Thanks to your dedication, we have successfully stopped vouchers, defeated legislation that would have required the Ten Commandments to be displayed in every classroom, mandated chaplains in schools, and required school staff, including counselors and teachers, to inform parents if a student discusses gender dysphoria. While there is still work to keep vouchers off the table and secure more education funding, your emails, postcards, and attendance at weekend coffees and cracker barrels are making a difference. The SDEA Lobby team is incredibly grateful for all your hard work.
This is a prime example of how educators can drive meaningful change when united and involved in their profession. As we prepare for this year’s annual SDEA Representative Assembly, April 4-5 in Pierre, it is essential to remember that we are a member-driven organization. Our members guide every decision we make, from our Legislative Policies to the initiatives we pursue to improve working conditions for educators and learning conditions for students. SDEA is your professional organization, and our strength comes from your involvement and commitment.
If you have served as a delegate to our Representative Assembly, thank you for your invaluable contribution. If you have not yet attended a Representative Assembly, I invite you to join us this year. This is our opportunity to set the course for the upcoming year, determine our goals, and establish our budget priorities. Members drive the conversation, and members make the decisions.
If you cannot attend the Representative Assembly, I encourage you to get involved in your local association. Your participation is crucial, whether it’s joining the bargaining team or helping to organize a postcard-writing campaign. Every voice matters, and your involvement makes a significant difference to our profession and the future of public education.
Thank you once again for your dedication and advocacy. Together, we are stronger, and together, we will continue to make a difference.
