html Plankinton teacher Mercia Schroeder is bringing cultures together in this small South Dakota town. 11/29/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/canS/documents/17-EquipGrant2.docx Schools are invited to apply for funding to purchase equipment to serve healthier meals that meet the updated meal patterns, with emphasis on more fruits and vegetables in school meals, improve food safety, and expand access. 11/28/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22697 A new museum program focused on families with preschool-aged children is now available to the public at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. The backpacks are checked out at the information desk at no charge in the Cultural Heritage Center for use in the museum galleries. 11/27/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22688 Live Entertainment and Refreshments, Visit with Santa Claus, Shop for unique South Dakota gifts, Free Museum Admission. Doors open at Noon. 11/22/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ Agenda is can be accessed online. 11/21/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ A public hearing will be held to consider the adoption and implementation of content standards. 11/20/2017 http://stage.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/Nov/page4.html The South Dakota Early Learning Guidelines have been updated, and among those making use of them are School Administrators of South Dakota, through their new Preschool Levels of Excellence program, which launched this school year. 11/17/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/ School Finance Accountability Board meeting starts today in Pierre at 8:30 a.m. Public Access to listen to meeting via telephone: Please dial 1-866-410-8397: conference code 5214682374. 11/16/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22668 Gov. Dennis Daugaard has appointed Dr. Becky Guffin of Aberdeen and former Rep. Jacqueline Sly of Rapid City to the South Dakota Board of Education Standards. 11/15/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/Nov/page1.html Watch a video from the SD Department of Education thanking all those involved in educating South Dakota students. 11/13/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/Nov/page1.html The School Finance Accountability Board will meet Nov. 16-17 to consider waiver applications related to teacher compensation accountabilities. Districts that missed one or both accountabilities received a letter from the department with information regarding the process for seeking a waiver from financial penalties. 11/9/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx Applications for the $1,000 must be submitted and approved prior to August 2017. Eligible Applicants: Any South Dakota school district or organization that participates in the National School Lunch program and has a full lunchroom that serves students in grades 7-12. 11/1/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/USPSP.aspx The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is a recognition program. Students chosen as U.S. Presidential Scholars receive an expense-paid trip to Washington, D. C. in June and the U.S. Presidential Scholars medallion at a ceremony sponsored by the White House, in commemoration of their achievements. 10/31/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22600 Hospital founders, philanthropists and a pioneer nurse are featured in the Fall 2017 issue of “South Dakota History,” the quarterly journal of the South Dakota State Historical Society. 10/30/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/title/toolkit/ The Department of Education announces a new tool for educators to help in establishing and maintaining meaningful, trusting relationships with parents and families: The South Dakota Guide to Inspiring Partnerships Between Home and School. 10/27/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22594 Get in the holiday spirit and have some fun creating handmade holiday ornaments at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. CDT on Saturday, Nov. 4. 10/25/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Oct/page1.html The Department of Education will be facilitating a cohort for teachers who sign up to begin the process in January 2018. South Dakota teachers who achieve National Board Certification earn $2,000 per year from the state of South Dakota, and they can apply to have their NBC fees reimbursed. 10/24/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Oct/page2.html A new exhibit about the 1970s opens in mid-November. There is no charge for student tours, which can be guided or self-guided. 10/23/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/ School Finance Accountability Board will meet in Pierre on Oct. 19, at 9 a.m. Listen to meeting via telephone: dial 1-866-410-8397, then enter conference code 5214682374. 10/19/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/bote/ Board of Technical Education will meet in Pierre on Oct. 18 to discuss hiring of exec. director. 10/18/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22557 No other part of the West saw such a succession of trading posts as did the heart of modern-day South Dakota, where the Bad River meets the Missouri near Fort Pierre. The South Dakota State Historical Society’s latest book, “Fort Tecumseh and Fort Pierre Chouteau: Journal and Letter Books, 1830–1850,” transcribed and annotated by Michael M. Casler and W. Raymond Wood, details two such posts that reached their golden age under the American Fur Company in the 1830s and 1840s. 10/17/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22549 Gov. Dennis Daugaard announced that Dr. Melody Schopp, Secretary of Education, will retire in December. 10/16/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/sept/tf.html Meet South Dakota’s Regional Teachers of the Year. These outstanding educators are candidates for 2018 State Teacher of the Year, who will be named at a special banquet Oct. 19 in Rapid City, as part of the Systems Change Conference. 10/13/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/1011-Aspen.pdf The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program today named Mitchell Technical Institute and Southeast Technical Institute among the nation’s top 150 community colleges eligible to compete for the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence and $1 million in prize funds, as well as the Siemens Technical Scholars Program student scholarships. The schools were selected from a pool of nearly 1,000 public two-year colleges. 10/12/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/Oct/page2.html The school health program in the South Dakota Departments of Education and Health, in collaboration with Action For Healthy Kids, will offer training designed to provide continued support to schools/districts as they work to comply with the new wellness policy rules and to help schools/districts strengthen and effectively implement their wellness policies. 10/11/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/1006-BOTE.pdf The State Board of Technical Education has approved a joint proposal from Lake Area Technical Institute, Mitchell Technical Institute and Western Dakota Technical Institute to create two-year registered nursing programs at each technical institute. 10/10/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/bote/ Agenda is available online. 10/05/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22488 The story of Nicholas Black Elk as related by author John Neihardt will be discussed at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre on Tuesday, Oct. 10. 10/04/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/title/toolkit/ The Department of Education announces a new tool for educators to help in establishing and maintaining meaningful, trusting relationships with parents and families: The South Dakota Guide to Inspiring Partnerships Between Home and School. 10/03/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Sept/Page4.html School libraries have an opportunity to join with thousands of other libraries and schools around the country to read the same book to as many kids as possible. This year’s selection is “Quackers” by Liz Wong. The South Dakota State Library has a limited number of free copies available for distribution. 09/29/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Sept/Page1.html The Board of Education Standards held the first of four public hearings at its Sept. 18 meeting in Aberdeen. 09/28/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Sept/tf.html Meet South Dakota’s Regional Teachers of the Year. These outstanding educators are candidates for 2018 State Teacher of the Year, who will be named at a special banquet Oct. 19 in Rapid City, as part of the Systems Change Conference. 09/27/2017 https://doe.sd.gov/assessment/DigitalLibrary.aspx Check out the new Monthly Spotlight on the Department of Education’s Digital Library page to learn about an instructional resource recommended by one of your teaching colleagues. The Digital Library is an online repository of formative assessment resources available at no cost to all South Dakota public school teachers. 09/26/2017 https://tie.events/ies/ The SD Indian Education Summit 2017 is underway in Pierre. 09/25/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/reportcard/ The Report Card uses several indicators to measure how South Dakota schools are performing. 09/20/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0918-reportcard.pdf Later this month, qualifying South Dakota public high school seniors will receive letters announcing their guaranteed general acceptance into the state’s public universities and technical institutes. 09/19/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ The South Dakota Board of Education Standards will meet Monday, Sept. 18, in Aberdeen. On the board’s agenda are public hearings for proposed academic content standards in English Language Arts, Math, Health, and Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings and Standards, as well as these CTE areas: Business Management and Administration, Capstone Courses, Government and Public Administration, Hospitality and Tourism, Marketing, Transportation, Distribution and Logistics. The board also will hold a public hearing on proposed rule changes related to School Accountability. 09/18/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0914-IESa.pdf Longtime CBS broadcaster Hattie Kauffman will be among keynote speakers at the 2017 South Dakota Indian Education Summit to be held Sept. 24-26, at the Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center in Pierre. 09/15/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/Sept/page6.html Midwest Dairy Council - South Dakota and the South Dakota Departments of Education and Health are teaming up to offer a Fuel Up to Play 60 Program Advisor training Sept. 26 in Oacoma for educators, food service staff, community members and others. 09/14/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ Agenda is now online. 09/12/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0907-ACT.pdf South Dakota saw a significant increase in the percentage of graduating seniors who took the ACT in 2017, while the state’s average composite score remained above the national average and down slightly from 2016. 09/08/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0906-Attendance.pdf With the 2017-18 school year underway, Gov. Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed September Attendance Awareness Month. 09/07/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/Sept/page2.html The Board of Education Standards will hold four public hearings at locations around the state. 09/06/2017 https://rules.sd.gov/default.aspx These proposed rules mirror many of the components of South Dakota’s state plan required under the Every Student Succeeds Act. To review and/or offer public comment on the proposed rules, visit rules.sd.gov and follow the “Department of Education” link and look for “Article 24:55 Public School Accountability System.” 09/05/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/contentstandards/review.aspx View the Standards that are up for Public Hearings 08/31/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ A public hearing will be held at Northern State University, Student Center Centennial Rooms A and B West,1200 South Jay Street, Aberdeen, South Dakota on Monday, September 18, 2017, at 10: 00 a.m. Central Time, to consider the adoption and implementation of content standards. 08/30/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0828-CANS1.pdf The policy applies to children unable to pay the full price of meals or milk served under the National School Lunch, School Breakfast, and/or Special Milk Programs. 08/29/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Aug/Page3.html In late July, nearly 50 K-3 educators from across South Dakota attended the first two days of a foundational reading training in Pierre, focused on the five main literacy skills: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and reading comprehension. Attendees will gather again in October to conclude the training. 08/25/2017 http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx Register today for the 2017 Indian Education Summit. Longtime CBS broadcaster Hattie Kauffman will be one of the keynote speakers. The event will also feature a screening of the new film “Neither Wolf Nor Dog,” along with an appearance by Kent Nerburn, author of the book upon which the film is based. 08/24/2017 http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ A column by Gov. Dennis Daugaard: For high schoolers and their parents, I have three tips to share for the upcoming school year. 08/23/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/review.aspx South Dakota’s content standards are reviewed regularly, as required by state law. 08/22/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Aug/Page1.html Applications are due Sept. 7 for SDMath and SDSci Leadership, a pilot program from the South Dakota Department of Education to create and support a dynamic network of math and science educators. Educators who have demonstrated an interest in leadership skills related to math and science education are encouraged to apply. 08/21/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/AnnualReport/2016-17/ DOE has developed an online annual report examining what has happened in the year after legislation was passed, which aims at increasing the statewide average teacher salary, and recruiting and retaining high quality teachers in the state. Read stories of how students, educators and schools across South Dakota are benefiting. 08/18/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Aug/Page2.html Each year, the U.S. Department of Education designates teacher shortage areas. This federal designation may qualify borrowers for deferment or forgiveness of outstanding Federal Family Education Loans, Federal Stafford Loans or Federal Perkins Loans. Qualification depends on the type of loan and the date issued. 08/17/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/Aug/page4.html Please remember that the Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) and MCV4 (Meningococcal ACYW) vaccines are required for entry into the 6th grade. 08/03/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22243 The South Dakota State Historical Society announces that the applications for the next round of the Deadwood Fund grant program should be postmarked no later than Oct. 1 for work beginning no sooner than Jan. 1, 2018. 08/02/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/aug/page1.html The South Dakota Board of Education Standards met July 17 and adopted principal evaluation rules that provide additional flexibility at the local level. Amendments were made to the proposed rules to address concerns expressed by superintendents during the public comment period. 08/01/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/Aug/documents/leadership2.pdf DOE and School Administrators of South Dakota have joined resources to support principals in their first five years of practice. This program is designed to provide PD, resources and a network of support for early career principals. 07/31/2017 http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ My name is Shirley Vargas, and I am honored and privileged to be on the land of the Oceti Sakowin. I have the opportunity to serve as a summer intern at the South Dakota Department of Education, as I work towards my doctorate in educational leadership from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. 07/28/2017 https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/public/Course/browse?courseid=10198 This training will cover the basic functions needed to effectively operate and manage users in the Infinite Campus system. 07/27/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx Conference to be held July 31-Aug. 1, 2017, in Brookings. Agenda, conference program and registration are available online. 07/26/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/July/documents/ReadingTrainings.pdf To support both the department’s reading goals and five-year plan on dyslexia, DOE is offering two reading trainings in Pierre this summer to support foundational reading skills in grades K-3 and to explore strategies to support struggling readers in grades 4-8. Teachers (general, special education and Title), reading specialists, instructional coaches, paraprofessionals and K-8 administrators are invited to attend. 07/25/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/ SD Board of Education Standards met last week and adopted principal evaluation rules that provide additional flexibility at the local level. 07/24/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ Agenda is now online. Live streaming: http://www.sd.net/mtc/. 07/17/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/bote/ Agenda is available online. 07/14/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx Conference to be held July 31 - Aug. 1 in Brookings. 07/13/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ Agenda is now online. 07/12/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22151 South Dakota has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation. Although this is a sign of a strong economy, it creates a challenge for our businesses. Many struggle to attract skilled workers in high-need fields such as engineering, information technology, healthcare and the construction trades. 07/11/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/July/documents/ReadingTrainings.pdf To support both the department’s reading goals and five-year plan on dyslexia, DOE is offering two reading trainings in Pierre this summer to support foundational reading skills in grades K-3 and to explore strategies to support struggling readers in grades 4-8. Teachers (general, special education and Title), reading specialists, instructional coaches, paraprofessionals and K-8 administrators are invited to attend. 07/10/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/archive.aspx At its June 29 meeting, the School Finance Accountability Board adopted rules to establish an appeals process and a set of factors that will be used to determine if a school district is recommended for a waiver from their accountabilities as outlined in SDCL 13-13-73.6 The rules will go before the Legislature’s Interim Rules Review Committee for final approval on July 17. 07/07/2017 https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/public/Course/browse?courseid=9185 Training for administrators to be held in Pierre July 10 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 07/06/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22128 July’s activity will focus on flags. Program is from 10-11:30 a.m. CDT. 07/05/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/title/conference/index.aspx Conference held July 11-12 in Pierre. he conference emphasizes the critical nature of doing what is right and what is needed to help every child succeed and achieve academic success. 06/30/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/ Meeting begins at 1 p.m. (central). Public Access to listen to meeting via telephone: Please dial 1-866-410-8397: conference code 5714727929. 06/29/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/essa.aspx Reminder: Public comment period on SD’s state plan required under ESSA closes Friday, June 30, 5 p.m. CT. 06/28/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0626-Dyslexia.pdf An updated version of the Dyslexia Handbook for Teachers and Parents in South Dakota is now available on the Department of Education website. 06/27/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0601-SFSP.pdf Children age 18 and younger may receive a meal free of charge at participating sites, which include organizations such as nonprofits, schools, libraries and local governments. 06/26/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/ Proposed Agenda now online. 