South Dakota attains highest-ever teacher pay ranking at 46th

South Dakota has achieved its highest-ever ranking for average teacher salaries, reaching 46th in the nation according to the National Education Association. This improvement is attributed to consecutive above-average increases in state education funding over the past several years, including boosts of 6%, 7%, and 4%, which were possible in part due to federal COVID-19 relief funds. The state's average teacher salary for the 2023-24 school year is $56,328, marking a substantial gain from previous years when South Dakota ranked near the bottom nationally. Education leaders credit these investments with helping to address teacher shortages and improving retention, but express concern that a recent drop to a 1.25% funding increase could stall progress. They warn that, without continued commitment from lawmakers, teacher pay could again fall behind inflation, potentially driving educators out of the profession. Advocates urge policymakers to prioritize education funding to ensure South Dakota remains competitive and able to attract qualified teachers.