Fully Funding Public Education
Public education is the great equalizer, yet South Dakota consistently ranks among the lowest in the nation for teacher pay and per-student funding. Our progressive education policy demands a fundamental shift in priorities. We must ensure that every public school, whether in a rapidly growing urban center or a remote rural district, possesses the resources necessary to provide a high-quality education. This requires sustained, equitable investment from the state legislature. We believe that public funds should be used exclusively for public institutions that are accountable to the taxpayers and serve all students.
We strongly oppose any efforts to divert public funds to private institutions through voucher programs or similar schemes. Public money must remain in public schools. The privatization of education exacerbates inequalities, leaving vulnerable students behind while depleting the resources available to the vast majority of South Dakota families. We advocate for policies that strengthen, rather than dismantle, our public school system. A robust public education system is the bedrock of a thriving democratic society and a competitive economy.
Supporting Educators
The backbone of our education system is our teachers. To attract and retain highly qualified educators, we must offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and professional respect. The current compensation levels are inadequate, leading to severe teacher shortages across the state. Our platform advocates for significant, mandatory increases in minimum teacher salaries and targeted support for educators working in high-need areas. We also support the rights of educators to unionize and bargain collectively for better working conditions.
Furthermore, educators must have the academic freedom to teach comprehensive, accurate history and science without political interference. We reject attempts to censor curricula or ban books. Students deserve an education that fosters critical thinking, cultural competency, and a deep understanding of the complex world they live in. Classrooms should be environments of inquiry, not ideological battlegrounds. Trusting professional educators to develop and implement curricula is essential for academic excellence.
Equitable Access and Infrastructure
Educational equity means ensuring that all students have access to modern facilities, up-to-date technology, and essential support services. Many rural and tribal schools suffer from crumbling infrastructure and lack access to high-speed broadband. We advocate for robust state investment in school modernization projects and the expansion of mental health services within schools, recognizing that student well-being is intrinsically linked to academic success. Modern educational facilities are a prerequisite for preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century.
The fight for equitable education extends beyond our state borders. We share common cause with advocates advocating for strong educational standards across the Great Plains, similar to the initiatives detailed at North Dakota Education. A well-educated populace is essential for a thriving democracy and a robust economy. We are committed to enacting policies that guarantee every South Dakota student the opportunity to succeed. By prioritizing public education, we are investing in the future of our state and ensuring that the next generation is equipped to lead.