Education Program Specialist I

Sdsoybean; Pierre (SD); On-site; USD 39,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Paid holidays

Vacation and sick leave

Job summary

South Dakota Department of Education in Pierre, SD is seeking an Education Program Specialist to help implement federal initiatives supporting student learning. You will monitor grants, provide training, review applications, and coordinate contracts within the Office of Title Programs.

The role emphasizes collaboration with educators, administrators, and community partners to improve outcomes through the 21st CCLC program and school-improvement efforts.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience with K-12 educators, school administrators, or educational programs preferred.
• Knowledge of grant administration and program compliance is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Monitor grant funds and ensure compliance with state and federal requirements.
• Provide ongoing technical assistance and training to educators and afterschool providers.
• Review and approve applications in the grants management system.
• Implement and coordinate the South Dakota System of School Success.
• Manage contracts with external education professionals.
• Assist with identification and support of CSI, TSI, ATSI schools.
• Conduct onsite reviews and coordinate professional service contracts.
• Collaborate on statewide support initiatives and develop resources.

Skills

grant management

training delivery

budget management

data analysis

stakeholder collaboration

out-of-school time programs

compliance

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

28.54 - 29.97 US per hour

Posted 7 days ago

Description

Job ID: 37873
Agency: Department ofEducation - Division of Learning and Instruction - Office of Title Programs
Location:Pierre, SD Salary:$28.54-$29.97/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? Then this job may be for you!

The South Dakota Department of Education is seeking a dedicated, collaborative and detail-oriented 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. These two programs are:

• Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) – is a competitive grant program that funds high-quality, out-of-school time activities throughout the state.
• School Improvement – is 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 outside the regular 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.

This is a full‑time position with the Department of Education - Division of Learning & Instruction - Office of Title Programs.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• a high school diploma or equivalent preferred;
• demonstrate experience working with K-12 educators, school administrators, or educational programs preferred.

Knowledge of:

• 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).

Skill to:

• strong written and verbal communication skills for delivering clear guidance, technical assistance, and training to a variety of audiences;
• skilled in using technology platforms for grant management, communication, and documentation;
• proficient in Microsoft Office systems, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint;
• expertise in interpreting federal statutes and regulations related to education programs;
• strong collaboration and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to build consensus among stakeholders;
• 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;
• 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;
• be adaptable 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;
• proficient in analyzing and utilizing 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.

Additional Requirements:

This position is eligible for Veterans’ Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08.

NCRC:If you possess a National Career Readiness Certificate, please submit the certificate with your application. For more information on how to acquire a National Career Readiness Certificate contact a South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation Job Service Office.A certificate is not necessary to be considered.

The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9.The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire.

The State of South Dakota offers $0 premium employee health insurance option plus eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. You can view our benefits information here .This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.