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Education Program Specialist

South Dakota State Government
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Job ID: 31176
Agency: Education
Location: Pierre, SD
Salary: $27.49-$28.86/hr., depending on qualifications
Pay Grade: J
Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Are you passionate about expanding learning opportunities, supporting student achievement and strengthening schools? The South Dakota Department of Education is seeking a dedicated and collaborative full time Education Program Specialist to join the Office of Title Programs.

In this role, you will contribute to the implementation of two impactful federal initiatives that support student learning and school success:

 

  • Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) – a competitive grant program that funds high-quality, out-of-school time activities throughout the state.
  • School Improvement – a comprehensive initiative that supports schools identified for Comprehensive, Targeted, and Additional Targeted Support and Improvement (CSI, TSI, ATSI).

 

Key Responsibilities Include:

  • Monitoring grant funds and ensuring compliance with state and federal requirements;
  • Providing ongoing technical assistance and training to educators and afterschool providers;
  • Reviewing and approving applications in the grants management system;
  • Implementing and coordinating the South Dakota System of School Success;
  • Managing contracts with external education professionals;
  • Assisting with the identification and support of CSI, TSI, and ATSI schools;
  • Conducting onsite reviews and coordinating professional service contracts;
  • Collaborating on statewide support initiatives and developing helpful resources.

Why You’ll Love This Role:

As part of a mission-driven and supportive team, you’ll work closely with school leaders and community organizations to improve student outcomes both during and beyond the school day. This role offers a rewarding mix of program administration, relationship building, and hands-on support—all while driving lasting impact across South Dakota schools.

Learn More:

  • 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program- https://doe.sd.gov/21CCLC/index.aspx
  • School Improvement- https://doe.sd.gov/title/schoolimprovement.aspx

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

  • Experience in developing, reviewing, and managing budgets to ensure financial compliance and program sustainability; 
  • Skilled in assisting programs with outreach to engage families and strengthen community involvement; 
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills for delivering clear guidance, technical assistance, and training. 

Knowledge of:

  • the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program, including structure, goals, and compliance requirements;
  • effective out-of-school time programming and research-based practices that promote student engagement and success;
  • the role and responsibilities of a state educational agency, including key processes and systems;
  • federal and state laws, regulations, and policies governing education programs and grant administration;
  • current trends and emerging issues in education at both the state and national levels;
  • strategies for meaningful family and community engagement in support of student learning;
  • school improvement frameworks and evidence-based practices for supporting schools identified for improvement (CSI, TSI, ATSI). 

Desired Skillsets:

  • skilled in using technology platforms for grant management, communication, and documentation; 
  • proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; 
  • expertise in interpreting federal statutes and regulations related to education programs; 
  • analyze data and use it to inform decisions and improve program outcomes; 
  • strong collaboration and problem-solving skills, with the ability to build consensus among stakeholders; 
  • attention to detail in reviewing grant applications, monitoring compliance, and managing contracts.

Ability to:

  • develop and maintain professional relationships with coworkers, contractors, and education professionals to foster collaboration and support program success;
  • adapt to work effectively in a diverse and ever-changing educational environment;
  • continuously evaluate methods and processes, making adjustments as needed for improved effectiveness;
  • design and deliver training sessions for program staff, administrators, school districts, and the public;
  • proficiently analyze and utilize data to make informed, effective decisions that improve program outcomes;
  • facilitate a competitive grant process and oversee the implementation of approved projects with a focus on compliance and impact;
  • link out-of-school time programming to academic components and state or national standards, ensuring alignment with educational goals. 
  • both in-state and out-of-state travel is required.