06/23/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22081 The program is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense and more than 2,000 museums across America to offer free admission to all active duty military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day. 06/22/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/oess/mtss.aspx Conference to be held June 28 and 29, 2017 in Chamberlain. 06/21/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0616-Farm.pdf The South Dakota Department of Education has received a $24,158 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as part of the Farm to School Grant Program, an effort to better connect school cafeterias and students with local farmers and ranchers and increase the amount of local foods served in schools. 06/21/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0616-Farm.pdf The South Dakota Department of Education has received a $24,158 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as part of the Farm to School Grant Program, an effort to better connect school cafeterias and students with local farmers and ranchers and increase the amount of local foods served in schools. 06/20/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/ Meeting starts at 1:30. Join meeting via SKype or phone. 06/19/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx Highlights include keynote speaker Craig Culver, founder of culver Restaurants, SDSU Campus Tours and Hands-On Workshops. 06/16/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22045 A photograph of a tornado and two funnel clouds, taken on Thursday, Aug. 28, 1884, by photographer F.N. Robinson of Howard is currently on display in the research room of the South Dakota State Historical Society Archives at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. 06/15/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22043 LATI’s Agriculture Program is one of the top programs on its campus with over 300 students enrolled. 06/14/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/readsd.aspx Students, pledge to read 20 minutes a day this summer. 06/13/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/June/ Registration is now open for the 2017 Indian Education Summit. Longtime CBS broadcaster Hattie Kauffman will be one of the keynote speakers. The event will also feature a screening of the new film, “Neither Wolf Nor Dog,” along with an appearance by Kent Nerburn, author of the book upon which the film is based. 06/12/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=22008 “The Wi-Iyohi” was a monthly bulletin published by the State Historical Society from April 1947 to November 1970. Within each bulletin are maps, photos and general histories of South Dakota. Historical information in “The Wi-Iyohi” is still referenced today. The bulletins also provide institutional information for the State Historical Society. 06/09/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/Title/conference/ This year’s conference will feature three keynote speakers and a wide variety of sessions on topics including suicide prevention and parent and family engagement. 06/08/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0606-LibA.pdf Nine school libraries have received the 21st Century School Library Award for 2017. 06/07/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0605-SPED.pdf Information regarding school districts’ performance on improving the educational outcomes of students with disabilities is now available online. 06/06/2017 https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/public/Course/browse?courseid=8142 This course is intended for teachers who are new to Career and Technical Education and will provide information on SDMyLife, labor market projections, and the components of a high quality program of study. 06/05/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0601-SFSP.pdf Organizations across South Dakota are serving free meals to the state’s youth this summer as a part of the Summer Food Service Program and Seamless Summer Option. 06/02/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/oess/mtss.aspx Registration still open for the two day conference. 06/01/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0531-ESSA.pdf South Dakota today released its state plan for education required under the Every Student Succeeds Act. 05/31/2017 http://www.library.sd.gov/LIB/DEV/training/bootcamp/index.aspx Boot Camp is a two credit Black Hills State University course and may be taken at either the undergraduate or graduate level. All educators are welcome. 05/26/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21935 The museum in the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre is open Monday, May 29, for the Memorial Day holiday from 1-4:30 p.m. CDT. 05/25/2017 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MTMVZV2 The South Dakota State Historical Society is seeking input from the public about the individual programs we offer, especially at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. 05/24/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/readsd.aspx As part of the goal for every student to enter 4th grade either proficient or advanced in reading, the South Dakota Department of Education is coordinating a reading initiative to bolster student reading achievement year round. 05/23/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/May/tf.html “If I wouldn’t have had Cathy as a mentor, I wouldn’t be teaching today,” said Dee Quinnett, a first-year culinary teacher with the Northwest Area Schools Education Cooperative. Her mentor is Cathy Smith, a special education teacher in the Faith School District. 05/22/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/May/documents/SDSCI-app.docx DOE is seeking science educators to participate in the development of the South Dakota Science Standards Framework. The framework will provide educators with information and resources to help develop curriculum aligned to South Dakota’s science standards. Applications are due May 26. 05/22/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/May/documents/SDSCI-app.docx DOE is seeking science educators to participate in the development of the South Dakota Science Standards Framework. The framework will provide educators with information and resources to help develop curriculum aligned to South Dakota’s science standards. Applications are due May 26. 05/19/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/suicideprevention/ Beginning July 1, 2017, anyone applying for an initial or renewal certificate as a teacher, administrator or other education professional must participate in a minimum of one clock hour of suicide awareness and prevention training. 05/18/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0515-BOE2.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education adopted new career and technical education standards in six career clusters at its meeting this week. 05/17/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0515-BOE1.pdf A summary of South Dakota’s plan for educating students under the Every Student Succeeds Act is now available. It was presented to the state Board of Education at its meeting today in Rapid City. 05/16/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ To participate via telephone: Please dial 1-866-410-8397, Then enter conference code 8381998525#. For live streaming of meeting: http://www.sd.net/remote1/ 05/15/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0511-WEG.pdf Five South Dakota Workforce Education Grants, totaling $1,040,000, have been awarded to four South Dakota school districts and one private nonprofit corporation. 05/12/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0510-TOY.pdf A statewide panel of educators will select one of these regional finalists to represent the state as the 2018 South Dakota Teacher of the Year. 05/11/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/051517.aspx Proposed agenda for the May 15 Board of Education meeting now online. 05/10/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/ofm/qzab.aspx Public school districts can now apply for bond authorizations. Qualified Zone Academy Bonds, or QZABs, may be used for rehabilitating public school facilities and providing equipment, instructional materials and professional development for teachers at qualified schools. 05/08/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0504-TeacherAppreciation.pdf The Department of Education will be using the hashtag #ThankATeacher on social media throughout the week. Members of the public are invited to share a message of thanks for the teachers impacting students across the state and the country. 05/05/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21839 Fifteen thousand fourth graders in South Dakota will get a special taste of summer freedom through the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks’ (GFP) “Go Fourth” program. 05/04/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21821 The latest Pioneer Girl Project publication, “Pioneer Girl Perspectives: Exploring Laura Ingalls Wilder,” was unveiled at the April 28-29 history conference of the South Dakota State Historical Society in Sioux Falls. 05/03/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx Schools and agencies using any National School Lunch program are eligible to apply for the Power Chef Challenge sub-grant award to promote nutrition education and culinary skills among middle school and junior high youth. 05/02/2017 http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx Indian Education Summit, Sept. 24-26, 2017, Pierre. 05/01/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/sfsp.aspx Applications still being accepted for Summer Food Service Programs. 04/28/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/Title/conference/index.aspx Registration now open for the SD Education Conference Annual Kickoff. July 11-17, 2017, Pierre, SD. 04/27/2017 http://history.sd.gov/aboutus/historyconference/ Great opportunity for your school to improve their lunchroom environment and engage students in the Smarter Lunchrooms Movement! Applications for the $1,000 must be submitted and approved prior to August 2017. 04/25/2017 http://history.sd.gov/aboutus/historyconference/ The annual History Conference of the South Dakota State Historical Society is moving to Sioux Falls for 2017. Coinciding with the 150th anniversary of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s birth, the conference will focus on Wilder and her work. Discover the heritage of this influential American writer, and mark your calendars now for this exciting event to be held Apr. 28-29, 2017 at the Sioux Falls Holiday Inn-City Centre. 04/24/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/April/Page2.html This summer, the South Dakota Department of Education’s division of career and technical education will lead work groups in reviewing and revising CTE course standards in several career clusters. Educators who teach courses in these career clusters are invited to provide feedback on current standards. 04/20/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/April/tf.html This is Janell Stoeger’s first school year as the Todd County Middle School librarian. Since the school district has not had a librarian for a while, she has been building up the collection and improving the space. She’s also been teaching Book Smack. 04/19/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/mentoring/ The statewide mentoring program provides a first-year teacher access to a mentor teacher for a period of two years. Successful completion of the program meets certificate renewal requirements for both mentors and new teachers. After completing the program, participants can also purchase six graduate credits. 04/18/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/ctenewsletters.aspx Articles include Perkins Data Collections, CTE Standards Revision Timeline, and Hot Careers. 04/17/2017 http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/17-IES-Req.docx The South Dakota Indian Education Summit will be held Sept. 24-26, in Pierre. Summit strands will focus on achievement, culture and language, success from within and building future leaders. 04/13/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21737 Seven proposals from South Dakota school districts will be funded under the latest round of the state’s shared services grant program. The program provides incentives for districts to work together to find ways to increase learning opportunities. 04/12/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/April/page2.html Each year, the U.S. Department of Education designates teacher shortage areas. This federal designation may qualify borrowers for deferment or forgiveness of outstanding Federal Family Education Loans, Federal Stafford Loans or Federal Perkins Loans. 04/11/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/April/page1.html Standards work groups will reconvene in June to consider feedback from K-12 educators on proposed revisions to South Dakota’s math and English language arts standards and make any necessary changes. 04/10/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0405-Library.pdf Gov. Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed April 10-16, South Dakota Library Week, in honor of the vital and continually evolving role of libraries in schools and communities. 04/07/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/April/page6.html Registration for summer dual credit courses is open. Only students who were juniors in the 2016-17 school year and will be seniors in the 2017-18 school year, are eligible to apply for admission to summer dual credit courses. 04/05/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/April/page1.html Standards work groups will reconvene in June to consider feedback from K-12 educators on proposed revisions to South Dakota’s math and English language arts standards and make any necessary changes. 04/04/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/schoolhealth/newsletter/2017/April.aspx Articles include Diet and Physical Activity of Children Focus of Continuing Research. Also included are funding opportunities and professional development opportunities. 04/03/2017 http://library.sd.gov/LIB/CYS/prairieawards/index.aspx#.WNziAxvrvmw Time is running out for students to vote for their favorite books. Voting for the South Dakota Library Association’s Children's and Teen Choice Book Awards closes April 1. 03/30/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx Challenge sub-grant award to promote nutrition education and culinary skills among middle school and junior high youth. Curriculum of eight sessions culminating in a cook-off challenge will be provided. 03/29/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/March/Page3.html During the month of April, the Museum of the South Dakota State Historical Society offers a gallery class entitled Lewis and Clark’s South Dakota Adventure to 4th grade students at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. 03/28/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/March/tf.html In December 2016, Deuel High School social studies teacher Matt Rosdahl was one of three teachers nationwide to receive the Korean War Legacy Foundation Interview Initiative Scholarship. 03/27/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21657 Using artwork that relates to the more than 40 children’s books written and illustrated by Goble throughout his lifetime, the exhibition opens in the museum’s Hogen Gallery on Tuesday, April 4, and runs through Sept. 24. 03/24/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0320-BOEc.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education adopted new educator certification rules earlier today, overhauling the state’s current certification system. 03/22/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0320-BOE.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education has approved 2017-18 state tuition and fees at the state’s four technical institutes. 03/21/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ Among the items on the agenda is a second public hearing for proposed certification rules. View the agenda on the board’s website. 03/20/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0222-TitleI.pdf Anne Sullivan Elementary (Sioux Falls) and Leola Elementary were among those honored recently as National Title I Distinguished Schools at the National Title I Conference 03/17/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21614 The South Dakota State Historical Society today joins more than 100 historical organizations around the country to endorse the History Relevance Value Statement and declare the importance of teaching and learning history. 03/16/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/March/page5.html The Department of Education maintains a list of Emerging Classroom Leaders to be considered for membership on advisory boards and task forces, as well as candidates for special recognition programs. 03/15/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/March/page3.html The department is soliciting 25-30 work group members comprised of K-12 and postsecondary educators, administrators, curriculum directors, parents and business/industry partners to review K-12 world language standards. Applications are due March 15. 03/14/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/March/page2.html Revision work groups will meet in-person during the month of June at various locations across the state. Additional meetings may be held online as needed, later in the summer, following the in-person sessions. 03/13/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/March/page4.html The Department of Education is accepting applications for Perkins Reserve Grants. Maximum grant awards of $30,000 are available. 03/08/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/schoolhealth/newsletter/2017/March.aspx According to the 2015-2016 South Dakota School Height and Weight Report, almost one-third of South Dakota's kids and teens are overweight or obese. 03/07/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21566 Come and make your own pinwheel to capture the South Dakota spring breezes at Family Fun Saturday on March 11 from 10-11:30 a.m. CST at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. 03/06/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/contentStandards/review.aspx Apply to be part of the workgroup to reveiw the School Library Standards. 03/01/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx Schools and agencies using any National School Lunch program are eligible to apply for the Power Chef Challenge sub-grant award to promote nutrition education and culinary skills among middle school and junior high youth. 03/01/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/ At its March 16 meeting in Pierre, the School Finance Accountability Board will hold a public hearing on proposed rules for teacher compensation waivers. 02/28/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/ At its March 16 meeting in Pierre, the School Finance Accountability Board will hold a public hearing on proposed rules for teacher compensation waivers. 02/28/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/ctemonth.aspx During the month of February, students and teachers across our state are taking time to celebrate Career and Technical Education. Read more about the CTE Star Students. 02/27/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0222-TitleI.pdf Anne Sullivan Elementary (Sioux Falls) and Leola Elementary were among those honored as National Title I Distinguished Schools at the National Title I Conference in Long Beach, Calif. 02/23/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/certification-rules.aspx The state Board of Education will hold the second public hearing on proposed certification rule changes at its March 20 meeting in Aberdeen. Proposed rules are posted for public comment at rules.sd.gov. 02/22/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/octe/cte-fellows.aspx Through the CTE Fellows Program, teachers spend six to eight weeks with a South Dakota company where they work closely with an experienced mentor to complete a real-world project. CTE Fellows gain skills, share experiences, and develop tailored CTE curriculum to engage their students in classroom experiences that resemble their professional equivalents. 02/21/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/documents/031617-Rules.pdf A public hearing will be held at the MacKay Building, First Floor, Library Commons, 800 Governors Drive, Pierre, South Dakota on Thursday, March 16, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. CDT 02/17/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21495 The Case Library for Western Historical Studies at Black Hills State University in Spearfish and the Fort Meade Cavalry Museum are sponsoring a symposium and tour on June 1-3 that will highlight the region’s rich history. 02/16/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0131-CANS.pdf In an effort to fend off hunger, the South Dakota Department of Education’s office of Child and Adult Nutrition Services is seeking sponsors for a federally-funded program that provides nutritious meals and snacks to children in low-income areas during the summer months. 