The South Dakota Science Teaching Association announced that nominations are now open for the 2026 Outstanding Science Teacher awards.
Entering its second year of existence, the Outstanding Science Teacher awards are given to four teachers across the state, according to SDSTA President Ally Bowers,
Three out of four possible awards go to secondary teachers in the three major science strands: Biology, Physical Science, and Earth & Space Science. Further, one K-5 elementary STEM teacher will be honored.
In February, SDSTA recognized four teachers at the annual SD STEM Ed Conference. The 2025 Outstanding Biology Teacher was Lisa Bahe of Brookings. Yankton's Nicole Mehlhaff was honored with the Outstanding Physical Science Teacher award. Jena Campbell of Viborg-Hurley was recognized as the Outstanding Earth & Space Science Teacher, while Sisseton's Amanda Hillestad was named the Outstanding Elementary STEM Teacher.
SDSTA encourages students, parents, administrators, and community members to visit www.sd-sta.org to submit nominations for next year's awards. The organization says all nominees will be notified in July, where they will be subsequently invited to apply for their respective categories.
