South Dakota ESA History
The Education Service Agencies began as a vehicle to better deliver services to schools.  In the spring of 2004, seven regional agencies were selected from proposals submitted to the Department of Education. Each agency is responsible for providing services to regional school districts, and serve as a resource for schools. Funding for the ESA was provided through state general funds and various federal funds dedicated to professional development and other programs designed to assist schools with school improvement and curriculum efforts.