{KXLG – Watertown, SD} Several students from the KXLG listening area and beyond participated in a prestigious event on April 29th. South Dakota’s brightest high school seniors were honored for their academic achievements. The 34th Annual Academic Excellence Recognition luncheon, hosted by the Associated School Boards of South Dakota (ASBSD), celebrated the top one percent of the graduating class 2024 from Public, Private, and Tribal/BIE schools across the state.
The honorees received a certificate signed by Governor Kristi Noem, a commemorative South Dakota pin, and a unique opportunity to meet and take photos with Lieutenant Governor Larry Rhoden. Lieutenant Governor Rhoden congratulated the students, expressing his pride and emphasizing the state’s commitment to their bright futures.
ASBSD President Louann Krogman praised the students for embodying the hardworking spirit of South Dakotans. At the same time, ASBSD Executive Director Dr. Douglas R. Wermedal encouraged everyone to celebrate the students’ hard-earned success and the support of their families.
The event, sponsored by Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield, the South Dakota Board of Regents, the South Dakota Education Association, School Administrators of South Dakota, and A&B Business Products, featured musical entertainment by Dr. Randall Royer.
The list of honorees, available in an Excel spreadsheet and PDF format, recognizes students who have reached remarkable academic heights, setting a benchmark for excellence and dedication. Photos with Lieutenant Governor Rhoden are available upon request for those who attended the event.
This annual luncheon acknowledges the achievements of South Dakota’s top students and highlights the importance of academic excellence and the collective effort of educators, families, and communities in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.