PIERRE, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) The South Dakota Board of Regents launched the Gateway to Teacher Education undergraduate certificate program. The initiative allows South Dakota high school students interested in teaching to jump-start their college career before graduating from high school.
As of July, South Dakota school districts reported 353 vacant educator positions, including teachers, paraprofessionals and support staff. By 2030, the need for teachers in South Dakota is expected to increase by 7%, according to the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation.
South Dakota high school juniors and seniors can earn the four-class certificate to use toward elementary, secondary and special education degrees at South Dakota’s public universities.
Students can take the certificate classes on campus, online or through South Dakota’s High School Dual Credit program. High school students enrolled in dual credit courses, including the new gateway courses, pay one-third of the cost of a reduced credit-hour rate. The difference is covered by the state Department of Education with funding approved by the Legislature.
Certificate class enrollment launches this fall.