South Dakota facing growing teacher shortage

(Pierre, SD) -- South Dakota is facing a growing teacher shortage.

South Dakota News Watch is reporting a push to draw in educators in kindergarten through 12th grade.

Below-average salaries and dissatisfaction in the profession are believed to be driving the trend.

Another key issue with attracting and retaining teachers is the debate over social studies standards and Governor Kristi Noem's push for weeding out "inherently divisive" teaching materials.

The state's 2023 budget includes a six-percent increase in school funding. Governor Noem is proposing an additional five-percent increase in the 2024 fiscal year.