Dakota State University
06/16/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/16/2026 09:05
More than 450 educators join 11th annual DSU Teach Camp
June 16, 2026
More than 450 educators from across South Dakota and the region participated in Dakota State University's 11th Annual DSU Teach Camp, a one-day virtual professional development event designed to equip teachers with new ideas, practical strategies, and emerging technologies for the classroom.
Hosted by DSU's College of Education & Human Performance, Teach Camp featured 15 sessions covering topics including artificial intelligence, mathematics instruction, literacy, lesson development, motivation, and leadership. The annual event continues to grow as a resource for educators seeking accessible, high-quality professional learning opportunities.
The day opened with keynote speaker James Robinson, Emmy Award-winning filmmaker and author of "Whale Eyes: A Memoir About Seeing and Being Seen." Robinson's presentation focused on storytelling, disability awareness, empathy, and the power of helping others feel seen and understood.
Additional featured speakers included Kristin Mulder of Sioux Falls Christian School, who explored the use of Google's Gemini platform in education; Jen Hunt of New Math Minds, who shared strategies for K-5 mathematics instruction; Tim Olson of NorthWestern Energy, who discussed real-world applications of artificial intelligence beyond the K-12 environment; and Dr. Jeff Danielson, superintendent of Watertown Public Schools and South Dakota's 2025 Superintendent of the Year, who delivered a motivational presentation for educators.
"Teach Camp continues to demonstrate what is possible when educators come together to learn, collaborate, and prepare for the future of teaching," said Dr. Kevin Smith, associate professor in DSU's College of Education & Human Performance and director of Teach Camp. "More than 450 educators invested time in their own professional growth this year, and we are grateful for the presenters, faculty, and educational leaders who helped make this event meaningful and impactful."
Smith led the event alongside a team of DSU faculty and education leaders, including Dr. Katie Anderson, Megan Janke, Dr. Sheila Mulder, Dr. Julia Price-Lee, Dr. Kindra Schneider, Nicole Steele, and more than a dozen additional presenters and facilitators who contributed expertise throughout the day.
DSU Teach Camp began in 2016 and has evolved into one of the region's largest virtual professional development opportunities for educators. Last year, the event drew nearly 500 participants, reflecting continued demand for accessible learning opportunities that help teachers strengthen classroom instruction and explore emerging educational technologies.
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