02/14/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21489 Now through March 26, the museum will host “Walk Softly,” a special exhibit of a piece of artwork produced in collaboration among Tiospa Zina Tribal School art students, their teacher Amy Woolston and visiting artist Angela Behrends from Dakota State University in Madison. 02/13/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/WEG.aspx The Department of Education is now accepting applications for the second round of 2017 Workforce Education Grants. This is school districts’ chance to make transformative changes in career and technical education programs. 02/10/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/Assessment/SmarterBalanced.aspx Activities include item mapping and Digital Library playlists, item review and item authoring. 02/09/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/documents/0117-FAQsESSA.pdf DOE recently hosted ESSA sessions for school administrators in order to share up-to-date information about LEA requirements, changes to the state’s grants management system, and to solicit feedback on key topics addressed by ESSA work groups. An FAQ document for school districts about new requirements under ESSA is now available. 02/08/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21475 The Governor’s Awards include recognition for individuals, organizations and also a K-12 History Teacher of the Year. 02/06/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/ctemonth.aspx During the month of February, students and teachers across our state are taking time to celebrate Career and Technical Education. 02/02/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21460 The free program will begin at 7 p.m. CST on Tuesday, Feb. 7. The program will take place at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. 02/02/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0131-CANS.pdf In an effort to fend off hunger, the South Dakota Department of Education’s office of Child and Adult Nutrition Services is seeking sponsors for a federally-funded program that provides nutritious meals and snacks to children in low-income areas during the summer months. 02/01/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/sharedservices.aspx Application proposals for the Employee Shared Services Grant may be submitted by an accredited public school district in South Dakota. Public districts may apply for up to three years of funding with a fifty percent reduction in annual funding in year two and seventy-five percent reduction in year three. 01/31/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Jan/Page4.html Workforce Education Grants provide South Dakota school districts the opportunity to make transformative change in career and technical education programs. Department of Education staff will hold conference calls to answer questions about the grants and discuss project ideas. 01/30/2017 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21446 Create your own snowflakes at Museum Activity Day at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre from 1-4 p.m. CST on Sunday, Feb. 5. 01/27/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/SDSTARS/documents/0217STARS.pdf Traings will be offered for users of the Student Teacher Accountability Reporting System (SD-STARS). 01/26/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx Schools and agencies using any National School Lunch program (including breakfast, summer feeding, after school snacks) are eligible to apply for the Power Chef Challenge sub-grant award to promote nutrition education and culinary skills among middle school and junior high youth. 01/25/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Jan/Page10.html The National Youth Science Camp honors academic excellence in STEM and promotes leadership through a lecture series, hands-on research, educational activities and outdoor adventures. The application deadline is March 1. 01/24/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Jan/Page4.html Workforce Education Grants provide South Dakota school districts the opportunity to make transformative change in career and technical education programs. Department of Education staff will hold conference calls to answer questions about the grants and discuss project ideas. 01/23/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0119-BOE.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education held the first of two public hearings on proposed educator certification rule changes earlier today. The proposed rules constitute an overhaul of the state’s certification system. 01/20/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Jan/Page2.html As schools prepare to administer this year’s statewide assessment, this is a reminder that South Dakota’s public universities accept Smarter Balanced scores as evidence of students’ readiness for credit-bearing coursework in English and math (the same way ACT scores can be used). 01/19/2017 http://stage.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/17/Jan/Page9.html DOE is seeking qualified individuals to become peer reviewers for 21st Century Community Learning Center grant applications. Peer reviewer applications are due Jan. 27. 01/18/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/ The first of two public hearings on proposed new certification rules will take place at the SD Board of Education meeting on Thursday, Jan. 19, in Pierre. 01/17/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/schoolhealth/newsletter/2017/jan.aspx Findings from a nationally representative survey of school food service directors identify approaches that have encouraged children to eat school meals and improved their consumption of healthy options during the multiyear transition to updated nutrition standards. 01/13/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/schoolhealth/newsletter/2017/jan.aspx Six individuals were recognized for outstanding teaching in health and physical education at the SHAPE SD Convention held October 26-28, 2016 in Deadwood. 01/12/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/1216-21cclc.pdf The opportunity to apply for 21st Century Community Learning Centers, or 21st CCLC, grants will be available soon. The grant application will be online, and applicants must first submit a Notice of Intent to Apply to the South Dakota Department of Education by Jan. 13, 2017. 01/11/2017 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/Jan/page6.html Per SDCL 13-3-91, the South Dakota Department of Education must annually make school districts aware of available resources for use in providing instruction in CPR and the use of AEDs (automated external defibrillators). 01/10/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/Jan/page3.html As schools prepare to administer this year’s statewide assessment, this is a reminder that all six of South Dakota’s public universities accept Smarter Balanced scores as evidence of students’ readiness for credit-bearing coursework in English and math (the same way ACT scores can be used). 01/09/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2017/Jan/page1.html South Dakota’s certification process is being overhauled, and proposed rules are now available for public comment. The state Board of Education will hold the first of two public hearings on the proposed changes Jan. 19. 01/06/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2017/0104-Milken.pdf Amanda Christensen, a fourth grade teacher at Longfellow Elementary School in Mitchell, has received a $25,000 award that Teacher magazine calls the “Oscar of Teaching.” 01/05/2017 https://www.builddakotascholarships.com/ Build Dakota Scholarships will be awarded to skilled scholars entering high-need workforce programs at South Dakota technical institutes. 01/03/2017 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/1216-21cclc.pdf The opportunity to apply for 21st Century Community Learning Centers, or 21st CCLC, grants will be available soon. The grant application will be online, and applicants must first submit a Notice of Intent to Apply to the South Dakota Department of Education by Jan. 13, 2017. 12/23/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/nbulletin/2016/Dec/#art_1 Check in with CANS is a monthly conference call for all agencies on the School Nutrition Programs. January’s call is scheduled for Thursday, January 12, 2017 at 2:30 pm CT / 1:30 pm MT. 12/22/2016 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21325 The South Dakota State Historical Society-Archives was awarded a second round of grant funding in the amount of $240,000 from the National Endowment for the Humanities to continue digitizing historical newspapers. 12/21/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/certification-rules.aspx Read timeline and additional information for proposed rule changes. 12/20/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Dec/tf.html Sage Fast Dog teaches Lakota Studies at Todd County Middle School. He uses the Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings and Standards, which are intended to help guide South Dakota K-12 educators in teaching about Native American history and culture. He wants all teachers to embrace these standards. 12/19/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Dec/Page1.html The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is the nation’s highest honor for math and science (including computer science) teachers. Awardees each receive a $10,000 award and a trip to Washington, D.C. Nominations are due April 1. 12/16/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/1214-AMSG.pdf The South Dakota Department of Education has awarded three Native American achievement school grants. The grant program was established by Senate Bill 82 and is a result of the Native American Student Achievement Advisory Council’s work. 12/15/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Dec/page1.html Team Nutrition is an integrated, behavior-based, comprehensive nationwide plan for promoting the nutritional health of the nation’s students. 12/14/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/1212-CIG.pdf Twenty-five Classroom Innovation Grants have been awarded to South Dakota school districts for a combined total of over $1.3 million funded by the 2016 Legislature. 12/13/2016 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkGmPrcsc-o The Council of Chief State School Officers produced a video spotlight of South Dakota's efforts to elevate the teaching profession. 12/12/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/documents/111516/item12doc1.pdf An overview of proposed changes to educator certification rules is now available. A first reading of the proposed rule changes was held at the Nov. 15 state Board of Education meeting. Public hearings will be held in January and March. 12/09/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/ The School Finance Accountability Board will hold a first reading of rules related to the appeals process for teacher compensation accountabilities at its next meeting, scheduled Dec. 8 at 1 p.m. CST via teleconference and Skype. 12/08/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/schoolhealth/newsletter/2016/Dec.aspx Ten committee members representing school districts, community agencies and the general public met July 27-28 to examine the current South Dakota Health Education Standards and Performance Indicators for pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The proposed SDHES and Performance Indicators are available on the South Dakota Department of Education content standards webpage. Educators can provide feedback on the proposed standards and indicators by completing a survey. 12/07/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx Any South Dakota school district or organization that participates in the National School Lunch program and has a full lunchroom that serves students in grades 7-12 is eligible to apply for this $1,000 grant opportunity. 12/06/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx Schools and agencies using any National School Lunch program (including breakfast, summer feeding, after school snacks) are eligible to apply for the Power Chef Challenge sub-grant award to promote nutrition education and culinary skills among middle school and junior high youth. Funds can be used to purchase food for food preparation lessons, printing of handouts, and small equipment for kitchen stations. 12/01/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/DAVIS-BAHCALL.aspx Up to 10 students will be chosen to participate in this all-expense paid summer-study program. Two or three of the students enrolled at South Dakota universities will be designated South Dakota Space Grant Consortium Davis-Bahcall Scholars. 12/01/2016 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21242 The next Smithsonian Saturday program at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre will be held on Saturday, Dec. 3, at 2 p.m. CST and will focus on the effort to research space using radio telescopes and various telescopes already working in deep space. 11/30/2016 http://indianeducation.sd.gov/advisorycouncil.aspx The meeting of the SD Indian Education Advisory Council scheduled for today has been postponed. Rescheduled meeting date and time to be announced at a later time. 11/29/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/ Meeting to be held at MacKay Building, Conference Room 5, 800 Governors Drive, Pierre, South Dakota. Meeting starts at 1 p.m. 11/28/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/1116PAPagn.pdf PAPSC to meet Nov. 28, MacKay Building First Floor Conference Room 1, 800 Governors Drive, Pierre, South Dakota. Meeting starts at 10 a.m.Proposed agenda available online. 11/23/2016 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21220 Two new displays will be opening in time for the annual Holiday Open House event at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre on Friday, Nov. 25. The annual Holliday Open House takes place on Friday from 12-4:30 p.m. CST. The event features holiday entertainment, living history demonstrations, cookies and punch, the recently added exhibit “Building South Dakota” in the Observation Gallery and photos with Santa. 11/22/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Nov/page8.html At the federal level, funding for the Advanced Placement Test Fee Program is being eliminated as a separate funding stream. The South Dakota Department of Education has a plan to fund test fees for low-income students, with state dollars, for one year (2017 administration). After that, districts will need to plan accordingly. 11/21/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Nov/Page3.html Bringing students to Pierre this winter to observe the state legislature? Discover hands-on history at the Cultural Heritage Center, home of the Museum of the South Dakota State Historical Society. With a museum visit, students can gain insight into the state history that informs the legislature’s work. 11/18/2016 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=21203 Preliminary data indicates that South Dakota’s teacher salaries are on track to meeting a statewide target average of $48,500, which legislators adopted earlier this year as a part of the Blue Ribbon education funding package. 11/17/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/1115-CTEb.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education held the first of four public hearings on proposed career and technical education standards in six career clusters earlier today.The South Dakota Board of Education held the first of four public hearings on proposed career and technical education standards in six career clusters earlier today. 11/16/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/111516.aspx Read agenda online. Public Access to listen to meeting via telephone: dial 1-866-410-8397, conference code 8381998525 11/15/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx Due to the extension of the 2014-2016 South Dakota Team Nutrition grant, the following sub-grants are available to eligible schools and school districts until all funds are committed. 11/14/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/schoolhealth/newsletter/2016/Oct.aspx The proposed SDHES and performance indicators are available on the South Dakota Department of Education standards webpage. Educators can provide feedback on the proposed standards and performance indicators by completing a survey. 11/10/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/1107-SSGA.pdf Two proposals from South Dakota school districts will be funded under the second round of the state’s new shared services grant program. 11/09/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/1107-SSGA.pdf Two proposals from South Dakota school districts will be funded under the second round of the state’s new shared services grant program. 11/08/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Nov/page3.html South Dakota’s ESSA Accountability Work Group has held what should be its final face-to-face meeting. This group’s ideas, along with those of the School Improvement and ELL Work Groups will serve as a starting point for proposals on which the Department of Education will seek broad input from across the state. 11/07/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/111516.aspx The agenda for the Nov. 15 Board of Education meeting is now available. 11/04/2016 https://www.sdbor.edu/mediapubs/New%20Press%20Releases/100516Dual.pdf According to a study conducted by the South Dakota Board of Regents, students who completed dual credit courses and subsequently enrolled in one of the state's six public universities completed more credit hours and had significantly higher grade point averages after the first year of college than students who did not complete any dual credit courses. 11/03/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Nov/page4.html Proposed changes to certification rules will get a first reading at the state Board of Education’s Nov. 15 meeting in Sioux Falls. The intent is to streamline rules and make them easier to understand. New rules are scheduled to be phased in, beginning in July 2017. 11/02/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/board/documents/111516-PH.pdf A public hearing will be held at Southeast Tech, Mickelson Center Room 101, 2320 N Career Avenue, Sioux Falls, South Dakota on Tuesday, November 15, 2016, at 10:30 a.m. Central Standard Time, to consider the adoption and implementation of the following career and technical education content standards. This is the first of four public hearings regarding these standards. 11/01/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/ofm/data-childcount.aspx Districts may begin uploads on December 1, 2016. All school districts must submit their child count by January 20, 2017. Upon notification from DOE district superintendents will need to log in and complete a final certification by February 1, 2017. 10/31/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/nslp.aspx National School Lunch Program participants need of funding to purchase equipment to serve healthier meals that meet the updated meal patterns, with emphasis on more fruits and vegetables in school meals, improve food safety, and expand access are welcome to apply. Priority must be given to schools with 50% or more eligible free/reduced price meals. Applications are due November 30, 2016. 10/28/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/nbulletin/2016/Oct/#art_13 Eligible schools, and organizations, may apply for up to $100,000 to plan, implement or support farm to school projects. The deadline for applications is December 8, 2017, but early submissions are encouraged. 10/27/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/accountabilityboard/ Agenda now available online. Public Listening Place: MacKay Building, Second Floor, Conference Room 5, 800 Governors Drive, Pierre, South Dakota. Public Access to listen to meeting via telephone: Please dial 1-866-410-8397: conference code 2543408891 10/26/2016 https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/ All school districts with one or more approved CTE programs are required to attend one of the sessions. It is recommended that districts send their CTE teachers or lead teachers and an administrator. School counselors are also strongly encouraged to attend with the CTE teachers within their district. The day will include a review of Perkins data and NCRC results. CTE programs will also have time to evaluate how they are utilizing professional development opportunities, work-based learning and industry resources within their local communities. 10/25/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Oct/Page3.html Workforce Education Grants provide school districts in South Dakota the opportunity to make transformative change in career and technical education programs. Department of Education staff are holding conference calls to answer questions about the grants and discuss project ideas. 10/24/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Oct/Page1.html The Digital Library is an online collection of formative assessment resources available at no cost to South Dakota K-12 educators. It contains resources for all K-12 educators, not just those who teach tested subjects and grade levels. Playlists are making this valuable resource more user-friendly. 