Today, while listening to the House Education Committee debate HB 1217, I was reminded just how powerful we are when we stand together. As proponents of the bill remarked, “The unions lead education policy in this state,” and “People don’t realize how strong the union influence is,” they affirmed what we have always known: when educators unite around a shared purpose, our voice carries weight. Our collective advocacy matters. It shapes conversations. It influences outcomes. And most importantly, it protects and strengthens public education for our students.
Each of you should take immense pride in the role you play in shaping public education across South Dakota. The strength and quality of our schools are not accidental. They are the result of dedicated professionals who show up every day—not only for their students, but for one another—who speak up, engage, and stand firm in defense of what’s right.
I have had the privilege of watching our SDEA staff in action, and I am truly inspired by their leadership. Their tireless commitment ensures that the voices of our members are heard clearly and consistently. We are in exceptional hands. And just as importantly, SDEA’s work is guided by you. Each year, delegates adopt a Legislative Agenda at the SDEA Representative Assembly, and that member-driven document directs our advocacy throughout the session. It ensures we are fighting for the working conditions you deserve and the learning environments your students need to thrive.
While session is not yet halfway complete, we know there are still challenges ahead. Governor Rhoden initially proposed a 0% increase in education funding, later revising his recommendation to 1% due to higher-than-anticipated revenue projections. We will continue working with legislators to advocate for at least the statutory funding increase our schools require. Our students deserve stability, and our educators deserve meaningful investment.
Now more than ever, your leadership matters. I encourage you to consider taking the next step in your journey by contacting your local association president and applying to serve as a delegate to the SDEA Representative Assembly, March 27–28. The SDEA-RA is the legislative and policy-making body of our Association. As a delegate, you
do more than attend a meeting, you help shape the direction of SDEA.
As our Executive Director, Ryan Rolfs, recently stated, “SDEA is founded, funded, and governed by educators. Educators deserve fair treatment, they deserve a voice in their profession, and they deserve equal protections under the law.”
Those words reflect not only what we stand for—but who we are.
Together, we are strong. Together, we are influential. And together, we will continue to lead—for our profession and for the students who depend on us every single day.
