Our Teaching Mission

Hands-On Experiences

We focus on hands-on, experiential learning (learning-by-doing) to ensure high-quality class standards and lasting impact to help students find their STEM identity and hone their talents beyond school while developing college and/or career readiness skills (collaboration, creativity, communication and critical thinking) to grow a STEM workforce for South Dakota.

STEM Equity

We believe STEM is for all—every child (and adult) deserves access to hands-on science education. To ensure access, we structure learning so that everyone is engaged regardless of background or ability, and thanks to the generosity of local sponsors, we can provide scholarships and reduced fees. 

Contact us at info@sd-discovery.org to find out more.

Learning Pathways

Programs utilize Learning Pathways aligned with our teaching framework to facilitate individual growth of students in different topics, specialty tracks, and real-world applications.

Our Learning pathways tracks and specialties are:

• EXPLORE: Naturalist, Storytelling, Environment
• SCIENCE: Life Science, Physical Science, Space Science
• TECH: Engineering, Coding, Entertainment, Robotics 
• HEALTH: Fitness, Cooking, Gardening

First Teachers

To create a society of curious, scientifically literate, and engaged problem solvers, we need to empower everyone who might inspire another to think critically and scientifically. 

Through targeted programs, we work to build STEM confidence in those who are our first teachers: caregivers and community members.

• ITTY BITTY EINSTEINS
  Occuring every first Saturday of the month, the goal of this program is to introduce preschoolers and their caregivers to STEM concepts through fun, hands-on activities that they can continue to explore at home. Itty Bitty Einsteins is available, for free, to SDDC Members and South Dakota Foster Families. Each event compliments our Little STEAMers Preschool by coordinating activities and building from different STEM foundations. 
• THOKAHE ROBOTICS
  Thokahe Robotics addresses STEM inequities and educational disparities for underrepresented groups in rural areas, building community capacity for an inclusive, sustainable robotics program focused on Native American and at-risk students, empowering community members to coach LEGO League teams seasonally from September to February through close mentoring and assistance with bridging student learning gaps to build life and career skills.