Teacher Leadership Academy

What: The Dakota Dreams Teacher Leadership Academy offers eligible teachers a year-long, experience-based learning opportunity to further develop their educational leadership skills. Beginning in school year 2022-23, two cohorts of 30 students will meet over three instructional days during the school year as well as a three-day period in the summer. Courses will be taught by Professor of Practice faculty (qualified retired superintendents of schools) and guest speakers.

This academy is provided at no cost to teachers and includes reimbursement for travel, lodging, and substitute teacher expenses. Teachers who successfully complete the course may earn three graduate credits.

Who: Eligible teachers are those with at least five years of teaching experience.

Where: The place of instruction will rotate between the University of South Dakota in Vermillion; South Dakota State University in Brookings; Northern State University in Aberdeen; and USD – Sioux Falls.

Why: This leadership academy supports the professional development of South Dakota’s teachers and their exploration of administrative leadership roles and responsibilities in schools. Teachers who successfully complete the course may earn three graduate credits.