USD School of Education Hosts Inspiring Teacher Pathway Day Event
A dynamic event designed to inspire and support the next generation of educators, Teacher Pathway Day is a partnership between USD and the Sioux Falls School District high schools to provide students with an opportunity to learn more about the School of Education’s opportunities and programs.
The event is part of the larger Teacher Pathway program, which is designed to introduce high school students to the teaching profession and provide a path to a degree program. Since its inception in 2017, nearly 1,200 students have participated in the program, earning college credit while still in high school and exploring the teaching profession through real-world experiences.
During the day, students met with faculty members, went on campus tours and previewed four-year degree plans. Students also participated in hands-on learning sessions and gained further insight into their desired education major while having fun, meeting others and getting to know USD.
“The USD School of Education is incredibly proud of the Teacher Pathway program in the Sioux Falls School District, which is nearly a decade in the making,” said Jackie Wilber, Ed.D. ’07, director of the Center for Student & Professional Services. “Teacher Pathway Day is inspiring—we love meeting high school students who are interested in going to college, majoring in education and exploring education career pathways. These students are very thoughtful and caring. They will make great Coyotes and teachers one day!”
Students began the day at the Sioux Falls School District Instructional Planning Center for their annual celebration, where James Nold, Ed.D., superintendent of the Sioux Falls School District, spoke.
Reflecting on the value of a college education, Nold emphasized the long-term return on investment that a degree program can provide.
“Every part of your life will be enriched—financially and otherwise—by going to a four-year university or a two-year technical school,” he said.
In addition to this event, Allison Struck, executive director at the Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation, announced a generous donation that will support the Teacher Pathway courses for the third consecutive year.
“Investing in students who aspire to become educators is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen our communities,” Struck said. “By removing financial barriers like the cost of dual credit, we’re not just helping students get ahead academically, we’re affirming that their passion to teach matters. Early access to college coursework builds confidence, keeps students on track and creates a more prepared and committed pipeline of future teachers."
You May Also Like
University Libraries Presents ‘Metadata Recomposed’ Exhibition Through May 8
The University Libraries at the University of South Dakota presents “Metadata Recomposed,” a solo exhibition of recent works by Daniel Martin. The exhibition opened Jan. 26 and will be on display through May 8, 2026.
USD Police Chief Appointed to IACP Police Investigative Operations Committee
Bryant Jackson, Ed.D. ’23, chief of police at the University of South Dakota, has been appointed to the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Police Investigative Operations Committee for a three-year term.
USD to Host Clayton M. Lehmann Student History Conference on Feb. 19
The University of South Dakota’s Department of History and Phi Alpha Theta chapter are set to host the Clayton M. Lehmann Student History Conference on Feb. 19, starting at 9 a.m. in the Muenster University Center ballroom.
