Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Education has selected eight elementary schools to participate in the State Personnel Development Grant (SPDG) project to improve mathematic outcomes for students with disabilities in grades Pre-K through 5. Using evidence-based instruction, family engagement, and sustainable professional learning, this grant supports the state’s broader effort to strengthen math instruction.
“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.”
Grant funds will support activities such as the development and implementation of math improvement plans, providing professional learning in evidence-based instruction, peer-to-peer coaching, and offering math-focused family engagement opportunities.
Each school will receive approximately $125,000 over five years.
The following elementary schools have been awarded the SPDG:
- O.M. Tiffany Elementary, Aberdeen School District;
- Simmons Elementary, Aberdeen School District;
- L.B. Williams Elementary, Mitchell School District;
- Cleveland Elementary, Sioux Falls School District;
- Hawthorne Elementary, Sioux Falls School District;
- Lowell Elementary, Sioux Falls School District;
- Westside Elementary, Sisseton School District; and
- Winner Elementary, Winner School District.