Join the South Dakota Education Equity Coalition (SDEEC) for State Capitol Day 2027!

Each year, State Capitol Day brings students and educators from across South Dakota together in Pierre to learn, build relationships, and experience civic engagement firsthand.

This year, we're creating opportunities for students to connect across schools, learn from Native leaders and others who have served their communities, and explore how their own voices and experiences connect to the decisions being made in our state.

Student Programming

High School | Conversation & Connection

What does it mean to have a voice in the decisions that shape your community?

High school students will have the opportunity to sit down with peers from other schools, former elected officials, and civic leaders for conversations about representation, leadership, and civic engagement.

Students will be encouraged to ask questions, share perspectives, and learn from one another. We're gathering student input ahead of the event to help shape these conversations around what matters to them.

Elementary & Middle School | Capitol Experience

For younger students, State Capitol Day offers an opportunity to explore the Capitol through a lens that centers Native history and representation.

State of the Tribes Address

Students and chaperones will attend the State of the Tribes Address at the South Dakota State Capitol at 1 PM CT.

Lunch

Lunch will be provided

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, January 13, 2027
Morning Location: Boys & Girls Club of the Capital Area, 110 S Ree Street, Pierre, SD
School Check-In: 8:30–9:30 AM CT
Morning Programming: Begins at 9:30 AM CT
Lunch: Provided
State of the Tribes Address: 1:00 PM CT

Registration Deadline: November 30, 2026

Schools serving elementary, middle, and high school students are welcome to participate!

Bring Your Students to State Capitol Day!

We ask that one school representative complete the registration on behalf of their student group by November 30, 2026.

Once your school registers, an SDEEC team member will follow up with the necessary participation forms and media releases.

Following the November 30 registration deadline, registered schools will receive the event agenda, final details, and next steps to help prepare for the day.

Representation matters, and so do the voices of our young people. State Capitol Day is an opportunity for students to see Native leadership in action, connect with one another, and recognize their own place in the civic life of their communities.

We hope you'll join us in Pierre!

Register your school by November 30, 2026