RECOGNITION
SDAEYC AWARDS & LEGACY CIRCLE
Professional development and the recognition of excellence are of critical importance to the South Dakota Association for the Education of Young Children (SDAEYC). The SDAEYC awards celebrate those dedicated to the field of early childhood education and acknowledge dedicated professionals whose work impacts the quality of care and early education for young children in inclusive settings and their families.
The Awards Committee is seeking nominations for four honorary awards to be given at the annual SDAEYC Conference. Evidence of philosophy and activities should be presented in the description of outstanding service and in the letter of support from peers and/or students.
SDAEYC Membership Required
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Early Childhood Education Teacher Award
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Outstanding Professional Educator Award
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Early Childhood Education Leadership Award
SDAEYC Membership NOT required
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Early Childhood Education Student Award
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Citizens Award
SDAEYC Executive Director, Dr. Janessa Bixel; 2025 Early Childhood Education Leadership Award winner Jessica Gromer; SDAEYC President, Kevin Nelson.
SDAEYC Executive Director, Dr. Janessa Bixel; 2025 Professional Citizens Award winner, Michael Bockorny.
SDAEYC Executive Director, Dr. Janessa Bixel; 2025 Outstanding Professional Educator Award winner, Darbi Hunt; SDAEYC President, Kevin Nelson.
SDAEYC Executive Director, Dr. Janessa Bixel; 2025 Early Childhood Education Teacher Award winner, Chaise Ericks; SDAEYC President, Kevin Nelson.
2025 Early Childhood Education Student Award winners pictured: Reese Rozell, Mollee Grams, Aubrey Shubert, Sophia Eide, Allison Clark; (not pictured - Rochelle Smith, Brook Olson, Shayna Heitmann).
2025 Legacy Circle Inductees
Honoring a legacy of Compassion, Innovation, Reflection, Commitment, and Excellence.
