Avon teacher wins 2026 South Dakota Teacher of the Year Award

Becky Haenfler was one of five statewide finalists for award and national competition

Sep 12, 2025

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A middle school English language arts teacher from the Avon School District has been named the 2026 South Dakota Teacher of the Year, state officials announced Thursday night.

Secretary of Education Joseph Graves presented the award Thursday evening to Becky Haenfler at a banquet in Fort Pierre.

Graves said Haenfler had a “wonderful reputation” for getting children excited about reading.

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