Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Education proudly announced the 2027 Regional Teachers of the Year. One teacher from each region across the state has been selected as a finalist for South Dakota’s 2027 Teacher of the Year. 

“Each year, the department receives applications from exceptional educators across South Dakota,” said Allison Englund, DOE Teacher Quality Specialist. “Celebrating Teacher of the Year is one way we can continue to uplift our educators and reassure them on the impact they are making every day.”

The 2027 Regional Teachers of the Year are as follows:

• Region 1: Alysha Hamann, Brookings School District, Middle School Special Education;
• Region 2: Christina Berger, Harrisburg School District, Third Grade Teacher;
• Region 3: Krissa Korkow, Huron School District, First Grade Teacher;
• Region 4: Erich Schaffhauser, Aberdeen School District, Media Production Teacher; and
• Region 5: Kathryn Swank, Rapid City Area School District, Fifth Grade Teacher.

“Our students are the future of our state, and teachers help make sure they are ready for the opportunities that come their way," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "I am proud of all our educators — including these 5 finalists. They play a key role in keeping our state strong, safe, and free for our kids and our grandkids."

Secretary of Education Dr. Joseph Graves will visit each regional finalist to personally congratulate them and present them with a Teacher of the Year banner.

“Teachers celebrate accomplishments every day, whether it’s a student mastering a new concept or a colleague sharing a new lesson plan that worked well in their class,” said Secretary Graves. “Teachers often forget to celebrate their own achievements, and being able to contribute to recognizing this great honor is something I deeply cherish.” 

Later this summer, each finalist will interview before a panel that selects the 2027 South Dakota Teacher of the Year, which will be announced this fall.

To learn more about the Teacher of the Year Program, visit doe.sd.gov/oatq/teacheroftheyear.aspx.

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