Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Education (DOE) and the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) proudly announced today the 4th Cohort of the South Dakota Teacher Apprenticeship Pathway (SD TAP) program. Applications are officially open for paraprofessionals and teacher aides to participate in this opportunity to earn a bachelor's degree in education that can lead to teacher certification.

“Through the SD TAP program, I discovered confidence in myself even when challenges arose,” said Stacie Becker, Cohort 1 graduate. “This experience showed me that I have the skills, perseverance, and passion to become an effective educator, and that with commitment, I can achieve my goals.”

This Cohort will allow up to 40 apprentices, and applications will be accepted until April 15, 2026. The program will kick off with orientation in July, where new apprentices will hear from key representatives of each partner organization, as well as recent program graduates.

Program participants will work towards earning their bachelor’s degree over two years. Elementary and special education coursework is offered through Dakota State University (DSU), while secondary education coursework is offered through Northern State University (NSU), culminating in a student-teaching experience in the paraprofessional’s home district.

“I’ve enjoyed celebrating the past graduates of this program and seeing the strong partnership between my administration and our state universities,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “When paraprofessionals can earn a degree right in their home community, it strengthens our workforce and helps our rural communities thrive.”

Since the program first launched in 2023, more than 70 participants have graduated from the SD TAP program. In collaboration with the Board of Regents, DOE, DLR, DSU, NSU, and local school districts, SD TAP supports and uplifts school paraprofessionals to take the leap and continue making an impact in the K-12 education system.

To learn more about SD TAP, visit doe.sd.gov/oatq/TAP.aspx.

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