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Aberdeen School District honors three Golden Apple recipients; senior earns All‑State band slot

Aberdeen School District 06-1 Board of Education · January 27, 2026
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Summary

The Aberdeen School District recognized three employees with Golden Apple awards (each with a $500 prize) and celebrated Central High senior Norman Johnson’s fourth consecutive All‑State band selection; board approved the meeting agenda and consent items by voice vote.

The Aberdeen School District 06‑1 board opened its meeting with staff and student recognitions, presenting three employees with the district’s Golden Apple award and honoring a Central High senior who earned an All‑State band slot.

Dr. Guffin introduced the Golden Apple program, which the Aberdeen Public Schools Foundation funds and awards to up to three staff or volunteers annually; recipients receive a golden apple and a $500 check at January in‑service. "We do choose up to 3 people each year," Dr. Guffin said, noting the awards celebrate service "that goes above and beyond for our school district." (Dr. Guffin is referenced in the transcript.)

Assistant principal Dr. Tina (as introduced by the superintendent) described her district service and personal ties as a parent: "This is my thirteenth here in the Aberdeen School District, my 20 fourth year in education," she said, speaking of her transition from Simmons Middle School to Central and her focus on care for students and staff. Barb Nygaard, a special education teacher who said she is retiring this year, thanked colleagues and reflected on a 38‑year career in education. Eric Schauphauser of ATEC recounted being surprised by the honor and described district support for his family during a deployment, including examples of meal assistance and community gestures.

The board offered congratulatory remarks following the presentations.

Separately, Mr. Shutter introduced Norman Johnson, a senior clarinet player at Central High School who made the South Dakota All‑State band for the fourth consecutive year. Johnson said, "I've been playing clarinet since fifth grade" and told the board he plans to attend South Dakota State University to major in agricultural and biosystems engineering and participate in the university’s marching and concert bands.

Procedural items followed: the board approved the evening’s agenda and the consent agenda by voice vote. No members of the public addressed the board during the 'persons wishing to address the board' period.

The district plans to present the $500 Golden Apple awards at the January in‑service and acknowledged the All‑State band performance will occur later in the spring.