B-H TEACHER EARNS STATE AWARD

    Britton-Hecla physical education teacher Jacob Skogstad is usually the one cheering on his students as they learn new skills, take on challenges and find their strengths. But this fall, he found himself in the spotlight. Skogstad was named the New Professional of the Year by the Society of Health and Physical Educators South Dakota, an honor presented at the organization’s annual banquet on Nov. 6.
    The statewide award recognizes teachers who run high-quality physical education programs aligned with national standards, engage students through innovative instruction, and serve as positive role models. For Skogstad, now in his sixth year at Britton-Hecla, the honor was both meaningful and unexpected.
    “I thought it was cool,” he said. “I don’t like to be in the limelight, but I’m proud of it. It was definitely unexpected.”
    Skogstad grew up in Sioux Falls in a family of educators. His mom was an elementary teacher and is now a principal, and his dad spent his career teaching PE. He graduated from Washington High School and went on to South Dakota State University. Even though he initially planned to study physical therapy, teaching eventually became the clear path. “People around me knew before I did that I would be a teacher,” he said. 
    At Britton-Hecla, he teaches PE and health at every grade level, something he considers one of the best parts of his job. “I love seeing every age group throughout the day,” he said. “It keeps things different, and I love being active and passing that on to kids.”
    That variety brings daily moments of reward. Whether he is watching students rotate through stations or diving into a lively game, he said nothing beats hearing the familiar call of “Mr. Skogstad, watch this!” Seeing growth in real time, especially with younger learners, is what he finds most fulfilling. “For me, the biggest thing is seeing how far kids can come from one year to the next,” he said. 
    Innovation is also key to his classroom. Skogstad has introduced a range of activities designed to keep students motivated, challenged and having fun. For the younger grades, he uses a sports card reward system inspired by his dad. Students can earn cards not only for athletic skills but also for effort, listening and teamwork. 
    He also enjoys bringing in new equipment and activities that many students haven’t experienced before. Bicycles were a recent hit in the elementary gym. “For some kids, it was the first time they’d ever been on a bike in class,” he said. A golf curriculum has also become a favorite, giving students a chance to explore a lifelong activity. His goal is to offer opportunities that meet students where they are while helping them build confidence. “Not every kid is the best athlete,” he said. “But they can all grow in some way.”
    Serving as a positive role model is another part of the award criteria, and Skogstad takes that responsibility seriously. Sportsmanship is a constant theme in his classes. “I encourage kids to root for each other, give high fives, recognize when someone else does something well,” he said. He also joins in the activities whenever he can. “The kids love it when I play with them,” he said. “It shows them that being active is something you can enjoy your whole life.”
    Britton-Hecla 6-12 principal Carrie James, who wrote Skogstad’s nomination letter, said the award could not be more deserved. She describes him as energetic, creative and deeply attuned to the needs of his students. “He motivates students to participate fully and strive to improve,” she wrote. “He creates an environment where all students feel encouraged and supported.”
    James highlighted his problem-solving skills, innovative ideas and willingness to go above and beyond, from introducing Stryder bikes to developing a PE supply cart and advocating for an adaptive PE class for students with unique needs. She also noted his compassion and professionalism, recalling how he supported students and families during a difficult time early in his career. “It speaks volumes about the kind of person and educator he is,” she wrote.
    Skogstad said he’s grateful to work in a district that values physical education and supports new ideas. And while he may not seek the spotlight, he appreciates the recognition. “It’s an honor,” he said. “And it makes me want to keep finding ways to help kids enjoy being active.”