Education

Some of the most contentious legislation and debate surrounding what is taught in South Dakota public school classrooms has its origin in model legislation and language put forth by national political operatives and commentators. Education officials in South Dakota say the recent attempts to influence classroom standards and curricula are part of a larger political narrative that is not reflective of what is happening in public schools here.

Three retired classroom teachers from South Dakota say they are worried about how increasing political and cultural pressure placed on public education will affect the ability of teachers to teach and their willingness to remain in the profession they love. Part three of a 3-part series.

The shortage of teachers in South Dakota has gotten worse in recent years as classroom educators have increasingly felt the pull of politics and the ongoing culture wars add new stress to an already difficult job. As criticism of teachers mounts, and questions about curriculum become more common, some experts worry the public education system in South Dakota may begin to falter. This is Part 1 of a two-part series.

The COVID-19 pandemic has placed additional stress on students in South Dakota and across the country, many who were already suffering mental health issues. School counselors are playing a larger role in helping students remain healthy and avoid pressure that can lead to health problems and even suicide.

Supporters of a movement to improve education of Native American students in South Dakota suffered a setback when a proposed charter school measure was defeated in the state Legislature on March 2. But members of an expert panel convened by South Dakota News Watch say they will push forward on efforts to reform public education and create opportunities for better educational outcomes for Native students.

Standardized test scores and graduation rates remain stubbornly low for Native American children attending South Dakota public schools, but a new effort is underway to incorporate Lakota Indian language, history and culture into state-funded charter schools modeled on successful immersion programs elsewhere.

Click on this article to learn more about the panel discussion and for a link to register in advance to watch the online discussion live.

Sinte Gleska University in South Dakota may work with NASA and experts on 3D design of homes to create a new high-tech curriculum at the college, provide affordable housing in high-need reservation areas and also develop homes that could someday be built on the moon or Mars.

Education, protection of the elderly and upholding Indian history and culture are top issues in the overall agenda of Native American lawmakers during the 2022 South Dakota legislative session. Following bills filed by Native lawmakers and those related to Native issues is one way to see which issues are most important to members of South Dakota's Native community.

A shortage of substitute teachers available to fill open classroom slots in South Dakota schools is pushing some districts to make difficult choices that may make teaching less effective and learning more difficult.