PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Education has announced the 2027 Regional Teachers of the Year, selecting Rapid City Area School District teacher Kathryn Swank as a finalist for the state’s top teaching honor.

Swank, a fifth grade teacher in Rapid City, is one of five educators representing different regions of South Dakota. The finalists were chosen based on their exceptional contributions to the classroom and their impact on students.

“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.”

In addition to Swank, the regional winners include Alysha Hamann of Brookings, Christina Berger of Harrisburg, Krissa Korkow of Huron, and Erich Schaffhauser of Aberdeen.

Governor Larry Rhoden highlighted the importance of educators in shaping the future of South Dakota.

“Our students are the future of our state, and teachers help make sure they are ready for the opportunities that come their way,” Rhoden said. “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 travel to each region to congratulate the finalists and present them with official Teacher of the Year banners.

“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,” Graves said. “Teachers often forget to celebrate their own achievements, and being able to contribute to recognizing this great honor is something I deeply cherish.”

The selection process will continue this summer when each finalist interviews before a panel. The winner of the 2027 South Dakota Teacher of the Year award will be announced this fall.