10/21/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Oct/Page4.html The Legislative Research Council is looking for high school students interested in being a page during the 2017 legislative session. Students must be juniors or seniors (seniors are given preference). Students must be sponsored by a legislator and be in good academic standing (3.0 GPA or higher is encouraged). 10/20/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/SDEPSCoRGrant.aspx SD EPSCoR is looking for innovators in the area of career and technical education who would like to create or improve a program that allows students to explore STEM disciplines. Approximately $170,000 will be granted to schools. 10/19/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Oct/Page2.html The South Dakota Department of Education is gathering feedback on implementation of the Every Student Succeeds Act in our state by posing a number of questions on which broad input is needed. 10/18/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/Dyslexia.aspx The meetings will be held at 800 Governors Drive, Pierre starting at 9:30 a.m. Interested parties are welcome to listen to the proceedings either in person or by calling in at: (866) 410-8397; Access Code: 6052803568 (Due to the meeting structure, audio quality may be inconsistent). 10/17/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/1013-TOY1.pdf Beth Kaltsulas, a math teacher at Yankton Middle School, has been selected as the 2017 South Dakota Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made this evening at a banquet at the Cedar Shore Conference Center in Oacoma. 10/14/2016 http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ A column by Secretary of Education Dr. Melody Schopp. “Mass customized learning,” “MOD/CL,” “customized learning.” It goes by a variety of names, and you are likely hearing them more and more. I recently visited several South Dakota schools that are implementing customized learning. It’s happening at different grade levels and through a variety of methods. I believe it presents the opportunity for transformative change in education. 10/13/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/Dyslexia.aspx Gov. Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed October Dyslexia Awareness Month. The dyslexia stakeholders group that was assembled to help guide the state on how to better assist schools in identifying and serving students with dyslexia will hold its next meeting Oct. 19. 10/12/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Oct/page4.html The state has formalized a process by which school districts can borrow money under the umbrella of the state’s AAA bond rating. If your school district is looking into any bonding in the near future, please look at using this process. 10/11/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Oct/page3.html The Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings and Standards are state content standards intended to help guide South Dakota K-12 educators in teaching about Native American history and culture. Upcoming trainings will help teachers weave the OSEU together with social studies standards to create relevant lessons for all students. 10/07/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Oct/page2.html The South Dakota Department of Education is gathering feedback on implementation of the Every Student Succeeds Act in our state by posing a number of questions on which broad input is needed. 10/06/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Oct/page1.html Both the Classroom Innovation Grants and the Shared Employee Services Grants have been re-opened. Both opportunities were funded as part of the 2016 education package. The application deadline for both grants is Oct. 21, 2016. 10/05/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/reportcard/index.aspx The 2016 Report Card, a review of schools’ performance based on multiple indicators, is now available online. Student performance on the state assessment shows that the percentage of students scoring proficient has increased in both English language arts and math. 10/04/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Sept/page2.html Some high school seniors have received a letter from the South Dakota Department of Education indicating they qualify for College Readiness coursework to develop the skills needed to take credit-bearing coursework once they enroll in a South Dakota postsecondary institution. 10/03/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Sept/tf.html The 2017 South Dakota Teacher of the Year will be named Oct. 13 in Chamberlain at the Systems Change Conference. Meet the nominees in this month’s newsletter. 9/30/2016 http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ A column by Secretary of Education Dr. Melody Schopp 9/29/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/Dyslexia.aspx The dyslexia stakeholders group was assembled to help guide the state on how to better assist schools in identifying and serving students with dyslexia. 9/28/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Sept/Page2.html Upcoming trainings will help teachers weave the Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings and Standards together with social studies standards to create relevant lessons for all students. 9/27/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/cig.aspx A second round of applications will be available September 26, 2016, and due by October 21, 2016. Application proposals submitted or postmarked after the due date will not be considered. 9/26/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Sept/Page4.html The South Dakota State Library announces access to a suite of Ebsco databases at no charge to all South Dakota schools. 9/23/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Sept/Page1.html Work groups reviewed and revised the state’s math, English language arts and health education standards throughout summer 2016. All K-12 educators are encouraged to provide feedback on these proposed changes by May 15, 2017. 9/22/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0920-BOEl.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education has approved a community healthcare worker program at Lake Area Technical Institute in Watertown. 9/21/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/092016.aspx View online agenda. 9/20/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/092016.aspx View online agenda. 9/19/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/mentoring/index.aspx The new statewide teacher mentoring program, established as part of the 2016 education package, is getting underway. Experienced teachers who wish to serve as mentors and first-year teachers wanting to be mentored are encouraged to apply by Sept. 23. 9/15/2016 http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ During the last week of August, I traveled to Malawi, Africa. My trip was sponsored by the U.S. Speaker program. I was joined by the National Teacher of the Year and met with a number of individuals from teacher preparation and K-12 leadership, as well as several government figures. 9/13/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0909-IES1.pdf The 2016 South Dakota Indian Education Summit will be held Sept. 25-27, at the Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center in Pierre. 9/12/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0908-PAEM.pdf Four South Dakota educators are among those being honored today in Washington, D.C., as recipients of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. 9/09/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0907-ment.pdf Teachers from across the state are invited to participate in South Dakota’s new statewide mentoring program, which pairs teachers new to the profession with veteran educators. 9/08/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0906-Atte.pdf With school back in session across the state, Gov. Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed September Attendance Awareness Month. 9/07/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0902-CANS.pdf Child and Adult Nutrition Services in the South Dakota Department of Education announces the policy for free milk or free and reduced price meals. The policy applies to children unable to pay the full price of meals or milk served under the National School Lunch, School Breakfast, and/or Special Milk Programs. 9/06/2016 https://rules.sd.gov/agency.aspx?agency=DOE Department of Education At its Sept. 20 meeting, the South Dakota Board of Education will hold a public hearing to consider the adoption and amendment of proposed rules for Workforce Education Grants. 9/02/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/documents/ProAttend.pdf Read Governor Daugaard's proclamation 9/01/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/suicideprevention/ Senate Bill 129, passed by the 2016 Legislature, requires anyone applying for an initial or renewal certificate as a teacher, administrator or other education professional to participate in a minimum of one clock hour of suicide awareness and prevention training. 8/31/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/mentoring/ Applications for the program - both mentors and new teachers - are being accepted through Sept. 16, 2016. 8/30/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/mentoring/ Applications for the program - both mentors and new teachers - are being accepted through Sept. 16, 2016. 8/30/2016 http://indianeducation.sd.gov/NAASGP.aspx Passed by the 2016 Legislature, Senate Bill 82 provides grants for up to three schools that demonstrate commitment to increasing student success through building cultural identities, encouraging academic perseverance, supporting the development of the whole child, and encouraging student leadership skills. 8/29/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Aug/events.html#e3 This training is designed for teachers with three or fewer years of special education experience, who are in need of learning more details about the special education process from referral to implementation of an Individual Education Plan (IEP). 8/26/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0824-ACTs.pdf The statewide composite score for the graduating class of 2016 – which includes scores for English, math, reading and science was 21.9, versus the national average of 20.8. 8/25/2016 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hi8jYTnN8Ck A video message from the Secretary Schopp to South Dakota educators. 8/24/2016 http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ Across South Dakota, a new school year is getting underway. Students and families are getting back into the school day routine, reestablishing study habits and juggling activities. 8/22/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Aug/page1.html The South Dakota Department of Education has created a new listserv dedicated to issues around implementation of the Every Student Succeeds Act in our state. 8/19/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Aug/Page4.html SLO and Assessment work groups sponsored by the South Dakota Department of Education met during spring and summer 2016 to develop standards-based assessments that can be used to pre- and post-assess students as part of the SLO process. These assessments and accompanying SLO Process Guides are available in a variety of content areas and grade levels. 8/18/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/documents/16-CSDTmg.pdf This publication seeks to elevate and raise awareness about the importance of the teaching profession. It features many of our state’s award-winning teachers and is shared with teacher preparation candidates at our public universities, South Dakota public schools, legislators and other key stakeholders. 8/17/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/nationalboard.aspx The 2016 education package reinstated stipends for South Dakota public school teachers and counselors who seek National Board Certification. 8/16/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Aug/Page1.html Senate Bill 133, part of the 2016 education package, created a program to provide for the mentoring of first-year teachers in South Dakota school districts. A statewide program has been developed, and funding is also available for districts that wish to handle mentoring locally. 8/15/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/suicideprevention/ Senate Bill 129, passed by the 2016 Legislature, requires anyone applying for an initial or renewal certificate as a teacher, administrator or other education professional to participate in suicide awareness and prevention training. The requirement begins July 1, 2017. The state Board of Education has now adopted training guidelines. 8/12/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/documents/16-CSDTmg.pdf Teaching is an honorable profession. Read on to learn more about how the teachers within these pages are making a difference for South Dakota students. 8/11/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0809-WFEG.pdf Nine South Dakota Workforce Education Grants have been awarded to South Dakota school districts, totaling $800,000. 8/10/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/081516agd.pdf Read agenda online. Public Access to listen to meeting via telephone: Please dial 1-866-410-8397, then enter conference code 8381998525 8/09/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/suicideprevention/ Senate Bill 129, passed by the 2016 Legislature, requires anyone applying for an initial or renewal certificate as a teacher, administrator or other education professional to participate in suicide awareness and prevention training. The requirement begins July 1, 2017. 8/08/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Aug/page3.html Beginning in school year 2016-17, the Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) and MCV4 (Meningococcal ACYW) vaccines will be required for entry into the 6th grade. The change is a result of Senate Bill 28, passed by the 2016 Legislature. 8/05/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/sharedservices.aspx The deadline to apply for an Employee Shared Services Grant is Aug. 15. Senate Bill 133 from the 2016 legislative session included an ongoing appropriation of $1.6 million to the Department of Education to provide two types of shared services: 1) those involving state-purchased goods and services provided to districts, and 2) those involving districts sharing employees. 8/04/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Aug/page1.html The South Dakota Department of Education has created a new listserv dedicated to issues around implementation of the Every Student Succeeds Act in our state. Through this listserv, the department will pose questions on topics on which broad input is needed. 8/03/2016 https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/public/calendar IEPq is a tool that allows special ed teachers to get input from general education teachers on a student with disabilities' area of need on the standards identified through the IEPq tool addressing the skill area. 8/02/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx This year’s conference is scheduled for July 31-August 2, in Sioux Falls, SD. Sunday includes numerous hands-on, in-depth sessions. 8/02/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx This year’s conference is scheduled for July 31-August 2, in Sioux Falls, SD. Sunday includes numerous hands-on, in-depth sessions. 8/01/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/octe/documents/0716-CTEn.pdf Read what's going on with South Dakota's CTE Programs. 7/29/2016 https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/public/course/browse?courseid=4892 This one day training to be held Aug. 10 will cover the basic functions needed to effectively operate and manage users in the Infinite Campus system. 7/28/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/nationalboard.aspx Gov. Dennis Daugaard and the 2016 Legislature approved a K-12 education package that reinstated the stipends for South Dakota public school teachers and counselors who seek National Board Certification. National Board Teachers and School Counselors receive stipend of $2,000/year for five years. 7/27/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/sharedservices.aspx SB 133 from the 2016 legislative session included an ongoing appropriation of $1.6 million to the Department of Education to provide two types of shared services: 1) those involving state-purchased goods and services provided to districts, and 2) those involving districts sharing employees. 7/26/2016 http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ Preliminary results on the 2016 statewide assessment in English language arts and math show gains in student performance in both content areas and in all but one tested grade level. 7/25/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx This year’s conference is scheduled for July 31-August 2, in Sioux Falls, SD. Sunday includes numerous hands-on, in-depth sessions. 7/22/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0719-CCLC.pdf A total of 10 21st Century Community Learning Center grants have been awarded to provide funding for academic enrichment opportunities for students. 7/20/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0718-CIGa.pdf Eighteen Classroom Innovation Grants have been awarded to South Dakota school districts for a combined total of almost $1 million funded by the 2016 Legislature. 7/19/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/board Read adgenda online. Public access to listen to meeting via telephone: Please dial 1-866-410-8397 (conference code 8381998525) 7/18/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/sfsp.aspx Children age 18 and younger may receive a meal free of charge at participating sites, which include organizations such as nonprofits, schools, libraries and local governments. 7/15/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/ Agenda is now online for the SD Board on Education's meeting on July 18. Meeting to begin at 9 a.m. in Mitchell, SD. 7/14/2016 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=20589 Gov. Dennis Daugaard has appointed Gopal Vyas of Mitchell to the South Dakota Board of Education. 7/13/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx July 31-Aug. 2, Sioux Falls. Each year, this conference brings together more than 300 teachers, administrators and school counselors to explore best practices that will help them prepare students to be college, career and life ready. 7/12/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/July/page2.html Each year, the U.S. Department of Education designates teacher shortage areas. This federal designation may qualify borrowers for deferment or forgiveness of outstanding Federal Family Education Loans, Federal Stafford Loans or Federal Perkins Loans. 7/11/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/documents/0616-EDNP.pdf The U.S. Department of Education has proposed rules related to the Every Student Succeeds Act. 6/30/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/oess/documents/16-TitleI.pdf Join other South Dakota educators for this important professional development opportunity. All South Dakota education professionals are invited to attend. 6/29/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/oess/documents/Top20Training.pdf Top 20 Training is back in South Dakota, and it’s free. This is a one-of-a-kind professional development opportunity that will be a difference maker for educators and students. 6/28/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/readsd.aspx As part of the goal for every student to enter 4th grade either proficient or advanced in reading, the South Dakota Department of Education is coordinating a reading initiative to bolster student reading achievement year round. Read! SD will raise awareness of the summer loss epidemic, share compelling research on the importance of personalized reading activities, and provide access to a variety of free resources to support targeted reading. 6/27/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/0701PAPSCd.pdf Public Access to listen via telephone: Please dial: 1-866-410-8397; then enter conference code: 8381998525 6/24/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/oess/mtss.aspx The magic is in the quality of instruction. Not in the newest fad. Rather in the strength of bell-to-bell instruction, clear lesson purposes, structured lessons with an introduction, body and closure, embedded formative assessment, active participation, effective feedback, and judicious practice. When these elements are consistently and effectively used, learning results. 6/23/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0620-Prel.pdf Preliminary results on the 2016 statewide assessment in English language arts and math show gains in student performance in both content areas and in all but one tested grade level. 6/22/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0620-SSGs.pdf The state Board of Education approved rules related to shared services grants, which were included in Senate Bill 133 of the 2016 legislative session. These grants are designed to provide an incentive for school districts to share employees. 