Lynda Venhuizen

Lynda Venhuizen serves as Lecturer, Teacher Certification Officer, and Field Placement Coordinator in the Department of Teaching, Learning and Leadership at South Dakota State University's School of Education, Counseling and Human Development. She acts as the primary liaison between SDSU and school partners, coordinating field-based experiences for teacher candidates from initial classroom observations through student teaching residencies while facilitating multi-state teacher certification processes.

Her educational background includes:

• B.S. in education from the University of South Dakota (1991)
• M.S. in family and consumer sciences from South Dakota State University (1998)

Her research focuses on elementary and early childhood education with emphasis on evidence-based instructional practices, STEAM integration, and mental health support systems. She champions research-supported educator preparation models through field-based experiences and Head Start program development, prioritizing quality care standards and family engagement frameworks that bridge academic theory with classroom practice.

Her honors include:

• College of Education and Human Sciences Outstanding Professional Staff Award (2022-23)
• Master Online Instructor Certification (2016)
• College of Education and Human Sciences Outstanding Senior Faculty Teaching Award (2015)
• College of Education and Human Sciences Faculty Service Award (2011)
• College of Family and Consumer Sciences Outstanding Teaching Award (2007)

Venhuizen mentors beginning educators through structured field placements and certification guidance, connecting teacher candidates with school partners across South Dakota. Her work supports problem-based learning frameworks and evidence-based instruction models, though specific grant funding details are not documented in her current service role. She previously taught early childhood education courses and served as Fishback Center director.