A special education teacher is South Dakota’s Teacher of the Year.
Stephanie Ballard works at George S. Mickelson Middle School in Brookings.
A statewide panel of educators selects the winner from five regional finalists.
Ballard receives a $5,000 grant from the state Department of Education. She also receives a $1,000 honorarium from the state Board of Regents to present seminars for aspiring teachers.
The awards are funded by donations from businesses and organizations.
Ballard also advances as a candidate for National Teacher of the Year. That award announcement is scheduled this spring.