South Dakota Teacher Pay Falls Short of $60,000 Goal, Ranks 46th Nationally

South Dakota teachers are earning an average of just over $56,000 this year, falling short of the $60,000 target set two years ago, which aimed to improve the state’s national teacher pay ranking by eight positions. The state now ranks 46th in teacher pay, up from 49th last year, but still below the goal. On Monday, the Teacher Compensation Review Board met to address this gap, alongside issues like teacher shortages and school capacity. With budget constraints looming, potential raises next year may be limited to a 3% cap or inflation adjustments. The board will explore new solutions at their next meeting in August.