An extensive document that outlines the standards for how South Dakota students learn technology was approved by the State Board of Education this week. The new standards include testing technological proficiency for each grade level from kindergarten through 12th grade. These tests will help the State Department of Education assess whether changes need to be made to the state’s technology program. A pilot project for the coming school year will be held at 20 schools. State leaders have made technology a priority, and Governor Mike Rounds is currently working towards having laptops for all high school students. In addition to the technology standards, the Board also approved benchmarks for English language proficiency.