Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Education congratulated Amanda Edlund on being selected as the parent-nominated 2026 Special Education Staff of the Year at the annual South Dakota Special Education Conference in Sioux Falls on March 4. Edlund, a speech-language pathologist at Harrisburg School District, was chosen for her profound dedication to her students and the meaningful connections she builds with families.  

Each year, the department invites families of students who receive special education services to nominate a special education staff member who has made an outstanding contribution to their child’s education. Nominees may include teachers, directors, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, psychologists, or paraprofessionals who have served in their profession for three or more years.

“Amanda Edlund helps students find their voice and their confidence,” said Linda Turner, DOE Division Director of Special Education and Early Learning. Edlund was one of more than 70 special education staff in South Dakota who were nominated this year. “The high number of nominations confirms the passion and commitment of professionals working with students with special needs.”

The DOE also extended congratulations to the following special education professionals selected as finalists:

• Andrea Byrd, Special Education Teacher, Douglas School District;
• Becca Walsh, Speech-Language Pathologist, Baltic School District;
• Erin Healy, Special Education Teacher, Cornbelt Educational Cooperative at McCook Central School District; and
• Josie Sauer, Special Education Teacher, Brookings School District.

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