LOCAL PROGRAMS: Sioux Falls, South Dakota

The first Learners to Leaders™ program was launched in Sioux Falls, S.D., in conjunction with John Morrell & Co., the Sioux Falls School District (SFSD) and Southeast Technical Institute (STI). Through the nonprofit Smithfield-Luter Foundation, Smithfield Foods, Inc. is funding the first year of STI's Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program in business administration for each of the 25 disadvantaged students whom SFSD selected for the program.

The students began the program during their junior year and enrolled in STI classes at their high schools that will count toward their high school diplomas and their STI business degrees. Upon graduation, the students will continue toward their AAS degrees at the STI campus.

"We see students every day who just need a
chance. They often are kids who have special social, economic or academic challenges but are very
eager to learn. Learners to Leaders will give
them that one chance they need."

— Dr. Pam Homan
Superintendent, Sioux Falls School District
AT A GLANCE: Sioux Falls, South Dakota

  • LAUNCH DATE: 12/5/06

  • PARTNERS: Sioux Falls School District (SFSD), Southeast Technical Institute (STI), John Morrell & Co., Smithfield Foods, Inc.

  • SMITHFIELD CONTRIBUTION: $128,400

  • PROGRAM DATES: 2007-2008 school year

  • NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 25 to 50

ABOUT JOHN MORRELL & CO.

Founded in 1827, John Morrell is an independent operating company of Smithfield Foods. John Morrell is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, and has about 6,800 employees at its operations in Sioux City, Iowa; Cincinnati, Ohio; Great Bend, Kan. and Middlesboro, Ky. John Morrell is a broad-based supplier of fresh pork and processed meats to every segment of the food market. Led by the flagship John Morrell brand, their products are marketed across the nation under a dozen brand names. John Morrell is one of the nation's leading producers of private-label meat products for retail chains and foodservice distributors.

ABOUT SIOUX FALLS SCHOOL DISTRICT

Sioux Falls School District provides the opportunities and challenges that enable each student to succeed as a lifelong learner in a changing world. The district values a highly trained and committed workforce, continually evaluating and improving its own and student performance. SFSD recognizes its role as a key contributor to the social, civic and economic foundation of Sioux Falls.

ABOUT SOUTHEAST TECHNICAL INSTITUTE

With nearly 40 career paths from which to choose, Southeast Technical Institute students enter the workforce confident and experienced in their chosen profession. STI offers AAS degrees as well as diplomas and certificates. STI, one of South Dakota's most affordable postsecondary institutions, is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.