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educators with advocacy signs

We're here to make sure every student and educator succeeds

At the South Dakota Education Association (SDEA), we believe in opportunity for all students and in the power of public education to transform lives and create a more just and inclusive society.
SDEA President
Now is not the time to be silent. We are stronger together. The more voices we have working together, the louder we will be.
Quote by: Loren Paul, SDEA President

Our best hope for student success is you.

Your passion and commitment are crucial to helping all students—of all colors and backgrounds—learn, grow, and fulfill their potential. Here’s how you can get started...
A teacher helps students working on laptops

Be a voice for each and every student.

Students have a right to a safe, welcoming, and affirming learning environment in a school that respects and values them and is free of bias. Learn about issues affecting our students and how you can help students succeed.
Educators with signs to "keep the promise"

Advocate for your rights & working conditions.

Those who serve our students and communities need the support, resources, and working conditions to excel in their work. The power and influence of the SDEA community are here to help you understand your rights and improve your working conditions.
Teacher with middle school students smiling

Build your career and find opportunities to lead.

Being an education professional requires passion, dedication, confidence, and resilience. Our community helps educators at all stages in their career become leaders in their profession, in their union, and in their communities. Explore how you can achieve professional excellence and grow into a leader in your profession.
two smiling members hold signs that say "SD children are not political footballs" and "South Dakota children NEED age-appropriate learning." - 3840x2160

Advance Justice with Us

Deep inequities prevent students from getting the opportunities they deserve. See how you can bring racial and social justice into our schools and transform our communities.

Use Your Educator Voice.

We are THE voice for educators in South Dakota. See what membership can mean for you!
Several men beating a single drum

Our journey began more than a century ago. Yours starts now.

We’ve spent decades working for students and educators—but, there’s still more to do. Like the progress we've made at the statehouse, we need to dig in further and speak up for the students and educators who are still facing inequality every day.

Let’s get real

Let's bring real change

Let’s get real

There is ZERO statistical significance that voucher programs improve overall student success.

Let's bring real change

A pile of signs that say "Yes! To Public Schools. No! To Vouchers!"
We must keep public dollars in public schools. Voucher schemes directly suck funding out of rural community schools across South Dakota that are already underfunded and diverts scarce resources away from most South Dakota students.
Learn about Vouchers

SD ranks 49th in the nation for teacher salary.

Let's bring real change

Rally with the sign "teachers just want to have funds."
State lawmakers must prioritize that the state’s funding formula for K-12 education meets the needs of all school districts in South Dakota by prioritizing education funding. History shows that when lawmakers invest in schools our students and educators benefit.
Learn More about Education Funding

One out of six children lacks consistent access to the food needed for fueling their bodies and minds.

Let's bring real change

A smiling lunch lady serves delicious looking healthy food to elementary school students.
When students participate in school meals programs, their behavior, comprehension, and attendance improve. The meals children receive prepare them for learning and shape their food choices and health outcomes as adults.
Learn More About Child Nutrition in Public Schools

What’s on Your Mind?

We’re here to help. Our community comes to us seeking tools (guides, reports, trainings, and more) to help answer everyday questions. We’re here to support you in whatever you need.
Educators having fun while advocating

Together we're stronger. Together we're heard.

You belong in the movement! Join today to belong to the movement of educators and school staff fighting for the pay and working conditions we all deserve.
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It's about our kids.

The South Dakota Education Association (SDEA) is a professional organization working hard for educators, so they can continue to work hard for our kids. SDEA members provide a wide range of professional education services in communities throughout the state.