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PIERRE, S.D. – Becky Haenfler, a middle school English Language Arts teacher at the Avon School District, has been named the 2026 South Dakota Teacher of the Year. Secretary of Education Joseph Graves made the announcement at a banquet held this evening in Fort Pierre.

Wayne Bennett: 1st Grade Wayne comes to school ready for the day! He listens carefully, focuses on his lessons, and works hard to complete all his assignments. He shows a positive attitude every day and sets a great example for his classmates by being responsible, respectful and eager to learn!

Queen - Ashlyn Koupal - Kalea Kuhlman - Brylie Link King - Matthew Kokes - Ky Arpan - Shea Kjeldgaard Congratulations and Good Luck to the 2025 Homecoming Royalty Candidates!

From the time Twila June Taubert first learned to read, she loved books. A nice librarian welcomed her to the magical place that was her Sioux City grade school library, and always helped young Twila find books she wanted to read.

On Tuesday, September 2nd, it was a beautiful day as The Wagner Raiders lined up for the start of their race held in Gregory, SD. The race started in the early afternoon and the rain held off for most of the races making it a great day to run.

This school year, Dennis and April Powers of Avon are hosting an exchange student from Rome, the capital of Italy, who is experiencing small-town South Dakota life for the first time.

During homecoming week, Andes Central students and their families were invited to Family Fun Night. Those in attendance enjoyed water inflatables, a dunk tank, and a cook out! What a great turnout for the Andes Central community to enjoy some fun in the sun as fall is on the horizon.

In a heartfelt ceremony held on the evening of Tuesday, August 26th, the Wagner Labor Day Committee continued a cherished tradition with the annual tree dedication, honoring this year's Labor Day Parade Marshals, Don and Doris Hosek.

When Treyvan Talsma’s name was announced as the South Dakota State 4-H Senior Boys All-Around Champion, his mother, Kristin, was caught off guard. “I teared up,” she recalled. “It was a complete surprise. There are so many great competitors in the state.