LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Amy Verhelst was nominated anonymously. 

Ms. Verhelst embodies the ideals of a LifeChanger through her unwavering commitment to early education, her mastery of reading instruction, and her dedication to nurturing her students’ first academic experiences. Since beginning her teaching career in 2014, Ms. Verhelst has demonstrated an exceptional ability to foster kindness, optimism, and a love of learning in her classroom. She has dedicated herself to implementing the Science of Reading practices, ensuring that each student receives daily instruction in phonics and phonemic awareness. This focused approach enables her students to develop foundational reading skills before completing kindergarten, setting them up for long-term success in their educational journeys.

Ms. Verhelst views kindergarten as a transformative time for children, offering them their first exposure to school and a new world of possibilities. Her belief in the importance of these formative years drives her passion for teaching and her ability to connect with each child personally. Her classroom is a space for academic growth and where students feel valued and supported.

A South Dakota State University graduate, Ms. Verhelst’s professional journey has taken her through several schools and districts, culminating in her role at Sioux Valley Elementary, where she has taught since 2018. Her expertise and dedication have earned her recognition as the 2025 South Dakota Teacher of the Year, a distinction highlighting her impact on students and her excellence in the teaching profession. Ms. Verhelst’s achievements extend beyond her classroom.

As South Dakota Teacher of the Year, she will lead professional development seminars for aspiring educators, sharing her expertise and inspiring the next generation of teachers. Additionally, her recognition includes opportunities to further her professional growth, including a master’s degree funded by the South Dakota Board of Regents. Ms. Verhelst’s colleagues, students, and their families consistently praise her as a steady, compassionate, and highly effective teacher. She represents the best of the education profession and serves as a model for the transformative power of dedicated educators.

View Ms. Verhelst's 2025 South Dakota Teacher of the Year video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVyxhav6DDA