6/21/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/oess/documents/16-TitleI.pdf MacKay Building, First Floor, Library Commons, 800 Governors Drive, Pierre, SD. Public Access to listen to meeting via telephone: Please dial 1-866-410-8397: conference code 8381998525 6/20/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/oess/documents/16-TitleI.pdf Join other South Dakota educators for this important professional development opportunity. All South Dakota education professionals are invited to attend. 6/17/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/nbulletin/2016/May/#art_10 Team Up for School Nutrition Success training is tentatively scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, July 19 - 20, 2016. Team Up for School Nutrition Success is a unique learning experience that serves to enhance schools food operations by providing tailored technical assistance to school nutrition programs that want to maintain a healthy environment and student meal program participation. 6/16/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0613-SPPr.pdf Information regarding school districts’performance on improving the educational outcomes of students with disabilities is now available online. Results of early intervention services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays are also available. 6/15/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ SD Board of Education to meet June 20 at 9 a.m. in Pierre. Agenda now available. 6/14/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/April/documents/vacc-flyr.pdf Beginning in school year 2016-17, the Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) and MCV4 (Meningococcal ACYW) vaccines will be required for entry into the 6th grade. 6/13/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/june/page2.html The U.S. Department of Education has released draft rules related to the new Every Student Succeeds Act. The South Dakota Department of Education is examining them and will make public comment back to U.S. Ed. Others are also encouraged to review the rules and offer public comment directly to U.S. Ed. 6/10/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/june/page1.html Applications for Homeland Security grant funding are being accepted until Aug. 1. State and local, public and private nonprofit agencies, including public and non-public schools, are eligible to apply. 6/9/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/june/page4.html The South Dakota Board of Education is meeting June 20 in Pierre. Several proposed rule changes will be up for public hearing. 6/8/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/june/page3.html The South Dakota Department of Education is developing a statewide assessment aligned to the new science standards. Teachers are needed for the Science Achievement Level Descriptors work group, which will begin meeting in August. 6/7/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/mentoring.aspx Senate Bill 133, part of the 2016 education package, includes development of a statewide mentoring program for teachers. 6/6/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/may/events.html#e6 Space is still available for trainings in Rapid City and Watertown. The South Dakota Department of Education is making available a professional development opportunity that will allow participants to gain in-depth knowledge into civil rights federal regulations for the educational setting. 6/3/2016 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=20405 Historic preservation projects in Elk Point, Groton, Keystone, Lead, Mobridge and Rapid City recently received matching grants from the South Dakota State Historical Society. 6/2/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/ A public hearing will be held at the MacKay Building, First Floor, Library Commons, 800 Governors Drive, Pierre, SD, Monday, June 20, 2016, at 9:00 a.m. CDT, to consider the adoption and amendment of proposed rules. 6/1/2016 https://doe.sd.gov/octe/readsd.aspx As part of the goal for every student to enter 4th grade either proficient or advanced in reading, the South Dakota Department of Education is coordinating a reading initiative to bolster student reading achievement year round. 5/31/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0525-SFSP.pdf Children age 18 and younger may receive a meal free of charge at participating sites, which include organizations such as nonprofits, schools, libraries and local governments. 5/26/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0524-Libr.pdf Twelve school libraries have received the 21stCentury School Library Award for 2016. The 21st Century School Library Award recognizes school libraries as Effective, Enhanced or Exemplary. 5/25/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/nbulletin/2016/may/#art_6 School food service personnel are invited to attend a two-day workshop. This interactive workshop will engage participants in menu planning, and create smarter lunchrooms with quick ways to increase participation and reduce food waste. 5/24/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx This year’s conference is scheduled for July 31-August 2, in Sioux Falls, SD. 5/23/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/documents/16-FUTP60.PDF Schools and school districts can apply for grants up to $5,000 for the purchase of new equipment and/or the renovation/replacement of existing equipment that will enhance the long term implementation of their school breakfast and lunch programs. 5/18/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/oess/documents/Top20Training.pdf This is a two day professional development opportunity that will be a difference maker for educators and students. Concepts help teachers and students build better relationships and experiences in the classroom. 5/18/2016 http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx This year’s sessions will be two hours long, with the second hour designated for attendees to work together in small groups to develop action plans based on the information presented. 5/18/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0516-BOEpr1.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education adopted new career and technical education standards in six career clusters. 5/17/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/May/Page1.html State content standards are up for review in several areas this summer: math, English language arts, Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings and more. Work groups made up of educators, business and industry representatives and parents will begin meeting in June. 5/12/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/nslp.aspx U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Dairy Council, National Football League and GENYOUth have partnered via Fuel Up to Play 60 to award $35 million in grants to improve food service equipment and upgrade infrastructure critical to building healthy schools and communities. 5/11/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/May/page1.html The South Dakota Department of Education is looking ahead to the release of the State Report Card later this year. The tentative schedule for release of the 2015-16 Report Card is now available. 5/10/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/may/page3.html As reported previously, Gov. Dennis Daugaard and the 2016 Legislature approved a K-12 education package that, among other things, reinstated the stipends for South Dakota public school teachers and counselors who seek National Board Certification. 5/09/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/board/ The state Board of Education will hold a public hearing on a proposed rule change related to school accountability at its May 16 meeting. The proposed change calls for holding school classifications currently in place in South Dakota steady for another year (throughout the 2016-17 school year). 5/05/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/cig.aspx Senate Bill 133 from the 2016 Legislature included an ongoing appropriation of $1 million to provide Classroom Innovation Grants to public schools. The purpose of the program is to provide funding for developing teacher training and classroom access to virtual education and customized learning tools. 5/05/2016 http://indianeducation.sd.gov/ParaprofessionalsScholarships.aspx Senate Bill 81, passed by the 2016 Legislature, establishes a tuition assistance scholarship program for paraprofessionals working in qualifying South Dakota schools. The purpose of the program is to help these individuals earn their teaching degrees and, ultimately, state certification. 5/04/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/gradrequirements.aspx As districts work with transcripts to make sure students are on track for graduation, a reminder that the Department of Education recently issued an updated version of the High School Graduation Requirements Handbook. 5/03/2016 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mY2ljGV7VY A Message from the Secretary 5/01/2016 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=20235 Congratulations to the class of 2016! To all high school, college and technical school students now approaching graduation in South Dakota, I commend you for reaching this milestone. After years of studying, taking tests and writing essays, you've finally made it. Congratulations on all you have achieved! 4/29/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/octe/CTEteachercert.aspx Applying with new administrative rules, read the details. 4/28/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0516NtceR.pdf A public hearing will be held at Northern State University, Student Center Centennial Rooms A and B West, 1200 South Jay Street, Aberdeen, South Dakota on Monday, May 16, 2016, at 10:00 a.m. Central Time, to consider the adoption and implementation of career and technical education content standards. This is the fourth of four public hearings regarding these standards. 4/27/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0516NtceR.pdf A public hearing will be held at Northern State University, Student Center Centennial Rooms A and B West, 1200 South Jay Street, Aberdeen, South Dakota on Monday, May 16, 2016, at 10:30 a.m. Central Time, to consider the adoption and amendment of proposed rules 4/26/2016 library.sd.gov/LIB/SLC/21stCentAward.aspx The South Dakota State Library, a division of the Department of Education, formally and annually recognizes schools with libraries that meet the characteristics of a 21st Century school library through its program, place, and professional. Applications are accepted now until May 1. 4/25/2016 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=20193 The South Dakota State Historical Society’s Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) is sponsoring a three-day Archaeology Camp for students going into grades 4-6 for the 2016-2017 school year. 4/22/2016 https://history.sd.gov/aboutus/HistoryConference/default.aspx Teachers can obtain 13 contact hours from the South Dakota Department of Education for attending. 4/21/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/April/tf.html The Douglas High School Library is a busy place. Librarian Kim Darata works hard to encourage students to read for pleasure and to enjoy their library space. 4/20/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/April/Page2.html A number of bills passed by the 2016 Legislature directly affect educators, including a scholarship opportunity for paraprofessionals, an extended tuition-reduction benefit and an added training requirement in the area of suicide awareness and prevention. 4/19/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/cig.aspx The South Dakota Department of Education announces a new grant opportunity funded by the 2016 legislature. Senate Bill 133 from the 2016 legislative session included an on-going appropriation of $1,000,000 to the South Dakota Department of Education to provide classroom innovation grants to South Dakota public K-12 school districts. The purpose of this grant program is to provide funding for developing teacher training and classroom access to virtual education and customized learning tools. 4/18/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/essa.aspx The Every Student Succeeds Act requires a State Plan, outlining strategies for implementing key requirements of the new law. Four South Dakota work groups will develop this plan in coming months. 4/15/2016 http://library.sd.gov/LIB/SLC/21stCentAward.aspx#.Vw-KxXqPbiE The 21st Century School Library Award recognizes school libraries as Effective, Enhanced or Exemplary, based on performance in three areas: program, place and professional. Applicants conduct a self-assessment and awardees are recognized at the annual Systems Change Conference. 4/14/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/April/Page4.html The 2015-16 school year marks the first year of full implementation of South Dakota’s Teacher Effectiveness System. Within the system, evaluated teachers must write Student Learning Objectives (SLOs). The Department of Education has received valuable feedback from educators who have gone through the process. 4/13/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/April/Page1.html This year’s legislative session was a historic one for education. The teacher pay increase garnered the most attention, but the education reform package passed by this year’s legislature also seeks to bolster the teaching profession in other ways. 4/12/2016 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=20132 The NCRC is an industry-recognized, evidence-based credential used across all sectors of the economy. The credential verifies essential skills needed for workplace success, such as reading, problem solving, critical thinking and work-related mathematical reasoning. Certificates can be earned at platinum, gold, silver and bronze levels. 4/11/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/2016EducationPackage.aspx An FAQ document on the new funding formula is posted on the 2016 K-12 Education Package webpage under Resources. It will be updated as new questions come in. The Department of Education has also developed a summary of education-related bills from the 2016 session. The list is not all-inclusive but contains many of the bills DOE followed this session. 4/08/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/essa.aspx The Every Student Succeeds Act requires a State Plan, outlining strategies for implementing key requirements of the new law. Four South Dakota work groups will develop this plan in coming months. 4/07/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/april/page4.html Registration for summer dual credit courses is now open. Students who will be seniors in fall 2016 may apply for admission to these courses. 4/06/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/april/page1.html Beginning in school year 2016-17, the Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) and MCV4 (Meningococcal ACYW) vaccines will be required for entry into the 6th grade. 4/05/2016 http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx Now accepting Requests for Presentation Proposal 4/01/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/essa.aspx Four work groups will be critical in formulating plan: Accountability Work Group, School Improvement Work Group, Educator Effectiveness Work Group, and an English Language Learner Work Group. The work groups will convene in April and work through September. 3/31/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/schoolhealth/newsletter/2016/documents/GoFourth.pdf The "Go Fourth" program provides every fourth grader in South Dakota a free daily entrance license to a South Dakota state park or recreation area of their choice. 3/30/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/octe/dualcredit.aspx High School students can register to enroll in public postsecondary institutions in South Dakota and simultaneously earn credits for both their high school diploma and postsecondary degree or certificate. 3/29/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/contentstandards/review.aspx The School Health program in the South Dakota Departments of Education and Health is seeking applicants to serve on the South Dakota Health Education Standards Review and Revision Committee. 3/28/2016 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=20052 A grant from a railway foundation will help ensure that photographs of railroads and other images of South Dakota belonging to the South Dakota State Historical Society in Pierre will be available online to the public. 3/25/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/0316PTPSC2.pdf Proposed agenda and public access call-in information available online. 3/24/2016 http://library.sd.gov/CAL/2016/sdsl-schoollibedcamp.aspx All educators are welcome to participate in this free event on April 2, co-sponsored by the State Library and the SD Library Association. 3/23/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Feb/SLO-RfrshrTrngTchrs.pdf Learn about updates and SLO best practices from trainers who have worked with SLOs for several years and have assisted hundreds of teachers across South Dakota in developing, revising and editing SLOs in all content areas and grade levels. 3/22/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/review.aspx Applications, meeting schedules and work group expectations are now available for those interested in reviewing content standards. 3/21/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/2016EducationPackage.aspx Gov. Dennis Daugaard proposed, and the Legislature approved, a K-12 education package aimed at increasing the statewide average teacher salary, and recruiting and retaining high quality teachers in the state. 3/18/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/March/Page4.html During the month of April, the Museum of the South Dakota State Historical Society offers a gallery class entitled Lewis and Clark’s South Dakota Experience to 4th grade students at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. 3/17/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/March/Page3.html The South Dakota Commission on Teaching and Learning began examining the state’s alternative certification requirements. 3/16/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0314-BOEt.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education has approved 2016-17 state tuition and fees at the state’s four technical institutes. 3/14/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/documents/031416/item9doc1.pdf A public hearing will be held at Western Dakota Technical Institute in Rapid City to consider the adoption and implementation of Career and Technical Education Content Standards. 3/11/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/contentstandards/review.aspx Applications now being accepted for the review team. 3/10/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/weg.aspx South Dakota school districts can apply for grants to help fund Career and Technical Education programs. 3/9/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/documents/031416/item9doc1.pdf A public hearing will be held at Western Dakota Technical Institute in Rapid City to consider the adoption and implementation of Career and Technical Education Content Standards. 3/8/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/031416.aspx Proposed agenda now online. 3/7/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/March/documents/MTSS-Conf.pdf This year’s conference will focus on explicit instruction with keynote speaker Dr. Anita Archer. 3/3/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/Assessment/ This date applies to all tested grade levels. This change is intended to give districts more flexibility in scheduling assessments for all students. 3/2/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/essa.aspx On Dec. 10, 2015 the president signed into law the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. This reauthorization, known as the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), replaces the previous version of the law enacted in 2002, the No Child Left Behind Act. States will be in a period of transition until all provisions of the ESSA take effect. 3/1/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/weg.aspx South Dakota school districts can apply for grants to help fund Career and Technical Education programs. 3/1/2016 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grgT9r9vQuM South Dakota Teacher of the Year Sarah Lutz and Milken Educator Award winner Gina Benz were recognized in both houses of the state legislature. 2/29/2016 http://www.sdrta.net/scholarship.html South Dakota Retired School Personnel offer scholarships to South Dakota teachers seeking advanced degrees or national certification. 2/26/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Feb/SLO-RfrshrTrngTchrs.pdf Participants will discover the power of analyzing baseline data and how this frequently missed step can drive creation of a truly meaningful SLO. 2/25/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/documents/HSGradReq-hdbk.pdf South Dakota's High School Graduation Requirements Handbook has been updated. Requirements have not changed, but the handbook contains updated information to assist educators as they work with students. 