In January, the South Dakota Department of Education will invite all South Dakota K-12 educators to complete the state’s first-ever Native American Needs Assessment. This survey was developed in partnership with the South Dakota Office of Indian Education and the Regional Educational Laboratory Central (REL Central).

This survey is intended to gauge current awareness, knowledge, practice, and advocacy for the Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings. Survey data will inform targeted professional development, support, and guidance aimed at increasing statewide capacity to implement the OSEUs.

In addition to the OSEUs, the needs assessment will ask respondents about culturally responsive curriculum and instruction, equitable school climate, and professional development.