As we look to South Dakota’s future, it is critical that we engage top-notch educators in school administration roles. To that end, I invite you to nominate one of your outstanding teacher-leaders to attend an Aspiring School Leaders Retreat, April 26-27, in the Black Hills.

The retreat is designed for teachers viewed as strong candidates for school administration roles. It affords participants an opportunity to learn about school leadership roles, reflect on their careers, and consider a pathway leading to administration. The event is a joint effort of School Administrators of South Dakota, TIE, and the Department of Education.

This year the retreat will be held at the K-Bar-S Lodge near Keystone. The retreat, including lodging and meals, is free of charge to those selected to participate. The teacher’s school district will be responsible for travel costs to and from the retreat and the costs of a substitute teacher.

Please visit with potential nominees at the earliest opportunity and encourage them to complete an application by March 25. An agenda for the retreat and the application form for the nominee can be found on the Aspiring School Leaders website at https://www.tie.net/asl.

The retreat is limited to 30 participants. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance by April 1. Questions can be directed to Dr. Ryan Young at ryoung@tie.net or 605-394-1876.

I appreciate your consideration of this request.