2/24/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Feb/events.html#e5 This half-day training in Sioux Falls on March 1, and Rapid City on March 3. 2/23/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Feb/Page1.html In January, seven South Dakota educators traveled to a national workshop and spent three days submitting and reviewing items for the Digital Library, an online collection of formative assessment tools available at no cost to South Dakota K-12 educators. 2/22/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/16/Jan/Page1.html The proposal is based on the Blue Ribbon Task Force report, the centerpiece of which is a revised school funding formula. 2/19/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Feb/page3.html Completed nominations must be received by Feb. 29. 2/18/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0210-ELAStnWrk.pdf Beginning this summer, South Dakota will review standards in several content areas, including math, English language arts, and several career and technical education career clusters. 2/17/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/0116PTPSa.pdf PTPSC to meet in Pierre at 1 p.m. Read proposed agenda. 1/14/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/octe/cpr.aspx Per SDCL 13-3-91, the South Dakota Department of Education must annually make school districts aware of available resources for use in providing instruction in CPR and the use of AEDs (automated external defibrillators). 1/13/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/jan/secretary.html Dr. Schopp discusses the Every Student Succeeds Act, standards review schedule, and 2016 Legislative Session. 1/12/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/jan/page2.html South Dakota will be making some assessment-related changes in 2016, which have already been shared with assessment directors. 1/11/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0107-BOEse.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education has approved a program expansion in the area of diesel technology at Southeast Technical Institute in Sioux Falls. 1/8/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/packets/010716.aspx Meeting scheduled to start at 9 a.m. in Pierre. To listen by phone, call 1-866-410-8397, conference code 8381998525. 1/07/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2016/Jan/page1.html At the state Board of Education meeting Jan. 7, in Pierre, the Department of Education will propose a revised schedule for reviewing South Dakota’s English language arts and math standards. 1/06/2016 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2016/0105-21st.pdf Applications for the next round of 21st Century Community Learning Centers grants are now available online. 1/05/2016 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=19711 Historic places—one long vanished and two that have been preserved and rehabilitated—are featured in the Winter 2015 issue of “South Dakota History,” the quarterly journal of the South Dakota State Historical Society. 1/04/2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0116-BOEAg.pdf Agenda now available online. http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0116-BOEAg.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/1215PAPSa.pdf Public Access to listen via telephone: 1-866-410-8397; then enter conference code: 8381998525 http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/1215PAPSa.pdf http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=19695 Paying Down Debt To Make College More Affordable http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=19695 http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/1215PAPSa.pdf Proposed agenda available online. http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/1215PAPSa.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/ State offices will close at Noon on Dec. 24 and reopen on Dec. 28. http://www.doe.sd.gov/ http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0116Notic.pdf A public hearing will be held to consider the adoption and implementation of career and technical education content standards. http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0116Notic.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx $1,000 sub-grants to be awarded to any South Dakota school district or organization that participates in the National School Lunch program and has a full lunchroom that serves students in grades 7-12. http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Dec/Page4.html Three South Dakota teachers receive national recognition. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Dec/Page4.html http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/professionalpractices.aspx The upcoming meetings for the Professional Practices have been cancelled. Check back for rescheduled meeting dates. http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/professionalpractices.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Dec/Page1.html President Obama has signed into law the Every Student Succeeds Act. Read what this means for South Dakota. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Dec/Page1.html http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0116Notic.pdf A public hearing will be held to consider the adoption and implementation of career and technical education content standards. http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0116Notic.pdf http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/121615Agn.pdf Read agenda http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/121615Agn.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/DAVIS-BAHCALL.aspx Application Deadline: January 15, 2016 http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/DAVIS-BAHCALL.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/professionalpractices.aspx#PTPSC Proposed agenda now online. http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/professionalpractices.aspx#PTPSC http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0116Notic.pdf A public hearing will be held to consider the adoption and implementation of career and technical education content standards. http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0116Notic.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/2016legislature.aspx#taskforce View the final reports from the Blue Ribbon Task Force, Native American Student Achievement Advisory Council, and School District Boundary Task Force. http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/2016legislature.aspx#taskforce http://www.doe.sd.gov/schoolhealth/newsletter/2015/Dec.aspx Get the facts on school meal participation, developed by the Center for Science in the Public Interest. http://www.doe.sd.gov/schoolhealth/newsletter/2015/Dec.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx The purpose of this sub-grant is to actively engage children in learning about how foods from the five MyPlate food groups nourish them, and how they are produced. An approach that incorporates nutrition education, food preparation, physical activity, and field trips to production or processing facilities is highly recommended. http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/Dec/page3.html Earlier this fall, eight schools across South Dakota were honored in Washington, D.C., for their efforts to promote healthy living. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/Dec/page3.html http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/documents/SDBFTrept.pdf Read the report submitted to the Governor's office from the School District Boundary Task Force. http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/documents/SDBFTrept.pdf http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/NASAAC-FR.pdf Read the report submitted to the Governor's office from the Native American Student Achievement Advisory Council. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/NASAAC-FR.pdf http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18571 A full afternoon of entertainment is planned for the annual holiday open house of the South Dakota State Historical Society on Friday, Nov. 27, at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18571 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx Any South Dakota school district or organization that participates in the National School Lunch Program and has a full lunchroom that serves students in grades 7-12 is eligible to apply. Sub-grants of $1000 each will be awarded. http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx https://www.flickr.com/photos/southdakotahistory/sets/72157640884717465/ View a sampling of the state’s political history on display at the CHC. https://www.flickr.com/photos/southdakotahistory/sets/72157640884717465/ http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Nov/Page1.html Both the teacher and principal effectiveness systems were developed by the commission. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Nov/Page1.html http://indianeducation.sd.gov/NASAAC.aspx View agenda. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/NASAAC.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/ View agenda and call-in information. http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/ http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ Blog by Dr. Kurt Cogswell, South Dakota State University http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/ Read agenda http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/ http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/1115-NASA.pdf Read agenda. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/1115-NASA.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/board/ The state Board of Education will consider proposed changes to administrative rules related to: CTE endorsements, end-of-course exams, summer credits and the public school accountability system at its Nov. 16 meeting. http://doe.sd.gov/board/ http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/Nov/page1.html The Department of Education’s instructional reading coaching program for K-3 teachers, which began in 2014-15, continues and has expanded to include teachers who are new to a number of districts that participated last year. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/Nov/page1.html http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx View today's and tomorrow's events at the SD Indian Education Summit. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx There is still time to register to attend this great professional development opportunity. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/1028-NAEP.pdf Fourth grade and eighth grade scores for math and reading on the 2015 National Assessment of Educational Progress are mostly steady in South Dakota and remain at or above the national average. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/1028-NAEP.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/1115Notic.pdf A public hearing will be held Nov. 16, 2015 to consider the adoption and implementation of career and technical education content standards. http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/1115Notic.pdf http://blueribbon.sd.gov/docs/10-29%20Agenda.pdf The Blue Ribbon Education Funding Task Force is scheduled to meet for the last time this week. Read online agenda. http://blueribbon.sd.gov/docs/10-29%20Agenda.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Oct/Page3.html South Dakota recently adopted new science standards, and this online class will function as the first phase in standards implementation. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Oct/Page3.html http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Oct/Page2.html With the recent adoption of new social studies standards, the Department of Education is offering trainings throughout the 2015-16 school year. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Oct/Page2.html http://www.cvent.com/events/2015-indian-education-summit/event-summary-ad5a94ffa88f4908906ff9dc8ff3f2af.aspx Summit on Indian Education issues in South Dakota to be held Nov. 1-3 in Pierre. http://www.cvent.com/events/2015-indian-education-summit/event-summary-ad5a94ffa88f4908906ff9dc8ff3f2af.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/1020-Mlkn.pdf Gina Benz, an English teacher at Roosevelt High School in Sioux Falls, didn’t walk the red carpet today, but she did receive a $25,000 award that Teacher magazine calls the “Oscar of Teaching.” http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/1020-Mlkn.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Sept/documents/SchHealth.pdf Opportunity for schools to receive the latest strategies and resources for enhancing the learning environment by improving nutrition and physical activity. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Sept/documents/SchHealth.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/1015-TOYw.pdf Sarah Lutz, a 3rd grade teacher at Stanley County Elementary School in Fort Pierre, has been selected as the 2016 South Dakota Teacher of the Year. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/1015-TOYw.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx Sub-grant opportunity for South Dakota schools to help them actively engage children in learning about how foods from the five MyPlate food groups are produced and nourish. http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/1014-IES1.pdf The 2015 South Dakota Indian Education Summit will be held Nov. 1-3, at the Best Western Ramkota Hotel in Pierre. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/1014-IES1.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/SDBTF.aspx The task force has drafted legislation to revise the procedure for initiating a school district boundary change. It is now available for public comment. http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/SDBTF.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/oess/documents/AMAOw3-15.pdf The South Dakota Department of Education plans to request a waiver of section 3122(a)(3)(A)(iii) of Title III of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1065 (ESEA) for the 2015−16 school year. http://www.doe.sd.gov/oess/documents/AMAOw3-15.pdf http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18397 After the first full year of Gov. Dennis Daugaard’s initiative to financially support college-level dual credit courses taken by high school juniors and seniors, enrollment in the courses has grown significantly. http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18397 http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/documents/0813Bound.pdf The School District Boundary Task Force has been asked to examine existing school district boundaries as well as recommend possible changes to those boundaries and a process for addressing minor boundary changes in the future. http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/documents/0813Bound.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/Oct/page1.html With the recent adoption of new social studies standards, the Department of Education is offering trainings throughout the 2015-16 school year. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/Oct/page1.html http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/1015-NASA.pdf Read agenda. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/1015-NASA.pdf http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18366 The South Dakota State Historical Society’s museum director, Jay Smith, received the President’s Award for his service to the Mountain Plains Museums Association (MPMA) at its award banquet held in conjunction with the MPMA Annual Meeting in Wichita, Kansas, earlier this week. http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18366 http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ The 2015 State Report Card is available and lets educators, parents and other stakeholders know how South Dakota schools are doing. http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1s_3hl767dRzGp5WGi4-mLIRTe4PobcFhI0tzYAlLr3o/viewform Trainings to be held in Pierre during October for New Managers of School Food Service Programs https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1s_3hl767dRzGp5WGi4-mLIRTe4PobcFhI0tzYAlLr3o/viewform http://blueribbon.sd.gov/docs/10-1%20agenda.pdf Task Force meets Wed., Oct. 1 in Pierre. Read online agenda. http://blueribbon.sd.gov/docs/10-1%20agenda.pdf http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18324 The man who saddle-handled more cattle than any other is the subject of the South Dakota State Historical Society’s latest book. http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18324 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0921-BOEt.pdf The state Board of Education heard reports on technical institute enrollment and job placement of graduates. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0921-BOEt.pdf http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18312 Students headed to one of South Dakota’s six public universities have another good reason to perform well on new state assessment tests in high school: their scores can be used to place them in college English or mathematics courses. http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18312 http://www.doe.sd.gov/reportcard/ The 2015 Report Card reflects a return to a Report Card with full data and new classifications. http://www.doe.sd.gov/reportcard/ http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0921-SBAC.pdf Student performance on the new state assessment of English language arts and math was better than expected, according to state officials. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0921-SBAC.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Sept/Page3.html The University of South Dakota provides students in grades 1-8 the opportunity to participate in the Scripps National Spelling Bee program. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Sept/Page3.html http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Sept/Page2.html The Legislative Research Council is looking for high school students interested in being a page during the 2016 legislative session. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Sept/Page2.html http://doe.sd.gov/board/ Read agenda online. http://doe.sd.gov/board/ http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Sept/Page1.html The South Dakota Board of Education has adopted new social studies content standards, and there has been some confusion about how the standards address early U.S. history (1776-1876), particularly at the high school level. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/Sept/Page1.html http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/ View the Notice of Public Hearing and the proposed rule change. http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/ http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/Sept/events.html#e4 Online training to be held for district staff who are responsible for entering staffing information into the Personnel Record Form. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/Sept/events.html#e4 http://sdmylife.com/educators/presidentialscholar/ Nominate upstanding 12th graders by September 27, 2015. http://sdmylife.com/educators/presidentialscholar/ http://blueribbon.sd.gov/docs/9-9%20Agenda.pdf Meeting scheduled from 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. at View 34 in Pierre, SD http://blueribbon.sd.gov/docs/9-9%20Agenda.pdf https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xY0x3f-wIC8 A workgroup of South Dakota science teachers, higher education representatives, administrators and instructional leaders has developed recommended model course pathways for middle and high school students, aligned with South Dakota’s new content standards in science. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xY0x3f-wIC8 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/Sept/hottopic.html The South Dakota Board of Education has adopted new social studies content standards, and there has been some confusion about how the standards address U.S. history, particularly at the high school level. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/Sept/hottopic.html http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18218 People will have a chance to learn about South Dakota’s first poet laureate during a program in Pierre. http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18218 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/aug/Page1.html Teachers will be partnered with a coach with whom they will collaborate throughout the year to refine math instructional practices. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/aug/Page1.html http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18203 Gov. Dennis Daugaard has awarded just over $4 million in Future Funds to the state’s four technical institutes for priority equipment needs and expanding programs in high-demand workforce areas. http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18203 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0826-ACTsd.pdf According to data released, South Dakota’s average composite ACT score is above the national average. