Lifetime Citizen Portal Access — AI Briefings, Alerts & Unlimited Follows
Kim Aman of Simmons Elementary named 2026 South Dakota Elementary Principal of the Year
Loading...
Summary
The Aberdeen School Board honored Simmons Elementary Principal Kim Aman after the South Dakota Association of Elementary School Principals named her its 2026 Elementary Principal of the Year for leadership in student supports and family engagement.
The Aberdeen School Board opened its meeting with announcements celebrating two educators, including Kim Aman, principal of Simmons Elementary, who was named the 2026 South Dakota Elementary Principal of the Year, the assistant superintendent said.
The honor recognizes "exceptional leadership, her commitment to high expectations, and focus on student success," the assistant superintendent told the board, citing Aman’s work strengthening systems of support for students with behavioral and social-emotional needs and her emphasis on family and community partnerships.
Aman, who the district said has led Simmons Elementary since 2013, thanked staff, students and family members for the surprise recognition. "I pride myself and my family that no one gets anything past me," Aman said, describing a surprise celebration at the school gym and the presence of her son at the event.
Board members praised Aman’s approach to collaboration and continuous improvement. The assistant superintendent noted Aman’s work in professional learning communities and data-focused staff meetings to align instruction and target strategies for student outcomes.
The board’s public remarks framed the award as recognition from peers and from the statewide principals association; no board action was required. The meeting proceeded to routine business after the announcements.
