USD and Sioux Falls School District Celebrate Professional Development Center Graduates
In total, 23 students graduated from the USD and Sioux Falls PDC program. Of those, 16 have already been hired by the Sioux Falls School District, including 14 as special education teachers and two in other content areas. Two additional students are on track to graduate in May 2026 and have already secured positions with the district.
“These students started in summer 2024 and quickly completed a rigorous graduate program,” said Theresa Skinner, Ed.S., academic advisor for the cohort. “They essentially were working on their master’s degree while taking on the challenges of a first-year teacher. They should be commended for their hard work, perseverance and their commitment to the Sioux Falls School District and their students.”
The PDC program was established in 1993 by the USD School of Education to promote a culture of collaborative learning with South Dakota K-12 schools. It addresses the growing need for teacher recruitment by supporting individuals with bachelor’s degrees to become certified teachers through one of USD’s M.A. plus initial certification programs.
Through the PDC program, the School of Education is increasing opportunities for aspiring educators, strengthening the pathway of teachers in South Dakota and ensuring students receive the support they need. Many PDC students already work in a school district in non-teacher roles and continue in those positions while completing their degree. By “growing their own” teachers, districts can recruit and retain professionals who are already part of their communities and committed to serving local students.
Last spring, a cohort of students from the Brookings School District and the surrounding area graduated with their M.A. plus certification in multicategorical special education.
In Harrisburg, another cohort completed graduate degrees and certifications as K-12 reading and literacy coaches. This summer, the Sioux Falls School District welcomed a new cohort of students who are pursuing the M.A. plus certification programs in elementary education, secondary education and special education.
“We’re so excited and proud of our Sioux Falls PDC students as they graduate and begin their teaching careers in the Sioux Falls School District,” said Daniel Mourlam, Ed.D., chair of the Division of Teacher Residency and Education. “With the ongoing teacher shortage in South Dakota, forming partnerships and creating pathways for individuals to become teachers is so important for meeting the needs of the state. Our PDC program has been an effective strategy for connecting with communities to help them ‘grow their own’ teachers.”
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