Two Dell Rapids School teachers recently received awards for their outstanding work and efforts in the classroom.
Third grade teacher Karla Gruis was awarded the “General Education Teach of the Year” by New Directions Down Syndrome Association of Sioux Falls. Nearly 200 families in South Dakota, southwest Minnesota, and northwest Iowa make up the membership of New Directions. New Directions presented the award on September 20th at the annual Buddy Walk at Sertoma Park in Sioux Falls. Gruis was recognized for her commitment to the education and inclusion of students with Down Syndrome, inclusive attitude and spirit, welcoming change in the classroom and willingness to adapt to student’s individual needs, as well as seeking out opportunities for the student to be included and maintain ongoing communication with the entire team.
High school science teacher Darwin Daugaard was also recently awarded this year’s South Dakota “Outstanding Physical Science Teacher of the Year” award sponsored by 3M Company and the South Dakota Science Teacher’s Association. The award also came with $1,000 check for Daugaard to support his classroom efforts, purchase equipment, to aid in his continuing education, or allow him to share his expertise with his fellow teachers by providing travel funds.
Congratulations to both Gruis and Daugaard for their awards!