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Board accepts University of South Dakota educator‑preparation accreditation through 2033
Summary
The board accepted CAPE's seven‑year accreditation decision for the University of South Dakota educator‑preparation program, requiring USD to address two areas of improvement in its annual report. The motion passed 7–0.
The South Dakota Board of Education Standards voted unanimously to accept a Department of Education recommendation to approve the University of South Dakota’s educator‑preparation program accreditation through June 2033.
Kathy Reedy, administrator of K‑12 and educator‑preparation program accreditation at the department, said the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAPE) granted USD’s educator‑preparation program full accreditation for seven years after an April 2026 review. Reedy noted USD’s individual art, music, school psychologist and school counselor programs hold national accreditations recognized by the department; the CAPE report identified two areas of improvement USD must address in annual reporting.
Board members asked whether USD currently offers a library‑science major and whether other institutions in South Dakota offer library‑science coursework. Dean Amy Schwiley said USD currently does not offer a library‑science major but has begun discussions; board members remarked that a minor is available at Black Hills (community/technical) institutions.
Dr. Meyer moved to approve the department’s recommendation and Jean Moulton seconded; the clerk recorded 7 ayes, 0 nays and the motion passed.
What’s next: USD will respond to CAPE’s areas of improvement through its annual report, and the department will post the accreditation action report and supporting materials on its website.