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0826-ACTsd.pdf http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/0815agenda.pdf Read agenda online. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/0815agenda.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0824-BOE2.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education has approved program expansions and a new program at Western Dakota Technical Institute in Rapid City in the areas of cybersecurity, medical laboratory technician and dental assisting. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0824-BOE2.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0824-BOEs.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education adopted new content standards in social studies earlier today. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0824-BOEs.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/SDBTF.aspx View call in information, or join meeing via Skype. http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/SDBTF.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/082415.aspx Public hearing on Social Studies Standards on agenda. http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/082415.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/aug/Page1.html The Department of Education is offering a Virtual Math Coaching Program during the 2015-16 school year for 6-12 math teachers. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/aug/Page1.html http://blueribbon.sd.gov/docs/Agenda%208-19.pdf Meeting starts at 9:30 at the Ramkota Hotel, Gallery B, Pierre, SD. View agenda online. http://blueribbon.sd.gov/docs/Agenda%208-19.pdf https://youtu.be/Gd_TVMRK_kQ Watch video from South Dakota Secretary of Education, Dr. Melody Schopp https://youtu.be/Gd_TVMRK_kQ http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18160 Krueger will be at the Capitol Lake Visitors Center in Pierre at 7 p.m. CDT on Tuesday, Aug. 25, to discuss “Ordinary Grace,” answer questions and sign books. http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18160 http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18156 A column by Gov. Dennis Daugaard http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18156 http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/Aug/documents/Immunization.pdf State law requires schools to submit student immunization records to the state Department of Health. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/Aug/documents/Immunization.pdf http://sdos.sdbor.edu/ The amount of the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship has increased from $5,000 to $6,500 for students first receiving a scholarship after July 1, 2015. http://sdos.sdbor.edu/ http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/0815PAPSC.pdf View agenda and find out how to call in to listen to meeting. http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/0815PAPSC.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/081015PTP.pdf View agenda and find out how to call in to listen to meeting. http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/081015PTP.pdf http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=17991 Twenty-five South Dakota college students have been awarded a state scholarship that supports new teachers who serve in critical-need teaching areas. Gov. Dennis Daugaard today announced the second group of recipients in the Critical Teaching Needs Scholarship Program. http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=17991 http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/0815PAPSC.pdf Read online agenda http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/0815PAPSC.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/081015PTP.pdf Read online agenda http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/documents/081015PTP.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/oess/documents/SPED_parentalrights_handbook.pdf Handbook for parents now online. http://doe.sd.gov/oess/documents/SPED_parentalrights_handbook.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/octe/remedial.aspx College readiness coursework for high school seniors is intended to assist students in reaching their goal of being fully prepared to enter into the workforce or a postsecondary institution following high school graduation. Read more. http://doe.sd.gov/octe/remedial.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/octe/dualcredit.aspx High school juniors and seniors have the opportunity to earn postsecondary credits while in high school. http://www.doe.sd.gov/octe/dualcredit.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0729-FRLP.pdf The policy applies to children unable to pay the full price of meals or milk served under the National School Lunch, School Breakfast and/or Special Milk Programs. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0729-FRLP.pdf http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx Donald F. Montileaux and Joseph Marshall III to speak at SD Indian Education Summit in Nov. Read details. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx#ss Read proposed standards and submit public comment http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/packets/072715.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/packets/072715.aspx For Public Access: Dial 1-866-410-8397, then enter conference code 8381998525 http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/packets/072715.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/board/ Read admended agenda. http://doe.sd.gov/board/ http://doe.sd.gov/oess/documents/TitleX_KnowYourRights.pdf Educational Rights for Children lacking fixed, regular and adequate housing http://doe.sd.gov/oess/documents/TitleX_KnowYourRights.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/documents/15-16SupsC.pdf Month-by-month list of important actions required by the South Dakota Department of Education. http://doe.sd.gov/documents/15-16SupsC.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/board/ Read proposed agenda. http://doe.sd.gov/board/ http://edworkforce.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=399091 Dr. Melody Schopp recently testified at a Congressional subcommittee hearing regarding the school lunch and breakfast programs. She asked for a reduction in the complex federal requirements associated with these programs. http://edworkforce.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=399091 http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/documents/SmarterGt.pdf Any South Dakota school district or organization that participates in the National School Lunch program and has a full lunchroom that serves students in grades 7-12 can apply. http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/documents/SmarterGt.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0715-CTSO.pdf Three South Dakota students have recently been elected national officers of two Career and Technical Student Organizations. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0715-CTSO.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx Register now to attend CTE Conference. http://doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/July/Page2.html This federal designation may qualify borrowers for deferment or forgiveness of outstanding Federal Family Education Loans, Federal Stafford Loans or Federal Perkins Loans. Qualification depends on the type of loan and the date issued. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/July/Page2.html http://doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0715Agend.pdf Telephonic meeting to be held July 15 at 10 a.m. Central http://doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0715Agend.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/July/Page2.html This federal designation may qualify borrowers for deferment or forgiveness of outstanding Federal Family Education Loans, Federal Stafford Loans or Federal Perkins Loans. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/July/Page2.html http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/SDBTF.aspx Read draft agenda http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/SDBTF.aspx http://blueribbon.sd.gov/docs/Blue%20Ribbon%20Task%20Force%20July%207%20Meeting%20Agenda%5B1%5D.pdf Read agenda http://blueribbon.sd.gov/docs/Blue%20Ribbon%20Task%20Force%20July%207%20Meeting%20Agenda%5B1%5D.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0715Notic.pdf A public hearing will be held to consider the adoption and amendment of proposed rules. http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0715Notic.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/oess/Birthto3.aspx Birth to Three is a program that provides early intervention services, at no cost, for children from birth to age three, who have a disability or a developmental delay. Find out more. http://doe.sd.gov/oess/Birthto3.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/sfsp.aspx Children age 18 and younger may receive a meal free of charge at participating sites. http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/sfsp.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/sfsp.aspx Children age 18 and younger may receive a meal free of charge at participating sites. http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/sfsp.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/June/Page3.html Applications for Homeland Security grant funding are being accepted until July 31, 2015. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/June/Page3.html http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/June/Page1.html Webinars will be held to share information about the proposed revisions and to gather additional feedback from the field before making recommendations to the Board of Education. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/June/Page1.html http://blueribbon.sd.gov/meetings.aspx Public meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Ramkota Hotel http://blueribbon.sd.gov/meetings.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/SDBTF.aspx Read proposed agenda or submit public comment http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/SDBTF.aspx http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx Summit to be held Nov. 1-3 in Pierre. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx http://indianeducation.sd.gov/NASAAC.aspx Students will be available for questions from the panel on their overall school experience from a public and BIE school perspective http://indianeducation.sd.gov/NASAAC.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0615-SFSP.pdf Organizations across South Dakota are serving free meals to the state’s youth this summer, as part of the Summer Food Service Program. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0615-SFSP.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/SDBTF.aspx This group is examining existing school district boundaries and may recommend possible changes. The task force is also to recommend a process for addressing minor boundary changes when the current one-year moratorium ends. http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/SDBTF.aspx http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/0615-NASAAC.pdf Read agenda. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/0615-NASAAC.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/octe/readsd.aspx Find resources to help overcome the summer reading loss epidemic. http://doe.sd.gov/octe/readsd.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/June/Page4.html The South Dakota Department of Education’s Office of Indian Education is now accepting proposals to present at the 2015 Indian Education Summit. The summit will be held Nov. 1-3 at the Ramkota Conference Center in Pierre. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/June/Page4.html http://www.doe.sd.gov/oess/sped-spp.aspx Information regarding school districts’ performance on improving the educational outcomes of students with disabilities is now available online. http://www.doe.sd.gov/oess/sped-spp.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0604-21st.pdf A total of seven 21st Century Community Learning Center grants have been awarded to provide funding for academic enrichment opportunities for students. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0604-21st.pdf https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/public/calendar Participants will receive guidance in selecting components within the domains, as well as evidence and artifacts, which support Principal Effectiveness and the needs and goals of individual districts. https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/public/calendar http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/May/events.html#e7 The South Dakota Department of Education is working with the U.S. Department of Education to provide professional development on civil rights federal regulations for the educational setting. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/May/events.html#e7 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0515-SDSL-21CentSchLibs.pdf Eighteen school libraries have received the 21st Century School Library Award for 2015. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0515-SDSL-21CentSchLibs.pdf http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ Read message on the Department of Education's Blog. http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/may/Page4.html Praxis Core® practice tests were recently added to the Learning Express Library, an online academic and career success platform containing more than 300 practice tests. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/may/Page4.html http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/SDBTF.aspx Task force establised to examine the boundaries of the existing South Dakota school districts and recommend possible changes to boundaries. http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/SDBTF.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx Career and Technical Education Conference to be held July 27-28 in Watertown http://doe.sd.gov/octe/training.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/teachercert.aspx Educators whose certificates expire July 1 of this year need to submit their renewal applications as soon as possible. http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/teachercert.aspx https://doe.sd.gov/octe/readsd.aspx The South Dakota Department of Education is coordinating a reading initiative to bolster student reading achievement year round. https://doe.sd.gov/octe/readsd.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0515-BOEa.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education heard an update on construction and toured the Aberdeen Technical Education Center, a new regional career and technical education facility in Aberdeen, located on the campus of Central High School. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0515-BOEa.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0515-BOEb.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education adopted new content standards in science, fine arts and educational technology earlier today. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0515-BOEb.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/packets/051815.aspx Public Access to listen to meeting via telephone: Please dial 1-866-410-8397. Then enter conference code 8381998525 http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/packets/051815.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/packets/051815.aspx Public hearings will be held related to content standards adoption in the areas of science, social studies, fine arts and K-12 educational technology. http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/packets/051815.aspx http://sdleastwanted.com/contact/posterchallenge.aspx South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks is holding a poster contest to raise awareness of aquatic invasive species Asian carp, zebra and quagga mussels. Winning posters will be featured in a future South Dakota Conservation Digest and two students will win Cabela’s prize packages. http://sdleastwanted.com/contact/posterchallenge.aspx https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/GH82ZRD The South Dakota Department of Education would like teachers’ feedback regarding Student Learning Objectives. https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/GH82ZRD http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0515-Readk.pdf The South Dakota Department of Education is launching its annual awareness campaign titled Read! SD. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0515-Readk.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/may/ Dr. Lowell Amiotte was honored recently as the American Indian College Fund celebrated its 25th Anniversary. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/may/ http://doe.sd.gov/octe/dualcredit.aspx Students who will be juniors or seniors in high school next fall can register for fall dual credit courses at South Dakota public universities and technical institutes. http://doe.sd.gov/octe/dualcredit.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx Applications are still being accepted for the 2014-2016 Harvest of the Month Mini-Grants. Funding is available for summer programs as well as school year 2015-16 http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/may/Page1.html All six public universities in the state will use high school scores as evidence that students are ready for entry-level, credit-bearing courses and may be exempted from remedial courses. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/may/Page1.html https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-vNtgR_e_A View video of Secretary Schoop thanking teachers for all they do for the students in South Dakota. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-vNtgR_e_A http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/nbulletin/2015/April/#art_15d Schools may apply to receive up to $4,000 a year. http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/nbulletin/2015/april/#art_15d http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/nbulletin/2015/april/#art_15e May 1, 2015 deadline to apply for grants ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 to help expand your school breakfast program. http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/nbulletin/2015/april/#art_15e http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx Applications will be accepted through May 1, 2015. http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/data/tables/ View public school start dates, ACT results, staff turnover and baseline teacher salary in a visual format that is interactive, easy to understand, and engaging for public consumption. http://doe.sd.gov/data/tables/ http://doe.sd.gov/ South Dakotans want a quality education for every student, and we want great teachers to provide that education. http://doe.sd.gov/ http://indianeducation.sd.gov/NASAAC.aspx Council members will be looking to identify successful strategies to change the current learning paradigm for Native American students in South Dakota. Read more >>> http://indianeducation.sd.gov/NASAAC.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/assessment/DigitalLibrary.aspx The Digital Library is available to all South Dakota school districts giving the Smarter Balanced summative assessment. Find out how to access the digital library. http://www.doe.sd.gov/assessment/DigitalLibrary.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/april/Page5.html By distributing free one-day state park licenses to every fourth grader in the state, this project aims to get students and families outside and active this summer. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/april/Page5.html http://doe.sd.gov/cans/sfsp.aspx Learn now to participate in the 2015 Summer Food Service Program to bring free or reduced meals to chidren when school is not is session. http://doe.sd.gov/cans/sfsp.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/april/Page6.html Teachers of all grades are encouraged to bring their students to the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre to experience South Dakota history. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/april/Page6.html http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=17526 Council Members Announced, 1st Meeting Date Set http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=17526 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/april/images/PurpleUp.jpg This month is set aside as a time to recognize and honor military children for their many sacrifices and struggles, as well as their countless contributions to our nation. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/april/images/PurpleUp.jpg http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/faq-teachercertification.aspx Have a question about the teacher certification process in South Dakota? Get answers here. http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/faq-teachercertification.aspx http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx The 2015 Indian Education Summit will be held Nov. 1-3 in Pierre. