Washington High Teacher Named Sioux Falls Teacher of the Year

Every year around this time, the Sioux Falls School District names its Dr. John Harris Teacher of the Year and Monday, February 24th was the day this year.

Dakota News Now is reporting that the amazing teacher who received this distinguished award is Bruce Reckstad at Washington High School.

Mr. Rekstad teaches Očéti Šakówiŋ Owáuŋspe at Washington and has been teaching in Sioux Falls for 23 years. He is described as an inspiration by students and colleagues alike.

The Sioux Falls School District quoted his nominator saying:

He tailors his lessons to be culturally relevant and engaging for Native American students, using methods that create a sense of belonging and respect for their heritage. He doesn’t just teach; he listens and learns about their struggles, dreams, and family lives.

His caring attitude extends beyond his classroom walls as he often follows his students' lives long after he is no longer their teacher. His methods are described as having a lasting effect on his students and the school culture at large.

Vern Eide and the Sioux Falls School District are co-sponsors of the Teacher of the Year Award, and Vern Eide provides the $4,000 award which was presented to Mr. Rekstad.

There were four other Teacher of the Year finalists:

• Jenny Aerts, Horace Mann Bridges – 2nd Grade Teacher
• Scott Amundson, Lincoln High School – Learning Center Teacher
• Bryan Aukerman, Washington High School – English Teacher
• Jessica Foley, Terry Redlin Elementary – 5th Grade Teacher

The Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation awarded each finalist $1,000.

Congratulations to Bruce Rekstad and all the finalists for this year's Sioux Falls School District Teacher of the Year award.

Sources: Dakota News Now and the Sioux Falls School District