Harrisburg Speech-Language Pathologist Named 2026 Special Education Staff of the Year

Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - The South Dakota Department of Education has officially named Amanda Edlund as the parent-nominated 2026 Special Education Staff of the Year. Edlund, a dedicated speech-language pathologist in the Harrisburg School District, received the honor during the annual South Dakota Special Education Conference held in Sioux Falls on March 4.

A Voice for Students

Selected for her profound dedication and the deep, meaningful connections she fosters with families, Edlund stood out among more than 70 professionals nominated by parents across the state this year.

“Amanda Edlund helps students find their voice and their confidence,” said Linda Turner, DOE Division Director of Special Education and Early Learning. Turner noted that the high volume of nominations this year serves as a testament to the “passion and commitment of professionals working with students with special needs”.

Each year, the Department of Education invites families of students receiving special education services to nominate a staff member who has made an outstanding contribution to their child’s education. To be eligible, nominees must have served in their profession for at least three years. Eligible roles include:

·        Teachers and Paraprofessionals

·        Speech-Language Pathologists

·        Occupational and Physical Therapists

·        Psychologists and Directors

Recognizing Excellence: 2026 Finalists

The Department of Education also extended its congratulations to four other distinguished special education professionals who were named finalists for the award:

·        Andrea Byrd, Special Education Teacher, Douglas School District

·        Becca Walsh, Speech-Language Pathologist, Baltic School District

·        Erin Healy, Special Education Teacher, Cornbelt Educational Cooperative at McCook Central School District

·        Josie Sauer, Special Education Teacher, Brookings School District