March 12, 2025

This paid piece is sponsored by the University of South Dakota.

A generous donation to the Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation, the philanthropic partner of the Sioux Falls School District, is once again helping students in the University of South Dakota’s Teacher Pathway program as they work toward their goals of becoming educators.

The donation will cover Teacher Pathway students’ current fees, ensuring all students can access the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school, regardless of their financial circumstances.

This February, 121 Teacher Pathway students gathered in their school colors at the Sioux Falls School District’s Instructional Planning Center. They were there to receive valuable insights from the district’s instructional coaches before heading out to visit local colleges, where they could explore opportunities for furthering their education and eventually leading their own classrooms.

The event began with an inspiring welcome from Superintendent Jane Stavem, followed by the exciting announcement from Carrie Aaron, a former educator and representative of the Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation.

Following the announcement, the students boarded buses for their college visits. One bus made its way to USD – Sioux Falls where students were greeted by Jordan Decker, associate director of admissions, and Branden Hoefert, lecturer and faculty adviser for the Division of Teacher Residency and Education.

They shared insights about the programs available at USD’s Sioux Falls campus, including that the university offers an elementary education degree that students can complete entirely at USD – Sioux Falls.

“For aspiring teachers in the Sioux Falls area, the cost savings of attending USD – Sioux Falls are significant,” said Melissa Griese, USD School of Education recruiter. “It was a pleasure helping these students explore the opportunities available to them right here in their community.”

In addition to learning about the university, Teacher Pathway students participated in a discussion on what makes a great teacher, toured the USD – Sioux Falls campus and more.

“It’s inspiring to hear the students talk about what qualities they believe make a great teacher,” Griese said.

“These students have a clear understanding of what it takes to lead a classroom, and they’re already investing in their educational and career goals. I have no doubt that they will make exceptional educators in the future.”

About Teacher Pathway

Launched in 2017, Teacher Pathway is a collaboration between the Sioux Falls School District and the University of South Dakota. The program offers students in the district the chance to explore careers in education. Through this partnership, students can enroll in two USD education courses that directly transfer into the university’s teacher education program, providing them with a head start on their academic journey within the USD School of Education.