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx#CTE Applications now being accepted for Career and Technical Education standards work group. http://www.doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx#CTE http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/april/events.html#e2 Conference held April 9-11 in Rapid City to bring professional development for South Dakota's early childhood education professionals. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/april/events.html#e2 http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/currentwaivers.aspx This is a reminder that your school district may have a waiver from administrative rule that expires June 30. http://www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/currentwaivers.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/april/HotTopic.html With the new Smarter Balanced assessments, schools and districts will be able to access student results around two weeks after students complete the assessment. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/april/HotTopic.html http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/mar/Page3.html Advanced Data Use Skills for Educators, a new online course, will build upon skills taught in the prerequisite course, Fundamentals of Using Data for Educators. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/mar/Page3.html http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/mar/Page2.html Through Teachscape, all South Dakota public school districts have access to in-depth, high quality training on the state’s teaching standards and how the standards are used for teacher evaluation. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/mar/Page2.html http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=17379 The task force, which was announced by the Governor and legislative leaders last month, will reevaluate the current funding formula and make recommendations to the 2016 State Legislature for reform. http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=17379 http://doe.sd.gov/oess/Birthto3.aspx Birth to Three is a program that provides early intervention services, at no cost, for children from birth to age three, who have a disability or a developmental delay. http://doe.sd.gov/oess/Birthto3.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0316BOEpr.pdf State tuition and fees at South Dakota’s four technical institutes will rise slightly, to $145 per credit, for the 2015-16 academic year. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0316BOEpr.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/packets/031615.aspx Read agenda and instruction on how you can listen to the meeting. http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/packets/031615.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/distinguishededucators.aspx To recommend someone for our Emerging Classroom Leaders Pool, complete a Talent Pool Recommendation Form http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/distinguishededucators.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/mar/documents/LegislSum.pdf Read a summary of recent bill action. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/mar/documents/LegislSum.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/031615.aspx Proposed agenda now online http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/031615.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/mar/page1.html With the Smarter Balanced testing window opening soon, here are some key things you can do to help ensure success in your district. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/mar/page1.html http://doe.sd.gov/octe/sdcounts.aspx Funds are made available on a competitive basis to eligible LEAs. http://doe.sd.gov/octe/sdcounts.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0315Notic.pdf SD Board of Education to meet March 16 in Sioux Falls. http://doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0315Notic.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0315Notic.pdf SD Board of Education to meet March 16 in Sioux Falls. http://doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0315Notic.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/octe/SDEPSCoRGrant.aspx Approximately $170,000 will be granted to schools to be awarded to SD school districts and educational service providers. http://www.doe.sd.gov/octe/SDEPSCoRGrant.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/nbulletin/2015/feb/#art_10 Community organizations, nonprofits, schools, tribal and local governments can apply to be sponsors if they operate in low-income areas, serve a group of mostly low-income children or operate a summer camp with a high proportion of low-income participants. http://www.doe.sd.gov/cans/nbulletin/2015/feb/#art_10 http://www.doe.sd.gov/schoolhealth/newsletter/2015/documents/FuelUp60.pdf 50 percent of Midwest schools enrolled in Fuel Up to Play 60 report that the program has positively impacted school breakfast participation. http://www.doe.sd.gov/schoolhealth/newsletter/2015/documents/FuelUp60.pdf https://doe.sd.gov/octe/cpr.aspx The South Dakota Department of Education along with stakeholders from various organizations and health/physical educators from across South Dakota assisted in compiling CPR resources and agency contacts for implementing CPR trainings. https://doe.sd.gov/octe/cpr.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/data/tables/ View statewide education information in a format that is interactive, easy to understand, and engaging for public. http://www.doe.sd.gov/data/tables/ http://doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0315Notic.pdf SD Board of Education to meet March 16 in Sioux Falls. http://doe.sd.gov/board/documents/0315Notic.pdf https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_BwUomx_HI View video for details. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_BwUomx_HI http://commoncore.sd.gov/assessment.aspx In spring 2015, South Dakota will begin using a new state assessment, called Smarter Balanced, based on the new standards in English language arts and math. http://commoncore.sd.gov/assessment.aspx http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=17283 54 program options within eight, high-need industry areas that will be covered in the first year of the scholarship program. http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=17283 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/feb/Page5.html Two South Dakota high school seniors could receive a full scholarship to exchange ideas with scientists and other professionals from the academic and corporate worlds. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/feb/Page5.html http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/feb/Page1.html In conjunction with National Career and Technical Education Month, nearly 40 student leaders came to Pierre Feb. 10-11 for the South Dakota Career and Technical Student Organizations’ Legislative Shadow Day. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/15/feb/Page1.html http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=17264 Gov. Dennis Daugaard and the state’s tribal leaders are joining together to improve the achievement levels and graduation rates of Native American students. http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=17264 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/feb/Page2.html District testing coordinators are strongly encouraged to attend the webinars. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/feb/Page2.html http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/feb/Page4.html Districts can determine their own methods for selecting winners, but nomination forms should be made available to teachers, parents, students, school support professionals and the general public through multiple avenues and formats. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/feb/Page4.html http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/feb/HotTopic.html Proposed changes stem from the changes made to South Dakota’s ESEA Flexibility Waiver, approved by the U.S. Department of Education last summer. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2015/feb/HotTopic.html https://doe.sd.gov/octe/ctemonth.aspx CTE classroom innovators are hard at work in nearly every community, and this February we invite you to join us in recognizing them. https://doe.sd.gov/octe/ctemonth.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/21cent.aspx Grant applications must be submitted to the South Dakota Department of Education by Feb. 27. http://doe.sd.gov/oatq/21cent.aspx http://www.commoncore.sd.gov/expectmore.aspx High quality standards: Preparing students for success! http://www.commoncore.sd.gov/expectmore.aspx http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/2015legislature.aspx Throughout the legislative session, the department provides information to legislators for use in making decisions regarding education in South Dakota. http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/2015legislature.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0129SumFP.pdf The South Dakota Department of Education’s office of Child and Adult Nutrition Services is seeking sponsors and sites for the Summer Food Service Program. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0129SumFP.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0121_NBCP.pdf Two South Dakota classroom teachers are among the nearly 4,160 elementary and secondary school teachers nationwide to achieve National Board Certification in 2014. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0121_NBCP.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/octe/cpr.aspx SDCL 13-3-91 went into effect July 1, 2014, and requires the South Dakota Department of Education to provide CPR resources for districts to use in providing instruction in CPR and the use of automated external defibrillators. http://doe.sd.gov/octe/cpr.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0107_CCLC.pdf Applications for the next round of 21st Century Community Learning Center, or 21st CCLC, grants are now available. The centers provide students with academic enrichment opportunities and activities designed to complement regular school instruction. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2015/0107_CCLC.pdf http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/Top5.aspx Each month, the Department of Education answers the top 5 questions posed by educators in the field. http://www.doe.sd.gov/secretary/Top5.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/builddakota/ Between 2014 and 2018, $50 million dollars will be invested through private donations from T. Denny Sanford and the South Dakota Future Fund to create and operate the Build Dakota Scholarship program. http://doe.sd.gov/builddakota/ http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/nov/Page2.html Faulkton and Jones County students are learning early what postsecondary life is like. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/nov/Page2.html http://doe.sd.gov State offices will be closed Nov. 27 and 28. http://doe.sd.gov/ http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx Read proposed standards and submit public comment. http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ Read how Tammy Jo Schlechter is helping her students develop deep understanding in math at sddoe.blogspot.com. http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ http://youtu.be/GdSrMWkEClw Thank you to everyone who plays a vital role in the success of South Dakota students: teachers, administrators, support staff, parents and school board members. http://youtu.be/GdSrMWkEClw http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/packets/111714.aspx The Board of Education will consider a proposed administrative rule that establishes performance standards for principals, as well as requirements for evaluation. http://www.doe.sd.gov/board/packets/111714.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/1031_book.pdf Voting is now open for the Prairie Bud and Prairie Pasque Children’s Book Awards, sponsored by the South Dakota Library Association. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/1031_book.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/board/documents/1114Notic.pdf NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING CONTENT STANDARDS http://doe.sd.gov/board/documents/1114Notic.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx#minigrants Apply for up to $500 to increase students' knowledge and willingness to eat fruits and vegetables. http://doe.sd.gov/cans/teamnutrition.aspx#minigrants http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx#Social Read proposed standards and submit public comment. http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx#Social http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx#Physical Read the newly adopted South Dakota Physical Education Standards and Grade-level Outcomes for K-12 Physical Education. http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx#Physical http://doe.sd.gov/documents/DOEInfogr.pdf Stats and facts on education in South Dakota http://doe.sd.gov/documents/DOEInfogr.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/oct/documents/TIEclasses.pdf These institutes will immerse 6th-12th grade teachers in hands-on strategies designed to impact student learning and prepare students for rigorous coursework. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/oct/documents/TIEclasses.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/1024_Milk.pdf LeeAnna Rabine, a kindergarten teacher at Hawthorne Elementary School in Sioux Falls, received a $25,000 surprise today. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/1024_Milk.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/1024_Milk.pdf LeeAnna Rabine, a kindergarten teacher at Hawthorne Elementary School in Sioux Falls, received a $25,000 surprise today. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/1024_Milk.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx#Social Read proposed standards and submit public comment. http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx#Social http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/oct/events.html#e2 Come energized and ready to create meaningful family partnerships and develop your family and community toolkit. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/oct/events.html#e2 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/oct/events.html#e1 This workshop (Oct. 22 in Rapid City, Oct. 24 in Sioux Falls) will focus on developing universally designed lessons focusing on the National Center and State Collaborative (NCSC) curriculum and instruction materials. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/oct/events.html#e1 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/oct/Page1.html Full-time pre-K-12 teachers in CenturyLink’s local service areas who have innovative ideas for implementing technology in their classrooms are encouraged to apply. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/oct/Page1.html http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/1016_TOYr.pdf Allen Hogie, Brandon Valley High School math teacher, has been selected as the 2015 South Dakota Teacher of the Year. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/1016_TOYr.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/oct/events.html#e3 2015 South Dakota Teacher of the Year will be announced during a special recognition banquet at System Change Conference http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/oct/events.html#e3 http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/oct/Page3.html School districts are required to provide a variety of staffing information via this online tool. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/oct/Page3.html http://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/us-department-education-announces-2014-national-blue-ribbon-schools Howard Elementary School; Medary Elementary School, Brookings; O'Gorman High School, Sioux Falls; Timber Lake High School http://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/us-department-education-announces-2014-national-blue-ribbon-schools http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/oct/Page2.html A statewide work group is recommending the indicator be based on the Student Growth Percentile model. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/oct/Page2.html http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/oct/documents/Waiver_14.pdf South Dakota’s recently extended ESEA flexibility waiver contains several important changes to the state’s accountability system. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/oct/documents/Waiver_14.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/ 2014 SD Teacher of the Year LuAnn Lindskov's proposal is a finalist in the $100,000 Dream Big Challenge! http://doe.sd.gov/ http://doe.sd.gov/ Meet the candidates. http://doe.sd.gov/ http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/IES_book.pdf Read agenda of summit. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/IES_book.pdf http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/IES_book.pdf Registration starts at 8 a.m. Read agenda of summit. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/documents/IES_book.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx Read proposed standards and submit public comment. http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/Aug/Page2.html Apply by Sept. 26 to join the online panel. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/Aug/Page2.html http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/sept/Page1.html Apply by Oct. 1 for your chance at one of 10 scholarships. Priority will be given to educators teaching in Priority and Focus schools. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/sept/Page1.html http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx Three day summit held in Pierre discussing education issues facing tribal, BIE and public schools. http://indianeducation.sd.gov/summit.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/0915-BOEd.pdf The South Dakota Board of Education held the first of four public hearings on proposed K-12 science standards. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/0915-BOEd.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/091514.aspx Board of Education to meet Sept. 15 in Rapid City. Read full agenda. http://doe.sd.gov/board/packets/091514.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/125.aspx Engage your students in this special event. 125 schoolwide and classroom activities and many other resources are now available. http://doe.sd.gov/secretary/125.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/aug/Page4.html The U.S. Department of Education has designated teacher shortage areas in South Dakota for the 2014-15 school year. These designations may qualify borrowers for deferment or forgiveness of some federal loans. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/aug/Page4.html http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/aug/Page3.html Apply by Sept. 15 for your chance at one of 10 scholarships. Priority will be given to educators teaching in Priority and Focus schools. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/aug/Page3.html http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/aug/Page2.html More than 40 South Dakota educators have submitted and reviewed resources for the Smarter Balanced Digital Library. In July, 12 of them participated in a workshop that brought together educators from across the country. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/aug/Page2.html http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/aug/Page1.html This process will allow an online panel of up to 250,000 K-12 educators, higher education faculty, parents and others to participate virtually in recommending achievement levels. Apply by Sept. 19. http://www.doe.sd.gov/pressroom/zebra/news/14/aug/Page1.html http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ The South Dakota Department of Education has launched a blog. Check out the first entry from Secretary Melody Schopp http://sddoe.blogspot.com/ http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/081914RC.pdf The 2014 South Dakota Report Card highlighting school performance is now available online. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/081914RC.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/082014ACT.pdf South Dakota’s ACT scores continue to be above the national average, even while an estimated 78 percent of the 2014 graduating class participated in the exam. http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/documents/2014/082014ACT.pdf http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx Read what the SD Education Standards do, and what they do not do. http://doe.sd.gov/ContentStandards/index.aspx http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/July/art_upcomingevents.aspx#ue7 Aug. 14-Oct. 10, various dates and locations statewide http://doe.sd.gov/pressroom/educationonline/2014/July/art_upcomingevents.aspx#ue7