Sioux Falls College Sets Goals for Student Enrollment and Graduation Rates

In a recent meeting of the Southeast Tech School Board, held on September 3, 2025, members gathered to discuss vital strategies aimed at enhancing student engagement and retention. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of purpose as board members emphasized the importance of fostering a welcoming environment for students from their first interaction with the college through to graduation.

One of the key strategies highlighted was the initiative to enhance student belonging, known as Strategy 2.5. This approach aims to ensure that every student feels valued and included throughout their academic journey. Metrics for measuring success in this area include annual unduplicated enrollment figures, which track the number of unique students attending over the academic year, as well as retention rates from fall to spring and fall to fall. These metrics are crucial for understanding how well the institution is supporting its students.

The board also discussed ambitious goals for graduation rates, with a target of 950 unique graduates set by the Board of Technical Education by the year 1930. Encouragingly, the school is already on track to meet this goal, reflecting the high demand for skilled graduates in the Sioux Falls region and the southeastern part of South Dakota.

In addition to student-focused initiatives, the meeting addressed the importance of enhancing employee culture and capacity within the institution. This goal underscores the board's commitment to creating a supportive and effective work environment for staff, which is essential for fostering a thriving educational atmosphere.

As the meeting concluded, the board members left with a renewed sense of determination to not only meet but exceed their goals, ensuring that Southeast Tech continues to be a beacon of opportunity and support for students and staff alike. The discussions held on that day will undoubtedly shape the future of the institution, as they strive to create a community where everyone feels they belong.