BHSU College of Education

10/08/2026

Working together to make a difference!

Spearfish School District K–5 teachers are partnering with the BHSU College of Education and South Dakota Department of Education for a book study of 'The Writing Revolution'. This collaboration is designed to broaden the understanding of the Science of Reading and Writing while strengthening instructional practices that support student success.

10/07/2026

10/06/2026

📣 Meet the BHSU College of Education Team!

Behind every future teacher is a team of dedicated faculty and staff committed to supporting, mentoring, and inspiring the next generation of educators. We are proud of the people who make the BHSU College of Education such a special place to learn and grow.

10/01/2026

🍎 Throwback Thursday: A Look Back at Dakota Normal School 🍎

Step back in time with this remarkable photograph of the Dakota Normal School Main Building in Spearfish. Taken in 1902, this image captures the students, faculty, and community members who helped shape the legacy of teacher education in South Dakota.

Have you ever wondered why early teacher colleges were called Normal Schools? The term comes from the French phrase école normale, meaning a school established to teach the "norms" or standards of the teaching profession. These institutions were created specifically to prepare and train future teachers.

Founded in 1887, Dakota Normal School, now known as the BHSU College of Education, has been preparing educators for nearly 140 years. This historic image serves as a reminder of the strong tradition of teacher preparation that continues today.

09/22/2026

National Recognition for the BHSU College of Education

Last week, the Frank Murray Leadership Recognition for Continuous Improvement was awarded to Black Hills State University by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). This prestigious national award is given only to educator preparation providers that achieve accreditation with no stipulations or areas for improvement, while demonstrating strong evidence of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement through data-driven practices.

Representing BHSU at the CAEP Conference, Dr. Jarrett Moore, Dean of Education, Dr. Faye LaDuke-Pelster, Department Chair, and Mrs. Jami Kesling, Director of Field Experiences, proudly accepted the award on behalf of the College of Education.

This achievement reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and school partners who work together to prepare highly effective educators for South Dakota and beyond. We are honored to be recognized among a select group of institutions across the nation for our commitment to excellence in teacher preparation.

Congratulations to everyone who played a role in this outstanding accomplishment!

🎥Watch the awards presentation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fG17qajbWo&t=3s

09/22/2026

What happens when students slow down, observe, and connect with nature? Great learning opportunities emerge! 🌱

Dr. Jennifer Fowler, Assistant Professor of Science Education, is working with area educators through a pilot nature journaling project funded by the Black Hills Area Community Foundation. The project is providing meaningful outdoor learning experiences for students while generating valuable insights that will guide future science education research.

These photos from Meade School District's Sturgis Williams Middle School showcase students taking their learning outside through nature journaling. 🍃📖