SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO-AM) Sioux Falls 2017 Public School Teacher of the Year is Stephanie Hage, an innovative third-grade teacher at John Harris Elementary.
"It was just kind of a moment of shock and disbelief, and a true honor among such deserving candidates...." Hage recalls her feeling when her name was announced at the ceremony Monday night. There were a record 70 nominees for Teacher of the Year this year.
Hage is known for thinking outside the box on education. Since young kids have lots of energy and tend to fidget at their desks, she has filled her classroom with exercise bikes, yoga mats, ball chairs and other gear.
"I don't have any desks. The kids have tables and they are free to move around the room and make choices that are best for their learning." Hage tells KELO.COM News.
Another Hage innovation is the The Genius Hour. Students are encouraged to research a subject or topic they are passionate about for individual study.
"This year some are working on how to save the life of an endangered animal or how to create a pinball machine out of cardboard," and then Hage says they must make a presentation on what theyv'e learned.
Along with all the acolades of being Sioux Falls 29th annual Teacher of the Year, Hage recieves a check for $4,000 from Vern Eide Motorcars.
Why is she a teacher?
"I love kids" says Hage.