Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Education announced today the recognition of two elementary schools as Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) Distinguished Schools.  Milbank Elementary School has been commended for its excellence in serving special populations of students, specifically English Learners (EL), and Tyndall Elementary School for its exceptional student performance and academic growth.

“A child’s education stems from the foundation set in the beginning, and both schools are planting strong roots that will foster the students' perception of school and academic success,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Joseph Graves. “Both elementary schools are highly deserving of this achievement for their admirable commitment to exemplifying South Dakota’s mission to enhance students’ learning and equip them with the tools, support, and resources in their academic journeys.”

Milbank Elementary’s EL students surpassed the state’s English Language Arts (ELA) and math proficiency rates. In school year 2024-25, EL students were 66 percent proficient in ELA and 47 percent proficient in math. Milbank’s EL students are performing with a strong proficiency in their English skills and development, placing them on track or with the ability to exit the EL program early.

Tyndall Elementary students exceeded the state’s performance metrics in ELA and math in school year 2024-25. Students were 70 percent proficient in ELA and 75 percent proficient in math. Additionally, the percent of students attending 90 percent of their enrolled days has increased to 92 percent and has remained steady over the last three years, outpacing the state number.

“The growth that both schools are demonstrating reflects the positive achievements in their academics, but it also highlights the efforts their teachers, administrators, and students are making to strengthen their academic fulfillment,” Graves said.

The National ESEA Distinguished Schools Program is a project of the National Association of Elementary and Secondary Education Act State Program Administrators (NAESPA).  Title I schools with a poverty rate of 35 percent or more qualify for consideration, and national recognition is determined based on three categories:

• Category 1: Schools exhibiting exceptional student performance and academic growth;
• Category 2: Schools that have closed the achievement gap between student groups; or
• Category 3: Schools that show excellence in serving special populations of students (e.g., homeless, migrant, English Learners, etc.).

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