Pierre, S.D. -- The South Dakota State Library, a division of the South Dakota Department of Education, is pleased to announce the 2025-2028 recipients of the School Achievement Through Libraries (SATL) Award.

The SATL Award, which replaces the former 21st Century School Library Award, honors schools that demonstrate exemplary and accomplished practice in three key factors of school librarianship: educational programming available for students, physical and virtual learning environment, and the professional qualifications of the staff. Schools earn this recognition through a rigorous application process that includes the submission of evidence and artifacts aligned with South Dakota’s school library guidelines.

The mission of the school library is to provide all learners with a 21st-century program for learning and teaching; a welcoming, flexible physical and virtual space; and access to a highly qualified professional who leads, promotes, and sustains this essential work.

“School libraries make a powerful difference in student achievement and benefit every learner in the school community,” said Scottie Bruch, SDSL Training Coordinator. “This award highlights the essential role school libraries play in preparing students for lifelong learning.”

Award recipients:

• Aberdeen Central High School Library: Librarian Mikayla Arechigo, Administrator Dr. Jason Uttermark;
• Howard Elementary School Library: Librarian Sarah Feldhaus, Administrator Stephen Vigliotti;
• Madison Middle/High School Library: Librarian Amanda Hall, Administrators Adam Shaw and Cotton Koch;
• Menno Public School Library: Librarian Lois Wollman, Administrator Nadia Mudder;
• Sioux Falls George McGovern Middle School Library: Librarian Sherri Wolles, Administrators Tim Koehler, Richie Henderson, and Sarah Muller;
• Sioux Falls Jefferson High School Library: Librarian Emelia Gulck, Administrator Daniel Conrad;
• Sioux Falls John Harris Elementary School Library: Librarian Lindsey Rohde, Administrator Ryan DeGraff;
• Sioux Falls Sonia Sotomayor Elementary School Library: Librarian Jennifer Egstad, Administrator Dr. Tracy Vik;
• Sioux Falls Terry Redlin Elementary School Library: Librarian Stefanie Hage, Administrator Kersten Dobberphul; and
• St. Joseph's Indian School Library: Librarian Claire Nehring, Administrators Sharmel Olson, Beth Schumacher, and Jennie Schilling.

Awardees will be formally recognized at the South Dakota Teacher of the Year banquet this fall. Each award is valid for a three-year period. To learn more about the SATL Award and school library excellence in South Dakota, visit the School Achievement Through Libraries webpage.

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