Board approves final rules relating to certification
New rules relating to teacher certification have begun to be implemented. The final rules were approved by the Board of Education at its July meeting.

Updates from Special Education Programs
From a new director to a new alternate assessment, this article provides an update of current happenings in the department’s Special Education Programs. Read on to learn more.

DACS diagnostic tool available free
Educators can take advantage of the Dakota Assessment of Content Standards (DACS) available free to South Dakota schools.

DOE develops model wellness policy
By the start of the 2006-07 school year, local education agencies are required to develop wellness policies that address nutrition and physical activity. The department recently convened a workgroup to develop a model wellness policy. This policy will be available for schools to use and modify to fit their own needs.

Title I schools required to notify parents of teacher status
Districts are required to publicly report professional qualifications of their teachers and the percentage of classes not taught by highly qualified teachers. Read on for information regarding this federal requirement.

Timelines for paraprofessionals extended
The U.S. Department of Education has extended the timelines for paraprofessionals working in Title I schools to meet certain qualifications.

Ground-breaking agreement allows for cross-border enrollment
The State of South Dakota recently entered into an agreement with the State of North Dakota to allow cross-border enrollment for kindergarten through 12th-grade students.