Last week I had the pleasure of seeing a number of you at the Outstanding Administrators Banquet in Pierre.

Events such as this serve as a reminder of the great work we are doing in education here in South Dakota. We have dedicated people serving in our school systems at all levels – as teachers, support personnel, administrators and school board members.

The individuals recognized at last week’s banquet have dedicated their careers to serving the students and communities of South Dakota. Like all of us, they struggle with balancing budgets and competing interests, but when it comes down to it, they try to do what’s best for kids. I believe that’s the measurement most of us use when going about our daily business, as it should be.

I want to congratulate the winners of School Administrators 2008-09 Outstanding Administrators Awards (below), and I want to thank each and every one of you for the work you do on behalf of South Dakota kids.

Make sure you take time to celebrate the accomplishments and hard work of your students and staff, as well as your own.

DARCI LOVE
Outstanding Curriculum Director, Huron School District

SHERRY HANSEN
Outstanding Business Official, Tripp-Delmont School District

JOHN FATHKE
Outstanding Special Education Director, South Central Educational Coop

DON LYON
Outstanding Asst. Secondary School Principal, Meade School District

DEB JOHNSON
Outstanding Middle School Principal, Chamberlain School District

JACKIE MCNAMARA
Outstanding Elementary Principal, Sioux Falls School District

DON KIRKEGAARD
Outstanding Superintendent, Britton-Hecla School District

JERRY RASMUSSEN
Outstanding High School Principal, Dakota Valley School District