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Recognizing Educators, Students, and Success
February is a busy month for highlighting the supports and programs available to help students persist through their academic journey and beyond – including CTE Month, National School Counseling Week, Capitol Conversations, and Capital City Experience – which are all aimed at supporting South Dakota Students. This issue of Teach SD highlights three programs within the department that thrive with the support of educators in helping students achieve success.
Stay informed about professional development, scholarships, student opportunities, and event highlights by following the South Dakota Department of Education on social media:
Don’t forget to tag us so we can see what you and your students are achieving!
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How does CTE set up
students for success?
Career and Technical Education (CTE) equips middle and high school students with the knowledge and skills they need to be prepared for careers in today's workforce.
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How does JAG set up students for success?
Academic success often depends on factors outside the classroom, such as attendance, confidence, and stability in life. Jobs for America’s Graduates – South Dakota addresses these challenges by providing support beyond academics.
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OSWS helps students achieve success in the present and the future
The Office of Student Wellness and Supports provides assistance and resources for all students to learn, thrive, and grow. OSWS strives to build strong connections and partnerships across South Dakota so educators can best support whole child needs involving social-emotional, academic, and career.
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Professional Development and Training:
Best Practices for Computer Educators
April 8, 2026, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. (CT)
Computer teachers are invited to a one-day, in-person Best Practices event on April 8, at Dakota State University. Participants will engage in career cluster-related topics, networking opportunities and guest speakers. Those who fully attend the workshop and complete a short survey will be eligible for five continuing education contact hours. Registration is now open.
Questions? Contact Tracia Rentsch.
South Dakota Framework for Teaching Training
Pierre, March 26
Geared to those who observe teachers, the department is offering a one-day, in-person training on the 2013 Charlotte Danielson Framework (also known as the South Dakota Framework for Teaching). Participants will develop a deeper understanding of the Framework’s domains, components, elements, and rubrics. Participants will also learn more about ways to hold growth-focused conversations.
Register to attend SD Framework for Teaching Training
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Teacher Opportunities:
Nominate Your District Teacher of the Year for State Recognition
District leaders are encouraged to submit their District Teacher of the Year (TOY) to the South Dakota Department of Education by Feb. 27. District TOYs will then have the opportunity to apply for their Region’s Teacher of the Year. From these five regional winners, the South Dakota Teacher of the Year will be selected.
Submit to Allison Englund.
Nominate school counselors and supporters for state awards
District leaders are encouraged to submit nominations for the South Dakota School Counselor Association (SDSCA) awards by March 6. Recipients of the awards will be honored this spring at the SDSCA Banquet during the SD Counseling Association Conference in April. Don’t miss the chance to recognize excellence in your district! View awards and nomination links below. For questions, contact sdsca.awards@gmail.com.
Nominate Your History Teacher for Recognition as the Board of Education Standards William Beadle History Teacher of the Year
The South Dakota Department of Education invites you to submit your History Teacher of the Year by March 20. The winning recipient will be honored at the State History Conference this June, and new this year, the recipient will be provided with a $1,000 stipend. Nominations are open for any K-12 history teachers. Reach out to Kevin Larsen with any questions.
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Student Opportunities:
Presidential 1776 Award - Feb. 21 Deadline
An initiative of the US Department of Education, the Presidential 1776 award is a nationwide scholarship competition that evaluates students’ understanding of civics and the principles that shaped the United States. High School students will compete in three rounds, with the national finals in DC in June 2026. Registration is open Feb. 1-21. The test window is Feb. 22-28.
Additional information is available online.
"This Place Matters" Essay Contest – March 13 Deadline
The State Historic Preservation Office of the South Dakota State Historical Society is holding an essay contest for fifth graders. Students are asked to write a 100-400-word essay about any South Dakota location that is at least 50 years old, why it is a favorite place for them, and why it should be preserved. Additional information, including complete guidelines and an entry form, is posted on the website. Questions can be sent to Katie Wasley.
Mental Health Poster Contest – March 15 Deadline
The Helpline Center is providing a mental health poster contest for youth ages 12-18. Four posters will be chosen to be displayed across South Dakota. Download Helpline Poster Contest document for additional details.
Submission deadline: March 15.
Questions? Contact Mike Keller with the Helpline Center.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month Poster Contest – May 1 Deadline
The South Dakota Department of Education and the Bureau of Information Technology are partnering for an exciting opportunity for K-12 students to showcase their creativity while spreading awareness about cybersecurity.
Find more details on the Cybersecurity Contest handout.
Questions can be sent to John Malfero.
State Fair Literacy Awareness Drawing Contest – May 8 Deadline
The South Dakota Department of Education will be at the SD State Fair to distribute free books and educational resources. Students are encouraged to embrace their creativity to help promote literacy across the state.
Download the Drawing Contest Flyer.
Questions? Contact Ashley Holm.
South Dakota Seal of Biliteracy
The South Dakota Seal of Biliteracy honors high school students who demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one other language—whether it’s a world language, American Sign Language, or an Indigenous language. This prestigious recognition is noted on a student’s high school diploma and transcript, showcasing valuable skills for college, careers, and beyond.
Learn more and access resources at doe.sd.gov/biliteracy.
Contact Yutzil Becker with questions about the process.
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