HARRISBURG — Christina Berger, a third-grade teacher at Liberty Elementary School, was recognized Wednesday as South Dakota’s 2027 Teacher of the Year at a banquet in Fort Pierre, the South Dakota Department of Education said.
Longstanding classroom experience
Berger has spent the last eight years teaching in the Harrisburg School District and brings more than 20 years of elementary classroom experience to her role. She began her teaching career in North Dakota before joining Liberty Elementary.
In remarks shared as part of a regional honor video, Berger described the daily classroom environment with a touch of humor and affection, saying,
"I plant seeds," Berger said of her role as an educator, "and you get to see the result years and years later."
She also told viewers she loves the lively classroom setting: "who wouldn't love organized chaos?"
Impact beyond the classroom
Liberty Elementary Principal Aaron Weaver said in a district news release that Berger’s influence stretches past her students.
“She leads with heart, integrity and an unwavering commitment to doing what's best for kids,” Weaver said, calling out Berger’s efforts to connect with families and the wider community.
The school and district credited Berger with building lasting relationships with students and parents, mentoring student teachers throughout her career, and actively participating in the Parent-Teacher Organization.
Statewide and national duties
As South Dakota’s Teacher of the Year, Berger will serve as a public representative for the state’s public education system. The Department of Education said her responsibilities will include participation in a series of events and professional development opportunities both in-state and nationally.
- National Teacher of the Year Program Orientation
- Space Camp
- Washington Week
- Impact and Influence Virtual Conference
South Dakota Secretary of Education Joe Graves praised Berger in the department release, noting that she has built a lasting legacy within the Harrisburg district and that students and colleagues commonly remark that every child in her care feels seen, valued and supported.
Why the selection matters locally
Teacher of the Year honors typically spotlight classroom practice and leadership that can inform district policies and community expectations. For Harrisburg, Berger’s recognition highlights the district’s emphasis on literacy and relationship-driven instruction — areas she identified as central to her work.
Local educators said the designation can also bring visibility to instructional approaches and community partnerships that work. Berger’s regular involvement with the PTO and hosting of student teachers were cited as examples of how classroom-level efforts can ripple outward.
Snapshot: Berger’s career at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Current school | Liberty Elementary School, Harrisburg School District |
| Grade level | 3rd grade |
| Years in Harrisburg | 8 years |
| Total elementary teaching experience | More than 20 years |
What comes next
During her year as Teacher of the Year, Berger will travel for events and take part in professional learning opportunities intended to broaden her impact and share South Dakota classroom successes with a national audience. The Department of Education will coordinate her schedule and appearances as she represents the state.
For the Harrisburg community, the recognition reaffirms the district’s role in cultivating experienced classroom teachers and supporting educators who mentor the next generation of instructors.
Additional details about Berger’s schedule and public appearances as Teacher of the Year will be released through the Department of Education and Harrisburg School District communications as they are finalized.
— Hannah Steele, State Correspondent
