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The South Dakota State Library (SDSL) is a one-of-a-kind branch of the South Dakota Department of Education. The SDSL empowers students, teachers, libraries, and communities through their dedication to serving others through education and advocacy, expanding and strengthening access to services, digitizing collections and publications, and providing support and guidance to all.
They are more than a “library for libraries.” They are a pillar for South Dakota education.
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Professional Development and Training:
World Language Standards Review Committee - April 23
The department is seeking individuals interested in serving on an advisory committee for the review of the state’s World Language content standards. The work will take place virtually on June 23; a reliable internet connection and Zoom capabilities are required. Stipends will be provided to applicants selected for this work and CECHs are also available. Those interested in serving on the committee should apply by April 23. Contact Hope Reichenbach for more information.
ADOS-2: Accurate Coding & Considerations - April 27, online
This exciting training is your chance to refresh and enhance your knowledge on the Autism and Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition (ADOS-2) assessment when it comes to coding and evaluating behaviors. International ADOS-2 trainer, Dr. Cynthia Martin, will provide attendees with administration videos and in-depth discussions related to coding of the ADOS-2 Modules 1 and 3.
Intentional Goal Development - April 28, online
This training will focus on the importance of developing IEP goals that are focused on the individual student and the connection of the IEP to instruction and services to ensure accountability and compliance. Attendees will be given opportunities to discuss the practice of utilizing data and information from the comprehensive evaluation during the process of drafting the student's IEP. There will be collaborative discussions, case studies, and intentional training on how to write integrative IEPs for students that are need-based, focus on the student's individualized skills, and meet the required IEP components identified in the IDEA.
Childhood Mental Health & Diagnoses - Various dates, online
This course will provide training and assistance to educators, administrators, other related professionals, and graduate students who are interested in learning more about childhood mental health and psychopathology. This course will promote a better understanding of childhood mental health, diagnostic criteria, and commonly occurring social, emotional, and behavioral problems that may present in children and adolescents.
Grit & Glory: South Dakota Historical Society History Conference
June 1-3, Fort Pierre
All K-12 educators are invited to learn from our past and engage in this year’s conference, highlighting key elements of South Dakota’s history and important events from America’s 250-year journey. Show off your knowledge at the Trivia Night History Smackdown, find out more about how the Dakota Territory was shaped, and learn who will be named the 2026 History Teacher of the Year. New this year, South Dakota certified K-12 educators are eligible for free registration and reimbursement on travel! Register now – spots are limited! Questions? Reach out to Kevin Larsen.
Foundational Reading Courses
This summer, educators in all roles can join in person foundational literacy courses grounded in the Science of Reading. Sessions cover the five essential literacy skills, strategies for supporting students with reading challenges, explicit instruction, and more. Registration for all courses is open on the DOE’s PD platform.
- K-3 Foundational Reading
June 1-3 - Sioux Falls; June 8-10 - Pierre; July 7-9- Rapid City. A three-day workshop where participants will learn research-based literacy practices and Science of Reading strategies to strengthen instruction and support all learners, including those with reading challenges.
- 4-8 Foundational Reading
June 24-26 - Sioux Falls; July 7-9- Rapid City; July 27-29 – Pierre. A three-day workshop designed to build stronger readers and writers with strategies for fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and academic language. Participants learn to use assessments, teach multi-syllabic words, and support both struggling and advanced learners.
- Train the Reading Facilitator
July 20-24 - Sioux Falls. A five-day training designed to designed for participants to gain facilitation tools and evidence-based strategies for teaching foundational skills to support effective professional development.
- Explicit Instruction
June 25-26 - Sioux Falls; July 30-31 – Pierre. A two-day workshop on explicit instruction techniques from Anita Archer and Charles Hughes’ work. Engage in active learning through sample lessons and discussions, led by instructors trained directly by Anita Archer.
Literacy Conference - June 16-17, Mitchell
A literacy-focused conference for educators passionate about student success. Participants will experience inspiring keynotes and breakout sessions, gain the opportunity for CECH contact hours and graduate credit, and learn by networking with fellow educators. The Summit is open to ELA teachers, coaches, specialists, administrators and more! More details are available on the conference website.
Registration is now open
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Student Opportunities:
Drive Safe SD is Giving $10,000 to One SD Student – April 17 Deadline
The South Dakota Office of Highway Safety is helping teens build good habits behind the wheel in a big way: by giving away $20,000 for one lucky high schooler to split with their favorite school organization or activity. All they need to do is take a quick quiz on LessonLearnedSD.com before April 17, 2026. Spread the word and help your students get signed up today!
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.
Summer Career Camps
The South Dakota Board of Regents has created a new tool to support summer career exploration for students and families. Using the “Career Camps” filter, students and parents can quickly search for summer career camps and hands-on learning opportunities across South Dakota. You can access the new tool on the Our Dakota Dreams website.
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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