SDMath/SDSci Leadership is a program by the South Dakota Department of Education to create and support a dynamic network of educators. The program selects, challenges, and develops K-12 South Dakota mathematics and science educators who have demonstrated an interest in leadership skills related to mathematics and science education.

Apply by May 20 to join the next cohort.

SDMath/SDSci Leadership is designed around the following goals:

• Build capacity by focusing on problem solving, innovation, leadership, systems thinking, change, STEM learner identity and efficacy
• Create a common knowledge base for educational advocacy and leadership, including effective instruction, clarity about STEM, and research-based practices
• Explore challenges and opportunities in our classrooms, schools, districts, state, and nation
• Provide opportunities for all students to be included in the work of mathematics and science teaching and learning
• Understand that the purpose of all of the above is to impact student experiences in mathematics and science for all students

Application Process
Ideal candidates for the SDMath/SDSci Leadership program aspire to grow professionally, challenge their thinking and practice, and be leaders/advocates for effective mathematics and/or science education. Applicants must teach or co-teach in a mathematics or science classroom for at least one course during their participation year. The application process is designed to ensure a class that consists of members from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and geographical locations. Approximately 20 participants are chosen annually.

A completed application requires submission of the following three components by Friday, May 20, at 5 p.m. CT:

Application: https://forms.gle/iN2JAMbbXdLpeT3c9
Letter of recommendation: https://forms.gle/7PYRwqZPZBGaktP9A
Administrator support letter: https://forms.gle/RL9t7Xq6ckCBdPg28

Program Meeting Dates
Upon selection, participants will be expected to attend all of the following meetings:

• Virtual Orientation – Aug. 30, 2022 (4:30 - 5:30 p.m. CT)
• Alpha Retreat – Sept. 17-18, 2022, Pierre
• Beta Retreat – Dec. 10-11, 2022, Pierre
• Virtual Check-in – Jan. 11, 2023 (4:30 - 5:30 p.m. CT)
• Gamma Retreat – Feb. 4-5, 2023, Huron (attendance at SD STEM Ed Conference Feb. 3-4 strongly encouraged)
• Delta Retreat – April 15-16, 2023, Pierre

The SD STEM Ed Conference is an excellent way to network, learn from and with other math and science leaders from across South Dakota, including veterans of the SD Math/SD Sci Leadership program. The South Dakota Department of Education pays for the membership rate (SDCTM or SDSTA) for conference registration, with the expectation that SD Math/SD Sci participants are current on their SDCTM or SDSTA membership dues. The department also pays for the cost of participants’ hotel rooms for Friday night so that they can attend the conference. The department is not able to pay for the cost of a substitute teacher if participants wish to come to the conference on Friday.

Questions? Email Stephanie Higdon or call 605-295-8990.