Region’s Premier Education Event Held April 28–29 at The Monument in Rapid City
RAPID CITY, SD — More than 500 educators, administrators, and education professionals met in Rapid City for the 39th annual TIE Conference hosted by Compass Partners in Learning. The event took place April 28–29, 2025, at The Monument and centered on the theme “Guiding Education Forward.” Learn more at TIEConference.net.
Recognized as the region’s largest and most dynamic education event, the TIE Conference is known for its high-quality sessions, collaborative environment, and commitment to addressing evolving needs in education. In 2024, 93% of attendees rated sessions as excellent or good.
“What makes the TIE Conference so impactful is the sense of community and purpose that brings educators together,” said Dr. Kyle Laughlin, Director of Compass Partners in Learning. “It’s that collective dedication that continues to guide education forward.”
Keynote Speakers
The 2025 conference featured two nationally recognized thought leaders: Weston Kieschnick, best-selling author, TEDx speaker, and former educator, known for his research-based approach to modern learning strategies, and Lisa Parry, a PK–12 principal at Arlington, SD School District, curriculum director, and educator. Kieschnick’s engaging keynote kicked off the conference, motivating educators to cultivate curiosity and create participatory classrooms, while Parry’s compelling keynote address explored the balance between technology and human interaction in K-12 classrooms.
Curated Tracks to Meet Today’s Educational Needs
The TIE Conference breakout sessions offered practical tools, innovative strategies, and hands-on learning experiences to help educators tackle current challenges and build toward a brighter future.
Attendees had the opportunity to customize their learning experience by selecting from six targeted tracks: Educational Leadership, Accessible Education, Educational Technology, Teaching & Learning, The School Environment, and Community & Family Engagement.
View the full conference agenda here.
New in 2025: AI for Educators Workshop
On April 28, a four-hour interactive workshop explored how generative AI tools such as ChatGPT can enhance curriculum planning, instructional design and classroom innovation. The session was part of a statewide research study conducted in partnership with the University of South Dakota, focused on the impact of AI in rural K–12 schools.
Exhibitors Showcase
More than 50 exhibitors showcased tools, technologies, and services supporting modern education—from instructional software and accessibility solutions to curriculum and professional development resources.
View a comprehensive list of exhibitors here.
2025 TIE Conference Sponsors
The 2025 TIE Conference is made possible through the generous support of ByteSpeed, Amplify, South Dakota Biotech, Pete Lien & Sons, All Abilities Bike, Scull Construction Service, Alpine Impressions, Qualtrics, University of Sioux Falls, Coca-Cola High Country, Simpsons Printing and Black Hills Federal Credit Union.
About Compass Partners in Learning
Compass Partners in Learning provides expert resources, support, and direction for professional progress and better student outcomes. By identifying needs and customizing solutions, we help educational communities build relationships, navigate obstacles to learning, and chart a course to educational excellence. Compass Partners in Learning is a division of Black Hills Special Services Cooperative. For more information, visit compass.bhssc.org.
