The state’s plant to meet federal education policy requirements has been approved.

 

South Dakota’s state plan, which was submitted in September, for educating students under the Every Student Succeeds Act was recently approved by U.S. Department of Education.

 

“We’re very happy to see South Dakota’s ESSA plan receive federal approval,” ASBSD Executive Director Wade Pogany said. “The Department of Education worked diligently to encompass many educational elements into this plan to ensure it benefitted the students of our great state.”

 

“DOE and the ESSA statewide committee should be commended for the thorough work they put into the construction of the plan.”

 

Click here to review South Dakota’s approved plan.

 

Highlights of the plan include:

• The plan provides an expanded measure of College and Career Readiness, which recognizes the work the state has been doing to give all students meaningful opportunities to engage in rigorous coursework that prepares them to be college, career and life ready.
• South Dakota has worked with stakeholders to create ambitious, yet realistic, goals for the growth of our state’s English learners. Within the accountability system, schools are recognized for the work they do to move students towards English proficiency and rewarded when they are able to help students make significant gains.
• Some parts of the South Dakota plan will be explored and implemented in the years ahead. For example, the state is just beginning a pilot program to immerse students in academic and work-based opportunities that are directly connected to a student’s end goals. Participating schools will utilize a framework of career advising, early postsecondary opportunities and work-based learning experiences that pave the way for students to make informed decisions about their postsecondary and career plans.

“South Dakota’s plan reflects the state goal of ensuring that every student is provided the opportunity to be successful after high school,” Secretary of Education Don Kirkegaard said in a statement. “While we have set rigorous expectations, the plan also recognizes that there are many ways to prepare students for success in postsecondary, careers and life.”

 

“South Dakota aims to provide flexibility for local school districts in working with their students, while still ensuring high expectations and accountability for all.”

 

For updates on federal and state education policy, read the ASBSD Blog, Twitter feed and Bill Tracker.