South Dakota Elementary Schools Awarded $1 Million Combined for Math Improvement

A student in a woodworking class focuses intently while working on a creative lamp project, surrounded by classmates engaged in their own crafts.

Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - The South Dakota Department of Education (DOE) has announced that eight elementary schools across the state have been selected to participate in the State Personnel Development Grant (SPDG) project. This initiative is designed to improve mathematics outcomes for students with disabilities in grades Pre-K through 5.

Strengthening the Foundation

The grant focuses on several key pillars to bolster math instruction, including evidence-based instruction, family engagement, and sustainable professional learning. By integrating these strategies, the DOE aims to create a lasting impact on how math is taught and learned in South Dakota classrooms.

“This grant strengthens our commitment to ensuring every student—especially those with disabilities—has access to high-quality math instruction,” said Shannon Malone, Director of Learning and Instruction. “By investing in evidence-based practices, coaching, and family engagement, we’re building a foundation that will support students long after the grant ends”.

Funding and Implementation

Each of the eight selected schools will receive approximately $125,000 over five years. These funds are earmarked for specific activities aimed at long-term success, such as:

·        Developing and implementing comprehensive math improvement plans.

·        Providing professional learning opportunities centered on evidence-based instruction.

·        Facilitating peer-to-peer coaching for educators.

·        Offering math-focused family engagement opportunities to involve parents in their children’s learning journey.

Awarded Schools

The schools selected for the SPDG represent five different school districts across the state:

School District	Awarded Elementary School(s)
Aberdeen	O.M. Tiffany Elementary, Simmons Elementary
Mitchell	L.B. Williams Elementary
Sioux Falls	Cleveland Elementary, Hawthorne Elementary, Lowell Elementary
Sisseton	Westside Elementary
Winner	Winner Elementary